Thankfully, there's no chance of playing Portland in the postseason
(Don't forget, there's a PG&B podcast this morning at 11 am PST. AK will be on a flight from Portland, but Hoopsworlds' Eric Pincus will be dropping by. If you're an especially big fan of BK, this is your dream show. Molly Knight of ESPN the Mag will be by to talk Blue, as well. Click on the widget to the right to listen!) or go to www.nowlive.com.
At least not until 2009, at any rate, which would allow the Lakers to formulate a winning blueprint when it comes to taking one in Oregon. But for now, as last night's 112-103 loss to the Blazers demonstrates, the Lakers ain't nowhere close to packing up the ol' drawing board. But in breaking down this loss, one would figure some defense will be included as part of the triumphant outline, since a lack thereof allowed the Blazers to have their way, especially during the opening quarter. Too much Brandon Roy, too much LaMarcus Aldridge and even too much Channing Frye, who racked a season-high 22/11 in place of the injured Joel Przybilla. Bits and pieces aside, including a brief skirmish ensuing after a flagrant foul administered against Brandon Roy by Lamar Odom (which ultimately seemed to fire up the hosts more than offending squad), the Lakers were running almost entirely at half speed. The lack of urgency was somewhere between surprising and unforgivable, considering New Orleans' loss to the Jazz provided a huge opportunity to move up the W.C standings and seize a first place finish. Instead, they remain stuck in third place with a box score to remind them as to why.
At least there was a little sunshine to go along with the rain (literal and metaphorical) in Portland. Asked about a possible return to action for Andrew Bynum this weekend, Phil Jackson didn't squash the idea outright. Granted, he also didn't come close to making it sound like a given, even using the phrase "long shot" at one point. Thus, it would seem appropriate that Laker fans take this news with a reaction similar to "measured enthusiasm." Similar to how Clips fans should absorb Elton Brand's semi-committal take on his looming opt out.
The Times' Mark Heisler put in a few calls and found that Kobe and CP3 may require a photo finish for the MVP race. For many a voter, the call changes by the minute. If Kobe did land in the runner up spot, chalk it up as yet another "to-do" list item left unchecked over the last few season.
A look at NBA legends, including Kareem, now making their bones as assistant coaches.
*___________________________________________*
WED. April 9, 2008 The Force is busy taking Dit da Jow
The Laker Nation is united in one word D@MN!.
*___________________________________________*
Good Morning Charles,
Good Morning East Coast Jessie My Latina Queen
Good Morning Angry Laker You are very Eloquent Thank you.
Good Morning Future 15 Time World Champion LA Laker Nation
OK All Together : D@MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMNNN!
*_______________________________________________________*
ROLL CALL : JUSTANOTHERMAMBAFAN
(1) Faith, Bob, Keifo, Vman. Jay Jay, Charles, Edwin Gueco, Tsiry, FATTY, ANGRYLAKER
Tha Show, Tim-4-Show, TheLakeShow, Generic_One, Pig Miller, Toad, Taliq, LakerTRUTH
WesJoeNixon, Zakee, Cleon, SBPimp, The_D, Bozz, #4, Nemia Faletogo, Elle, HmrHed
ComptonsFinest, FlagrantFowl LakerLegacy, Exhelodrvr, Laker Tom, Rick Friedman , JMan
The Outlaw, Tsphere, Jon Kavulic, WeaveMan, SixOneZero, FearlessWhackJob, PigMiller
