A taste of the exit interviews
BK is having some Internet issues at the moment, which is preventing us from getting the exit interview videos up posthaste, as they're downloaded onto his computer. But I'm relaying some copy and observations, just to tide everyone over for a bit.
In order of their appearances:
Ronny Turiaf: Like all of his teammates, Martinique's Favorite Son is still feeling a bit down after the Game 6 collapse and series loss. But like his teammates as well, he thought the season as a whole was overwhelmingly positive. "We all want the season to finish with wins and glory and all that stuff, but overall, I thought it was pretty good." He also seemed much more confident about his desire to return than the Lakers re-signing him. He mentioned being told by Mitch and Phil that they wanted him back, which suits him just fine and dandy. "You can write that in big capital headline. RONNY TURIAF WOULD LIKE TO BE A LAKER." Not that he appeared to think it was impossible, but he acknowledged both the salary-cap issues and the roster's front-court "logjam." It's a business decision for both sides, but Turiaf emphasized how he has rarely been part of a losing team, so placing himself in a winning (and happy) environment could be more important than PT. "I think every team in the NBA needs a guy that can just be counted on when people get injured, so if the Lakers wanted me to keep doing that job for the next 3-4 years, I wouldn't mind doing it. I could sacrifice myself for the greater of the team."
Trevor Ariza: Ariza entered the room grinning, and why not, since the powers-that-be apparently didn't have much bad news for him. "They told me this is a good place for me," he said, when asked about the discussion. "They feel that I fit in really well and I can be here for a while." Their advice was to mostly keep working on what's been his improvement focus thus far (outside shooting, handle) and not really alter anything. Ariza said he plans on being here next year (i.e., exercising his player option and staying put, which is to be expected, as he would be insane to enter free agency coming off a season mostly lost to injury). Plus, as he put it, "It's like a dream, almost, playing here. I don't really want to wake up from it." He also feels good physically and will get a precautionary MRI soon, but he's not feeling any pain right now.
Luke Walton: Walton made no bones about this season being up and down for him. Injuries, fluctuating minutes, and an often-changing role made things difficult for him at times, but he didn't shy away from the fact that this season wasn't as strong as last year. But the team was winning, which was the most important thing to him and now that he has a better idea of what his role will be, he thinks a better result could be coming. And like Ronny, he was also willing to sacrifice minutes and stats for the better of the team, a mentality that he thinks is shared among his teammates. "That's when you know you've got something special."
Vlad Radmanovic: Dubbed "The Space Cadet" and recommended for a shrink visit by Phil Jackson, Vlad was asked about his player-coach relationship. "It was all good," "I think we have a special way of communicating, through the media. He's a little different. I guess I'm a little different." Radmanovic wouldn't share the specifics of what was discussed between them, but mentioned how he'd like to become a more consistent player (a goal he admitted has eluded him his entire career) and that, as a basketball player, he's never satisfied with his play. But he felt that this year was better than last season's disaster (how couldn't it be?). Not everything he wanted, but much closer to how he pictures himself. I also liked his answer when asked whether he knew how his role would change with Andrew Bynum back next season. "I don't worry about that. We just need him back."
More to come in a bit.
AK
Go Lakers!
Posted by: Laker Fan 24 | June 19, 2008 at 06:53 PM
woooooooooooooooooo
Posted by: never | June 19, 2008 at 06:56 PM
you guys calling for Artest sure have short term memories. It's not like he released one rap album and stopped, the dude... whatever... I think he would be a disaster here:
----------------
Updated: November 11, 2004, 2:09 PM ET
INDIANAPOLIS -- Indiana Pacers forward Ron Artest said Wednesday that he asked head coach Rick Carlisle for as much as a month off to heal his aching body and recover from a hectic schedule.
Among the issues Artest cited to the media was fatigue over his busy schedule promoting a soon-to-be released rap album.
... It's the latest in a long line of controversial situations for Artest, ranging from destroying television monitors at Madison Square Garden two years ago to missing the team flight to Game 6 of the Eastern Conference finals at Detroit last season.
================
Interview: Basketball Star Ron Artest Releases Rap Album
Published: 11/23/06
David Stern can soon expect a package from basketball bad-boy Ron Artest. But before the NBA commissioner calls the bomb squad, he may be pleased to find out that it's merely a peace offering from the Sacramento Kings swingman, the player he suspended on eight different occasions.
Artest plans to send Stern a personally signed copy of his new rap album, "My World."
Stern may learn a few things from Artest's first foray into rap. When he gets to the second track, "Haterz," the commissioner will hear his name cited in one of Artest's rhymes: "David Stern, damn David Stern, I gotta teach you 'bout the ghetto, some things you should learn."
Posted by: TaosHum | June 19, 2008 at 07:27 PM
Of all the players in this group, Trevor Ariza is the only one I would want back. Ronny's role is like Mark Madsen's. A great cheerleader and little more. He lacks the size and skills to be a great player. If Vlad and Luke remain they should become the 14th and 15th players at the very end of a very long bench. I would waive one or the other, although Vlad might actually have some trade value.
Trevor is on my list of "keepers" along with (obviously) Kobe, Bynum, Fish, Farmar, and Sasha. I'm still ambivalent about everyone else.
What about Lamar and Gasol, you ask? I don't know. True, there are few better options. Yes, they worked well in the regular season. But their mental toughness is suspect. Gasol's effectiveness diminished in every round of the Playoffs. I'll leave this call up to Phil and Mitch.
Meanwhile, keep the exit interview hits coming!
Posted by: Rick Friedman | June 19, 2008 at 07:38 PM
Thanks for the update AK -
Looks like we've got a team that's starting to have a fire lit underneath them.
