A few Jazzy thoughts
Just wanted to throw out two cents worth on a few elements I think could be important.
Length vs. Physicality
I could easily see this series evolving into a battle of the above listed. A starting lineup with Pau Gasol, Lamar Odom, Vlad Radmanovic and Kobe Bryant is nothing if not tall, which works both to create mismatches and gum up the crisp Utah ball movement that's made them the league's second-most prolific via dimes. Off the bench, Sasha Vujacic and (with any luck) Trevor Ariza enhance this advantage even further. But on the flipside, few teams play as relentlessly physical as Utah, a style that's often rattled the Lakers' focus in the past. Carlos Boozer, Deron Williams and Paul Millsap are the most frequently mentioned usual suspects, but Matt Harpring is no slouch along these lines. So brawny is his style that during the Lakers' March win in SLC, Phil Jackson opted, much to the chagrin of many Lakers Blog readers, for a struggling Luke Walton over Vlad Rad down the stretch specifically to body a guy Phil Jackson likened to "a linebacker."
The glass
The Jazz may be willing to go rough and tumble, but they're still among the league's worst at securing a rebound, all in all. The Lakers were often outrebounded by Denver during the opening round, but some extenuating circumstances can also be cited (Lamar Odom spending much of Game 2 sitting with foul trouble, Ronny Turiaf being sick, Denver's just plain good in this department). Assuming Round 2 goes a little more swimmingly, there should be no reason for the Lakers not to outboard their opponents. In particular, if they can keep Utah away from the offensive glass (where they're reasonably proficient) and cut down on second-chance points for the Jazz, their opponent could really wind up in a pickle.
Defensive communication
Between the pick and rolls, high screens, back screens and general cutting, the Jazz throw out schemes that make it easy for a defender to lose his guy. Thus, to quote the seminal band "Talk Talk," the Lakers must ... well ... "talk talk." As a guy who sits fairly close to the court, I can confirm that your purple and gold do indeed speak regularly among themselves (as opposed to last season, when a starting five of Helen Keller, Chief Bromden, Tommy Walker, Teller and Smush Parker would have created more chatter). But that doesn't mean they can't be on high alert to alert each other even more.
Defending the arc
The Lakers are among the league's best when it comes to overall protection of their basket, but remain middle of the pack when it comes to specifically guarding it from a three-point attempt. This could become an issue, since the Jazz rounds out the league's 10 best from downtown. Granted, Utah is hardly Golden State and doesn't launch oodles from distance, but the quality percentage hints of spots well picked. The Lakers can't ever take their eyes off a guy looking to spot up in the corner. In particular, Kyle Korver was quite the proficient bomber upon arriving in Utah, and Deron Williams was 59% on his treys against Houston.
Bear
I'm not a huge mascot guy, but after attending a game in Salt Lake, I'm a big-time Bear enthusiast. Dude rides a chopper onto the court to kick off the first and third periods and, at least during the game against the Lakers, he walked around the court on stilts while "Pour Some Sugar on Me" cranked. How does all of this specifically provide the Jazz with an advantage? I have no idea. But I refuse to believe a bear, a motorcycle and Def Leppard bring absolutely nothing.
Having now spouted, my prediction. Anyone expecting another sweep is either a serious Laker diehard or seriously deluded. Nothing wrong with either, but both parties are likely to end up rather disappointed, at least in terms of the number of games involved. The Jazz is a balanced, extremely disciplined squad and just about everyone, even the young players, have tasted the Western Conference finals. Boozer is an All-Star, Mehmet Okur (who played an important role with the Pistons' '04 championship) was one in '07 and Williams should be one, but plays in a conference with too many point guards. AK-47 may be a little nutty, but he's a pretty versatile fourth option. Ronnie Brewer is an improving young guard. Harpring, Korver, and Millsap create a nice bench. These cats can play.
