Notes from the MVP ceremony
- Practice was pretty much a ghost town once the gym opened up to us media types. I'm guessing guys wanted to bolt, grab a quick something to eat, then hit the Sheraton Gateway Hotel for the award presentation (which can be viewed here, for those who haven't seen it yet). Few players stuck around to talk, and the ones that did, didn't stay long.
Much has been made about Kobe's evolution as a leader, a progression that has hit previous high points but never with such a sustained positive effect or result over the course of a season. "He's been growing as a leader ever since I got here when the whole (Shaq era) team split up," said Luke Walton when asked about Kobe's 2007-2008 floor captain stint. "This year, as far as leadership and being involved with the team, it's the best job that he's done. Bringing everyone together. Getting everyone to want to play for him and win for him."
Walton cited approaches such as taking teammates out to dinner, spending more time explaining opposition nuances, and arguably the most important element, having the patience to ride out results that aren't perfect. "I think before, he used to be a lot more negative towards his teammates as opposed to now, pulling people to the side, talking to them. Figuring out ways to figure it out together, instead of just coming down hard on them."
- With the exception of Andrew Bynum (in New York getting his knee checked) and Vlad Radmanovic (no clue as to his whereabouts), all of Kobe's teammates were in attendance, with everyone visibly stoked to see him honored. Also on hand were Andre Iguodala (76ers) and Corey Maggette (Clippers). While the former is a free agent and the latter potentially the same, I wouldn't read into their presence as a sign of their interest in becoming '08-'09 Lakers. I think both were just there to lend support.
- Trevor Ariza took the stage for an impromptu mic check. "This is the official check," announced the swingman. "Podium check, 1, 2." Loopy fun stuff.
- Stu Lantz was the emcee, keeping his remarks brief and reserving the limelight for Kobe. What he did say, however, revolved around praise for Bryant, referring to him as, "simply the best of the best" and "someone (I) think so much of."
- Kobe seemed genuinely flattered both by the award and that such a large contingent of the Lakers' family (including that fella known as "The Logo") shared the day with him. In particular, Kobe went out of his way to give his teammates their due. "I'm fortunate to be on this journey with guys that I enjoy. We all get along and have this great chemistry and unity and it's made it all worthwhile... I cannot stress upon you enough that this is not an individual award. These guys make me look better than I actually am. I couldn't have done it without them."
- Walton brought the house down upon asking Kobe if, because "you couldn't have won the award without your teammates, will you be getting your teammates some kind of gift." Kobe was equally amused, chiding Walton for referring to him as "Mr. Bryant" (like Walton's dad would ask him a question) and saying this was another example of the spoiled modern athlete. Similarly, Tex Winter (who described himself as a "triangle consultant", then a triangle "insultant") got laughs after asking Kobe if he liked the offense he once despised. For the record, Kobe likes it.
- Kobe was presented with a Kia, which he in turn donated to the East L.A. Boys and Girls Club. For those now worried, I'm pretty sure he has other vehicles at his disposal, so don't sweat the Mamba getting stuck without a set of wheels.
- As is occasionally the case, Lamar Odom was a little late arriving. And as is more than occasionally the case, his wardrobe made the entrance worth the wait. A letterman's jacket with patches marking every season the Lakers snagged an O'Brien ("Hopefully, we'll add another patch," smiled Odom.") and a purple hat with "Undefeated" in script lettering. Lest anyone accuse Odom of telling a pitcher he's tossing a no-hitter, the hat wasn't sewn together after the Lakers hit the 5-0 postseason mark. It's an apparel line Odom thought was appropriate right now. But he agreed with me that actually tailoring such a lid would be flirting with a serious jinx.
- As I was driving home, I already heard a couple of talk shows getting into a statement by Kobe when asked if he would have handled the summer's drama differently, seeing how things turned out, or if the ends justified the means. After delivering a wickedly straight faced "I was right the whole time" (delivered with such deadpan that the desired laugh didn't come until he added, "I'm joking"), he followed up with a remark that could be interpreted as praise either sincere or begrudging.
"What should be said, which I really don't want to say, but I'm gonna say it anyway, is that we have to give a lot of credit to Mitch Kupchak."
Kobe went on to praise Kupchak's recent trades and draft picks, both of which have led to the Lakers' current contention. But the line could be interpreted as Bryant paying a compliment through gritted teeth. Personally, I think Kobe was going for a dry joke (the punchline basically being a mock resentful "I hate to admit the guy had a clue.") that was awkwardly phrased and fell flat. If you listen, there's a pause for laughs that never came, followed by his own chuckle. But for the skeptics, it's Bryant being less than thrilled to admit someone else may have known more than he did. And frankly, I do think that's the one angle of this unexpected good fortune Kobe isn't wild about acknowledging (which is why he really hasn't). Having said that, I also don't think he was going for a dig at that particular moment, nor am I doubting the sincerity of those particular thanks.
At any rate, Kupchak was asked about Kobe's words. "It sounded like you had to drag it out of him," smiled Kupchak, who didn't seem terribly offended and instead focused on Kobe's pleasure with his supporting cast and being first in the West, along with him affirming a "Laker for life" ambition. Was Kupchak more peeved than he let on? I suppose he could have been. But even if that were the case, I doubt it means much in the long run, because Kupchak has always maintained that priority one is acting in the franchise's best interests, as opposed to making Kobe (or any player) happy. Not that he didn't care about Kobe's contentment. Quite the opposite, I'm sure. But you still have to avoid bending to pressure, whether from Kobe or the fans, when you know a deal isn't right.
Incidentally, those same patient instincts that prevented him from trading Bynum, Odom and Kwame Brown's expiring contract for guys like Jason Kidd or Jermaine O'Neal are the instincts that have set up Kobe and the Lakers for years to come. - Finally, listen to Odom's audio. Good stuff about flying his personal chef to Hawaii's training camp, specifically to fix the team three killer squares a day, the hope being everyone would bond while continually eating together. "My grandmother used to always say you could spend time with the devil and start to like him if y'all hang out every day. You know what I'm saying. Nobody here is the devil, so I had a feeling it would work."