utzworld THE BANNER HOLDER, DICE8UP, Never, JANAYA, EAST_COAST_JESSIE,
LakerGurl, SFLakerGirl, PsychedLakerGirl, SimiLakerGirl, LakerLass, HoustonLakerGirl,
SheKOBE, LakersRydeOrDie, CBuck, SloGal, DarkAngelSK, TROY, TWoody, LAKERFAZE
DrewPauKobe, GoKobeGo, KobesBad, KobeRocks, Kobes T, Laker/KobeFan, LakerMan420
MrBarneryDangles, Todd, JesterGuru, SmoothD, JCool, Jeff, David WHANG, Andrew Z
KIWI, Machiavelly, DOC4daLakeShow, LakersMR, LakersSTH, HobbitMage, HugoBoss,
Complex Brotha, WondahBap, Derek, Benjamin, KOREY, CYRUS(Ventrilquist), PUDDLE
BackMamba24, BrownMamba24, WhiteMamba24, Mamba24Fan4Life, FanOfMamba, Ando
JUSTANOTHERMAMBAFAN, Mamba#5, JustALakerFan, VI LakerFan, LALFan, MOKO
Happy Camper, Happy Daze, Happy Gilmore, Critical BeatDown, RealityBites, RealityCheck
Amazing Happens, TELLitLIKEitIS PSLakerLover, Lakers4Lyfe, Lakers4Real, WOW, BZAR
AKR68, GiantSquid, BotSoy, LAKERFAN, LA_MENTAL, CDUB0512, CaliPhilosopher
You Ever Notice? MARKYtheARKY, Justin LEONARD, FISHEYE, GEE, Linda Pineda
BronxLakerFan ChitTownLaker, HoustonLaker, TexasLaker, BrazillianLaker, USCLaker
LakerNorth, LakerinBC, ROMY R, NIK KANNAN, Earth_Wind_&_Fire, FKIllah, TRIO, TEJ
AA Los, WIZO, CAESER, MAXXIMO, WOLF, Chuck23, 10MillionDollarZen,
MAN, JeffGrotke,Lakers4Realz, Gino, Gabe, Darick, Floyd, Vincent, Robyn Khang, Glenn,
Old Scholol, Eddie Brock, Jandro, Paul Lee, Ajax, Mitchell, David In Spain, J_Doubter, Guy,
Xtro, Kyle, Playa, Butler, Franky_J., Daryl, LakerDawg, DK,JC, The Dropper, Afro Joe, ZEN,
MOB_WAGONEER, DOC, PK-IN-THE-MESA , JANDRO, GREENPAZ, KELLY TEEJ, JEFF
Andy B. SwanWorld, , Benny Blanca, MEL, DC, AdamKiley, THE_CAT, JUSTIN, CHRIS H,
LENT, TIKI, TP, LADIESMAN, Linda Pineda, CaliKing, THIIRTY2, AIME WILLIAMS, CHE
CHUCKY.L.OHNIO,, Look Lonely, Brylle, LakerHolic, GDChild, Dion Centralk, ,GreekDude,
Staples24, Laker_Fan, True Laker Fan, Passionate Laker Fan, LT Laker_Fan, 70sLaker_Fan
40YearFan, KILLER_EIGHT, JOHNNYP,, DAXMDD, LOTEC9, LakerLarry, LURIA, J_LUV
LakaLover, Bynumite, TROY, CS, BAYWOOD, CAMERON, NEVITT, LAKERHOPEFUL,
ASM, GILLY, MARCO64, DREW, Han_Soul_Food, PURPLE&GOLD_4EVA, LAKERS08
B4Hoops, HeWhoHOOPS, JOREMA, XTRO, MCGarnagle, Gugy, Laker4Life, KEN,
SAMLL, Pince Akrasian, EagleBoy, JR., BLKTHGHT06, SighBrandon C. Anthony Johnson
Richard, Tully Moxness, LakerBake, CoolHair, t_Sensei, Sean74, Sead94, Long Live Chick
Marty, Trip Game3, Kinglakernidas, Hubbit, RespectMyAuthorith, Hariyahu, Michael J,
Michael H, Michael A., Alexinh017, Violater Mainor, Kikos Dad, Leelo, LIVELAKERS,
Blaze1Bx, Simone, Bobie, Phred, Swettual, Tajluck, , BerkleyLaker,Craig, Ryan, Rico Tico
Nestros Bistro, JR, Dascilla, Sean P. HollywoodJack, , Jamie Sweet, tECAT124, SocalSpider,
Lakober, ASM, Lauria, Sambosola AllanSY8, Corner J., BigGameJames, AimlessDriver, LakerLifer,
Todd Battles, East Nyboer, JoninJAPAN(INCANADA), Grail, Robyn,
*
Now The Lineup for the 14 Time WORLD CHAMPION LA LAKERS:
At Coach 9 time title winner PHIL 9RINGS JACKSONNNN
At center number 17 ANDREW BYNUMMMMMMMMMMM
At forward number 16 PAU GASOLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL
At forward number 7 LAMAR ODOMMMMMMMMMMMMM
At guard number 2 DEREK FISHERRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR
At guard number 24 & the MVP KOBEE BRYANTTTTTTT
*
ALL TOGETHER NOW:
WE ARE THE FREAKIN LA LAKERS THE WINNERS OF 14 NBA
TITLES. THE TEAM WITH THE BEST WINNING PERCENTAGE
IN NBA HISTORY. THE ONLY TEAM WITH 2 HOF COACHES.