But even taking Utah's talent into account, I think the Lakers have more. The Lakers beat Utah three times this season, including a game in Salt Lake without Pau Gasol or Andrew Bynum. Derek Fisher knows a lot of what they do. The Lakers bench is better, especially if Turiaf is healthy (which he seems to be). And while no team can truly "stop" Kobe, I'm thinking Utah could really find itself in trouble trying. Brewer's solid, but not good enough. Putting Kirilenko on him means Vlad Rad will have the opportunity to rediscover his shooting touch over a smaller defender. Williams might be the most effective, but making him expend that much energy on the other end helps the Lakers. I'm picturing a hard-fought battle that prompts many a bitten nail, but one that swings the Lakers' way when it's all said and done.
Prediction: Lakers in 6 (although 7 sounds just as believable).
AK
Hollinger changes tune and now picks Lakers to win.
And why? Hollinger, "Because Jazz are a bunch of low class twerps"
http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/blog/index?entryID=3380182&name=hollinger_john
Posted by: Fairweather Fatty | May 03, 2008 at 06:01 PM
can't wait.
Posted by: semper Fidelis | May 03, 2008 at 06:10 PM
If we win tomorrow, Lakers in 5, if not 6.
Hmm, OK that's not how predictions work.
Lakers in 5.
NO Mercy.
Posted by: Vman | May 03, 2008 at 06:36 PM
The only advantage the Laker's have that the Jazz have trouble with is the MVP. I hate Kobe but I'm glad he got the MVP. He is the best player in the NBA. I'll give you LA fans that much. If the Laker's beat the Jazz it will be because of Kobe because we don't have an answer for him. In the Stockton --> Malone days we didn't have an answer for Kobe's predecessor MJ. Although, Jordan was better than Kobe.
Kobe is the best player in NBA. But the JAZZ can steal beat the Laker's. We are a deeper team without the crybaby issues the Laker's are going through (AK found his spot). It will be nice to have the rematch against the SPURS...
We will still boo the Benedict Arnold. Boozer stuck around with his Kid going to a specialist. GO BOOZER!
Posted by: JazzFanNemelka | May 03, 2008 at 06:36 PM
AK,
While I found your assessment to be balanced and your conclusion reasonable (Lakers in six or seven). I'm going to disagree with some parts of the scope of your assessment.
I've been saying Lakers in six, but I think that five is just as likely, maybe moreso.
Why?
Intangibles. Intangibles. Intangibles.
And they are?
1) Mental toughness
2) Competitive spirit
Mental toughness: Phil Jackson's teams have traditionally been mentally tough, but this year's team is particularly so. Sloan is a fine coach, but there's a reason why Phil Jackson has got it done in the playoffs. The mental toughness we possess is crucial at those moments when the game could go either way. Utah is not very mentally tough. Why do I say that? Look at their away win/loss record. They have had such a fine season because they play so well at home. Why do they play so well at home? They NEED the psychological support of the fans to stay mentally tough. A team that needs that is not mentally tough. Remember Sacramento in their best years? Or even Portland during the Dunleavy Era? Same thing. Both these teams cracked under pressure against a highly competitive, confident, mentally tough team. We're going to see the same with Utah. Do they have better psychological fortitude than Denver? Absolutely. But it simply will not be enough.
Competitve Spirit: Kobe is on a mission this year, and it has become infectious for the team. Personally, I don't think I've ever seen a player THIS focused upon his goal of winning through leadership and outstanding personal play. People don't talk much about it, but Kobe has a level of competitive spirit on par with Chamberlein, Jordan, West, and Auerbach. And Phil Jackson's competitve spirit is of a similar intensity and drive. With the exception of Coach Sloan, Utah doesn't have ANYONE of a similar intensity, competitively speaking. Utah is a very good team, but, quite frankly, they just don't want it as badly as we do, and that makes a huge difference.
Lakers probably in five, but it could go six.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | May 03, 2008 at 06:42 PM
Heh, nice references on the no talking front.