Indeed.
AK
AUDIO
Lamar Odom (MVP presentation): Download lamar_odom_mvp_press_conference.mp3
Mitch Kupchak (MVP presentation): Download mitch_kupchak_mvp_press_conference.mp3
Luke Walton (practice): Download luke_walton_practice_050608.mp3
Sasha Vujacic (practice): Download sasha_vujacic_practice_050608.mp3
Phil Jackson (practice): Download phil_jackson_050608_practice.mp3
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Cool tidbits.
I thought Tex's comment brought the house down myself lol.
Rad Vlad was probably snowboarding somewhere lol, jk.
I think this whole Kobe is a better leader is hoopla. By most account he's done this for awhile now. Since 05 in fact...I seem to recall him going to the post-conference exchanging phone numbers with those dudes. I mean counseling Smush Parker in games...how much more "leader-like" can he get? lol.
But I think he's right, the difference between this and previous years is that his teammates worked this year. They worked in the offseason to get better. They have the talent to be better. Therein lies the biggest difference. So I suppose they do deserve "gifts" lol.
Posted by: Faith | May 06, 2008 at 10:15 PM
Faith,
I would buy what you're saying if it were just writers praising Kobe's improved leadership. But when basically the entire coaching staff and every player with him a while (and even opponents) are echoing those sentiments, there's likely much more truth to the concept than you're giving credit. In particular, they're all citing Kobe's increased patience, belief and trust exhibited in the supporting cast. Does that come as a result of their improvement? Of course. But the improvement also comes in large part as a result of the patience, belief and trust. It cuts both ways.
I'll put it another way. If all this were media hype, wouldn't there be more instances of players or coaches saying, "I don't know why anyone insists Kobe's doing anything different, because he hasn't changed a damn thing?"
I think it's pretty obvious he's made some big strides, which I think fans should be celebrating, as opposed to looking to disprove the notion that Kobe grew on some level. He deserves the credit.
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | May 06, 2008 at 10:54 PM
About damn time.
Posted by: EpicMess | May 06, 2008 at 10:58 PM
I love hearing about these getups by Lamar, but I wanna start SEEING them! Got any pictures? Your descriptions are great, but you know what they saw about a picture.
Posted by: Gabe | May 06, 2008 at 11:25 PM
He's sincerely complimentary but Stu's not funny, not glib, and borderline awkward. Not attributes you look for in a master of cermonies.
Another day Chick was missed dearly.
Posted by: Vman | May 06, 2008 at 11:44 PM
I don't have a problem with saying or thinking Kobe has "grown." I do have a problem with people assuming that this growth is like a sudden thing...again considering he's been trying for awhile now, and they haven't really come to fruition. At least until the players themselves improved.
Leadership I'm sure is just like all of life...practice makes perfect. But my point is more...had they not worked out and improved on their own, no amount of "leadership" would have done the work. Think of it this way...Sasha whom I love, got all the mentoring, the "leadership," the trust from Kobe since day one by most accounts...but all of a sudden he's better this year? I know that's not a very good example in terms of work because by all accounts he's got an awesome work ethic...but I've noticed this year more than most, he's worked on a game outside of standstill shooting...not to mention defense. Does Kobe's "trust" or growth really have much to do with that? You can lead a horse to the bathwater...but they have to want to drink lol.
Then again there is something to be said for Kobe "trusting" his teammates more...growing as a leader because he saw them (finally) work out in the off-season. Something he hasn't really seen before.
Posted by: Faith | May 06, 2008 at 11:48 PM
Us bloggers collectively got it right. lol
The players improved, so he improved. So they improved more, so he improved more, and it keeps getting better. He is playing at an incredible level. Similar to MJ at his age.
I haven't heard anything to disprove that simple logic.
Kobe was a great player the last few years playing with some very sub-standard players as PJ said in the off season.
How could he trust Kwame to catch the ball or Smush to keep his head in the game consistently?
Who said Sasha was a 11:00 AM player?
Or Vlad was a space cadet, with no idea where to play?
Who stated publicly AB was lazy first?
Kobe felt he had to do everything himself and forced many plays. He just wanted to win. But it was not a good way to win in the NBA.
Kobe didn't trust his teammates or his org. and for good reason. It lead to his melt down, a realization he couldn't do it by himself.
I wish he wouldn't have gone public, but it has lead to a movie script like year. An unbelievable one at that.
Posted by: Fairweather Fatty | May 06, 2008 at 11:51 PM
That was the stupidest thing I've ever seen. They turned it into a giant Kia commercial! How obnoxious.
Posted by: wreakjavik | May 06, 2008 at 11:56 PM
AK/BK,
I'm pretty new to reading and appreciating the blog world, but IMHO this blog entry of yours, right here, is a perfect example of how blogs can provide journalistic content that other mainstream journalists cannot.
Like all avid Lakers and Kobe fans, I am a voracious reader of Laker content, and I especially wanted to know every detail possible about today wonderful events. This blog entry pretty much told me everything I wanted to know about Kobe's MVP day, in exquisite detail. I can't imagine an article of this depth, length and detail ever appearing in the LAT under someone's byline. You provided amazing insight to thousands of detail hungry fans like me, and we are very thankful.
So, thanks Kam bros.
Posted by: hava98 | May 07, 2008 at 12:42 AM
AK/BK,
Where are the pictures of Lamar's outfit? ;-)
Posted by: SamLL | May 07, 2008 at 12:43 AM
MVP!! MVP!!! Congrats Kobe and the Lakers. Let's beat the Jazz.