Take the tough loss, and let it motivate you for the next year. Now is the time to plant seeds for the future.
Posted by: Caliphilosopher | June 19, 2008 at 07:40 PM
Maybe the Lakers could trade LO for Corey Maggette? Shawn Marion? Maggette is a better outside shooter than LO and is a slasher that gets to the free throw line and is a strong defender. I think Maggette would be perfect at the three spot with Pau at PF and Andrew at Center. Maggette is also an underrated physical small forward. I think the Clips would make the deal since Al Thornton is developing nicely and could fill the void left by Maggette.
Posted by: Nemaia Faletogo | June 19, 2008 at 07:54 PM
LAKERS WOULD HAVE WON WITH BYNUM…
Had Andrew Bynum never been injured, the Lakers would have won the 2008 NBA Finals against the Boston Celtics but might not have made the great trade for Pau Gasol. You could even go so far as to say that the Lakers sacrificed the championship this year to increase the number of championships that they will win over the next 10 years.
Forget all of those fast-talking national sports prognosticators who have suddenly jumped off the Lakers bandwagon and are again questioning whether the Lakers are for real and forecasting the domination of the NBA by the rugged Celtics and the Eastern Conference. The truth is that the Lakers would have swept the Celtics if Andrew Bynum played.
Bynum would have given the Lakers the strong inside presence and mental and physical toughness that Gasol was not able to provide. The play where KG flattened Pau in the post and threw down a two-handed dunk with him flat on his back reminded me greatly of Shaq’s pancaking of Drew his rookie year. We all know how Drew responded.
All of you doubters out there need to go back and watch some game film of the Lakers during the two weeks before Drew was injured. Andrew Bynum will be the dominant center in the NBA next year and will lead the Lakers to the best record in team history and home court through the playoffs. His power game on offense and shot blocking on defense will dominate other teams. Next year, we enter the Era of the Beast.
Let’s be honest. Next year is the year that we all have really been waiting for, isn’t it? Come on, admit it? The Lakers won’t but they know it, too. The Celtics? Don’t kid yourself. They know they were lucky that Andrew Bynum was not available. The rest of the league? The reason Phoenix and Dallas made the trades that they did was not because the Lakers traded for Pau Gasol. It was because the Lakers had Andrew Bynum.
That’s not to say that the Beast will cure all of the Lakers roster woes. The Lakers could use a tough low post player who can defend, another dependable 3-point shooter, and a guard who can defend against penetration: like Ron Artest, Mike Miller, and Chris Paul. They will probably pick a player to stock overseas with their only draft pick in the 2nd round, much like they did last year with Marc Gasol and Sun Yue.
I would like to congratulate the Lakers for a tremendous season and for making being a Laker fan once again a pleasurable and joyous experience. I for one have nothing but love and pride for this team and what they have accomplished. You can complain all you want but this team came within two wins of the NBA Championship in a season where they were counted them out before they started. This was a tremendous season.
I also want to thank the great bloggers – Edwin, Kiwi, Caliphilosopher, Purple & Gold Reign, Mamba, Shekobe, karyanr, Long Time Laker Fan, Michael H, ex, et al – who refuse to call to trade players just because they had a bad series, which included every player. All we need is Drew and a couple of tweaks. The Era of the Beast begins.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | June 19, 2008 at 07:57 PM
good stuff - keep it coming. i'm not trying to spin anything, just think we came a long way and we have next season to show what we can do.
Posted by: laker-bot | June 19, 2008 at 08:07 PM
Take your time AK, and BK. There's a long offseason and these stuff are always blog fodder lol.
Posted by: Faith | June 19, 2008 at 08:19 PM
The one thing that made me nervous in the exit interviews
was Sasha's responses as to whether he would be back or
not. He didn't once say anything like "I want to be a Laker
for life" or "I would prefer to come back".
The gist of his message seemed to be more like, "it's a
business decision both for me and the Lakers". In other
words, this is his one chance to get a big contract, so he has
to see what teams are willing to offer him and he realizes
that the Lakers may not match if he gets offered a big
contract by someone else.
I'm not sure what the Lakers will do with Sasha.
If recent years are good indicators, guys who shoot a high
percentage on threes get mid-level contracts. Ask Jason
Kapono or Matt Carroll... and Sasha is a better defender
than either of those guys.
I suspect the Lakers will make an initial offer of less than
the MLE and make it very early in the free agent period
to let Sasha know they want him back. And I suspect
that if Sasha doesn't just takes that but goes shopping for
a better offer, some team will offer Sasha a full MLE. So
basically, at that point if the Lakers want to keep Sasha
next season, it will cost them 10 million in salary.
But maybe the Lakers will get lucky and the other teams
will expect the Lakers to match any offer they make to
Sasha, so they won't bother.
Worst case, maybe the Lakers could sign-and-trade Sasha
to Philadelphia (sorta like the Joe Johnson to Atlanta deal
that Phoenix made). Philly was the worst 3-point shooting
team in the league last season, so Sasha is probably already
on their radar. They're under the salary cap, so the Lakers
wouldn't have to take back as much (or even ANY) salary
as they send out in the trade. Maybe a young player with
some promise (Rodney Carney? Jason Smith?) and a
draft pick or two. Or maybe just a massive trade exception
and a draft pick or two. It would suck to lose Sasha, but
I can understand his desire to get paid. Hopefully, he'll
decide that it's better to take less money and have a chance
to win multiple championships.
Posted by: Long Time Laker Fan | June 19, 2008 at 08:21 PM
LTLF,
>>> I suspect the Lakers will make an initial offer of less than the MLE and make it very early in the free agent period
to let Sasha know they want him back.
Sasha is a keeper. I hope the Lakers find a way to do it.
