Hold.... hold.... hold.....!!!
Nothing like kicking off the morning with a reasonably obscure movie reference (UPDATE: Apparently, not all that obscure. Charles got the Braveheart reference in about 10 seconds, hence the pic on the left), but that's basically what the Lakers are doing these days. Holding on until they see who they play. If Utah can hold home court and knock off the Houstons in Game 6 of their first round series tonight, then the Lakers and Jazz will open up their set on Sunday at Staples. If the Rockets push the series back to Houston... well, it's back to holding for LAL. In the meantime, they're doing their best to stay sharp, and focusing on what the Jazz and Rockets are doing to each other defensively. Both teams are strong at the point (in the case of Deron Williams of Utah, we mean that literally), both are stout inside. Penetration, either via the dribble or pass, will be a big issue no matter who the Lakers play. The Jazz is also incredibly physical, to the point that the Rockets have sent a DVD to the league office complaining about how games are being officiated.
Offensively, the Lakers are getting production from everyone on the floor, in no small part because of Kobe Bryant. It helps, too, to have a made-for-the-triangle player like Pau Gasol to keep the wheels greased.
Eric Pincus of Hoopsworld has some Bynum news, discussing some of the options remaining for him this year, and what the off-season might hold. The good news? Microfracture surgery isn't currently a concern.
In praise of Luke Walton (something not heard much over the first few months of the season).
The Knicks haven't contacted Avery Johnson yet, but he's been a busy man. Mike D'Antoni is also likely on the move, but don't look for him and Johnson to swap jobs. Perhaps Chicago might be running a little more next year?
What happens with D'Antoni could be more clear after he meets with Steve Kerr and Robert Sarver today.
Mercifully, Dwyane Wade and Star Jones are just "good friends." Because really, anything more is an image unsafe for public consumption.
Latrell Sprewell's quest to feed his family has left him unable to buy a Big Mac on credit.
Below are yesterday's practice vids... we hope.
Lakers Legacy
Thanks for the link to the graphics on the various Jackson triangle offensive set over the years.
I wonder what adjustments will be made when Drew comes back next year.
Posted by: giantsquid | May 02, 2008 at 03:24 PM
Brova Charles,
WOW... I didnt know Raquel Welch is mixed? I'm also pretty shocked you didnt have Stacey Dash on your list Charles ?????? Man, she used to be a serious hotty back in the day. I'm gonna have to google most of the babes on your list. I'm only familier with Alba, Keys and Welch ( and only Welch thru Mr Skin lol ) but for my rookie list, I gotta go with Stacey Dash ummmmmmm I cant think right now Charles, you threw me off with the "mixed" list lmaooooooooooooooooo
Posted by: complex brotha | May 02, 2008 at 03:25 PM
Wait, so did Mamba24 say he wasn't coming back because of what Weatherman said?
Posted by: Xodus | May 02, 2008 at 03:27 PM
Sucks about Bynum, but I would way rather be safe then sorry. We still have an outstanding job to win the title this year without him. And if we don't its not like he's going anywhere anytime soon. I have a feeling Socks is a Laker for life. So just like Kobe said preseason, its time to strap on the shoes and play. I have no doubts that Bynum will work even harder than last this offseason and come back next year full force. We got it this year though, I know we do.
GO LAKERS
Posted by: mrbarneydangles | May 02, 2008 at 03:35 PM
LakerTom,
What do you think, now that Bynum is probably out, about the idea of moving Gasol to power forward more often and having Turiaf/The Banger/Mihm play center?
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | May 02, 2008 at 03:43 PM
Faith I love the usual optimism, oh and I love that refrence u had about gambling nurses a couple of days ago. I live in Texas and when I went to the Morongo casino I had not seen that many Asian people in one building, it was awesome, the women are beautiful!! Jesterguru you had be rolling with that star jones comment.
Things I look forward to tonight:
1) Wizards attacking the basket and beating the Cavs.
2) Scoutting the Jazz & Rockets
Posted by: Semper Fidelis | May 02, 2008 at 03:45 PM
Benjamin; Toad,
Thanks for the comments. I appreciate your opinion that the roll call is "must have" content. I see it a little differently and expressed MY opinion. I never suggested that it be stopped. In fact it wasn't even my post, I just agreed with someone else.
Did I know of Larry's personal issues BEFORE the post? No; How could I have?