Posted by: lakersfan the "wolf" | May 07, 2008 at 01:32 AM
MVP. MVP. MVP. I have been saying this all year long. It never gets old. We all need to take a minute and enjoy the greatness of the Mamba. I have been watching the Lakers since 1986. I watched Magic, then MJ, and now Kobe. I have never seen a greater player in my life than Triple Ocho. IMHO this should have been his fourth MVP. He deserved it the past 3 years in a row, and also at the end of the 2003 season. It's about time these biased media members put aside thier personal agenda's and recognized the best player "EVER" in the NBA. MVP. MVP. MVP.
Posted by: TonyG | May 07, 2008 at 01:47 AM
All I can say is, when Kobe played for the Olympic team, with the best of the best, and EVERY player is saying that Kobe is basically the best basketball player, what more can you add? He is the best artist out there, almost like a Charlie Parker, Joh coltrane, etc., able to improvise at a moments notice because his fundamentals & b-ball instincts are at the highest level. He's The Matrix, man! It's a gift to watch this freak of nature give it all EVERY night. I care less about Kobe-haters - they'rejust missing out on history being made. He is of the highest level & the Lakers are extremely grategul that he's playing with them. MVP...about freakin' time. But like 24 said, let's bring the trophy. He knows exactly what it's about - and Jordan wouldn't disagree.
Posted by: Son H. Vo | May 07, 2008 at 02:56 AM
*________________________________*
KOBE FOR FINALS MVP OR NO PEACE!
No Championship No Peace Bandwagon
*_____________________________________*
(01) JustAnotherMambaFan - Driver & Owner
(02) Mamba24 - Riding Shotgun
Posted by: Mamba24 | May 07, 2008 at 05:25 AM
Grrrrrrrrrrrrr I hate starting my day off angry.. but I am and heres why..... JERRY WEST NEVER WON AN MVP AWARD?????? OMG !!!!!! I saw a stat on ESPN where the Logo had 6 games during the playoffs where he scored over 30 points and 10 dimes during the 1970 season.( 2nd all time) Since we cant go back in time and give credit where credit is due... Today, I'll make it my personal mission to remind everyone I come on contact with, just how AMAZING Jerry West really was even though I wasnt around for that era. Hmph...
Posted by: complex brotha | May 07, 2008 at 06:07 AM
AK,
You wrote this to Faith: I would buy what you're saying if it were just writers praising Kobe's improved leadership. But when basically the entire coaching staff and every player with him a while (and even opponents) are echoing those sentiments, there's likely much more truth to the concept than you're giving credit. In particular, they're all citing Kobe's increased patience, belief and trust exhibited in the supporting cast. Does that come as a result of their improvement? Of course. But the improvement also comes in large part as a result of the patience, belief and trust. It cuts both ways.
My response: You're looking at what people are saying
right now and not remembering what they said earlier.
i.e. 2 years ago, Phil asked Kobe to score because no
one knew the Triangle offense and last year their were
a bunch of injuries that Kobe had to compensate for.
Brian Shaw said, "We need Kobe to score."
Also, *NO ONE* is talking about the upgrade in players.
Smush, Kwame, & Brian Cook! The day Fisher showed
up I predicted at least a 5th seed. We went from Kwame
to an all-star caliber center in Gasol. Lamar's play has
picked up since Gasol came. He's hustling more.
D-Wade could do nothing with Smush and how did
Cook & Kwame do on the Grizzlies in terms of their
play this year? It was written about the Gasol *steal*
that the Lakers didn't have to give up any of their top
*TEN* players for Gasol!
Yes, I believe that Kobe is trusting his teammates more
and they're performing better because of it. That in *NO
WAY* changes the fact that we've had HUGE upgrades
at two positions. Those upgrades have given Kobe a
reason to *trust* his teammates.
Posted by: hobbitmage | May 07, 2008 at 06:51 AM
I liked it when Kobe, during the press conference said, "now it is time to look forward to tomorrow's game" This man is determined to cut the hearts out of the Utah Jazz.
Michigan Laker
Posted by: MichiganLaker | May 07, 2008 at 07:03 AM
FINALLY THE WHOLE WORLD CAN NOW STOP SAYING HIS SELFISH...
THE BEST OF THE BEST!!!
A LAKER FOR LIFE... THAT'S THE ICING ON THE CAKE!
NOW THATS DONE LETS CONTINUE ON SMACKING THE BEHINDS OF THE WANNABEES & HAS BEENS!
PURPLE & GOLD BABY!!!
Posted by: juanman888 | May 07, 2008 at 07:06 AM
Good morning,
The only thing that sucks is how long it took Kobe to get the recognition he has so rightly earned. He's carried this team on his back so many times in so many ways, I'm mystified that the establishment has been so reluctant to honor him.
Looking ahead to tonight, unless the officiating is tighter and more even-handed than in Game 1, I'm expecting a game that more resembles the WWE with David Stern playing the role of Vince McMahon.
Lamar and Gasol will need light-weight body armor to go up against a relentless Jazz assault designed to take the Lakers off their game. I hope we see more of Mbenga and less of Ronny, who's just too small to withstand the kind of punishment I think Utah has in its game plan.
I sense the Lakers see all this coming, and it will be interesting to watch. Go Lakers!
Posted by: Rick Friedman | May 07, 2008 at 07:23 AM
Where is my award,and why didnt Kobe mention me iam the best and should be remembered,...... and all time laker great and most popular.
Posted by: Smush Parker | May 07, 2008 at 07:40 AM
Yeah, I posted on the other thread about how annoying the KIA commercial was. It would be one thing if they had some rep from KIA doing it but for the Lakers PR guy himself to do that was kind of embarrasing for Laker fans everywhere.
Posted by: SaltLaker | May 07, 2008 at 07:43 AM
Open letter to mamba24
Hello sir and welcome back remember laker for life and where is my award.Hhehhe,anyway welcome back to the blog community mamba24.