Matt Harpring is indeed a beast. He's quite willing to deliver a hard foul too. Be careful with that man.
And the bear, heh. I'll keep an eye out for that.
Luke Walton does play quite physically with that big frame of his, and he does so well. That can be used to our advantage, no doubt.
I believe we will expose the Jazz for not having a real center in this series. It doesn't matter if your starting SF is as good a shot blocker as AK-47 or if your PF is a beast like Boozer.
I believe this series will truly test our ability to defend the 3 pointer. We've been slow with our rotations and gotten a little trigger happy on double teams in the past. We're going to need to figure it out in this series.
And watch out for Ronnie Brewer. That guy's as good a pickpocket at CP3.
Posted by: Benjamin | May 03, 2008 at 06:46 PM
LOL, check the comments on hollinger's change of heart on the Lakers-Jazz series.
He's taking a beating. Firstly, he picks Kobe 4th on the MVP list, then he changes his mind.
The rabid hypocrisy-smelling, flip-flop hating zombie fans are tearing him to shreds.
And he's probably saying, "Stupid ESPN computer--This is all your fault!"
Posted by: Benjamin | May 03, 2008 at 06:51 PM
At last there will be Laker basketball. I've weaned myself off the blog all week for the same reason I've stopped watching all the political shows on cable. There's a limit to how much conjecture, predictions, and bloviating about any single subject one can absorb. The beauty of basketball is in the action, reaction, and drama of the game as it is played. I want Kobe to use the MVP Award for the regular season as a stepping-stone to the Playoffs MVP Award. To be greedy, anything less would be a disappointment. It's been a long week of waiting. I'm sensing the Lakers are ready. I hope the coach's message is: Stay hungry! Go Lakers!!!
Posted by: Rick Friedman | May 03, 2008 at 06:58 PM
Please Note:
"Roll Call" posts are against the Terms Of Use of this blog.
-----
When you provide User Content, you agree to the following Posting Rules:
Do not provide User Content that:
"...repeats prior posting of the same message under multiple threads or subjects."
http://www.latimes.com/services/site/lat-
terms,0,6713384.htmlstory
Posted by: J.W. Weatherman | May 03, 2008 at 06:58 PM
The Jazz will come out with a lot of momentum. I'm a bit nervous they'll steal Game 1. But we'll take Game 2 and Game 3 to reclaim home court. Game 4 to the Jazz, but we'll grab 5, then end it on their court.
My prediction: Pain.
I think the series will come down to who had the hottest hand from 3-point line. If Korver, Williams and Okur are knocking them down, it could get ugly. But if Vlad, Vujacic, Walton and Kobe get hot, we'll run away with it.
Posted by: | May 03, 2008 at 07:01 PM
AK-
The Nuggets mascot Rocky also rides out on a chopper and it sure didn't help them any haha.
GO LAKERS
Posted by: mrbarneydangles | May 03, 2008 at 07:09 PM
JWW-
I'm reposting this from a couple threads back:
I tried to send you an email, but it was bounced back. Anyway, the short version of what I wrote to you is that it's pretty simple- most people don't see the roll call as spam. Not everyone reads it, but that's true of many comments. Many enjoy it. There's no reason to make it stop. It's easy to scroll over.
As for a word limit, we have enough things to worry about in monitoring comments, from catching long URLs to foul language to abusive language to spam to worry about counting words or paragraphs. If someone posts something that is relevant and long, chances are it's going to be fine.
Hopefully you understand our position here, and why we made the decision we did. Hopefully it doesn't impact on your participation on the site. But I don't appreciate being threatened, that you're going to make this into trouble if we don't do it your way. We have a fun, vibrant community on this site, and periodically have to make decisions to keep it that way. This would be one of those times.
In the end, it's important to remember that this is a sports blog. It's not life and dealth. If you don't like a post, scroll through it.