Posted by: Rick Friedman | June 19, 2008 at 08:28 PM
LAKERS WOULD HAVE WON WITH BYNUM…
Tom - I am with you, it is totally legit to think we could have won two out of the first three games that we lost with Bynum in there.
Add 10 and 10 (at a minimum) with defensive prescence to our numbers in Games 1, 2 and 4, and we are at a parade today. And that's not even factoring in an increase in Gasol's production due to an easier workload.
Anyone who wants Gasol gone must not understand that he was playing out of position and trying to do Bynum's job as well as his own.
I can't ever remember coming to the end of a year, even the title years of 2000-02, without thinking that the Lakers needed to add a big piece. Not this year. With Bynum/Ariza healthy, we have inside/outside defense, post-up offense, shooting and the ability to attack the rim. We have the best closer in the league and the deepest bench in the NBA.
If somebody knocks us out with a trade offer or someone like Artest wants to come here for the MLE, great. But I am very comfortable coming back with what we have now, only healthier.
Posted by: Jman449 | June 19, 2008 at 08:36 PM
There is nothing that Lamar/Luke/Vladimir can say in an exit interview that will ever change my mind.
4 years, Lamar.
4 years, Luke.
2 years, Vladimir.
I have lost all faith in the three of you.
The three of you are physically soft.
The three of you are mentally weak.
And to think we might lose Sasha (who is physically hard and mentally tough like KB24 and D-Fish) as a result of your expensive salaries.
I will pray the the three of you are traded.
Pathetic WNBA players.
I'm out.
PS: Pau and Ronny: learn from the above three girlie men.
Posted by: passionate Lakers fan | June 19, 2008 at 08:44 PM
LakerTom,
I agree with your assessment. I think adding Bynum onto this current team and making some tweaks will be good enough to start us on the path to a dynasty.
Mamba,
Is it too soon to start a 60+ win bandwagon???
dpk
Posted by: dpk | June 19, 2008 at 08:56 PM
Ray Allen and KG on Letterman after the win:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rm3JNH6HCtY
If the Celtics beat anyone besides the Lakers in the finals this year, i'd be real happy for these guys.
Posted by: Justin N | June 19, 2008 at 08:58 PM
I am a bit shocked by the rather nonchalant feeling that people seem to have about losing Vujacic to free agency. I felt that he made great strides this year, and had much to do with our better than expected showing. Quite honestly, if we had a shot at the end of the game to win it, and Kobe couldn't take it, I would have wanted Sasha to take it. I really hope we resign him, he is a true spot up shooter with a big motor, and despite his breakdown against Ray Allen, plays pretty good defense. I'm really in no big hurry to trade anybody - if we could get Artest in a deal for Odom, I would do it, but that is highly unlikely. I think our best bet is to get a small forward with shooting range or muscle guy with our MLE, and roll with our team from last year. If someone offers Turiaf a bigger contract, I would have to think long and hard about matching. I still contend that we are lacking at the point guard spot, but point guards are a premium, and there is no way we will upgrade at that position with the MLE. Otherwise, I finally trust Mitch to do the right thing. We will see how the off season unfolds. I am very excited about next year.
Posted by: Lincoln Laker | June 19, 2008 at 09:03 PM
Laker Tom you're spot on.
The Celtics are one and done.
I feel the excitement for next year already. Best record in the NBA here we come.
Go Lakers!
2009
Posted by: Laker Fan 24 | June 19, 2008 at 09:12 PM
We may not be as free flowing offensively with a frontcourt of Bynum, Gasol, and Odom...but, damn....who is going to score against that frontcourt next year? If they play with a defensive tenacity, I could easily see this team only giving up 82 -85 points a game on average.
Posted by: WAVEBUSTER | June 19, 2008 at 09:17 PM
I like that Luke Walton was wearing a Kobe logo tee.
Let's hope everyone responds with more determination and fire next season!
Posted by: Amazing_Happens | June 19, 2008 at 09:19 PM
Ray Allen and KG on Letterman after the win:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rm3JNH6HCtY
If the Celtics beat anyone besides the Lakers in the finals this year, i'd be real happy for these guys.
Posted by: Justin N | June 19, 2008 at 08:58 PM
I saw that cr@p and when Letterman started to diss the Laker uniforms I had to turn it off. no need to say but I won't be watching Letterman any more.
Posted by: JustaLakerFan | June 19, 2008 at 09:34 PM
Some thoughts
1. Which GM is stupid enough to take on the contracts of Luke and Vlade. I once commented jokingly that they play bad on purpose so that they could never be tradeable.
2. Lamar's expiring contract might be enough incentive to include either Luke or Vlade, but not both.
3. Unless Mitch is a miracle worker, don't expect a trade of Lamar until the trading deadline. If he isn't traded, I suspect the Lakers would re-sign him for about 6 million. If they don't re-sign Lamar, 14.5 million come off the books. Not re-signing Lamar would help reduce the enormous financial burden that Jerry Buss might have to dish out (this year) next year. Unfortunatley it means you get nothing in return for LO, but there's alot of options (personnel and financial-wise) when you're talking that kind of money.
4. The deadline to sign Andrew Bynum to a five year deal is Oct.31. The Lakers may wait depending on how AB looks before this deadline. If AB becomes a restricted free-agent the Lakers can match any offers. This is risky, because another team can give him the maximum, and AB has already stated that it's not about the money but if the Lakers don't make an offer, will he change his tune?
5. There is not a lot of money to give Turiaf, Sasha, Karl, Mbenga, and Newble, especially if AB is signed. Very problematic for Jerry Buss who doesn't want to pay an outlandish "luxury tax". Will their poor showing in the Finals (Sasha and Rony) make Mitch reconsider their value to a team that needs to get tougher to win the title?
