Break on through
PROGRAMMING NOTE (6.11): Join us today for Purple, Gold, and Blue at 11 am. Our guest will be Henry Abbott of ESPN.com's outstanding TrueHoop blog. Click on the show widget at the side of the page, or go straight to our show page to listen in.
Four times this season, including twice in the NBA Finals, the Lakers had faced the Boston Celtics, and four times they had lost. Tuesday night at Staples in Game 3, with their backs against the wall and needing a win to avoid what would for all practical purposes meant the end of their season, the purple and gold finally got over the hump. It wasn't necessarily a dominating performance (and it certainly was, from both sides, a historically ugly one), but with their 87-81 win L.A. at once put itself back into the best-of-seven series, and showed they can, in fact, beat the Celtics. The Lakers were carried offensively by two players. The first, Kobe Bryant, shouldn't come as much of a surprise. 24 scored 36 points on 12-20 from the floor, attacked the basket early and often, then helped seal the game late with a pair of big buckets against Ray Allen. He was also a force on the defensive end, checking both Rajon Rondo (early) and Paul Pierce (later) and helping limit them to quiet games. Huge games in big moments, of course, are expected from Kobe Bryant. After all, he's the MVP. But the role of Robin to his Batman usually goes to Lamar Odom or Pau Gasol. Maybe Derek Fisher, or on those random nights when the planets align, Vlad Radmanovic. Not Tuesday. The box shows that each of those guys struggled, shooting a combined 7-28 
from the floor.
Instead, your co-hero was none other than The Machine. Sasha Vujacic lit up the Celtics for 20 points on 7-10 shooting, including two massive shots early in the fourth, and a dagger of a three late. A big rebound game from a guy who had struggled early in this series, and back into the W.C.F.
The Lakers won the game, though, on the defensive side of the ball, keeping two of Boston's Big Three in check. Only Allen had a big game, while Pierce and KG struggled. After it was over, Doc Rivers felt his team didn't play very well (he's right) and, like the Lakers in Game 1, was pleased they fought hard enough to have a chance to steal the game late.
Toughness, says Rick Fox, was the key for the Lakers.
It didn't hurt either that the ever controversial free-throw count swung back to L.A.'s advantage, not that the Lakers, who shot very poorly from the line, really took advantage. Rivers joked when it was done that he was surprised that PJ didn't continue to whine about calls, but readily admitted that the Lakers were the more aggressive team and deserved to get to the line more often.
All that matters is that they won, though... right? After all, the Lakers have to start somewhere. It might be tough for either team, and certainly the Celtics (says Boston Globe columnist Bob Ryan) to feel good about anything that went on Tuesday night. The overall advantage, team vs. team, still likely rests with the Celts, though that could change again on Thursday.
Forum Blue and Gold always has some good thoughts, and the Celtics Blogs are all reacting as well. CelticsBlog has high marks for The Machine. The Shamrock Headband sees no reason for Boston fans to panic.
I TOLD YOU
That’s right we won, like you knew we would
But that Celtics team is pretty d@mn good
And KG Big Ticket, I take it all back
You’re a hell of a player, and that’s a fact
And Doc, Oh Doc, I have to say
You’re a pretty good coach, in the NBA
The Truth no lie, The TRUTH be told
One day Paul Pierce, may wear Purple & Gold
Now that the Celtics, have been given their props
Some praise on the Lakers, it is time to drop.
There’s Kobe Bryant, Now let me see
He Is What He Is, What He Is, Is MVP
9Rings Jackson, the coach who uses zen
9Rings does nothing, NOTHING BUT WIN
Last night a star was born, just ask Kobe Bean
He’s more than just human, he’s Sasha the Machine
Kobe and Sasha are the new dynamic duo
Gone fishing I guess, were Vlad, Pau & LO.
But thank god for the Bench, Way to go Bench Mob
What did they do? They did a hell of a job
As Jon K. predicted, The Lakers got their flow
The Celtics tried a run, the Bench Mob said no, no
Game 3 is over, Game 4 will be a joke
This time, the entire Celtics lineup will choke
Then comes the biggie, The pivotal game 5
Hide the women & kids, Lakers skin Celtics alive
Back to the Garden for Game 6 we will go
Where Lakers win the Title, Didn’t yo mama tell you so!