Had I of known of his issues, would I of posted even this modest criticizm? Probably not.
I also agreed with someone else that I thought the daily award was a little presumptuous. If that makes me a nazi and/or fascist and/or hater, then may I suggest a further study of history? Words mean things.
Nazi's burning jews in ovens is hate.
Lynching people because of skin color is hate.
Stalin starving 20 million of his own people in the 1930's is hate.
I'm fairly certain my modest comments don't qualify.
I'm an old guy, so I have never heard of "Urbanictionary". I speak and write the old fashion English. Perhaps if you are going to write in "Urbanese" you might want to post a notice so those old folks among us will know that some of the words may have a different meaning. It might reduce misunderstanding. Others also posted that they "couldn't find what the fuss was about". Just a thought.
As for your opinion that "I am a jerk". You are entitled to your opinion. It's not something I would say about someone, but then again I think it says more about you than me.
Further, no I don't hate children or small animals......I have both.
As for being uncomfortable here.....Not in the least. You think I would buckle to a fascist bully like you? ;-)
Posted by: Andy | May 02, 2008 at 03:46 PM
No Xodus, basically Mamba24 is taking a well deserved Vacation. He posted on the Fish/Kobe thread and explained his hiatus isnt so much from the Roll Call haters as much as its from the need to fully grieve his loved ones and get away from the computerworld for a lil while.
Posted by: complex brotha | May 02, 2008 at 03:46 PM
You know what I like most about Laker Nation Blogmunity?
Intelligence. Humor. Enthusiasm.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | May 02, 2008 at 03:46 PM
if Bynum still has pain in his knee all these months later then why doesn't he get whatever scope or whatever needs to be done... done? If he needs some kind of knee surgery, why not do it now, then maybe we have a shot at getting him back in the middle of next season. I don't understand what the delays are for at this point, either he is healing or he isn't. If not, take steps now, instead of losing months in rehab time by not acting right now.
Posted by: TaosHum | May 02, 2008 at 03:52 PM
If a troll posts the blog and no one responds, does that post really exist? Does the troll really exist? Just wondering.
Mark
Posted by: MarkytheArky | May 02, 2008 at 03:52 PM
Complex Blooda
Stacey Dash has the same banging thickness to Vida Guerra and Melyssa Ford. High Donkey Butt.
Raquel is of Latin and European descent. Excuse me while I purchase some apple pies across the street.
Jason Biggs
Posted by: Charles | May 02, 2008 at 03:54 PM
Charles, Not that I doubted you my Brova, but I looked up your list lol OMG Adriana Lima !!!!!!!! Whew Major HOTTY.. I was also shocked about Q's daughter but the only one I'll steal for my list will be Adriana. Looks like I need to stop watchin so much TNT,ESPN and MSNBC ha
Posted by: complex brotha | May 02, 2008 at 03:57 PM
Jon K
Lol..and don't forget..if someone don't post everyday this blog turn into love and the restless..lol
Posted by: lakeraholic | May 02, 2008 at 03:58 PM
The Lakers can win this year without Bynum, and especially if Arriza makes it back in Round 2. Bynum should strictly focus on being 100% ready next season, when the Lakers will make history and go 80-2.
So Mamba24, when you're ready, put me down as the Bandleader of the Lakers 80-2 and 16-0 in the playoffs in 08-09.
Posted by: CornerJ | May 02, 2008 at 03:58 PM
IMHO that Pincus article did not say anything new that we didn't already know. It does not have a leg to stand on. Seems more like hearsay to me.
It was mentioned in a previous article (not by Pincus) that Bynum also has a bone bruise. I forgot where I read it. It described how that part of the knee does not have much blood flowing into it so it takes the bruise a really long time to heal. That causes some of the swelling. Maybe some of our blog brethren with a medical background can enlighten us.
Posted by: SamLL | May 02, 2008 at 04:02 PM
MarkytheArky,
No it doesn't.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | May 02, 2008 at 04:02 PM
Hey Jon K.,
Jou know what I like about the blogmunity? Jou!
I kill me!
In all seriousness, it really sucks waiting for these games to happen. I miss Laker games.
I like cookies. What a delicious treat!
Posted by: "Pig" Miller | May 02, 2008 at 04:04 PM
A Hawks win tonight would be almost as enjoyable as a Laker sweep of Utah/Houston.