BK
Posted by: Brian Kamenetzky | May 03, 2008 at 07:11 PM
I just left a few lengthy and "damn impressive" if I do say so myself comments on the Jazz blog. I also invited them here to chat. Sorry if you don't like the challenge everyone, but I enjoy a little sparring now and again............
Posted by: pslakerfan | May 03, 2008 at 07:17 PM
"Just wanted to throw out two cents worth on a few elements I think could be important." - AK--
Don't you think it is about time we adjust this for inflation. How about my "two bucks worth"........What do you think???
Posted by: pslakerfan | May 03, 2008 at 07:18 PM
J. W. Weatherman
"...repeats prior posting of the same message under multiple threads or subjects."
Wow, that is desperation! (clever though!)
It would be quite easy to violate the "spirit" of the rule without violating the letter of the rule.
You will fail in your unrealistic quest to have the "roll call" banned. I am beginning to feel sorry for you though.
Mamba24 it's time!
Posted by: giantsquid | May 03, 2008 at 07:19 PM
J.W. Weatherman,
a weenie is one who dispite the fact that noone is interested in a rule, will insist on the rule being followed, having no other reason than his love of himself(that the rule gives him power to control others), and the love of rules, good, bad or otherwise.
you once said that Mamba24 was extremely selfish for posting the role call. sir, the role call was developed as a unifying reminder of what the Lakers are about and why we are fans during the dark days of summer when so many rumors and so much uncertainty surrounded the team. all of us on this blog entrusted Mamba24 with the job and requested to be included. you sir, are being selfish by continuing to bring forth bad vibes over it. don't you have something better to do with your life?
please don't be or become a weenie. i've always respected you and your posts. please don't disappoint me. i don't want to find out that you are a bitter, mean man. please let it go.....
Posted by: man | May 03, 2008 at 07:29 PM
What gives J.W. Weatherman? To BK's statement, I do not mind the roll call and sometimes if I haven't posted in a while, I check to see if I'm still on the list.
Anyway,
If the Jazz become too physical, I say we send Mbenga to execute some black belt judo chop on them.
I predict this series to be seven games, although I won't say who the winner is yet.
Posted by: never | May 03, 2008 at 07:30 PM
You don't need a Weatherman to know which way the wind blows.
Posted by: | May 03, 2008 at 07:44 PM
Lakers in 5! I would be disappointed if we have to go 7 games to beat Utah, 6 is bearable and I think 4 is wishful thinking.
Hopefully the rust doesn't take too long to shake off tomorrow.
And and i want Boston to win tomorrow because I really want a shot at them in the finals...
Posted by: thedropper | May 03, 2008 at 07:48 PM
Piont of order - the roll call is rarely a repeat of a prior post, because it includes the blogger of the day.
Posted by: exhelodrvr | May 03, 2008 at 08:02 PM
Thanks, AK!
Before tonight, I never got a real "hit" anytime I would google "Chief Bromden def Leppard bear motorcycle"!!!
Posted by: exhelodrvr | May 03, 2008 at 08:04 PM
Scout Inc.'s take on the Jazz-Lakers series
http://tinyurl.com/4p5qvl
Everyone seems to be picking the Lakers in 6 which require the Jazz to steal one in LA (unlikely in my opinion since the Jazz are a poor road team) or the Lakers losing the first two in Utah and the winning the third. I think the Lakers will hold serve, take one of two in Utah, and then beating a dejected Jazz team at Staples in game 5. I think 7 is more likely than 6 (going home down 3-2 the Jazz will be up and nearly as importantly the Jazz crowd will be even crazier than usual. So I'd say either 5 or 7 with 5 being more likely. A sweep is a long shot.
Posted by: giantsquid | May 03, 2008 at 08:07 PM
Wow, the SAS-NOH game is freakishly yellow.
I thought something was wrong with my TV for a second.
It would seem everyone wants a clever fan-made t-shirt with some theme now, just like last year's "We Believe."