THE TEAM WITH THE MOST PLAYERS ON THE 50 GREATEST
PLAYERS OF ALL TIME LIST(6). THE HOME OF WILT KAREEM,
GEORGE MIKAN, SHAQ, MAGIC, KOBE, ELGIN BAYLOR,
THE LOGO(JERRY WEST), PAT RILEY, JAMES WORTHY,
BOB MCADOO, "BIG SHOT ROB HORRY" GAIL GOODRICH
THE LEGENDARY SPORTSCASTER CHICK HEARN
COACHED BY 9 TIME TITLE WINNER PHIL (9RINGS) JACKSON
& OWNED BY THE BEST D@MN OWNER IN SPORTS DR. JERRY BUSS
AND THE ONLY ONE WHO CAN EVER DEFEAT OR DIVIDE US IS US
Posted by: Mamba24 | April 09, 2008 at 10:16 AM
We lost the superbowl....
again.
Posted by: Tim-4-Show | April 09, 2008 at 10:19 AM
Tiger Woods frequently stops press debates with, "winning takes care of everything." He's not the first to say it but he damn sure knows what it means.
Issues: Injuries, refs, MVP votes, analysis, defensive lapses, intensity levels, personality disorders, et al, etc, etc, go away when you win.
Time is up. Now it's about establishing a swagger that only comes from winning... dominating.
Now or next year.
Posted by: Vman | April 09, 2008 at 10:27 AM
My enthusiasm is going to be measured by how well THE BEAST plays in the playoffs.
Posted by: "Pig" Miller | April 09, 2008 at 10:34 AM
Great post Vman...
Posted by: Charles | April 09, 2008 at 10:37 AM
Look guys, we've made it thru some really dark times and now we've finally begun to see some sun, Drew will be back soon, we have Pau and we have a man that's won 9 rings, how much more can you ask for? We will win another championship, it's only a matter of time. Sit back and enjoy the show, if we managed to make it thru the Shawme era, we can make it thru anything.
Posted by: Elle | April 09, 2008 at 10:52 AM
Faze,
I just sent you 3 tracks!!! Let me know what you think!
Posted by: Charles | April 09, 2008 at 10:52 AM
I wish Ariza were back. Kobe playing the duel role of best perimeter defender and best offensive player wore on him yesterday.
Ariza and Bynum were our defensive core. Everyone currently playing are offensive minded to a fault.
Bravo to the Blazers. See you next year.
Posted by: #4 | April 09, 2008 at 10:54 AM
Bynum will make an appearance in the game against New Orleans.
At least, I hope he will, because I'm going to that game!
Posted by: Amazing_Happens | April 09, 2008 at 10:55 AM
*______________________________________*
9RINGS ON SUNDAY UNLEASH THE BEAST
& WELCOME BACK BYNUM BANDWAGON
*______________________________________*
(00) LAKER TOM – CEO
(01) PIG MILLER – Owner
(02) JON K. Driver
(03) DELILAH – Riding shotgun
(04) MAMBA – Johnny come Lately
(05) JUSTANOTHERMAMBAFAN – Playmaker
(06) SAMLL – Director of Enforcement
(07) TOAD – Director of Security
(08) THA SHOW - Just keeping us real
(09) TSPHERE – SuperDelegate - Got My vote!
(10) MARKYTHEARKY – Director of Mirrors and reflections of teams behind
(11) MILO RAMBALDI- --Team Prophet. – Predicts Bynum greatness
(12) HMRHED – Director of determining when to unleash
(13) FATTY – Director of P.R.
(14) MRBARNEYDANGLES – Taught the Skyhook to the Beast
(15) LAKERFAZE – Original Owner but Wagon was hijacked
Posted by: Mamba24 | April 09, 2008 at 10:59 AM
Phil seems to agree that the officials were WAY out of line last night.
"There's no reason for my technical foul at all," Jackson said. "I just said, 'Are you calling the first foul or the second foul?' and he gave me a T for that."
---
"I thought that was a critical play of the game," Jackson said. "Roy got up in the air. There wasn't anything flagrant about that foul at all."
Posted by: J.W. Weatherman | April 09, 2008 at 11:04 AM
sound like a broken record - defense, defense, defense.
please those of you going to the remaining four games, shout defense every trip down.
and someday we can learn how to beat non-playoff teams.
Posted by: DS | April 09, 2008 at 11:05 AM
Don't worry, Lakers Nation.