Almost.
Posted by: giantsquid | May 02, 2008 at 04:04 PM
Charles,
Since its the weekend and kinda slow Laker news day, I've come up with 5 celeb females I would NEVER touch even if I was homeless, in no particular order
Star Jones
Joan Rivers
Whoopie Goldberg
Liza Minelli
and I'm on the fence with Oprah.. I dunno Brah, sometimes she has these bags under her eyes that make her look like something from Animal Planet, but half a billion??? Ummmmmm even a hungry homeless man couldnt resist her sexy hippo look
Posted by: complex brotha | May 02, 2008 at 04:12 PM
Is it me or Luke Walton is in the top 10 playoffs PER leaders???? http://tinyurl.com/6koyr2
Posted by: Tsiry | May 02, 2008 at 04:24 PM
Is it Sunday yet?
I sure hope Utah wins tonight. I don't think I can wait until Tuesday.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | May 02, 2008 at 04:27 PM
If Gail Sayers, Joe Namath and Micky Mantle had knees ...
That joint can be a heartbreaker. Right about now Jerry Buss and Co are wishin' this weren't the year they had to decide to put 80 million on the line to sign a multi year deal with a player that might have a condition.
With surgery as the next step, sounds as if next year just became questionable. Hate to see such talent and promise waiting in street clothes.
Posted by: Vman | May 02, 2008 at 12:30 PM
With that much money and potential then the best thing is imo to give AB the 80 mil contract but take out LLoyds of London insurance policy on his knees.
Posted by: JustaLakerFan | May 02, 2008 at 04:27 PM
AK,
Now would be a good time to do a lakers trivia.
Posted by: Faith | May 02, 2008 at 04:32 PM
Andrew had a subluxation of the kneecap. True, a subluxation is a dislocation, but it's the much less severe type of dislocation where the kneecap wobbles back into place immediately. The greater length of recovery time in Andrew's injury comes from his bone bruise. The difficulty of getting blood to that area means that it's just too difficult to predict the length of recovery time.
I had several subluxations of my right knee during my athletic days, and the longest I was out was a little over a month. I never had an accompanying bone bruise, obviously. The key to preventing recurrence of a subluxation is simply to strengthen the muscles around the knee through weight training, especially the quadriceps. Once Andrew's bone bruise heals, I imagine that he can accelerate his weight work. Once I really dedicated myself to weight training, I never hurt my kneecap again during my last six or seven years of playing sports.
Posted by: The Dude Abides | May 02, 2008 at 04:34 PM
"Charles,
Since its the weekend and kinda slow Laker news day,"
http://tinyurl.com/2ougeh
Posted by: Charles | May 02, 2008 at 04:34 PM
Random bored thoughts:
-It doesn't matter if nobody responds to a troll. The troll thinks, therefore he is. The existance of the post is another matter entirely.
-Wasn't Adriana Lima the Victoria Secret model that used to be a man, or was that a different model?
-Somebody has to get Vitti and the Gang away from Bynum ASAP, before it's too late.
-What the heck is a donkey butt? Is that something good or bad?
-I'm rooting for Utah tonight. I cannot wait another two days to watch my Lakers. Not to mention the fact that stubborn Sloan hates to double team Kobe. Lakers in 5.
-Listen here Andy, there's only one Laker Blog Nazi around these parts, and it ain't you. Hint, his initials are J.K.
-I never realized that Laker fans were so darn sensitive. Or is it just Laker fans that blog about the Lakers who are overly sensitive?
Posted by: LAKER TRUTH | May 02, 2008 at 04:36 PM
Tsiry,
Espn posted Luke as the Field goal percentage leader in the playoff's. About 70%
Posted by: Charles | May 02, 2008 at 04:40 PM
LMAO@ Stephen A Smith
"With Bynum, I had the Lakers going to the finals, without him, I instantly choose the Spurs"
Ahahahahahaha I LOVE IT!!!!! Cant wait until we make it to the finals. It will kill 2 birds with one stone.. Skip Bayless and Stephen A
Posted by: complex brotha | May 02, 2008 at 04:40 PM
why hasn't the spurs and hornets start their series?
i think they have to wait for the whole series to end before starting the conference semis... so if the jazz finishes rockets now and the other series force game 7, there wont be any lakers vs jazz game 1 on sunday...