Since they can’t stop the Lakers, from a new dynasty
They try to tarnish the Legend, with some B.S. news story
A felon referee, must have talked to Sonny Belfast
Saying a Laker Title was fixed, Hey Ref kiss my @ss
We won all our Titles, the old fashion way
Kicking everyone’s @ss, in the NBA
If David Stern fixed things for the Lakers, then tell me
Why the hell does Kobe, have only one MVP?
If you really think, that this BS is true
Let your team step up, we’ll kick their @ss too.
Now sit down and shut up and accept the fact
THE LAKERS ARE BAD, AND THE LAKERS ARE BACK
Posted by: Mamba24 | June 11, 2008 at 09:57 AM
There has been a stink to David Stern and the NBA for a looong time in my book. It’s been hovering around us about as subtle as a glob of dog poop on our sandals. And I’ll give Steve Hartman credit being the only radio personality I can remember consistently calling out Stern for his sticky finger involvement in his league everything his players do.
For me, the most obviously fixed series was the Heat / Dallas Finals in 2005. All those chipie fouls on Dallas defenders giving Wade free access to the hoop? Come on. All those bad fouls on Dallas players every time Cuban and Stern had one of their hissie fit arguments? Give me a break. That series was won by the refs, giving Dallas all the bad calls.
As for the Kings / Lakers series in 2002, yeah I remember it. I still have the tapes and still love watching them. But I will say that it seemed to me at the time that there were outrageous amounts of fouls in favor of the home team. It was obvious to fans on both sides and it was obviously meant to extend the series to six or seven games.
And why is Stern trying to hush and discredit the leak? Let the songbird sing. Someone really invested in solving this problem and not covering it would want to get as much information out as possible. When you bust the guy selling crack on the corner do you quite him when he squeals on his supplier? No. You make more arrests.
It’s nice to finally locate the source of that hideous stink. Like the time my brother and I were driving back from Castaic lake and couldn’t find the source of that strong cheese smell. Yeah, we had had a cheese wiz / live bait fight earlier in the day, and yes, I left the competition victorious having thrown a meal worm directly into my brother’s mouth from 15 feet, but we had cleaned up all the mess, hadn’t we?
No. One giant, gregarious wad of Cheese Wiz remained plastered like a wasps nest to the back of Adam’s ear. Which goes to show—stink has purpose.
Can we get a win in game 4?
Wes
Posted by: | June 11, 2008 at 09:58 AM
Now that's what I'm talking about! T.V.#2 is still operational, my dogs have crawled out from under the bed, and the missus called and said she's ready to come home and start being a real fan!
Now, let's take it to Arsenio Hall-Shrek-Gollum-Stripe-and E.T., and tie this thing up tomorrow...
Posted by: karyanr | June 11, 2008 at 09:59 AM
CONSPIRACY! CONSPIRACY! CONSPIRACY! What did I tell you folks. Did you see the headline about the Fakers vs. the Kings and what Tim D is saying about favoritism. Your titles mean nothing now! I'd love to go back and review all of the WC games to see how many of the players' dreams were dashed by a bunch of money-loving fools. WWFNBA.
It's so funny. You guys thought you were the better team the whole time! "Heritage, organization, players - we have the best in the league." Maybe Speilburg should boycott your stupid, falsified playoffs. HA, HA, HA.
Posted by: Engineero | June 11, 2008 at 10:05 AM
Engineero,
"Maybe Speilburg should boycott your stupid, falsified playoffs. HA, HA, HA."
Bad spelling and Horrible comparison...
Posted by: Charles | June 11, 2008 at 10:09 AM
FROM PALM BEACH, FLORIDA
BONJOUR GUYS,
NO TIME TO WASTE! NO TIME TO WASTE! NO TIME TO WASTE!= PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE=WIN #2
WHEN I WOKE UP THIS MORNING, I SAID TO MYSELF THAT I NEED TO MAKE A KEEN EYE ON SOME PLAYERS OF OUR TEAM AT THE GAME LAST NIGHT CUZ NOW EVERY GAME IS A FINAL FOR US= FOCUS,DETERMINATION AND STRENGHT:
ODOM, ODOM, ODOM: BABY, IT'S TIME TO BE CONSISTENT, YOU HAVE TO SHOW THE VERSATILE YOU ARE IN EVERY GAME. FOR GAME #4, YOU HAVE TO SHOW US THE REASON WHY YOU WANT TO BE A LAKER FOR LIFE. WE EXPECT A GREAT DEAL OF EFFORT FROM YOU FOR THAT FINAL CRUCIAL GAME. LOVE TO YOU!!