It was an ugly loss last night. I was pissed off. I drank too many beverages in an attempt to squash the image of a lackluster performance by the Lakers.
But they will be okay. These Lakers rise to the occasion. It doesn't matter who we meet in the first round. Bring on any team in the west.
Bynum is coming back... Keep the faith.
Go Lake Show!
Posted by: The Outlaw | April 09, 2008 at 11:05 AM
I still think we will see Bynum on Friday vs NO
I have stated all year that Bynum is the Golden Key to winning it all. We are to soft in the middle without Bynum.
With a healthy Bynum I think the Lakers are the only team that has a chance to defeat the Celtics in a best of 7.
IF they don't win it all there is 1 area that needs to be addressed day 1 after the season. That is the poor defense our PGs play. After watching what Kidd did to Nash the other day and how D.Will made Chris Paul look like a midget we need a guard who can stay in front of there man. What Nash and Paul do to our defense is almost comical they way they break us down almost on every possession. This has to be addressed next year!!!!
I'm sorry but Fish and Farmar can't play D..to small!!!!!
All is good in Lakerland. Bynum is almost back and it's sunny in LALA land again.
Go Bynum!!!!
Go Lakers!!
BD
Posted by: BD | April 09, 2008 at 11:21 AM
What's up Mamba? Thank you for the "Latina Queen" label...I'm lovin' it.
I was crushed last night... our Lakers were totally off. I could've gone through the tv last night. Not only did we not play defense...our reboundin was horrendous. No one was looking for rebounds except for the Blazers. I was heated.
The comeback showed just how good we really are but it was too little too late. Had we started to play more aggresively about a minute sooner, we could've gotten the win.
Now let's handle the Clippers tomorrow and in my book... a win on Friday and Sunday is mandatory. I pray to God the rumors of Bynum coming back this weekend are true. We need someone to protect the paint so that our perimeter players can focus of their own players.
Posted by: EastCoastJessie | April 09, 2008 at 11:21 AM
TIM-4-SHOW SAID: "We lost the superbowl....again."
D@MNIT Thats it! No more of this scheming for playoff position crap. No more of this who's on 1st garbage.
JUST GO OUT THERE AND DESTROY THESE NEXT 4
TEAMS WE PLAY!! WHY? COME ON YOU KNOW...
WER'RE THE FREAKIN LA LAKERS WINNERS OF
14 NBA TITLES..........
NOW UNLEASH THE BEAST NOW!!!
Posted by: Mamba24 | April 09, 2008 at 11:22 AM
MAMBA 24 ~ Sorry It's the "G" in me. ReJack from original post of October 4, 07:
BYNUM BREAKOUT BANDWAGON
----------------------------------------------------------------------
(1) LakerFaze (2) Mamba24 (3) DEREK
(4) RDLEE (5) LAKER TOM (6) BENNY BLANCA
(7) Violater
CHARLES : I'll check out the tracks and hit your email. Good lookin out!
Posted by: lakerfaze | April 09, 2008 at 11:32 AM
BD SAID:"All is good in Lakerland. Bynum is almost back and it's sunny in LALA land again."
YOU PROMISE?
The Outlaw Said:Bynum is coming back... Keep the faith.
OH PLEASE GOD LET IT BE TRUE!
AMAZING HAPPENS SAID:"Bynum will make an appearance in the game against New Orleans."
OH MIGHTY BEAST PLEASE COME AND SAVE US!!
UNLEASH THE BEAST!! UNLEASH THE BEAST!!!
UNLEASH THE BEAST!! UNLEASH THE BEAST!!!
UNLEASH THE BEAST!! UNLEASH THE BEAST!!!
UNLEASH THE BEAST!! UNLEASH THE BEAST!!!
Posted by: Mamba24 | April 09, 2008 at 11:35 AM
I agree BD... we need to close the gap in the paint and what better plug then a 275lb 7 footer in AB. Once we do that, everyone else can focus defending the perimeter where we've been burned badly.
I can't wait to see the twin towers in a game together... actually, I think I might cry even.
Let's get him out there on Friday. Suck it u p big boy. Our seeding and the MVP award for Kobe may depend on how we do on Friday and Sunday. Better yet, I say put him in tomorrow night against the Clippers for limited minutes...see how his knee feels on Friday and throw him in vs. New Orleans. NO & SA are must wins....statement games man.
Posted by: EastCoastJessie | April 09, 2008 at 11:37 AM
Ok, Ok it was a tough thing to watch.
Lets look at the bright side of things.
Farmar was pretty good and brought some energy to the team.