I thought something was wrong with my tv for a second there!
Posted by: Benjamin | May 03, 2008 at 08:09 PM
Seriously J.W.W I have NO BEEF with you or your opinions, like everyone else here that posts, I'll "respect" your point of view, even if I disagree, solely because you are a LAKER FAN and as such, have found something very appealing and positive about the Kamenetzky Bros blog community that keeps you tuned in like the rest of us.
What bothers and saddens me is, both have asked politely and reasonably to "Let It Go". In the big scheme of things, it just isnt a BIG DEAL !!! By making it an ongoing issue, its now carried over into multiple threads and the general consensus is.. So What??? Scroll !!!
If I wake up and log on and nobody has copied a game day ROLL CALL.. Of course, I'll do it again, as will Milo, Charles, Edwin, Tom and at least 150 more.. its a tradition Mamba24 started, the KBros allowed..most enjoy.. End Of Story!! For what we have here, and being a total newbie with only 1 year under my belt to speak on it, I'm often times impressed with not only the freedom of expression and speech the Kamenetzkys dont censor, but also how the community itself, self polices its own.
I really dont wanna go all Rodney King and toss out "the line" but even if you dont agree, you have to RESPECT what the Blog Fathers have already spoke on and put an end to, by coming back with Terms of Service or whatever codes of conduct blah blah blah.. that to me, was totally disrespectful and gives the appearance of you straight out giving the KBros the finger and trying to tell them, how to run THEIR SHOW..
Its just wrong Man and I can see where this is going if all of us dont heed the advice and reasoning given earlier and Let It Go... Thanks J Dub..
Lets talk about how in the HELL David West missed that solo dunk in the 1st qtr and why hasnt B. Scott figured out Ginobli can KILL YOU !!!!! lmao Sunday cant come soon enough.. I'm out.. Night All..
GO LAKERS !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: complex brotha | May 03, 2008 at 08:13 PM
Wow, fricking circus in New Awlins.
First the trouble with the powder on the ground. Now players are falling down left and right.
Flagrant 1, etc.
Posted by: Benjamin | May 03, 2008 at 08:14 PM
Lakers in 5....
Simply put,
- Hornets have no answer for Kobe
- Hornets have no answer for Pau on the Post
Those mismatches outweigh Deron over Fish/Farmar since more than likely Odom / Boozer is a push.
But still, it cant be understated how much of a mismatch Kobe has.... He can singlehandedly put the choke-hold on this team as he has done before many times...
Posted by: Korey | May 03, 2008 at 08:16 PM
JazzFanNemelka,
Fisher a benedict Arnold?
And Boozer isnt?
What about being sneaky on going back on a contract offer with the Cavs? That was the sneakiest move out there... CARLOS BENEDICT BOOZER!
nice ring to it, no?
Posted by: Korey | May 03, 2008 at 08:18 PM
Okay folks, enough. The decision has been made. I realize there really isn't any malice behind the posts, but there isn't really a need to keep piling on. We can work it out with JWW on our end. I'd just as soon stop talking about it.
Thanks.
BK
Posted by: Brian Kamenetzky | May 03, 2008 at 08:19 PM
K-bros,
Did you delete one of my posts? If so, why???
Posted by: pslakerfan | May 03, 2008 at 08:22 PM
Speaking of Smushie, I was at Champ's the other day, and they were unboxing at least a hundred Smushie jersey's....good quality but they still wanted $29.ninety-something for them, and I that's too much for a GAG gift.
Posted by: Humanamoly | May 03, 2008 at 08:22 PM
Fisher a Benedict Arnold, heh. His membership on the Jazz is way more important than his relationship with his daughter and her keeping both of her eyes...
See, that's what's wrong with Jazz fans. No humanity. They're like dogs or Dubya. If you're not with me you're against me...