GAZOL, GAZOL, GAZOL, CORAZON, TIENES QUE TOMAR EL BALON CON MAS FUERZAS Y DEFENDERTE COMO UN LEO CONTRA LOS CELTICS. TU QUIERES GANAR, CIERTO, GAME#4 ES LA OPPORTUNIDAD DE TU VIDA. SHOW US THE LUCK YOU BRING US DESDE FEBRERO. MUCHO AMOR!!
SACHA, YOU ARE THE RAT AS THE LAKERS AND I= OUR YEAR, OUR TIME= KEEP THE MOMENTUM, SWEETY. BIG KISSES!!
PHIL, PHIL, PHIL, THE MASTER, WHY DON'T YOU USE ALL THE BIG GUYS TO BLIND THOSE CELTICS? WE CAN BEAT THEM IN OUR GLAMOUR WAY. BIG KISSES!!!
KOBE, MY MAN, WHAT CAN I SAY ABOUT YOU CUZ YOU ARE A VIRGO LIKE ME WHO KNOWS HOW TO REALIZE A DREAM BUT MI VIDA, AFTER TWO LOSSES BALL FROM YOUR TEAMMATES, YOU HAVE TO MAKE THE NEXT ONE QUICKLY= NO TIME TO WASTE, YOU KNOW THAT TOO.BISOUS GRANDE
PRATICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE= WIN#2
LOVE TO OUR TEAM AND TO ALL
SHEKOBE FOREVER
Posted by: SHEKOBE | June 11, 2008 at 10:13 AM
We all know the Lakers need to play much better offensively to win Game 4.
The only thing we know so far is that we won't get swept!
The Lakers need a pretty good job last night of realizing that Garnett was going for Odom underneath and that left Gasol open to follow up a few times.
The Lakers realize that Boston's defense is geared to stop the penetration. Pau needs to get more involved in the post.
Posted by: zen | June 11, 2008 at 10:14 AM
I think Sasha saw that Wall-E was in the house and felt he had to 1-UP him to show who the Real Machine is in town.
Posted by: eevee | June 11, 2008 at 10:15 AM
Rant Rant Rant, Diabolical Scheme, Tin Foil hat, belief in a guy convicted of lying, engineering degree.
I predicted the Lakers winning game 3. What else was I gonna do, predict Utah to win it!? The NBA hates us, and for good reason. GUYS LIKE ME!!
My next prediction? The Celtics or the Lakers will win the next game. I've narrowed it down to 2 teams, and its a conspiracy that these 2 teams will win it!
Posted by: Engineero | June 11, 2008 at 10:16 AM
I enjoyed Rick Fox's analysis of the game.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | June 11, 2008 at 10:19 AM
Go Lakers.
Do it again on Thursday.
Posted by: Laker Fan 24 | June 11, 2008 at 10:21 AM
Charles,
Remember Engineero is an "engineer."
Yeah, right.
The guy writes with the intelligence of a 14 year old transported to school in the short bus. Hilarious. The guy's as close to an engineer as he is a sports writer.
He probably got taught to make a birdhouse in shop and when he turned in the asymetrical mess his special ed shop teacher patted him on the head and said, "You're an engineer now!"
To which he began running around in a circle screaming, "I'M AN ENGINEER! I'M AN ENGINEER!" until he had a fit and started biting himself.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | June 11, 2008 at 10:23 AM
Have been away from the blog for awhile ... seems like forever. Finally got to see a game in its entireity last nite ... the young Lakers looked inexperienced and a little bit frightened.
Lamar and Pau are pressing ... that's all right, the most important thing they can do is try to keep their confidence and energy levels up.
Vlad and Luke need to be hollered at, scolded and then comforted ... they're like zombies.
Farmar needs to be on the floor more ... The Machine is terrific, you got to like his energy and confidence.
Fish and Kobe are a bit frustrated ... Phil need to keep employing the Zen on 'em but let them lead Phil, let them lead!
Once we learn how to beat Boston, and gain the confidence that we can beat them at their best, the series will be over.
Go Lakers!
Posted by: Glenn | June 11, 2008 at 10:24 AM
Wes,
We are going to win Game Four. We've learned how to beat the Celtics at their own game, and we will continue to do so.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | June 11, 2008 at 10:24 AM
Good morning Mamba24, Wes and everyone!
Nice article by Rick Fox, KEEP ATTACKING!!!
Posted by: Tsiry | June 11, 2008 at 10:24 AM
Time to take Vlad out of the starting lineup and put in Ariza. We cannot give up fouls and a head start to Pierce anymore. Bring in Vladdy for targeted shooting but that's it.