Vlad has found his range and will be the sharpshooter we need in the playoffs.
Sasha is good enough often enough that opponents are learning not to leave their man to double down on KB.
Kobe will not win the MVP now and that should serve the Lakers well, cause he is going to take it out on everyone.
Bynum is coming back. When Phil says that he is a long shot for Sunday,...I take that as Bynum will be back for the Clips or the Hornets.
We are still on track to get a 3 seed at least and will hopefully get a chance for a little retribution against the Suns. Mr D'Antoni and his " we thump them in the playoffs every year" mantra should provide some scintillating fodder leading up to that demoralizing thrashing the Suns will take.
And Lastly, we are the Lakers and the world is still purple and gold.
Kobesbaaaaaad (and he is)
Good Morning Mamba, please put me on the new unleash the beast bandwagon.
Posted by: Kobesbad | April 09, 2008 at 11:37 AM
Good day, Laker Nation!
In summary...
UNLEASH THE BEAST!!!
NO MVP? NO PEACE!!!!
ONE MORE BANNER! ONE MORE PARADE IN 2008!
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | April 09, 2008 at 11:45 AM
Dudes, lets remember, the staples center didn't burn down. Keep cool my brothas, keep cool.
Jon K.,
This was kinda why I didn't answer you immediately yesterday. I thought about where we would end up and there are just too many competing factors. Obviously after last night, I lean more towards a less than #1 seeding, but we play both teams ahead of us in the last 4 games. So I don't know.
What irks me about our beloved young Lakers is that we have trouble with young, upstart teams, but we rise to occasion with the traditional powers. The suns, spurs, and Utah, we have beat, but we have shown lapses against those young upstarts like GSW, the blazers, Kings, even the Hornets etc. I have reason to believe Phil is watching these games to see mental makeup of certain players and then plays the right guys against the big dogs, but I still hate to lose to the Blazers, Kings, etc.
If I were to venture a guess, we'll be in 2nd. I'm optimistic we can beat the Spurs, since they aren't as athletic or upstart, and they are a known commodity. Bynum coming back would obviously affect anything I say, but 2nd is my most optimistic guess.
Posted by: #4 | April 09, 2008 at 11:48 AM
*______________________________________*
9RINGS ON SUNDAY UNLEASH THE BEAST
& WELCOME BACK BYNUM BANDWAGON
*______________________________________*
(00) LAKER TOM – CEO
(01) PIG MILLER – Owner
(02) JON K. Driver
(03) DELILAH – Riding shotgun
(04) MAMBA – Johnny come Lately
(05) JUSTANOTHERMAMBAFAN – Playmaker
(06) SAMLL – Director of Enforcement
(07) TOAD – Director of Security
(08) THA SHOW - Just keeping us real
(09) TSPHERE – SuperDelegate - Got My vote!
(10) MARKYTHEARKY – Director of Mirrors and reflections of teams behind
(11) MILO RAMBALDI- --Team Prophet. – Predicts Bynum greatness
(12) HMRHED – Director of determining when to unleash
(13) FATTY – Director of P.R.
(14) MRBARNEYDANGLES – Taught the Skyhook to the Beast
(15) LAKERFAZE – Original Owner but Wagon was hijacked
(16) KOBESBAD – Taught Kobe to be bad, now teaching the Beast
Posted by: Mamba24 | April 09, 2008 at 11:48 AM
No shot BD plays Bynum Friday. He might dress him but no shot. PJ won't play his hand to Byron before the playoffs - they might be our WC finals opponent....it's all about the mind games.
If we have #2 or #3 locked after tmrw - no way.
He might play him off the bench against SA but it won't be major minutes and it could be as the #3 center option (after Mihm). Again PJ is not going to play his hand.
Dr. Buss is a poker player folks - never show your hand.
Posted by: PsychedLakerGirl | April 09, 2008 at 11:53 AM
CHARLES - all 3 are cool, favorite after a first listen....
Ceu.... smooth that's 101 north all the way!
Posted by: lakerfaze | April 09, 2008 at 12:04 PM
yeah, Charles, it's winnin' time.
Go Lakers!
Posted by: Vman | April 09, 2008 at 12:05 PM
PHIL JACKSON IS A CYLON AND HE HAS A PLAN
Posted by: Who are You | April 09, 2008 at 12:05 PM
Mamba... ADD ME -
9RINGS ON SUNDAY UNLEASH THE BEAST
& WELCOME BACK BYNUM BANDWAGON
Posted by: keifo | April 09, 2008 at 12:06 PM
Mamba24,
A big THANKS to you for your contribution to the blog.