For the record, I don't think Boozer is a traitor either. He agreed initially to a deal with the Cavs that was completely unfair to him. His agent, common sense, and better offers gave him a better option and he took it. He deserved it. The Cavs had the chance to match a reasonable offer for his talents, but chose not to do so. Their loss. Not unlike the Clippers of old, or the Suns, some teams just don't try very hard to hold onto talent. The Cavs tried to screw Boozer by giving him a bargain basement extention. They deserved to have that blow up in their face.
Posted by: Benjamin | May 03, 2008 at 08:31 PM
Congrats to Kobe on a well deserved/overdue MVP award. I think Lakers in 5 (6 wouldn't suprise me either).
Although I don't post very often, I read the blog every day and have never had an issue with the roll call. I think it's great. Fires us all up together especially on game day.
JWW, don't know if you're aware but they invented a mouse with a scroll wheel on it. They really are quite an amazing achievment for mankind. with a simple roll of your index finger, it makes the roll call disapper!
With issues around the world like war, famine, terrorism, etc... You're worried about 2 secs of scrolling your mouse? and to the point where you're making a fool of yourself... please let it go. enough already
Posted by: EKO | May 03, 2008 at 08:33 PM
Wow.. Im impressed with the Spurs 1st half.. I thought they were gonna get smoked after N.O went up 8-0.. everyones talking about how the Pistons " turn it on" playoff time. Spurs do it pretty well but its funny knowing they WONT win a title this year due to repeatitis..
Posted by: complex brotha | May 03, 2008 at 08:37 PM
Humanamoly-
I wouldn't pay $5 for a Smush jersey.
Completely off topic but I miss Elden Campbell. Me and my dad used to make so much fun of him when I was little. He was a lot better then Smush though.
GO LAKERS
Posted by: mrbarneydangles | May 03, 2008 at 08:40 PM
What kind of game do you guys think Lamar will have tomorrow? I think he won't have too many points but will have a lot of rebounds.
GO LAKERS
Posted by: mrbarneydangles | May 03, 2008 at 08:43 PM
Humanamoly
Those are going for $139 on Ebay.
What store location?lol
Posted by: Fairweather Fatty | May 03, 2008 at 09:07 PM
Let me put it this way...
As an OB ("Original Blogger") there hasn't been a single time that a "roll call" or "bandwagon" hasn't made me smile.
These things are unifying factors in this blog and one of the primary reasons this is not a blog but a "blogmunity".
Three best elements of this blogmunity (as stated before)....
1) Intelligence (elements such as the K Brothers, LakerTom, JJ, Faith, pslakersfan, Rick Friedman, etc.)
2) Humor (elements such as bandwagons, K Brothers, maybe myself occasionally, etc.)
3) Enthusiasm (roll call!, Charles, justanothermambafan, etc.)
And no one's locked in a position. We all show varying degrees of insight, creativity, and passion.
From my position, if you are not a Hater nor a Troll, you are welcome in Laker Nation and should be appreciated for what strengths you have to give.
So give what you have to give and lets win this fricken championship!
BREAK!
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | May 03, 2008 at 09:10 PM
" I just left a few lengthy and "damn impressive" if I do say so myself comments on the Jazz blog. I also invited them here to chat. Sorry if you don't like the challenge everyone, but I enjoy a little sparring now and again............Posted by: pslakerfan"
PSLF, I think this one flew under the radar but once I read it, I couldnt stop laughing. I sure hope the Jazz fan below is the exception, not the rule. The only fact he/she posted was in the opening sentence, everything else is so insanely silly, by responding, it feels like I would be attacking one of Jerry's Kids and everyone knows, thats just not cool...