Posted by: Smush Parker | May 07, 2008 at 07:57 AM
complex brotha,
I'm with you, man. I couldn't believe it when I noticed that West never won the MVP. And, I'm sure Kobe noticed which is why he never really thought he would win one himself.
There is a reason that West has always been a Kobe supporter even during his darkest days. Anyone who has seen West play (and I've only seen a few of his games), knows that Kobe is MUCH more like West then he is like Jordan.
West sees himself in Kobe. I don't think West every really saw himself in Jordan.
Kobe is really a throwback player. Sort of a West-Jordan hybrid. The MVP shows that his training is complete and that he truly is a Jedi.
--Fearless
Posted by: Fearless | May 07, 2008 at 08:04 AM
Good Morning Mamba24! Great to see you out here this morning! Hope you are well.
NO CHAMPIONSHIP - NO PEACE!
Good Morning Laker Nation!
For those of you here in SoCal, pick up a hard copy of this morning's Times...........great full page of the Mamba with all his incarnations on the back of his jersey..........
Posted by: toad | May 07, 2008 at 08:09 AM
OMG - GOOD MORNING MAMBA24!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Long time no see!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! So glad to have you back!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I am honored sir to start that bandwagon with you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Now all we need is ROOOOLLLLLLLL CAALLLLLLLLL!!!!!
It's GAME DAY BABY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It's about time - I can't stand this long wait between games - I'm going crazy!!!!!!!!!!
Well - FINALLY - the Bean got his well-deserved MVP! Unfortunately, it came in the middle of a Kia commercial, but hey - I guess we'll take it. Be proud Laker Nation - no matter what the haters are saying today! Stick your chest out and shoulders back and smile and say Kobe won the MVP and our team is still undefeated and y'all got NOTHIN' to say about that! It's just too bad that the greatness that is Kobe Bean Bryant will go unrecognized and unsung by most of the NBA world until he's done. Sigh...........HOWEVER - this great LAKER NATION will keep up the praises - even now the chorus is swelling - can you hear it??? GO KOBE - GO LAKERS - WE WANT TAAACCCOOSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
(Maybe I need to lay off the coffee for awhile - lol)!
Anyhoo - looking forward to the game tonight. It should be a good one. I don't know who posted that the guys should wear tear-away jerseys because of the holding and grabbing that Utah is doing. I personally think that would be hilarious - well, hopefully the zebras will be on top of it......what am I saying???? We'll just have to trust the guys to be prepared & ready for a wrestling match.
MAMBA24 - WELCOME BACK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
GO LAKERS!
THE BEAN FOR FINALS MVP OR NO PEACE!
NO CHAMPIONSHIP - NO PEACE!
Posted by: justanothermambafan | May 07, 2008 at 08:09 AM
POST OF THE YEAR:Where is my award,and why didnt Kobe mention me i am the best and
should be remembered,...... and all time laker great and most popular. Posted by: Smush Parker
| May 07, 2008 at 07:40 AM
Posted by: | May 07, 2008 at 08:16 AM
hobbitimage,
This is not just about whether or not Kobe is scoring more or less, or passing more or less. It is how he is acting around his teammates, about how he is more involved now in mentoring them. Clearly he has improved in those areas.
Posted by: exhelodrvr | May 07, 2008 at 08:17 AM
Good Morning,
Love that insider report. Most definitely appreciate you guys!
Go Lakers! Go Andrew and Brian Kamenetzky!
Charles
Posted by: Charles | May 07, 2008 at 08:22 AM
hava98
MonteLey Park has Litz. Love Singaporean food.
Posted by: Charles | May 07, 2008 at 08:23 AM
Faith
Those were great comments that you made to AK earlier in this thread. You like I can see through the BS and the "Revisionism" that continues to occur with this media and the diseased remnants from the leftover Laker generations.
As the Lakers continue to be successful in general and Kobe in particular there will be more and more articles in print media and more interviews that will focus on the "change" that Kobe made or the two sides of Kobe.
This line of thinking will be supported even by current Laker players in the media to justify "this story".
This all occurs because very few people do an honest self analysis. They would much rather say Kobe needed to change juxtaposed to I needed to change.
One thing that stood out to me is how dysfunctional the past Laker groups were with so many adults grappling for attention and Credit.
Did anyone hear Tex Winter ask about the triangle? WTF..........This is Kobe's day Tex! Not a celebration of your precious triangle! To Kobe's credit as he always does he rose above anything petty and gave Tex the pat on the back that apparently he can't live without.
If I were Kobe I made have shot back "Hey Tex.......Larry Bird won three of these........and he NEVER ran the triangle........so maybe this has more to do with talent and not what offense you're running"! I wondered how Tex would have responded to that.
more later......
Posted by: pfunk36 | May 07, 2008 at 08:25 AM
The only disappointing aspect of the press conference was that I didn't hear one of the K Brothers stand up and say, "Kobe, as official representatives of Laker Nation, we would like to formally congratulate you on your MVP. It's been a long time coming."
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | May 07, 2008 at 08:27 AM
complex brotha,
Jerry West AND Elgin Baylor never won an MVP. This is completely insane to me.
Chick Hearn said Elgin Baylor was the Greatest player he ever saw play... and he'd seen them all.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | May 07, 2008 at 08:28 AM
Congrats Kobe, on your 1st official, 3rd Unofficial MVP Award. You will win MVP next year when you lead the Lakers to best Chicago's 72 wins record.
Posted by: wondahbap | May 07, 2008 at 08:34 AM
LAMAR ODOM'S CHEF FOR MVP!!!!!
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | May 07, 2008 at 08:36 AM
As I was driving home, I already heard a couple of talk shows getting into a statement by Kobe when asked if he would have handled the summer's drama differently, seeing how things turned out, or if the ends justified the means. After delivering a wickedly straight faced "I was right the whole time" (delivered with such deadpan that the desired laugh didn't come until he added, "I'm joking"), he followed up with a remark that could be interpreted as praise either sincere or begrudging.