Posted by: allansy8 | May 02, 2008 at 04:43 PM
Mixed-race hotties? To add a few not named so far, I'd nominate both Lisa Bonet and her daughter Zoe Kravitz. Then I would have to add Kristin Kreuk and Aline Nakashima. Finally, Salma Hayek and Shakira. If you want to include the older generation, then Lena Horne, Nancy Kwan, and France Nuyen.
Posted by: The Dude Abides | May 02, 2008 at 04:43 PM
i was wrong...
Posted by: allansy8 | May 02, 2008 at 04:49 PM
I was over at the Sun's blog Bright Side of the Sun and asked who they would rather see win the Western Conference finals if it came down to the Lakers and Spurs. Turns out, even with everything that's happened with the Spurs lately, their hatred for the Lakers still holds strongest.
Here's some replies after I asked who they would rather see.
’d have the Spurs win. I can’t stand the Fakers.
Since none of the above isn't in your question – I would normally go with the Spurs too b/c my hate for the Lakers is higher.
However, as a basketball fan, I would actually much perfer to see the Lakers.
Its funny actually – I hate the Lakers as a long time rival but actually like the way they play ball. With the Spurs its the opposite. I don’t get much enjoyment out of watching them play (especially us) but don’t have the same engrained hatred…although its growing each year.
I don’t even hate the players on the Lakers. I am NOT a Kobe hater and how can you hate Gasol or Odom or Fisher?
I just hate THE LAKERS for repeatedly crushing the hopes of a young Suns fan….and as a Phoencian I hate L.A. for all the crap they send our way from smog, to traffic, to Lakers fan imigrants.
I think we need a border wall on the Colorado River…
It must suck to be a Suns fan right now. Good thing I'm not one. Go Lakers!
Posted by: DavyJonze | May 02, 2008 at 04:49 PM
"The roll call is a battle cry, it's a celebration of being a Laker fan, it's, it's a listing of roll call members who share a love of a team. It's a sacred institution.
Sometimes selfish pricks were easily annoyed by it. Selfish pricks too lazy or stupid to scroll past a post. I give you permission to think outside the box."
I find that very interesting, considering I find Mamba24's 'roll call' posts to be about as selfish as you can get. Completely self-serving and NEVER having anything to do with the topic/articles of the day. NEVER. I don't really understand how other people found that acceptable.
It was, quite simply, a way to draw attention to himself, and that is extremely selfish. He was creating his own popularity contest, with himself at the center. Not to mention, the roll calls were always the first post of the day, meaning he's sitting in front of his computer from 8:30-10:30am every morning refreshing the blog page every minute or two just so he can be the first to post. That's pretty much the definition of a self-centered, self-serving, attention-needing individual. Then add the fact that a national sports writer would specifically ask the KamBros "what's wrong with that guy who writes those long obnoxious posts on your blog" should be a bit of a clue as to how the outside world sees that sort of thing - it's just childish and unprofessional. There's a difference between being a hardcore fan and being a hardcore fan who thinks he's bigger than the team, and I think those roll call posts crossed that line.
And FWIW, it's just the roll calls I had a problem with. Mamba24 is I'm sure a fine human being and definitely capable of normal, constructive posting, he just needs to put his laker enthusiasm towards something that doesn't annoy other laker fans quite so much.
Also, how did I not make the 'haters can bite me' lists? My chompers are aching and I don't know who to bite... (j/k)
Posted by: J.W. Weatherman | May 02, 2008 at 05:00 PM
Lakers planned to watch Rockets-Jazz game together
By JOHN NADEL, AP Sports Writer
35 minutes ago
EL SEGUNDO, Calif. (AP)—The Los Angeles Lakers planned a players-only gathering Friday night to have dinner and watch Game 6 of the Houston-Utah first-round playoff series.
They had more than a passing interest, since the Jazz or Rockets will be their opponent in the second round. But they figured to have a good time no matter who won.
“We let loose, relax, enjoy each other’s company,” Lamar Odom said after a light practice Friday.
“We’re going to have a good time, hang out together,” Jordan Farmar said.
Odom said he received a text message Thursday night informing him of the gathering.
“We’re going to go to some restaurant,” he said. “We’ve got a couple funny guys who keep guys loose. We have some personalities.”
Who was picking up the tab?