Jazz Fan Repost:
"Kobe is the best player in NBA. But the JAZZ can steal beat the Laker's. We are a deeper team without the crybaby issues the Laker's are going through (AK found his spot). It will be nice to have the rematch against the SPURS. We will still boo the Benedict Arnold. Boozer stuck around with his Kid going to a specialist. GO BOOZER!"- Posted by: JazzFanNemelka
CTFU.... Sorry, I just couldnt help it
Posted by: complex brotha | May 03, 2008 at 09:11 PM
It disturbs me how strong a second half team the Hornets are, considering how young they are. I don't like it one bit.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | May 03, 2008 at 09:12 PM
WOW I put on the SA-NO game and I almost can't bear to watch anymore round ball until Sunday at 12:30--- it's been a long week and I just wanna focus on our game now-- I'm gonna sleep good knowing that the RING is within our sights........ GO LAKERS!!!!!!!!!!!! lakers in 5
Posted by: jaimsyy | May 03, 2008 at 09:16 PM
I think by Kobe finally getting MVP.. despite the lay off, its not only got him fired up, but the whole team is more than likely feeding off this so the rest will probably only affect the 1st qtr in terms of timing tomorrow but I'm pretty certain the Jazz wont "still" (see jazz fans post above) game 1.. I'm on the record, I have LA in 5..
Posted by: complex brotha | May 03, 2008 at 09:25 PM
Benjamin,
Good comment on the jazz fans.
But I think a better analogy than the "Dogs/Dubya one you used would be the now famous Rev. Wright....."A bunch of old religious fools.
Posted by: Andy | May 03, 2008 at 09:27 PM
AK rules Bandwagon
1) giantsquid
2) spud hamster
BK rules Bandwagon
1) giantsquid
2) spud hamster
Mamba24 rocks Bandwagon
1) giantsquid AKA the squid
2) spud hamster AKA Mr. Potato Head
The squid approves of this message (copyright pending)
Posted by: giantsquid
_________________________
Hey giantsquid - thanks for keeping the spirit of Mamba24 alive until his Finals return! Might as well keep the tradition alive in the meantime - LOL!
Troll sightings over here already.....just remember:
Identify the troll, wound the troll, starve the troll.
I can't wait for tomorrow! It's going to be a great series, but being the Laker fan that I am I pick Lakers to take it in 4-5. I know - I may be delusional and 5 may be more likely, but I still have to (secretly) hope for the sweep! I think our guys are mentally tougher and we have the better bench. The home court advantage will of course be big especially for our young guys, so the crowd will psych them back up when the Jazz make their runs. This series will tough, but Lakers are up for the challenge. Kobe is focused, fired up and as the newly enthroned MVP he's going to come out strong & have the guys ready to go - you can take that to the bank!
JWW - hope they find a cure soon (if you're still dying). You're a valuable blog member, even if a bit cranky sometimes! I usually love looking for your posts - unless I scroll past them - LOL! Just messing with you, man.
GO LAKERS!
THE BEAN FOR FINALS MVP OR NO PEACE!
NO CHAMPIONSHIP - NO PEACE!
Posted by: justanothermambafan | May 03, 2008 at 09:36 PM
Please Note:
"Roll Call" posts are against the Terms Of Use of this blog.
-----
When you provide User Content, you agree to the following Posting Rules:
Do not provide User Content that:
"...repeats prior posting of the same message under multiple threads or subjects."
http://www.latimes.com/services/site/lat-
terms,0,6713384.htmlstory
Posted by: J.W. Weatherman | May 03, 2008 at 06:58 PM
Give it up JWW
Any new comment added makes it a new post.
Please for your sake (don't develop ulcers) focus on Lakers and not what other bloggers post unless of course you want to disagree on a point.
But to disagree whether you like what they post is insane.
Please chill and don't bust a gasket please.
Posted by: JustaLakerFan | May 03, 2008 at 09:47 PM
I know it is an extremely small sample, but I feel a little vindicated with my comment yesterday that Tim Duncan was a little overrated. 5 points tonight, nice Tim, nice.....
Posted by: pslakerfan | May 03, 2008 at 09:57 PM
Hornets?
arrgh....
I meant the Jazz!!!
It's all the same!