This was Kobe's answer to our own Kobe critic. LA Times Columnist Bill Plaschke...Read his column today and he still remembers Kobe's rant last summer
Posted by: Botsoy | May 07, 2008 at 08:42 AM
hobbitimage,
It's not just passing the ball more. Remember Kobe started last season passing the ball well and we got off to a 2-13 start. The difference this year is apparently in his attitude around his teammates and the extra time he's spending with them going to dinner, etc.
Posted by: Xodus | May 07, 2008 at 08:46 AM
pfunk36,
Calm down, man. Tex clearly asked Kobe about the offense as a joke, the same way Luke asked about Kobe getting his teammates gifts. Kobe used to hate playing in the triangle back in 02, 03 and 04.
You take perceived slights to Kobe way to personally.
Posted by: Xodus | May 07, 2008 at 08:50 AM
Hobbitimage,
I think the crticism of Kobe's leadership qualities (or lack of) was fair. While I disagree with arguments of him being a selfish gunner, his leadership did need work.
If anyone has ever played any sport, then they would know that when your best player gets angry or ansty and that "look" on his face when you mess up, it affects the teams decision making and confidence. They get too worried about messing up. That something that Kobe did. His disappointment was visible. That's not saying he wasn't a good leader, but his ability to let his teammates find their way and guide and encourage them led to improved results. He handled his qualms wrong last summer, but on the court, he made the team want to play for him as well as themselves.
Think of Ray Lewis or even KG this year. Their teammates produce results because they know that the alpha dog believes in them, and has their back, and that they need them. That was what was missing in Kobe. He did that this year. Yes, his team improved, but even in rough times, there wasn't the "look off" (as LO calls it) like in the past. It was more of a "don't worry, next time you got it." The play that said it all to me was when Kwame was geting booed, it was Kobe who fed him the ball next time down the floor, to give him a chance to redeem himself, and let him know that the he and the Lakers had his back. That one play defined Kobe this year.
Posted by: wondahbap | May 07, 2008 at 08:50 AM
Mamba 24...glad to see your return for such an epic moment... and even more glad to have you back in general.
Good Laker Morning
Let's play the same defense. Rebound a little bit better and blow them away.
Kobesbaaaad(and he is)
Posted by: Kobesbad | May 07, 2008 at 08:55 AM
Good Morning Lakers Nation!
Kobe has won the MVP
Mamba has dropped in to say hi.
The haters are exploding with jealousy and I'm loving it!
As an old friend said, 'Its a good day to die' and be a Lakers fan
Posted by: Fairweather Fatty | May 07, 2008 at 09:08 AM
Fingers crossed for Drewski today boys and girls.
I keep having these visions of Andrew dunking over Kevin Garnett. He's running back down the court and the fans at Staples are going crazy.
We're praying for your well being BEAST, no matter when you return.
Posted by: "Pig" Miller | May 07, 2008 at 09:10 AM
Did anyone else notice the posts by KL a couple of threads ago?
He admitted that he was wrong about Kobe.
Have the chickens come home to roost?
Also, where is Gunner?
Posted by: "Pig" Miller | May 07, 2008 at 09:15 AM
Kobe--MVP--a well-deserved award!!
His words during the award ceremony were gracious & humble, a testament to a person that has gone through fire and paid his dues
Congratulations to Kobe! You are a MVP on the court and off the court, a great human-being!
Posted by: Robyn | May 07, 2008 at 09:15 AM
Open Letter to Phunk36
Ya duded I notice the same you seem to take things way to serious. Political correctness seems to be wedded to your waistband have you ever seek help with a therapist. Partner you need to see one, you have way to much anger.Good luck.
Posted by: Josh T. | May 07, 2008 at 09:18 AM
Good Morning Everyone!
Good Morning Charles, Jon K., Faith, Toad, Fatty, Pig, and the entire Laker Family!
Good Morning MAMBA24! I'm glad to see you back.
Thanks K Bros. for the report. Is it possible that we get some L.O. fashion pics in the future?
Hope everyone has a great day!
Posted by: Caliphilosopher | May 07, 2008 at 09:18 AM
Carmelo Anthony was ticketed last weekend for overspeeding 60mph in a 45mph.
The Nuggets plays quick, exited the first round quick, Anthony driving quick..oh my!!!
Posted by: Botsoy | May 07, 2008 at 09:20 AM
FROM BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA
HAPPY DAY!! GUYS,
BONJOUR MES AMIS,
WHOEVER COMPLAINS ABOUT MY CAPS: SORRY= I CANNOT CHANGE FOR YOU PERIOD
NOW, IT WILL BE BETTER TO ENJOY THE MVP FIESTA AFTER THE GAME. KOBE KNOWS BEST= WIN#2= SAME FOCUS, SAME DEFENSE, AND SAME LOVE=TACOS=UNFORGETTABLE DAY!!!
WE TRUST OUR TEAM TO CONTINUE THE SAME PATH TONIGHT=GET MORE REBOUNDS
WIN#2, WIN#2, WIN#2
SEE U LATER
BLESSINGS AND LOVE TO OUR TEAM AND TO ALL
SHEKOBE
Posted by: SHEKOBE | May 07, 2008 at 09:34 AM
HEY WE HAVE A GAME TODAY PEOPLE!
LET'S FOCUS! I would write a smiley face here, but I don't do that stuff.
Posted by: Amazing_Happens | May 07, 2008 at 09:36 AM
there's a bunch of revisionist history going on here. if the mvp is a reflection of the team and the player, then you have to tip your hat to guys like farmar and sasha, the addition of pau, a dash of bynum, fisher's leadership and great plays, odom's improved play, and the removal of certain players whose attitude and play did nothing to help the team (hello cookie, smush and kwame!). if that's the way people look at the mvp, then dirk needs to give his back asap based on the playoff series against the warriors or he should give it to lebron or kobe.
there's no question that kobe's ego has blown up like shaq's belly and weighed kobe down the way shaq's flabby belly make him drags his slow self up the court. But no matter what you say about kobe's "me-first" attitude in some situations, who else could he count on on a consistent basis over the last couple years?