“Hopefully the MVP,” Odom replied, loud enough for Kobe Bryant to hear and eliciting a protest.
Odom recently told a story on his Web site about a team dinner before the first-round series against Denver in which Bryant treated his teammates.
“As soon as he picked up the bill, we all started chanting, ‘MVP, MVP, MVP!” Odom said.
Bryant, who hears the “MVP, MVP” chant on a regular basis at Staples Center and sometimes at visiting arenas as well, appears to be the leading candidate for his first Most Valuable Player award, expected to be presented next week.
Utah took a 3-2 lead into Game 6 with Houston, and the Lakers were mindful that a victory by the Jazz would mean Game 1 of the second-round series would be played Sunday at Staples Center—six days after Los Angeles completed its first-round sweep of the Nuggets.
A win by Houston would mean the Rockets and Jazz would play Game 7 on Sunday, and the winner wouldn’t face the Lakers until Tuesday night at the earliest. That would mean the Lakers would have more than a week between games.
“If we play on Sunday, we’ll be ready on Sunday,” Bryant said. “If we play on Tuesday, then we’ll be ready on Tuesday. I hope Utah wins so I can answer questions about Utah.”
Bryant said he was pulling for the Jazz for one basic reason—to get the second-round series going sooner rather than later.
Lakers coach Phil Jackson said the coaching staff had nothing to do with the team deciding to watch the Rockets-Jazz game together.
“That’s theirs. They’ve done it before,” he said.
Jackson said the Lakers “were real sloppy” in practice Friday. Earlier in the week, he said the team wouldn’t practice Saturday if it wasn’t going to play Sunday. But following Friday’s practice, he said there would be practice Saturday, but Sunday might be a day off if there’s no game.
Jackson also said that backup forward Trevor Ariza, sidelined since breaking his right foot in practice Jan. 20, might be cleared for full contact next week. Team spokesman John Black said Ariza is scheduled to have a CT scan next Friday.
“We’re not going to put a target date on that yet,” Black said regarding Ariza’s return
Posted by: complex brotha | May 02, 2008 at 05:03 PM
Screw the Wuss Bynum,
The Lakers better be very careful about when and how much they offer him.
I have a feeling, he will have an injury prone career and will not play if he is even a little bit hurt.
Remember, the only reason he worked so hard in the off season this year was because he knew it was a make or break season in terms of contract money. He certainly lacked any effort last year after his initial success early in the season.
Mark my words, bynum will be the biggest bust ever in Laker history.
Dated 5-2-08
Mr. Opposite
Posted by: Mr. Opposite | May 02, 2008 at 05:04 PM
I have seen the bite me list and the the other comments for and against Mamba24s Roll Call.
As Mamba has said he needs a break due to personnel reasons.
So I say he gets his break but the supporters can keep the roll call alive if one of us each day cuts and pastes the Roll Call for him so that he is here in spirit.
Heres to you Mamba24
I will go first.
FRANK RIZZO:” God bless the dude, but if I see Mamba24's name in one more post
I am gonna scream. (Looks up at his own post) Oh Gawd, there it is again. :(
NOW THAT IS SOME FUNNY SH+T LMAO!! I AGREE FRANK 100%
PEOPLE, PEOPLE, PEOPLE! STOP THIS, STOP THIS NOW! LOL!
IF I WERE NOT HIM MY REACTION WOULD BE, F*C* MAMBA24 TO! LOL!
To all of those who expressed support and had my back
yesterday God Bless you all. To Laker Truth, we cool
brother, you always been one of my main blogging buddies.
Yesterday was not really about someone being against me or the
Roll Call. To Andy I say God Bless you sir and you did make
some very valid points…but. Yesterday was not about you either
J.W. Weatherman I feel your pain sir but it was not about you
Either so I apologize. Your critical post just happen to come
at a critical juncture in my life which led to a Gestalt like
Moment. I don’t’ want to be morbid or maudlin but I think
After 3 years of being a part of this Blogging family the
Least I could do is give you an explanation. As most of you
Know my Mom died 3 months ago and she was the center
Of my life. Instead of taking the time to properly mourn
Her passing I just jumped right back into activities as if to show
My strength. Yesterday was my Fathers birthday it was also
The third anniversary of his passing. So improper mourning,
Reflection on my father and then what seemed to be a
Concentrated attack on me especially by one whom I
considered a brother in the struggle led to a single, crystal
Clear moment of clarity. I NEED A VACATION! LOL!