6. Trevor Ariza said something incredulous. He said he was going to hit the weight room to add 10 more pounds to his frame. My question to Trevor is this... Why weren't you in the weight room when you were out all those months with your foot injury to begin with?
Posted by: Do You See What I See | June 19, 2008 at 09:39 PM
There is nothing that Lamar/Luke/Vladimir can say in an exit interview that will ever change my mind.
4 years, Lamar.
4 years, Luke.
2 years, Vladimir.
I have lost all faith in the three of you.
The three of you are physically soft.
The three of you are mentally weak.
And to think we might lose Sasha (who is physically hard and mentally tough like KB24 and D-Fish) as a result of your expensive salaries.
I will pray the the three of you are traded.
Pathetic WNBA players.
I'm out.
PS: Pau and Ronny: learn from the above three girlie men.
Posted by: passionate Lakers fan | June 19, 2008 at 08:44 PM
I disagree with most of this post. Rad is not soft but needs to dunk with authority. Do you remember him getting knocked down on the court by Tyson Chandler and he got up and ran down the floor and knocked Chandler on his arse? Not the actions of a soft player.
LO is a valuable pc to this team and deserves to stay at the right price. Think of him being on the Buls, Suns, Heat or even the Knicks especially if they add LBJ playing against us. Not a pretty sight.
I completely agree Luke has got to go. I believe he deserved his contract when he signed it as he improved each year. But this year was a bust and with PJ if he is still here (I hope not) he will ruin rotations by incessantly playing Luke no matter what. That is why he needs to go.
Posted by: JustaLakerFan | June 19, 2008 at 09:42 PM
Lamar is a question because of his contract but nothing needs to happen this summer.
The FO has the luxury of waiting to see how our 'long tall lineup" works together. No need to speculate when you can wait.
Posted by: Vman | June 19, 2008 at 09:43 PM
LakerTom you have said some outrageous things in the past, but this 1 takes the cake and sounds more like monday morning crap. What happened before we got gasol when we played the Cs, we got demolished at their house and at home, so what in Gods green earth gave you the inspiration that we would have won with him? People write and make idiotic comments because they can. It only sounds like sour grapes, we did really well this year and will do better next, as long as everyone stays healthy. Also for the idiots that feel like trading Odom is a great idea, it takes about 3 years to learn this offense, there is no easy fix here. But we are close and will be right back here next year!
Posted by: RIZZO | June 19, 2008 at 09:47 PM
I agree with WAVEBUSTER, except that I think a front line of Artest, Bynum, and Gasol with Odom coming off the bench would be even better.
If they can sign Artest without giving up Odom, then they can probably let Turiaf go. I really like that guy and he may be a pretty good player some day, but the reality is that with Artest playing the 3 sharing it with Ariza and Walton, Odom, Bynum, and Gasol would be splitting the 4 and 5 and each would play about 30-35 minutes so there wouldn't be any playing time for Turiaf. Anyway, these are all BIG IFs since we don't even know that we can get Artest for the MLE.
Posted by: sclakerfan | June 19, 2008 at 09:47 PM
Laker Tom
2 wins away.
Games #2 and #4 and we would have had our 16
LTLF-
I don't think the Lakers will offer Sasha anything, unlike Luke of last year who got a 12:01 AM offer.
They will wait to see what the market will bare and then probably not match. I watched Sasha's interview twice and drew the conclusion he's not too hot about coming back.
Although he started positive. He kept saying, "I have to be wanted, or feel needed" and he didn't seem to be getting that from the Lakers. Lack of money being offered can a make a player feel that way as well.
Posted by: Fairweather Fatty | June 19, 2008 at 10:12 PM
The exit interviews are up at Lakers.com
If you don't want to get ahead of the K's just listen to the ones written about already.
Listen to all of them and you'll gain some good insight on the Lakers plans for this summer and next year. I found them to be very encouraging.
http://tinyurl.com/3uaw2v
Posted by: Fairweather Fatty | June 19, 2008 at 10:26 PM
LakerTom,
I agree that we would win if we had Bynum, but there's no point dwelling in the past. How about looking to the future, which looks unbelievably bright for the Lakers. How about leading a 65 win bandwagon and a Bring on the Celts in 09 bandwagon?
Posted by: Xodus | June 19, 2008 at 10:38 PM
Good evening, Lakersville.
First of all, thanks, Laker-Tom, for the shout. You clearly have your head and your heart in the right place. So too, many of the other Laker bloggers - you know who you are - who understand that our glass is 9/10ths full, instead of 0.1 empty!
History repeats itself...
Does anyone else remember '86? We had broken through against the more physical Green Weenies in '85, winning in 6 with pure Showtime. It was tough, coming back from the Memorial Day Massacre (remember Scott Wedman?), but we did it The Celt's physical style almost carried them, and the writers complained that the Lakers needed to get tougher, more physical, if they were going to continue to win.
So we brought in an enforcer - Maurice Lucas. He was an old school Mo-Fo...tougher than nails, built like a bull. They brought him in to bang bodies, take fouls, push people around (PJBrown?) And it appeared to be working, until the WCF against the up-and-coming Houston Rockets (Hakeem, Ralphie, Reid, Lewis Lloyd, and Rodney McCray, et al). Now THAT was a physical series: Jim Pedersen (Houstan's banger) shoving Kareem around, McCray doing the "Posey" to Big Game James, Lloyd putting a saddle on B-Scott's back and riding him around those picks.
Guess what? Houston beat us in five that year - not because the Lakers weren't physical, but because they CHANGED their style to match the opposition's. The C's won it all again that year...