Posted by: drewpaukobe | June 11, 2008 at 10:26 AM
Thanks for being my spellchecker Charles. I'm elated to know that you got my back. I'm not here to make absolutely sure that my grammar is perfect. I'm here to make a point be known to the participants involved. Unfortunately, I've been witness to a scandal that disgusts me and, unfortunately, you are also invovled and must listen to what I have to say. I will listen to whatever it is you would like to say also.
Posted by: Engineero | June 11, 2008 at 10:28 AM
I won't repost it on this thread but I already gave my report from being at the game last night and what defensive adjustments I'd make for game 4. Here's what I think the Lakers should do differently on offense:
Run Kobe in the pick-n-roll at either elbow with Pau. This is something they saved for game 5 against the Spurs. It gets Kobe open for that split second exactly at his fav spot on the floor to shoot his mid-range. If that's not there and he opts to penetrate, there's less time for the defense to recover b/c he's already practically in the paint. It also means that Boston will have to switch and either LO or Pau will be open. It's a lot more effective than running the PNR on the perimeter.
LO trying to penetrate with the ball from the perimeter has been an offensive foul waiting to happen so far. Even if he gets to the rim, he's been laying himself out and either not finishing or getting blocked. And his mid-range jump shot is low percentage. So I think the Lakers should set him up in the low post and see if he can be more effective there. The reality is, even he's not able to score over either Perkins or KG, there's a much bigger chance he'll draw a foul (rather than committing one himself).
That adjustment would also take the monotony out of having Pau be the only low post operator. Both he and LO need some easy buckets in the paint and the best chance of that happening is from cleaning up each other's messes like Pau did late in the game last night.
The way that Boston is defending Pau in the low post is they're playing all the passing lanes really tough and forcing him to shoot. What I'd do is keep one teammate on that side of the floor, re-post him (have him throw the ball back out but have it immediately come back in) and have him immediately go into and offensive move. No hesitation and less time for the defense to react. Let's face it - KG or Perkins have been great defending Pau. But part of that is due to the time it take for him to get into his shot. He's a lot more successful when he goes quicker.
btw - There was one sequence (I think in the 2nd quarter) where all 5 Lakers got the ball and immediately passed it to an open teammate. It ended up in Sasha's hands for a drained 3. It was textbook.
Posted by: lakers_sth | June 11, 2008 at 10:29 AM
This may have been the game that cracks the series open.
The Celtics just needed Kobe to prove he was who they said he was, namely, a guy who could dominate the game. Before that, they said, we're going to treat you just like any other good player. And he obliged, playing like a good player. Until Game 3.
Kobe has now established himself. If Boston allows Kobe in Game 4 to duplicate what he did in Game 3, shame on Doc Rivers. But if Boston makes adjustments to stop Kobe, then you will start to see things open up for Pau Gasol and Lamar Odom. It's a no-win situation for the Celtics. All it took was for Kobe to prove to the Celtics that he was Kobe, because they are obviously skeptical.
I think previously, teams have given him that respect, saying OK, we know you are great, so we'll start out defending you as a great player. Not the Celtics.
The Celtics are so skeptical, I think they may be foolish enough to say, "OK, you're so great, do it again" in Game 4. And that's why Kobe should take it to them again and again, and force their hand. Dominate until the defense has no choice but to pay attention. That will be the exact moment that Kobe will be able to utilize his teammates to maximum effect.
16...15...14...13...12...11...10...9...8...7...6...5...4...
Posted by: Amazing_Happens | June 11, 2008 at 10:32 AM
[A repost from the other thread. I got to hit the road. You all have a great day]
Is the series being turned in our favor?
Lakers defense would indicate part of that is true.
First, Pau Gasol's 'long arms of the law' defense of Kevin Garnett.
KG field goal percentage:
Reg. Season... 50%
Playoffs.......... 50%
Laker series.....35%
Since the 1st half of game one:
KG is 15-52 for 28%
Its more of a trend and not a shooting slump.
1. Gasol is forcing KG to arc his shots more
2. KG is spending a lot of energy on D and D reb. Tiring him out on offense, especially as the game progresses. He's settling for more outside shots
[Pau is shooting 53% for Celts series.]
Duncan shot 42% for Lakers series and 50% for reg season. So this is a 'Pau Pattern'
Lakers continue trend of holding teams to shooting a -5% off of reg season percentage.