So even though these are the happiest days of my life
Because of my beloved Lakers success, they also happen
To be some of the saddest days. Oh yeah one other thing
I forgot to mention. Career Burnout. I’ve been a System
Analyst for over 15 years and it’s got to the point that I
Can’t stand being around computers, even to keep up
With Laker news and post roll calls and bandwagons.
So as I said all the events came crashing together on
My Dad’s birthday and since it appeared that Roll Call
Etc. was no longer wanted or needed it was the perfect
Time to get away. So that’s it. GOT TO TAKE SOME
REAL TIME OUT. Thanks everybody I would thank
You individually but then I’d get criticized for that
Also. But I have to thank 4 individuals by name:
Edwin Gueco, Faith, JustAnotherMambaFan and
Keifo. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for
Everything. Well that’s it. I think the Lakers will win
The championship and I know on the very best of
Authority that Kobe has won the MVP and the vote
Was not even close. D@mn this thing is getting
Long. I love all of you. I guess I won’t get to wear
those speedo’s my Latina Queen. Good by and God Bless.
ROLL CALL: MAN
(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 ,
RDLEE, PURPLE HEART, Allan-Brazil, Puddle, Andrew Z. Hugo Boss, CORNER J.
The Outlaw, Tsphere, Jon Kavulic, WeaveMan, SixOneZero, FearlessWhackJob, CBuck
utzworld THE BANNER HOLDER, DICE8UP, Never, JANAYA, EastCoastJessie, Jman
BackMamba24, BrownMamba24, WhiteMamba24, Mamba24Fan4Life, FanOfMamba,
JustAnotherMAMBAFAN, Mamba#5, JustALakerFan, VI LakerFan, LALFan, KOBE24
Greek Dude, Afro Joe, KB8THWonder, Original Ken, Original J J, LakerMan420,
PURPLE&GOLD_REIN, ZEN, Ando, Brylle, MOKO, JOHNNY P., MIKE DILLS, ISSANG
LakerGurl, SFLakerGirl, PsychedLakerGirl, SimiLakerGirl, LakerGirl1980, LakerLass
HoustonLakerGirl, SheKobe, LakersRydeOrDie, SloGal, TWoody, LakerFaze, Wow
DrewPauKobe, GoKobeGo, KobesBad, KobeRocks, Laker/KobeFan, NIK KANNAN
MrBarneryDangles, Todd, JesterGuru, SmoothD, JCool, Jeff, David Whang, WWKBD
KIWI, Machiavelly, DOC4daLakeShow, LakersMR, LakersSTH, HobbitMage, Korey
Allan-BRAZIL, Herb Stempel, DarkAngelSK, TROY, T_Sensei, BerkleyLaker, Dave M.
Stars_R_Aligned, Cscoot, The_Dude_Abides, Johnny Laker, The HEAD-MBENGA
L.A. Watcher, LakerGurl, FUEGO32, EHOMP, KCHW, MICHIGAN_LAKER
Complex Brotha, WondahBap, Derek, Benjamin, The HAMMER, Cyrus(Ventrilquist),
HappyCamper, HappyDaze, HappyGilmore, CriticalBeatDown, RealityBites, BZAR,
Amazing Happens, TELLitLIKEitIS PSLakerLover, Lakers4Lyfe, Lakers4Real, Che,
CooLHAIR, The_COOL BOBIE, SpokanLakerFan, Duma, Shum, ManSlayer, FatSam
AKR68, GiantSquid, BotSoy, LakerFan, LA_Mental, CaliPhilosopher, JLuv, CDub0512
Bruzer, Peanut_Butter_Spread, Laker_Kev, Lakers_Sparks_Fan, Trio, Reality_Check
: DAVE ROSENZWEIG, DANCAT, LakerBandit, TwoForOne7, HAWAIID,Chick4Ever
You Ever Notice? MarkyTheArky, Justin Leonard, FIishEye, Linda Pineda, Kidwell, Mel
BronxLakerFan ChitTownLaker, HoustonLaker, TexasLaker, BrazillianLaker, USCLaker
LakerNorth, LakerinBC, ROMY R, NIK KANNAN, Earth_Wind_&_Fire, FKIllah, TEEJ
AA Los, Wizo, Caeser, Maxximo, Wolf, Chuck23, 10MillionDollarZen, Man, Jeff Grotke
Lakers4Realz, Gino, Gabe, Darick, Floyd, Vincent, ROBYN, Khang, Old Scholol, TP,
Eddie Brock, Jandro, Paul Lee, AJAX, Mitchell, David In Spain, J_Doubter, Guy, Xtro,
Playa, Butler, Franky_J., Daryl, LakerDawg, DK,JC, The Dropper, Afro Joe, Jeff
MobWagoneer, PK-in-the-MESA, GreenPaz, Andy B, TIKI, HUBBIT, Jamie SWEET
SwanWorld, , Benny Blanca, MEL, AdamKiley, JUSTIN, CHRIS H, LADIESMAN
Linda Pineda, CaliKing, Thirty2, Aime Williams, Chucky .L.Ohno, Look Lonely, Kyle