During the gloom-and-doom offseason - exactly where we find ourselves RIGHT NOW - people pissed and moaned about how we needed to get even bigger, even stronger, to compete with the NBA's new style of uber-physical, slug it out, east-coast type games.
Two men disagreed: Jerry West, and Pat Riley. Quietly (at first) they proposed to play EVEN FASTER. Get SMALLER, QUICKER, more FAST-BREAKS than ever before. They traded for Michael Thompson - a PF who could face up and shoot, but that got most of his run at the five-spot.
Two more rings - back to back.
People are looking at the present, and proclaiming the old adage: Defense Wins Championships!
Not ENTIRELY true...Point DIFFERENTIAL wins championships. The best, most skilled, most committed, most effective group of players wins the championship, regardless of their style...and then the rest of the League starts to imitate them.
It's called 'Basketball' for a reason - to score baskets. Who in their right mind, outside of Cleveland, loves to watch the Cav's play?
We could blow up our team, change the focus, laser in on pushing-shoving-grabbing like Boston.
Or, we could focus on getting even better at what we do best - a free flowing offensive attack (with even more weaponry next year), strong rebounding, efficient team defense anchored by our twin towers - and put a product on the floor that is not only effective but exciting as well. Don't give in to the naysaying, just because of one bump in the road.
Push ahead. Change the way the game is played. The refs, the entire League, will have to come around.
karyanr
Posted by: karyanr | June 19, 2008 at 10:51 PM
I must be the only one that thinks Artest is not the answer and sees that Artest would not mesh well with the "team" basketball offense that the Lakers had going on through most of the season. Artest is physical, tough, and a good player, but I don't really see him meshing well enough with the Lakers offense... I like the guy, I just don't see him fitting well with the triangle or any of the current Lakers.
Posted by: Peanut Butter Spread | June 19, 2008 at 10:57 PM
Re Luke and Vlade:
Their performance left much to be desired and their huge contracts are millstones around our necks. It's going to be hard but it is not in the realm of impossibility for both of them to be traded. Chris Mullin, Warriors GM, found a taker (Indiana) for both Mike Dunleavy and Troy Murphy (2 huge contracts) so anything is possible. With that, there is something to be said for continuity so either both are still here at the start of camp or only one gets traded, not both.
Posted by: SamLL | June 19, 2008 at 11:13 PM
Rizzo,
Heres why Laker Tom, Myself and a number of other Laker fans believed then, as well as believe now, that WITH Bynum in the mix, the outcome would've been considerably different against teams with physical frontlines i.e Boston,Detriot, Clevland. If you notice the growth, from the start of the season, up until the time he went down injured, you'll see the gradual improvements in all facets of his game.
What the byline doesnt show, that most of us witnessed, was the amount of interior shots his presence in the paint altered or flat out made the offensive player readjust his path to the rim, not to mention how he instinctively switched and helped out on players he wasnt even guarding. His Basketball I.Q had grown by leaps and bounds and you could see how the Kareem effect was beggining to shine through in his offense and defensive abilities.
I remember prior to him going down, he was talked about around the league in the same breath as D Howard and Yao.. Not Chandler, Shaq or any other Big. Prior to the injury, he was in the "upper" tier of NBA Bigs and on a fast track to "elite" status. Below are just the "recorded" stats, but being a Basketball fan yourself, you are also aware that so many "intangibles" dont show up in the box score. That, in a nutshell, is why WE believe.
http://www.nba.com/playerfile/andrew_bynum/game_by_
game_stats.html
AK/BK, Laker Tom,Ex,Fearless, Mamba24,Charles, Justanotha,Milo,Jon K and Laker Nation...
Have a Safe and Fun Summer! Dont allow the green trolls to "distort" the facts or get under your skin with nonsense. Just remind them when they come on the blog today after enjoying their first parade in over 20yrs talking trash.. Great Teams win a Championship, ELITE teams win Championships and DEFEND them. Something they havent been capable of doing SINCE the 60's lol
Lakers For Life !!!!!!
P.S - Mamba24, please add me to the K-Bros bandwagon and anything else you come up with regarding the 2009 season or Andrew The Beast. My workload is heavy during the summer so I wont be able to pop in as much as I'd like so consider this, my plea, permission granted lol
Peace Lakerville ONE !!!
Posted by: complex brotha | June 19, 2008 at 11:42 PM
Do You See What I See -
Before you get all David-Lewis-On-The-Plurality-Of-Worlds on Trevor Ariza (Incredulous Stare reference), please understand this: Weight gain is much easier to add over the entire body - not in spots (chest, arms, etc.)
With that in mind, he can probably put on some of those 10 on his core/lower body. He could only do maintenance lifting because of the stress fracture in his foot. I'm pretty sure that there was a video on Dime Magazine's website where Yao could only lift so much for his legs because he didn't want to throw his body off balance. I'll see if I can find it for you.
Laker Tom -
I am highly flattered and am appreciative of your comments. I am in agreement with you; maybe the team could all practice together like the Spurs did during the lockout shortened season (when they ended up winning a title). I understand Kobe has National Team obligations, but if everyone starts to practice together, we'll set the comfort curve higher (as well as the learning curve; Pau has to learn how to play the 4 instead of the 5, and that takes a bit more time. The triangle doesn't always run through Kobe on the mid-post [like jordan in the final championship years; mainly because Rodman wasn't an offensive option], so he's got a bit to learn).
We don't need brand new players; we need our players to play with the collective intentionality of a swarming hive of bees. Boston wasn't necessarily THAT fantastic on paper - what pushed them over the edge was their collective mentality and heart.
Let's get to work gentlemen - time is of the essence! Get that mentality forged early for a deep run next season!