At #14 on the 55 band-wagon I promise it's all good.
Question-I noticed on the Sun blog that there were quite a few post from a Mamba24, is that you???
EastCoastJessie,
I agree lets get him out there..if he is ready on Sunday why not on Friday, you mean they are 2 days late in getting him ready to meet up with NO?? I don't buy it.
And Jessie I feel the same way... I just can't wait to see
Pau and Bynum in the front-court. To me it just seems like the perfect fit. His first game back I sure hope my DVR can handle all the replays. What a great day that will be.
Tk care!
BD
Posted by: BD | April 09, 2008 at 12:07 PM
Oh I'm sure Phil has a plan...it's been his style even back during the Bulls days but if we truly want to make sure we're seeded at least 1-3, we've gotta step up our defense and pull out at least a 3-1 record these final 4 games.
If we can't manage to do that, we could fall as low as 6 or 7 seed and then we can shelf Bynum 'till next season.
Don't mean to be a pessimist but come on... I think Shaun Livingston is coming back before Bynum...what's up with that?
Posted by: EastCoastJessie | April 09, 2008 at 12:15 PM
WHO ARE YOU SAID:"PHIL JACKSON IS A CYLON
AND HE HAS A PLAN"
Balthar? You devious genius is that you. That must mean
that....Yes, Yes now I see it. The reason that Kobe will not
and has not won the MVP is because all the voters think he is a CYLON!
After all no mere human could possibly be that good!
Posted by: Mamba24 | April 09, 2008 at 12:16 PM
ex,
“And this year's team HAS NOT PLAYED A SINGLE GAME TOGETHER YET, not even in the regular season, let alone in the playoffs. We have no way of knowing how they will play in the playoffs.”
I respectfully disagree. I think you can reasonably project how the Lakers are going to play in the playoffs based on how the individual players played during the season. Granted, it is more difficult to do because Drew is coming off a 3-month injury and Pau is still not completely recovered from his 3-week long injury. Nevertheless, it is not hard to imagine the team coming together very quickly, especially once Drew has gotten a chance to play and get back into game shape.
What is encouraging for me is that the major adjustment that will need to be made will be by Pau, since he is switching from center to power forward. Pau has already shown a great ability to blend in his play well with that of the other Lakers players due to his skill set and basketball intelligence. I also think Lamar has shown that he can play effectively at either power forward or small forward. Which leaves Drew with the task of just coming in and playing center like he did before his injury, which he should be able to do fine.
It is probably unreasonable to expect Drew to be fully back until he gets a few games under his belt, which means it behooves the Lakers to draw the easiest possible matchup for the first round of the playoffs so that Drew has some time to come off the bench and get his game legs back before returning as the starter. That means we do not want to face the Suns or Mavs in the first round in my opinion. Better to get either the Warriors, Nuggets, or Rockets until Drew is ready to play full bore.
It is also defense and rebounding that we are primarily missing in Drew’s absence, which means that it is not as critical that we able to integrate Drew perfectly in our offense at the start. But just having Drew in the low post will dramatically help our overall team defense and rebounding. That is what we need from Drew beginning on Sunday and through the first round of the playoffs. By the time the 2nd round comes, Drew should be ready to dominate on both defense and offense.
The bottom line is that getting a healthy and capable Andrew Bynum back is the key to the Lakers winning the NBA championship, not whether we win the #1 seed or have home court advantage and not which team we have to play in any round of the playoffs. Like Kobe said, we’re playing for the championship, not just to get out of the first round or make the conference finals. To win the championship, we need to get Andrew back.
Time to unleash the Beast. Time to stop the bleeding and start dominating. Go, AB17. We need you to save the day.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | April 09, 2008 at 12:18 PM
#4,
Yeah, it's been an odd thing for the Lakers going all the way back to Showtime that we play down to our competition. It was same during the Shaq-Kobe era. We'd get beat by some team eight games out of the playoffs and then beat the second seed by ten points after being down by 18 in the fourth quarter.
It's just odd and fairly annoying.
I know it's not the end of the world, but recent games have exposed deficits in our defense that concern me. That's one reason why I scream for Gary Vitti's head so often. If Bynum and Ariza were back, it sure would make everyone's job a heck of a lot easier.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | April 09, 2008 at 12:24 PM
Brandon Roy tied a career high with 12 assists, LaMarcus Aldridge took a season-high 16 rebounds, and Channing Frye had season highs with 22 points and 11 rebounds for the Trail Blazers (39-39), who were playing for nothing more than pride.