LakerHolic, GDChild, Dion Centralk, Staples24, Robyn, Lakers08, Mel, J.D. Hastings
Laker_Fan, True Laker Fan, Passionate Laker Fan, LT Laker_Fan, Grail, DaxMDD
40YearFan, KillerEight, LOTEC9, LAKER_LARRY, Todd Battles, ASM, MikeAz,
LakaLover, Bynumite, CS, Baywood, LakerHopeful, Bobie, Gilly, MARCO64, Drew
Purple&Gold_4Eva, B4Hoops, HeWhoHoops, Jorema, Xtro, MCGarnagle, LENT
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SighBrandon C. Tully Moxness, LakerBake, Sean74, Sead94, LongLiveChick
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RicoTico, Lauria, Sean P. SocalSpider , Sambosola BigGameJames, Dascilla
JoninJAPAN(INCANADA), FRANCESCO, RHON SALMON, STUCKINNY
*
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
LAKERS TODAY LAKERS TOMORROW LAKERS FOREVER
Posted by: Mamba24 | May 02, 2008 at 08:04 AM
Posted by: JustaLakerFan | May 02, 2008 at 05:04 PM
THE LEGEND OF ANDREW BYNUM…
The news today that Andrew is still feeling pain in his knee and will most likely not be able to return to help the Lakers in the playoffs this year still cannot wipe the happy smile of my face. Get well and get ready to dominate for an entire season next year, Drew. You are the face and the future of the Los Angeles Lakers and the next dominant center in the National Basketball Association.
I’m convinced that the Lakers can still win the NBA championship this year without Drew. Without a doubt, Drew’s championship-caliber defense and above-the-rim offense will be missed but this team has already shown a great ability to meet any challenge. I still believe the Lakers will dispatch the Jazz in four games. We dominated the Jazz in their home arena down the stretch and should be able to do so again. We will need big series from Pau and Lamar but the way we are playing now the Jazz should be easy.
Facing the Spurs or Hornets without Drew will be a much greater challenge but we have also shown that we can beat both of these teams without Drew so I see no reason why we won’t go into the series confident that we can continue to dominate. The true test without Drew for sure will be against the Celtics in the Finals. I think we would have a better shot against the Pistons but I doubt they will be able to beat Boston and the refs both. Here is where my 4 sweep prediction probably falls without Drew.
What makes this Lakers team so potent right now is that they have 12 players who are playing the best basketball of their careers. That means multiple players showing up each game to help Kobe and Pau carry the team to victory. The addition of Trevor should also help defensively and make us even deeper and more dangerous. Resistance is futile.
I hope Drew will be able to join the team on the bench and road to be a part of this championship run even if he does not play. I would like to see him make a token appearance just so the fans could express their love and appreciation to him. He deserves as big a share as any player for the greatness that has developed this season. And seeing Andrew in street duds on the bench will be a stark reminder to the rest of the league as we beat their asses down and win the championship this year that they “ain’t seen nothing yet.” Thus begins the Legend of Andrew Bynum, the next great Lakers center.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | May 02, 2008 at 05:10 PM
Much as everyone including myself would like to have AB back for the playoffs it sounds like a definite at this point that we'll see him next October soonest.
I still think the Lakers can win it all this year w/out AB. It would have taken a major adjustment to incorporate him into the starting lineup in the middle of the playoffs so it is likely he w/d have been playing bench minutes anyway.