Denver -5%
Utah -6%
SAS -5%
Bos -5%
Lakers D is forcing C's to miss shots, but has been leading to more off. reb. opportunities for C's. but are now doing a better job on boards.
Celtics missed 54 shots to the Lakers 29, plus Lakers a missed a lot of FT's. creating even more reb ops for C's
Off. Rebs.
Celts 14; 5 of those were off of missed FT attempts
Lakers 9
So , if Celts continue to shoot at 42% and Lakers at 46%, TO's are equal, offensive put backs are now equal, Lakers will continue to control series.
Fatty's infallible predictions:
C's continuing to falter in 4th
Game four: Lakers win
Game five: Lakers give Father's Day gift of a blowout to Lakers Dads (Celts will be crying for their mommies to save them in boston)
I will be traveling to Socal (Santa Barbara) for the next 5 days. If you happen to see a Buick Lucerne decorated with Lakers stuff and pieces of Celtics fans stuck in my grill, that's me.
Don't forget to wave or honk your horn.
Go Lakers!
Posted by: Fairweather Fatty | June 11, 2008 at 09:53 AM
Posted by: Fairweather Fatty | June 11, 2008 at 10:33 AM
If Doc Rivers was joking then he should keep his day job and stay away from the comedy. That joke fell flatter than a crepe.
And he whines all game, every game. I'm tired of his mug getting all scrunched up and ugly after every call on the Celtics.
Posted by: mel | June 11, 2008 at 10:35 AM
What did you tell us, Engineero? That the Lakers would win game 3? Lots of people said that.
You have real problems. Tell me something, do you hide this from friends and family? You're embarrassed to admit you write like this to anyone. Once we found you out by us, you switched your name to hide what you are, only to revert back to engineero because you can't hide anymore.
But the internet provides you an anonymous place to write about your contrived thoughts on the world at large. LA serves are your symbol for everything you hate. They hurt Utah, and you can't get over that. Utah is you. I sense real pain manifesting itself as anger.
I'll tell you what, my good friend. Its not your fault. You aren't Utah. You are a good person, and you don't have to let this destroy you. Don't let it eat at you. Air your grievences with the NBA, and not an internet blog. What are you going to do here? Beat the collective psyche of fans of an organization that has won 14 championships? With a Jazz organization that has failed numerous times? Its not gonna happen.
Are you going to make LA feel bad about the cost of gas, traffic, or crime? Or are you going to realize that statistics do not apply when considering individual cases, especially several million individuals. Are you going to realize that LA is a much different and better place than Grantsville, in so many different ways?
Get over what ails you. Its not your fault Utah or it's Jazz aren't what you think it should be. Be a man. Take what life has given to you. You chose to root for the Jazz, be mad that their management fails to put the pieces together to make a good team. How has San Antonio done it? Miami is a big market?
You dislike LA? Like they care. Let's work on getting your salary up to what you think it should be. Sometimes you have to switch jobs to do that, or God forbid, work outside the state of Utah. Work on yourself first, and your standard of living, before externalizing your problems.
Posted by: The Psychologist | June 11, 2008 at 10:36 AM
The Terminator(-Slovenian Edition) has been released! You cannot stop Slovenian technology! No one can!
Garnett! Time to get yourself to the DVD rentals and check out some Arnold Swartzeneggar videos! That's what's coming for you!
You CAN NOT STOP THE TERMINATOR(-Slovenian Edition)!
No one can.
The Machine knowns no pity.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | June 11, 2008 at 10:37 AM
Sasha's post game shirt looked like came from a
Bella Legosi yard sale.
Dude needs an extension and a stylist.
Bet the "over" on his raise.
Posted by: Vman | June 11, 2008 at 10:39 AM
Uh, guys. You need better "elevator" music.
Posted by: mel | June 11, 2008 at 10:39 AM
How anyone can call the NBA rigged is beyond me and this post on David Thorpe's chat sums it up nicely.
"Grassy Nole (Dallas): How can people think this league is rigged when the Spurs (boring to casual fan) have a dynasty, Nash's (most exciting/marketable white guy since Bird) teams never win, Yao goes out (with a billion Chinese viewers) in the first round, and the Knicks (NYC market) are the biggest travesty in pro sports?
SportsNation David Thorpe: I agree totally. Why are players working so hard?"
Posted by: Xodus | June 11, 2008 at 10:40 AM
That's it...