From the Los Angeles Times (4/9/08)
The above sums up why I feel the Lakers must trade every player on the team that does not have the ability to play defense against athletic teams.
Trade:
Luke/Lamar/Vladimir/Sasha/Jordan.
Yes, Lamar has played well of late.
However, he will never show up in big games.
Keep:
Kobe/Andrew/Trevor/Derek.
Everyone else (including the soft Pau) can go.
Posted by: passionate Lakers fan | April 09, 2008 at 12:31 PM
lakerfaze,
Mos Def I have to give you credit for the Bynum Break Out...
You also made me research/post those videos for AB early Feb. (Turns out that video "Making of the Beast" was made in late January of this year.)
Full credit to you sir...
Posted by: Charles | April 09, 2008 at 12:32 PM
LTLF,
I don't know how many times I need to say I wasn't basing those comments on that ONE 2-on-1 fast break. That was just the most egregious instance, followed by a botched 3-on-2 fast break in the 4th where he looked to drive when he had Pau filling a lane where he would've scored or gotten fouled or both, and instead had to pull the ball back out, passed it to Kobe, Kobe passed itback to Farmar and he took a 3 from 2 feet behind the line. It's a trend we've been seeing more and more recently. And getting six assists doesn't mean he was making great decisions throughout the game. Like I said, Marbury has averaged over 7 assists a game multiple times in his career, is he looking for his guys.
But more importantly, I'm stressing that Jordan DIDN'T cost us the game. I just don't like the way he played last night and the past several weeks. He's taking too many shots where you'll live with them if they go in and too often he'll avoid passing so he can take a togh shot or pass too late, after one of our guys was wide-open.
As for the "slurping" thing that's more of a playful jab. I say it all the time to my friends and Wilbon and Kornheiser say it all the time to each other on PTI. If you've read my posts, you'll know that I don't make personal attacks and especially not to further my points.
Posted by: Xodus | April 09, 2008 at 12:37 PM
HEY KEIFO i was just getting ready to check out for
today. How's everything?
*______________________________________*
9RINGS ON SUNDAY UNLEASH THE BEAST
& WELCOME BACK BYNUM BANDWAGON
*______________________________________*
(00) LAKER TOM – CEO
(01) PIG MILLER – Owner
(02) JON K. Driver
(03) DELILAH – Riding shotgun
(04) MAMBA – Johnny come Lately
(05) JUSTANOTHERMAMBAFAN – Playmaker
(06) SAMLL – Director of Enforcement
(07) TOAD – Director of Security
(08) THA SHOW - Just keeping us real
(09) TSPHERE – SuperDelegate - Got My vote!
(10) MARKYTHEARKY – Director of Mirrors and reflections of teams behind
(11) MILO RAMBALDI- --Team Prophet. – Predicts Bynum greatness
(12) HMRHED – Director of determining when to unleash
(13) FATTY – Director of P.R.
(14) MRBARNEYDANGLES – Taught the Skyhook to the Beast
(15) LAKERFAZE – Original Owner but Wagon was hijacked
(16) KOBESBAD – Taught Kobe to be bad, now teaching the
(17) KEIFO - Told Mitch to draft the Beast.
Posted by: | April 09, 2008 at 12:40 PM
I also think Lamar has shown that he can play effectively at either power forward or small forward.
LakerTom
Just what makes you think that lamar all of a sudden is going to become a good 3point shooter? How will that help you guys out, if odom cant spread the floor?
You guys have more adjustments other than just bynum coming back. You also have odom, who's known for his rebounding but with bynum and gasol in there, there wont be much room.
You will have vlad coming off the bench which will hurt his game. Vlad has played better as a starter, he's your best 3point shooter.
Posted by: Fire32 | April 09, 2008 at 12:42 PM
Listen, with all due respect for the L.A. training staff but I think players with heart play with pain at times when their teams need them. I'm not comparing their injuries but look at Kobe and Fish and I hate saying it but even Dork Nowitski.
I know we're technically still in a good position and as long as we clinch the Pacific we'kll be guaranteed a 1-4 but come one.
3 months is enough time to recover from gunshot wounds, child birth, stabbings, burns, and even cancer so why can't we get Bynum's knee back into shape and why did it take so damn long to get Pau back when Nowitski was back much quicker after a much more severe sprain.