With Ariza coming back, Turiaf coming back from illness( essentially useless during the Denver series), Mbenga (perhaps Mihm too) getting better, Luke playing the best in his career and Radman not having a single good offensive game yet - I still like our chances. Name me any other team in the playoffs with such an upside. There ain't none.
To be honest, at this point, Gasol is a much better option at Center than Drew in terms of team offense. Pau due to his experience is a much better passer than Drew right now, and can read the defense better. That's why the triangle is working better than ever. Lamar also seems to be playing off Gasol better than he did with Drew, because he can be a pass receiver as well as a giver. Kobe is also better at playing a 2 man game w/Pau than he did with AB. Certainly, Drew is better at rebounding, physical contact and shot blocking than Gasol. That's one of the main question marks going into the next series - how is Gasol going to react to physical play? During the regular season, he was taken out at times, especially in the defensive end by more physical players.
Posted by: LakerinBC | May 02, 2008 at 05:22 PM
I nominate J.W. Weatherman for President.
Posted by: Rocky | May 02, 2008 at 05:33 PM
complex,
What about Phyllis Diller?
Posted by: exhelodrvr | May 02, 2008 at 05:40 PM
JW Weatherman, You're a psychopath. Many people are unhappy and Mamba24 has some real pain and all you can do is celebrate your not having to scroll past what you don't like! I hope the world is good for YOU!
What a piece,
GO LAKERS!!
Posted by: JohnnyP | May 02, 2008 at 05:48 PM
So I say he gets his break but the supporters can keep the roll call alive if one of us each day cuts and pastes the Roll Call for him so that he is here in spirit.
Heres to you Mamba24
Posted by: JustaLakerFan
____________________________________
From one justa to another - amen brother! As I've said before, the rest can bite me.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: justanothermambafan | May 02, 2008 at 06:06 PM
JohnnyP - Let's not call a fellow Laker fan a psychopath. Let's just say he's seriously disturbed. Hopefully - with our help - he will come to see the error of his ways & lighten up.
JWW, Rocky et al - It's JUST A POST for crying out loud! Mamba24 has helped create a very special Laker fan community here. There are many other Laker blogs - why don't you check them out? Maybe they'll be more to your liking. Meanwhile, the majority here like what Mamba24 brings to our blog & our day - as the comments suggest - and we really want him to stay & do what he does. PLEASE - you're in the minority here - can't you just let it go? Use the scroll bar or mouse wheel. PLEASE - let's keep the peace & let all the different aspects of the blog flow. Different things appeal to different people, and voicing an opinion is cool, but it's been taken too far.
Can't we all just get along?
Posted by: justanothermambafan | May 02, 2008 at 06:15 PM
I've been reading this blog probably longer than most of you. Before Mamba, before Mike T, I was around when Jon K and Vman were laying down the foundations of this thing. Of course AK/BK deserve the credit too. So I've seen the evolution of this blog firsthand. LOL!
That said, I definitely enjoyed reading the blog pre-Mamba24 more than these roll calls and bandwagons. Now I like Mamba, I just don't like the things that Weatherman perfectly laid out for everyone to see. Mamba is one cool dude. It takes some person to gather so many supporters like he's done. I'm just not going to have an ass-fest with him.
I'm wasting too much time with this. Time for a beer.
Posted by: Rocky | May 02, 2008 at 06:38 PM
Also, how did I not make the 'haters can bite me' lists? My chompers are aching and I don't know who to bite... (j/k)
Posted by: J.W. Weatherman | May 02, 2008 at 05:00 PM
Gee, maybe because you're the biggest hater...
And Andy, urban dictionary is slang, plain and simple. Slang is the precursor to modern, accepted language usage. Language is evolutionary, after all. Saying you're an old fogie doesn't excuse a damn thing.
D'oh is in the Oxford English Dictionary even.
Adapt, or die.
Stupid, intellectually dishonest haters...
Who cares what your stupid friend from ESPN thinks. It's not his blog. He doesn't have the history. Why doesn't he just keep writing the same stuff over and over about how the Spurs will be in the finals with the Celtics...
Posted by: Benjamin | May 02, 2008 at 10:28 PM
The first noncall on Boozer when he scored pushing Gasol's arm away, and the last play of the half's no call on Odom's shot, shows it will take Seven hard games to beat 8 on the floor.
Posted by: Paul | May 04, 2008 at 02:49 PM