Were we getting the complete kobe during that time.? No way - but how could we when every team knew there was only one player that was going to consistently be there in crunch time? Last year's olympic trials was a not so subtle reminder of what the lakers were not getting from kobe, or maybe just a reminder that kobe can concentrate on defense and leadership if he's not required to do all the heavy lifting.
And frankly, the coaches are at fault here too for not finding ways to get players ready. It's not really phil's style to grind players a la byron scott or riley. Phil admitted that some players took advantage of him in the past - which to me, is a sign of failure, the way phil failed to really try to mend fences between himself, kobe and shaq.
kobe was the only reason we've been in the playoffs the last couple years. it was kobe's play - combined with smush, kwame, and others that put phoenix down 3-1. When the rest of the team stopped playing like they had, it made it a lot easier for the suns to climb back in the series.
Posted by: back board | May 07, 2008 at 09:36 AM
Faith,
"I don't have a problem with saying or thinking Kobe has "grown." I do have a problem with people assuming that this growth is like a sudden thing...again considering he's been trying for awhile now, and they haven't really come to fruition. At least until the players themselves improved."
Speaking for myself, I never said the growth was sudden. I originally acknowledged that it's been there in spurts during the past. But it's never been as sustained over the course of a season, and most importantly, when things weren't always great (an area where Kobe's always struggled). People forget how slowly the Lakers started and that the fruits of teammate growth didn't always register in the win column early in the season. But during that period, Kobe kept giving his teammates the keys on a regular basis, and without the invisible but understood leash.
"Leadership I'm sure is just like all of life...practice makes perfect. But my point is more...had they not worked out and improved on their own, no amount of "leadership" would have done the work. Think of it this way...Sasha whom I love, got all the mentoring, the "leadership," the trust from Kobe since day one by most accounts...but all of a sudden he's better this year? I know that's not a very good example in terms of work because by all accounts he's got an awesome work ethic...but I've noticed this year more than most, he's worked on a game outside of standstill shooting...not to mention defense. Does Kobe's "trust" or growth really have much to do with that? You can lead a horse to the bathwater...but they have to want to drink lol."
Faith, after spending Sasha's career praising his defensive effort, how can you present it like he's all of a sudden decided to focus on D? And he's spoken for the last couple seasons about still seeing himself as a PG, the position he was drafted at (i.e., more than a standstill shooter). But beyond that, Sasha has literally stated that the increased trust from Kobe (as well as his teammates and coaches) have helped him flourish.
Also, it's not a matter of ignoring the improvement guys brought upon themselves through work. That obviously played a role. But it's also about Kobe putting them more often in a position where they can succeed and creating that atmosphere. If you don't feel like the leader believes in you, it's extremely difficult to succeed. That lack of belief can often prevent one from getting enough chances to actually succeed. Not just in hoops, but any job where collaberation is required.
"There is something to be said for Kobe "trusting" his teammates more...growing as a leader because he saw them (finally) work out in the off-season. Something he hasn't really seen before."
The notion that Kobe's teammates didn't start working hard until this offseason is pretty insulting, not to mention innacurate. Jordan Farmar's had a gym rat rep since high school. Luke Walton, the same. When's the last time Ronny Turiaf hasn't been regarded as a had worker? Sasha always busted his ass. And contrary to popular belief, Bynum had employed outside help before the Kobe Video. For the most part, if you went through the roster, you'd find guys who worked to get better and played hard. They just weren't always progressing quick enough for Kobe's liking. Some of that is on them. And some of it is on Kobe not always being willing to suffer through the mistakes for the sake of helping them get there and the bigger picture.
It's also about Kobe involving himself more with his teammates off the court as well. Making them feel more like they're a crucial part of the process and recognizing the worth of that bond. That's been a huge difference as well.
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | May 07, 2008 at 09:40 AM
MAMBA24 Glad to see you back!
and when will Bill Plaschke, TJ Simers, Hollinger & etc
will stop beating the dead horse?
Kobe's been saying that he was wrong and
he should've handled the summer situation differently
during the whole 2nd half of the season!
Why did he have to ask the same damn questions
over and over?
And when he said it was a joke, it clearly was a joke.
Why did he have to go over the line and type in
something like "may be he wasn't" in his article
and tries to make some readers think that Kobe might be
the Lakers' public enemy No.1?
They seem so desperate to find any dirt on everyone
and that is really sad
Posted by: coolhair | May 07, 2008 at 09:46 AM
Hobbitimage,
The upgrade at PG and C is irrelevant when it comes to Kobe trusting his teammates more this season. They didn't get Gasol until February and it took a good month before it was clear Bynum's leap was indeed for real. Yes, Fish's presence helped, but Kobe wasn't always trusting guys playing the other three positions, anyway.
More importantly, it's irrelevant because the Lakers actually started slow. Everyone forgets they were 9-8 before hitting another level. And Kobe still played in a much more trusting, less "panic button/take over mode" style than in previous seasons. Even if Farmar or Bynum's improvements were obvious, it wasn't translating into wins from the start. The bench was often outplaying the starting unit, but Kobe didn't look to put those guys on his back early in the games. He still afforded his teammates considerably more freedom and faith.
When people talk about it like, "Kobe got Pau and then he trusted," they make it sound like Kobe needed to be handed an All-Star teammate before he could be a leader, which is a terrible shortchanging of Kobe's efforts. I don't understand why fans will insist on doing this instead of simply acknowledging that Kobe improved an aspect of his play, which is to be commended.
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | May 07, 2008 at 10:02 AM
AK
Faith had some very astute and accurate comments and you are blowing a gasket.