Posted by: EastCoastJessie | April 09, 2008 at 12:42 PM
LTLF...
Just FYI, I have no beef with you and never will on a personal level.
I actually enjoy a sparring partner to talk about sports with and since we always disagree on things, that's fine with me.
Hey, we both want the Lakers to win really bad, so that makes you OK in my book.
If I didnt think you made some good points I wouldnt go back and forth with you, I would just ignore your comments.
So anway, enough with the lubby dubbyness, and back to Laker basketball talk!!!
Posted by: Korey | April 09, 2008 at 12:42 PM
Here are quotes from the live game blog last night:
"Officials are KiILLING us"
"Somebody needs to shock these refs with a cattle prod"
"Worst.Officiated.Game.Ever."
"Show those refs what a travesty they've made of this game. Get it on sportscenter, get it in the press. This game is an absolute JOKE!!! This entire game needs to go under review."
"we are on the wrong end of some very orrible officiating"
"I blame the refs....it's so obvious what the NBA is doing. If New Orleans doesn't get the number one spot, Chris Paul won't get the MVP. ..if I could somehow survive without the NBA league pass I wouldn't buy it and support the DISGUSTINGNESS that is the NBA and their ridiculous officiating."
As has become usual here, a bunch of pathetic, juvenile, whiners. Try facts..
Fouls called against Portland - 25
Fouls called against LA - 24
FTA by LA - 29
FTA by Portalnd - 24
Posted by: Jim E | April 09, 2008 at 12:46 PM
Good afternoon Laker family!
Tough loss last night, but its not the end of the world. Must be some kind of voodoo curse up there in Portland, I mean Channing Frye having a career day??? Some bad calls last night (not the reason we lost) but were momentum killers.
Hopefully we can get all the guys back soon.
C'mon Lakers we need to come up big this weekend and seal the deal for Kobe's MVP.
I think Bynum will be back on Tax Day 4/15 against Sac.
The Big Refund!!!
peace!!
Posted by: Lakers Legacy | April 09, 2008 at 12:53 PM
So Phil is the 5th Cylon!! I guess they did find Earth.
....wait a minute, am I a Cylon?
Posted by: #4 | April 09, 2008 at 12:53 PM
what's a cylon?
Posted by: machiavelly | April 09, 2008 at 12:54 PM
Jim E is that all you live for dude...get a life.
All passionate fans complain during losses and rejoice when we win. Get used to it...don't like it, stay off the blog.
The fact that the total number of calls ended up being pretty equal doesn't mean we weren't on the receiving end of some ridiculously questionable calls, especially in the first half.
Posted by: EastCoastJessie | April 09, 2008 at 12:59 PM
I think Bynum will be back on Tax Day 4/15 against Sac.
The Big Refund!!!
Posted by: Lakers Legacy
LOL Legacy, good one!
Posted by: EastCoastJessie | April 09, 2008 at 01:04 PM
#4 is a cylon. Isn't that clear?
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | April 09, 2008 at 01:08 PM
Good morning...ummm....afternoon Mamba24, Charles & the rest of the great Laker Nation! I wasn't able to post earlier today & now am trying to get caught up! (Thanks for getting me on the bandwagons too! I think we should start a "WIN OUT FROM HERE ON OUT" bandwagon!)
I think the consensus is, in the words of our very own LO, we got our butts whipped last night. (Oops - I threw up a little in my mouth when I typed that.....)
Great posts guys - I agree we need to UNLEASH THE BEAST! I can't wait for our next game for a little payback. Staples will be a rockin' and the trolls will come a knockin' and someone's going to get burned!!!
Let's forget about the ugliness & focus on the beauty that will be banner # 16 up in the rafters!
GO LAKERS!
The BEAN for FINALS MVP or NO PEACE!!!!!
Posted by: justanothermambafan | April 09, 2008 at 01:09 PM
K Brothers,
Tried to call in again today, but failed miserably again. Man, I hate being a techno-moron.
So, here's my question...
Let's say that Bynum evolves into a max player. Are the Lakers going to be able to afford Kobe, Bynum, Lamar, and Gasol.... along with increased contracts for Sasha and Turiaf?
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | April 09, 2008 at 01:10 PM
LakerTom,
Had Bynum come back at the eight week point, I think the Lakers would be the favorites to win the title this year.
At this point I do not believe that there is enough time for him to get his game back and to integrate him effectively enough with this roster to win the title this season.
Posted by: exhelodrvr | April 09, 2008 at 01:13 PM