Posted by: Korey | May 03, 2008 at 10:26 PM
Oh yeah, the hate for Fish from Utah fan makes me sick! Hey Utah Fan! I'm still waiting for you to thank us for letting you rent D. Fish for a season. The thing I always here them say is "how is L.A. closer to his daughters doctor in NY?" Or "We have great doctors here in Utah" Sour grapes all the way. Fisher was LOVED while he was here in Salt Lake and now the fans have turned their back on someone who gave them one of their best moments in the history of their franchise. Classless! It should be mentioned that the PA announcer has to repeatedly remind the fans to not throw things on the court, but they inevitably do just about every game anyway. The one saving grace at the games is Laker Nation is large and proud. Lots of So Cal transplants like myself here.
Posted by: SaltLaker | May 04, 2008 at 12:00 AM
I am a Jazz fan that regularly comments on Jazz blogs (including My Utah Jazz)
Let me give my opinion on just a few Laker players:
Fish - One of those guys you hate on the opposing team and love on your own. He is a very heady player that plays defense with one tactic in mind - draw calls (and by that I mean flop like his life depended on it). Believe me, Lakers fans - we experienced it firsthand last year when he got torched for 40+ by multiple SG's in the league. He simply sucks at defense. My biggest fear is that Deron gets in early foul trouble on the road, since Fisher folds like a cheap suit when there even appears to be contact.
Walton - Not much has been said about this guy on the Jazz blogs, but I respect his ability as a crafty offensive player (draw the defense and pass to the open man) and his willingness to draw charges on defense. He could be a major factor off the bench in this series if the Jazz don't take him seriously.
Turiaf - Love to hate him, but would love to have him on our team as well. He played well in the last meeting between these two teams in Utah because he's not afraid to bang for offensive boards and he can make the bunnies around the basket. He's the counter to our Millsap, and I see him getting off the bench in this series over Mbenga.
Rad-Man - The Jazz have a history of not closing out on 3-point shooters, and Vlad-Rad also has the ability to put the ball on the floor. With that said, I am less concerned about him than I am about Walton because Vlad is afraid of physical play. Our mission as Jazz bloggers is to lure him out on for a rough time on the Utah slopes as soon as he flies out for Game 3.
Gasol - This guy plays with a lot of heart, but I am not worried because we have a secret mind weapon. You see, Pau and his Spanish buddies felt pain and anguish of the deepest depths when they got shocked by Russia in the Euro Championship Finals this past summer. For those that don't know what I'm talking about, go here (http://www.usatoday.com/sports/basketball/europe/2007-09-17-championship_N.htm/). Bottom line, AK-47 was a dynamo on both ends of the floor and led a motley-crew group to an improbable 1-point win in Madrid. The entire Spanish team was shocked to the core (I mean, just look at Pau in that photo). Given the way that Gasol plays with his emotions on his sleeve, the sight of Kirilenko might just send him tail-spinning back to misery in the form of sub-50% shooting at the foul line. Remember, the Jazz have not played the Lakers with Pau this year yet. Jazz-men, your mission is to foul him as hard as you can to send him to the line, and then we'll have AK-47 and maybe even Fesenko go whisper a few lines of Russian into his ear.
Posted by: Moneyman Memo | May 04, 2008 at 12:11 AM
John Hollinger does his best to knock down Boston's efforts in the first round:
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/playoffs2008/columns/stor
y?columnist=hollinger_john&page=celticsflaws_080503
A pretty good job in exposing not only Garnett's weak 4th quarter play, but Doc Rivers and his erratic coaching.
Posted by: MiloRambaldi | May 04, 2008 at 12:33 AM
The Lakers can handle the Jazz.
We can handle the Jazz fans.
They'll come here, be irrational, biased and annoying, maybe troll a bit, and some might stay for a bit and eventually contribute in a fun way (sonnybelfast).
Posted by: Benjamin | May 04, 2008 at 12:52 AM