What's your problem dude? Are you one of those jealous haters having a meltdown as well?
Cool down.
Posted by: Fairweather Fatty | May 07, 2008 at 10:20 AM
Fairweather,
How am I "blowing a gasket?" I didn't insult Faith and I didn't write in a bunch of caps or anything that suggests "anger." I simply addressed her points and disagreed.
And who would I be "jealous" of? Just curious.
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | May 07, 2008 at 10:24 AM
I can't read that many words, guys.
C'mon we HAVE A GAME TO TALK ABOUT!
Jazz
- will they really "stop fouling?" I don't think so.
- will they shoot a better %? maybe.
- will they play hard? yes.
- will Deron Williams have a big game? Probably.
Lakers
- can they get transistion buckets? I hope so.
- can Pau stay out of foul trouble? He'd better.
- will Sasha and Vlad shoot as well? Probably not.
- can they keep the Jazz off of the offensive boards? Yes, if they Jazz stop fouling.
Posted by: Amazing_Happens | May 07, 2008 at 10:35 AM
First off, congrats Kobe, well-deserved MVP award not only this season but some of the past ones as well.
Secondly, congrats Lakers, Lakerland is already ecstatic about our awesome season but of course, like traditional Angeleos, we want it all so kick butt and bring the Championship trophy back to where it should always be...Los Angeles.
Lastly, T.J. Simers, Platschke, etc... are typical bandwagon fans on the Lakers ride. Just wait until the Lakers lose their first game in the playoffs which could potentially happen in this series against Utah. They'll be bashing the Lakers and sitting on the other side again; hyporcrites that they are...
I hope that the Lakers due raise up another Championship banner and that these baffoons have their press passes revoked when the celebration begins.
Posted by: Odysseyguy | May 07, 2008 at 10:48 AM
AK
Your reply just confirms to me that there are three people I find a waste of time to debate with at this site.
GUNNER
KL
AK
And all for pretty much the same reason.
You run an excellent site, that's why I'm here. You have some great insight to the game, and I've learned a lot from you. But I find to have an honest debate with you, an impossibility, because you are not very honest with yourself.
Of course, that's just my opinion, take it for what its worth.
Posted by: Fairweather Fatty | May 07, 2008 at 10:53 AM
Fairweather Fatty,
I'm sorry if you feel that way. I don't really see how simply disagreeing with you (or whoever) translates to being "dishonest" with myself. But you're entitled to that opinion.
I appreciate the nice words about the blog, in any case.
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | May 07, 2008 at 11:03 AM
AK,
Thank you for setting the record straight with FAITH. And those who share her opinions. You nailed it exactly about kobe's growth. This is a new and improved kobe we have seen grow up this season. Those who take this fact as an insult have spent far too long worshipping Kobe and defending him like an abused wife defending her husband.
Posted by: john | May 07, 2008 at 11:07 AM
Fairweather Fatty,
While the K Brothers are great, I will agree with you that debating them is a lot like trying to get the Fonz to say he's sorry.
"I'm s-s-s-s... I'm s-s-s-s..."
It used to really piss me off, now I just take it for what it is and find it to be kind of funny. They do have a bit of passive-aggressive Alpha disease, but what are you going to do?
They both great writers and they do a great job intelligently running this blog. They're human just like everybody else. We shouldn't expect them to be more than that.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | May 07, 2008 at 11:47 AM
So, I guess we're signing Andre Iguodala and Corey Maggette in the off season. Both would look great in Purple and Gold.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | May 07, 2008 at 12:59 PM
SHEKOBE:
Using all CAPS is not a problem AND WHAT EVER FLOATS YOUR BOAT. I assume you work for a corporate and exchange emails and do you use all caps at work? In any case there are some perceived notions on etiquettes when usnig Internet, belive it or not. There is a reason for using initial caps and a) it is easy to read and not so glaring on the eyes, b) if there is some highlights to boast then all CAPS comes handy and lastly to most bloggers all CAPS is considered rude or someone yelling. Most of the times kids like to use ALL CAPS as well. Just some basic semantics.
Be Happy at the risk of being rude :)
ALL CAPS
Posted by: ALL CAPS | May 07, 2008 at 01:03 PM
MAMBA24,
Kiss my ring and weclome back.
Luca and Pauley extend their invitation as well.
Posted by: The Mob Boss | May 07, 2008 at 01:05 PM
hey Jon K.
Are both Andre Iguodala and Corey Maggette unrestricted free agents?
Posted by: The Mob Boss | May 07, 2008 at 01:06 PM
Corey Maggette is. I don't know about Andre Iguodala.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | May 07, 2008 at 01:17 PM
I believe that most of Kobe's teamates are better because of his desire to win, Think about as we put it in our own life, whatever it is work, sports or even at home. If your parents shows a good example of work ethics 80% of the time you will become like them. At work when you see your peers working hard, you feel bad not to work hard too, cause first of all he's making you look bad and
second you try to compete at that level. The best thing that happen to us is we loose Smush and Kwame those 2 are excemptions it seems like they can't focus on the game not a lot of confidence with those two and having Derek Fisher whose excellent as player and as a human
and whose been with those battles like Kobe has and I also believe that all the struggles and hard times they had, make them grow. The way I look at it it's either you take the challenge or you fall, I'm glad they took it upon themselves, after hard times it good times.....Go Lakers go.....Congratulations Kobe.....
Let's not waste this year, Let's take the crown this year......MVP for regular season, Mvp for Championships and Mvp for Olympics....can you imagine.......
Posted by: | May 07, 2008 at 01:59 PM
I AGREE:
I agree with AK's comment on Kobe's growth which was finally realized this year and not in the past. Kobe for the most part in the past has been extremely selfish and far removed from being a team leader. I had always wished that if Kobe could only learn from Magic whom he respects but somehow it never came to be. Magic not only was an ultimate team player but made all his team mates shine bringing smiles so contagious. Magic always had great admirations for Bird and rest of the players whom he competed against but when it came down to basketball then all the accolades were tossed aside. Magic would simply kill his opponents with that smile and passion for his game.