Posted by: Caliphilosopher | June 20, 2008 at 12:31 AM
If Ronny can hit an elbow jumper consistently, he'll be fantastic.
I'd also like to remind you that mark madson was a BEAST - that dude was strong as Eff. Don't believe me? Ask L.O. about that game against Stanfurd (Go Bears) when he played for Rhode Island (with Cat Mobley and Tyson Wheeler). Mark Madson also had the dunk of the year in 2004 (when he played his first season with KG in 'Sota). I've been trying to find a youtube link of that, but had no such luck. I know for a fact that it was during the first 2 weeks of the season. Dude took off from the dotted of a pass from KG and smashed on 3 peeps. That man CAN play; he's just not asked to do anything like that.
Posted by: Caliphilosopher | June 20, 2008 at 12:39 AM
@ karyanr: great points.
I agree, we don't need to blow up the roster or try to copy the C's. Of course, we'll have to commit to playing tough D, hustle , play hard and not back down.
With Bynum and Ariza, we'll be a lot better for sure. The finals experience will help our young players. Everyone will be hungrier.
As for Sasha, like most here, I hope he returns. He's a great pure shooter and hustles on D. However, I think other teams will offer him way more than LA can. So I don't think he'll return. Can't blame him.
For Artest, no chance. He can get a ton more money than LA's MLE. Yes, he and Odom are buddies and it would be great to be on a winning team, but that's just too big of a money difference.
I think if we can get Posey for MLE, he'd be a good fit.
Posted by: Ice | June 20, 2008 at 12:56 AM
*_______________________________________*
60 + WINS IN 2008-2009 Season BANDWAGON
*________________________________________*
(01) DPK – OWNER
(02) KEIFO - Driver
(03) MAMBA24 – At least 65 + a championship
(04) COMPLEX_BROTHA – I can ride with that
(05) Janaya – Director of attitude
*________________________________*
KAMBROTHERS Thanks for all you do
& making this Blog the best in the West
and getting 2 awards - BANDWAGON
*________________________________*
(01) DAVE M. THANK YOU BOTH
(02) TOAD - AK/BK......can't thank you guys enough for providing
and maintaining this forum..........you've done a great job!
(03) MAMBA24 - you guys are gods to me
(04) BOZZ – My hats off to you guys
(05) “PIG” MILLER – THANKS!
(06) JON K. FOR ALL YOU DO THANKS
(07) JANAYA – AK/BK - What can be said? You guys have united a
LAKER NATION!! You guys are true to the Lakers
(08) CALIPHILOSOPHER - Thanks for keeping the blog in fantastic shape
(09) LOYAL_TO_THE_LAKERS - AK-BK for Co-Presidents.
(10) LINCOLN_LAKER - BK - I really enjoyed reading your analysis
(11) EAST_COAST_JESSIE - You guys have been great. I will miss you.
(12) JESTERGURU - You guys are fun to read. I love your pop culture
References and the backstage access you provide.
(13) LOYAL TO THE LAKERS - AK-BK for Co-Presidents.
(14) QAKEWALK - Great job AK and BK!
(15) PSYCHEDLAKERGIRL - Thanks AK/BK - your insight, viewpoints and
Love of both the Lakers and the game have been really amazing!! And to all
the bloggers for making this a really great community.
(16) KOBE ROCKS - appreciate the radio shows
(17) LAKER FAN 24 - Thanks AK/BK for providing a nice blog.
(18) NEVER - I want to personally thank you guys for establishing this blog.
Misery loves company & I'm thankful to find solace in these rough times.
(19) TJ - AK and BK really good stuff from you guys.
(20) joninjapan(incanada) |- hope you enjoyed the raise hahaha
(21) MOKO - hanks AK/BK for maintaining and hosting this blog.
(22) SPOKANLAKERFAN - Thanks for AK/BK for doing such a great job.
(23) LA J. - Thanks to AK and BK for this excellent public forum and this Blog.
(24) TROY - * I want to thank AK/BK for maintaining this fine blog. I don't think
you guys get enough appreciation for the job that you do.
(25) CDUB0512 – Thanks Guys!
(26) VMAN - What is the proper etiquette? Do you thank your blog hosts
(27) KEIFO – SHOULD HAVE BEEN ADDED EARLIER
(28) SAMLL - Hey, AK & BK. Thanks a lot for giving us this forum to cheer, support,
vent, rant, etc. for our favorite purple &gold Lakeshow. It’s been an enjoyable season.
(30) utzworld THE BANNER HOLDER –In addition to all they do for us, thank you
Kbros. For not labeling me a stark ravimg lunatic for my prayers for team during playoffs.
(31) JustAnotherMambaFan – Thanks for always coming up with great links & topics
(32) ComplexBrotha – For a Great Blog, For winning 2 awards, for superfast Blog speeds
And for putting up with everything, for all you do thanks guys.
Posted by: mamba24 | June 20, 2008 at 05:07 AM
_____________________________*
Lakers Today, Lakers Tomorrow,
Lakers Forever - 2009
CHAMPIONSHIP BANDWAGON
_________________________________*
(01) MAMBA24 – I'm proud of my team and don't
give a d@mn what anybody else thinks
(02) KEIFO – bleeds purple and gold Go Lakers... Forever!!!
(03) MrbarneyDangles - IM REALLY REALLY PROUD OF THIS TEAM
NOTHING TO BE SAD ABOUT GUYS.
(04) CaliPhilosopher - I'm treating yesterday as if I were Ray Allen and I
missed a jumper -have a REAL short memory, & do what I can.
(05) JustAnotherMambaFan - I love our team! We have MUCH to be proud.
(06) DAVE M. - . Crappy loss, yeah. But, we had an awesome season.