Grasshoppers: Fatty, Jon K and Faith you guys need to learn to observe and not be blinded by your admirations for Kobe. In any case Congrats to Kobe and well deserved THIS YEAR!!
Posted by: Magic Man | May 07, 2008 at 02:35 PM
Magic Man,
"I agree with AK's comment on Kobe's growth which was finally realized this year and not in the past. Kobe for the most part in the past has been extremely selfish and far removed from being a team leader."
To clarify, I never said Kobe was selfish. My stance has always been that his biggest issue was learning to trust and value teammates more, to cede control at times and risk an unfavorable result for the bigger picture, and not to force the issue at the early signs of trouble. As opposed to selfishness in a "gotta get my numbers, gotta be the man" kinda way. There's a difference, and I've actually defended Kobe in the past with accusations of the latter.
I'm not looking to debate your opinion (even though I don't agree). I just didn't want mine possibly misrepresented.
Thanks,
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | May 07, 2008 at 02:47 PM
AK,
You are correct, sir!
And it's a double-sided issue. In the past Kobe didn't trust enough (or appropriately) AND often his teammates didn't deserve his trust in the heat of battle.
Now his teammates have earned his trust and he has learned to trust appropriately, even optimistically.
The result? Harmony.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | May 07, 2008 at 03:05 PM
Mamba24,
Welcome back buddy! We missed you!
Posted by: Benjamin | May 07, 2008 at 03:13 PM
Mamba24 for MVP!! Most Valuable Poster. Great to see you bandwagoning around!!
Do you think Michaelangelo would be selfish if he did not take time out to talk to the Pope? Was Einstein selfish for not spending time teaching? Kobe does not suffer fools or mediocre people well. That is a mark of greatness, not a failing.
You can tell I love Kobe. As much as it would hurt me, I will say he was NOT wrong for threatening to leave our Lakers. His talent was being wasted with Parker and Brown around. He is a competitor. Why on earth would he be content to mentor losers year in, year out. Without his protest would daring changes have been made? His trade talk was leadership!!
Kobe could not show proper leadership and patience with Kwame. Kwame will not improve. Kobe has only a few more years to be the top. Self-sacrifice and blindness are not virtues if you believe in excellence.
Now that Kobe has role players he can trust, he trusts. That is great.
But Kobe has always worked hard. For those who say he is egotistical, realize that he is competitive and cares. As great as Shaq WAS, he deserved wrath for not working hard. Furthermore, have you ever seen a kinder or more giving interviewee? He is serious and dedicated in his comments. He is generous with is time. He is not egotistic, he cares deeply about his craft.
HATERS back off because you do not understand greatness.
GO KOBE!! CONGRATULATIONS!!!! and tonight
GO LAKERS!!!!!!
Posted by: JohnnyP | May 07, 2008 at 03:28 PM
I think the main point is here is that Kobe hasn't changed his game a great deal. He's been adjusting between dominating and distributing for most of his career. After Shaq left, Kobe dominated a little more than he should have, but he didn't completely change as a player. Now he has better players and he adjusts, distributing more.
I think that's the main point with which people have issue. A lot of the these "Kobe deserves the MVP now, but never did" types act as though Kobe has substantially changed his game. It has changed some, gradually over the past few years. His game remains quite recognizable.
The more significant changes were the addition and improvement of better, more serious, teammates and Kobe's much improved team leadership and friendliness toward his fellow Lakers.
So, it strikes many as kind of odd and unfair that Kobe is only getting MVP props now when his game hasn't changed in a major way. And it should. Kobe was robbed in 2006. And in 2003, Kobe probably deserved the ill-formed human poop trophy too. (thanks for giving us that image in the other thread eddie brock, heh)
Posted by: Benjamin | May 07, 2008 at 03:39 PM
Jon K.,
"It's a double-sided issue. In the past Kobe didn't trust enough (or appropriately) AND often his teammates didn't deserve his trust in the heat of battle. Now his teammates have earned his trust and he has learned to trust appropriately, even optimistically."
That's a very good way of putting it.
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | May 07, 2008 at 03:40 PM
Fairweather Fatty,
I encourage you to open your heart to the possibility that AK is an honest and fair discussion partner.
That's what I see and I'm about as hypercritical as they come.
Remember, just because someone disagrees with you doesn't mean they don't see your point.
Posted by: Benjamin | May 07, 2008 at 03:54 PM
Man, can you guys imagine what would become of Igoudala under Kobe's tutelage? Iggy hop is about as athletically freaky as anyone in the league.
Very, very scary.
Posted by: Benjamin | May 07, 2008 at 04:00 PM
AK is analytical and so may seem pompous, but he is just succinctly stating his case. That is what he has to do. It is like playing a straight man to make our RANTS IN CAPS seem more OUTRAGEOUS!!!! : ) !!! And believe me, if he were ever rude to Faith, I would jump on him like a "man" striking at Mamba24. He hasn't been. He does his job respectfully and well.
BTW Stu Lantz is GREAT. Whomever disses him is a dog! But more analytically, following AKs tone, his insight, fluidity and humor are perfect. Can we forget his loving and long relationship with Chick? Don't put down such an integral member of our Lakers family.
GOooooooooo LAKERS!!!! At the top of my LUNGS!!! THAT"S WHAT ITS ABOUT!!! KOBE MVP!!!
STAPLES crowd, lets make some NOISE!!
Gooooooooooo LAKERS!!!!!
Posted by: JohnnyP | May 07, 2008 at 04:09 PM
Benjamin,
Igoudala and Maggette both want to win and Kobe's their friend.
It's okay to hope. It's not irrational.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | May 07, 2008 at 04:09 PM