One of the truly storied rivalries came back to life. Our team is good, they
grew much & now we have the summer
(07) BAYWOOD - I have retired my last season Lakers hat
(it is thoroughly worn out) for a brand new one from my daughter. I'll wear
everyday until the end of next season. 08) PsychedLakerGirl
(08) JEFF - My name is Jeff, & I'm a Laker for life. My name is Jeff, & I love
my team.Next year, fellas! Next year! we're gonna bring the parade in 09!
(09) PsychedLakerGirl - Might as well get an early seat to the parade.....
(10) Thomas - sometimes the best team does not always win in a series - ie
the 2004 finals where the Lakers were the better team but lost to the Pistons.
This year, the Celtics were the best team in the NBA & the best team won.
(11) HMRHED - Laker Nation: If someone told you a year ago -- OK here's my
offer the Lakers will make the finals next June and lose, but the team will be
much better in 2009, would you have accepted?
(12) FAITH - I'm not guaranteeing we’ll be back. But I don't see why not if we
put in work, & we learn from this. Rick Fox had a good line last night.."you
don't want the players to be still stuck on this 4 years from now, what you
want is for them to learn from it, to use it as motivation and let it go." I know
we're all about championships but we mustn't overlook what we have
accomplished this season. It's been a fairy tale season. It just has
"to be continued" after this chapter. Go Lakers! Keep your head up laker fans
. HAVE FAITH.
(13) TIM-4-SHOW - do not worry, we’ll be in title contention for the next 5 years.
(14) JON K - We'll be stronger next year. The future is bright, even if today sucks.
(15) THE OUTLAW - Yes, my heart is broken, too. But I still love this team.
I excited to see what happens over the summer, but not today. I'm not going to
talk trades today. Today is a day for solidarity. I still believe.
(16) LAKERFAN24 - The future is bright. Thanks Kobe for your effort.
(17) COMPLEX BROTHA - the best you can do is SLAM a coach and a Team
that has allowed you to brag about the NBA well into summer? I spit on all you
bastards you can kiss my ass!!! I'm a Laker for Life!!! Not just when we win Banners..
(18) GAKEWALK - ... Let's get it next year!
(19) KOBESBAD - Great Year. We will be better next year and with a healthy Kobe
and AB, should bowl through the league.
(20) JANAYA - What an awsome season!! Not a finish that I would want, but who
EXPECTED to be in the FINALS????
(21) STEVE - The Lakers, absent major injuries, are poised to make
championship runs for the next 3-4 years. I am proud to be a Laker fan for
37 years and proud of their season. GO LAKERS!
(22) JAMIE SWEET - All in all a great season, we have got an MVP for Kobe,
a trip to the Finals and the emrgence of several young guys.. Good job, Lakers,
it was a great run. I'll take it over a first round exit anytime.
(23) LAKER KEV - ) We'll be more experienced and hungrier next year
(24) – LAKER BANDIT - We will be the team to beat in the west for the rest of
the decade.Be here every single day until tip off for next season. Great ride:)
(25) LAKERgIRL1980 - I am so PROUD of our team, yes they gave up last nite,
but they knew they would lose and they put all the effort in Sunday's game
to avoid celebration on staples floor. next season, that will be our time for sure.
(26) SHARPER – we’ll be back And we're bringing Bynum this time...
(27) LAKERS UNSTOPPABLE - with Bynum joining the MVP & PAU we will be
unstoppable next year. I anticipate 70 or so wins & a stroll through the playoffs.
(29) CS - We finally have the sort of team we've been wanting
(30) ERIC M. It is ALL GOOD. Next year we'll be better, and win it all.
(31) utzworld THE BANNER HOLDER - IT IS NOT OVER! WE’LL BE BACK!
(32) ScorpionMike - OUR TIME HAS COME!!!
(33) MIKE C. WE'L BE BACK The future is very bright,
(34) MAGICMAN - We've got a VERY bright future ahead of us boys
and girls. The good will FAR outweight the bad in the coming seasons.
(35) THA_Show do not worry, we’ll be in title contention for the next 5years.
(36) HMRHED - . Next season will be outstanding
(37) THE OUTLAW - Yes, my heart is broken, too. But I still love this Lakers
team. I’m excited to see what happens over the summer, but not today. I'm
not going to talk trades today. Today is a day for solidarity. I still believe.
(38) CHARLES - I am a real fan of the Lakers. I WILL FOREVER BELIEVE!
(39) MOB WAGONEER – ON TO NEXT YEAR
(40) LAKERSMR - We've got a young, exciting team that looks ready to win.
(41) SANTIAGO YEE - It's been a good year, next year Iis Lakers Year.
(42) RICK FRIEDMAN - . I love our blog family and I love our team.
(43) #4 - Proud of what they accomplished this year.
(44) CHE – GO LAKERS GO KOBE WE’LL BE BACK
(45) STEVEN V. - We'll come back next year and play another good year.
I expect to see the Lakers in the finals next year.
(46) FEARLESS – WE’LL BE BACK BETTER THAN EVER
Posted by: Mamba24 | June 20, 2008 at 05:15 AM
*_______________________________________*
CELTICS - LAKERS 2009 Rematch BandWagon
*______________________________________*
(01) XODUS- OWNER
(02) LAKER TOM - DRIVER
(03) MAMBA24 – 4 GAME SWEEP
(04) COMPLEX_BROTHA – I can ride with that
(05) JANAYA – Wants it so bad he can taste it.
*________________________________*
Posted by: mamba24 | June 20, 2008 at 07:06 AM
*________________________*
LAKERS FOR LIFE THE ENTIRE
TEAM - BANDWAGON
*________________________*
(01) LakerTom - Owner & Driver
(02) MagicMan - Director of balancing The Force
(03) Janaya - Director of BandWagon assignments
(04) Mamba24 - Riding ShotGun
(05) Jon K. - Buying the whole team a drink from my lucky bar seat
(06) Keifo - Director of Scheduling
(07) htj - Director of crowd control
(08) EastCoastJessie - Will get good Psychologist for Vlad
(09) Korey - Director of Laker Quality Control
(10) CDUB0512 – Banished Smush from the Lakers
(11) LakerLegacy – Director of Laker Dynasties
(12) JustALakerFan – Gave away 2 season tickets to deserving Bloggers
(13) JustAnotherMambaFan - Gave Kobe the name BlackMamba
(14) SimiLakerGirl – Director of Good Cheer
(15) LakerMan420 – Director of Inhales
Posted by: mamba24 | June 20, 2008 at 07:21 AM
LakerTom - you are delusional. the Lakers did not belong on the same floor, Bynum wouldn't have helped. Did they win against the Celtics in the regular season with Bynum? Get real. Accept the fact that the Lakers beat the Celtics twice this season and one was a squeaker.
The Lakers are at best 4th best in the league behind the Celtics, Pistons and Cavs.
Posted by: Bear75233 | June 20, 2008 at 07:39 AM
Rizzo,
My bad on that link, I may have copied it wrong?
http://www.nba.com/playerfile/andrew_bynum/game_by_game_stats.html
Posted by: | June 20, 2008 at 07:51 AM
Pssttttttttttt Bear, after going over 2 long decades being at the bottom rung of the NBA ladder, dont let your climb to the top, distort reality. Chances are, That will be the first and last title you guys get THIS decade... deal with it, its ok to be considered "Spurs East".. Thats still GOOD. but until Boston can run off a back to back or 2.. Not Impressed, but happy for all your old guys.. Gremlins and Gollums need rings too....
Posted by: complex brotha | June 20, 2008 at 07:56 AM
Why the Frack are Trolls still hanging around our site. Could it be that they realize that
now that they've won the Championship that is it? They will be like Miami next year,
sacrificing their future for a one time championship? hahaha? It almost makes you feel
sorrry for the lil fellas.
Posted by: Mamba24 | June 20, 2008 at 08:03 AM
Here are Bynum's stats against the Celtics:
1st game - 8 points, 2 rebounds Result - lost by 19
2nd game - 4 points, 9 rebounds Result - last by 13
And yet you mistakenly think he would have made a huge difference in this series.
Posted by: Bear75233 | June 20, 2008 at 08:29 AM
Mamba24:"Not Impressed, but happy for all your old guys.. Gremlins and Gollums need rings too...."
LOL! The poor thing. He must want to hang around some real winners.
It's been so long since his team has had a winning record. The poor dear is
disoriented. Now Bear dear this is The Lakers Blog. You know the team that
won 3 titles this decade. Now your Blog is down the road a lil bit. You know
the one with the cobwebs on it. The one that has an average of 3 posts a topic.
Helluva fab base. now hurry back before they find out you have escaped
Posted by: Mamba24 | June 20, 2008 at 09:03 AM
Do You See What I See,
Trevor did have a broken foot, which means that much of what he was capable of doing was very limited, even for his upper body. I'm an amateur bodybuilder and spend a lot of time under the weights. With a broken foot, it would be difficult for Trevor to lift any sort of weight that could do him good. Your feet and legs area source of strength in every lift, sitting or standing. To lift weight properly, a healthy base is key. My guess is that Trevor was instructed no to do too much, in order to prevent any inflammation and expedite the healing process.
Posted by: "Pig" Miller | June 20, 2008 at 09:12 AM
*______________________________*
Don't Do Anything(Trades) But Get
Everyone Healthy BANDWAGON
*_____________________________*
(01) CORNER J. - Driver
(02) MAMBA24 - Riding Shotgun!
Posted by: Mamba24 | June 20, 2008 at 09:14 AM
Yes, the Lakers have been to the finals 29 times and only won 14 whereas the Celtics have been to the finals 19 times and won 17. Which is the more successful franchise and which are chokers!
Posted by: Bear75233 | June 20, 2008 at 09:39 AM
*______________________________*
Don't Do Anything (Trade) But Get
Everyone Healthy BANDWAGON
*_____________________________*
(01) CORNER J. - Driver
(02) MAMBA24 - Riding Shotgun!
(03) KARYANR - We don't need any more 'stars.' We just
need this group to continue maturing and gelling into a unit...
(04) CDUB0512 - I've been staying away jus cause it's been
so sad lately... n everybody is critiquing like this was the end
of the world... Trade this do this do that... U know wat I mean?
(05) LOTECQ - No one needs to be traded, released whatever,
unless they want to go.
(06) LAKERS JUSTICE - This team will come back tougher because
there will be more scar tissue this year and everyone of them will be a year
older. Whatever doesn't kill you, makes you stronger.
(07) JUSTALAKERFAN - I really don't think sweeping changes be made, but i
mprovements should definitly be pursued..
Posted by: MAMBA24 | June 20, 2008 at 09:44 AM
BEAR, BEAR, USE YOUR FREAKIN MIND. We've been to the Finals 10 more
times than you. Also when was the Last time you were in the finals?
Was that 20 years ago. PLeaaaaaaassssssse. We won 5 titles in that
time and you didn't even get in the dance. Come on Mr. you had your parade
now time to go hibernate. Because it well might be another 20 years till you get
back again. You do know even some of your own sportswriters are referring to
your team as the next Miami Heat don't you. Now run along now, Nap time.
Posted by: Mamba24 | June 20, 2008 at 10:35 AM