Mamba, you need to to do daily POEMS & ROLL CALLS until the series is over...PERIOD! Today's poem is a CLASSIC! Definitely a must read for those of us who have completely lost our faith - YOU KNOW WHO YOU ARE!
Once again, Lord, we ask You to empower & enable Pau & LO to lay claim to the GREATNESS You have placed within them that they would conquer their fears and TAKE GAMES 4, 5 AND 6. Thank You for answered prayer...AMEN!
Posted by: utzworld - THE BANNER HOLDER | June 11, 2008 at 10:40 AM
Sasha's post game shirt looked like it came from a
Bella Legosi yard sale.
Dude needs an extension and a stylist.
Bet the "over" on his raise.
(if this posts twice, mea culpa)
Posted by: Vman | June 11, 2008 at 10:40 AM
In game 1, Boston Big 3 all played well, none of LA's Big 3 played well, Celtics win by 10.
In game 2, One of Boston Big 3 played well plus a bench player - Powe, only Kobe of LA's Big 3 played well, Celtics win by 6.
In game 3, One of Boston's Big 3 played well, only Kobe of LA's Big 3 played well plus Sasha off the bench and Lakers win by 6.
As much as I would like the Lakers to blow out the Celtics or win the series 4-1, 4-2, etc., what the first 3 games have shown is that we have two very closely matched teams this year. And conspiracy or not, the series is likely to go to 7 Games.
If someone is not a fan of either team, this would be a great Finals series. Two even teams fighting it out in close games every game, with the team who is tougher mentally and able to be more consistent over a long 7 game series winning the whole thing. Sure, it's been ugly basketball, but the NBA Finals has always been ugly basketball even during the showtime era. This is going to be a test of endurance, a marathon, since neither team has clearly a better set of players. Even Rivers has been holding his own vs. PJ, something I didn't expect.
At some point, Odom and Gasol are going to get it together. Obviously, neither is yet completely at home in the glare of the Finals spotlight. It may still happen this year but if not, wait until next year. Remember even Worthy and Magic had big turnovers and bad games in the 1984 Finals versus Boston yet Laker management didn't trade either one and the Lakers finally beat Boston in the 85 and 87 Finals. Odom and Gasol were instrumental in getting us the Western Conference crown and they're meeting the best team they've faced all year in Boston. We're not going to win the series unless Lamar and Pau get back their better games so we can only hope that they do. Despite their lack of point production yesterday, Odom had 9 rebounds and 4 asissts in only 28 minutes and Gasol had 12 rebounds, and both had a hand in taking Garnett out of sync.
Lakers can put pressure on the Celtics by making a huge complaint about constant illegal screens set by Boston. It has always been a part of Finals tradition for a team to use the media to put pressure on the league office and the refs to make calls a certain way. Now, we can even use new media like YouTube to help put the pressure. Just the thought that the refs may become more strict on illegal screens will change Boston's rhythm enough to give Lakers an advantage in this very closely matched series. Also, a player like Allen relies a lot on screens so this would make him less of a factor.
I wonder why PJ has not even tried using Mihm yet. Is he in that bad a shape? Mihm was a former Celtic and probably feels comfortable playing in Boston plus he's got the experience. He might be useful against PJBrown who has been using his veteran savvy against the Lakers. I think a frontline of Mihm, Gasol and Odom might also be worth exploring and would match up well versus a frontline of Perkins/Brown, Garnett and Pierce. Also, PJ can try a tall backcourt of Kobe and Sasha which has been used before in other series. This might be a good plan when Rivers gives more PT to House as PJ has already figured out the best way to counter Rondo.
Boston will try even harder to keep Kobe out of the lane bec. the only option they have is to foul KB if he gets close to the basket (now that the refs are calling it). Look for the Celtics to close on Kobe earlier before he has the chance to drive/dribble around the defense and create an open lane. This will create more scoring chances for the other 4 Lakers on the floor so it is imperative that players other than Sasha start making their shots too.
Posted by: LakerinBC | June 11, 2008 at 10:43 AM
More controversy with the Lakers Girls?
http://tinyurl.com/4b2dyl
Did you notice how ugly she looked as a Beanie Baby Girl and then was transformed into a Hollywood Starlet as a Lakers Girl?
The difference was like Princess Fiona in Shrek. One minute a green Ogor, then a beautiful princess. Simply Incredible!
Attention Ladies: If you want to turn on the right kind of cool guys, Don't wear green! Its not becoming.
She’s no traitor. She came to understand the difference between right and wrong, good and evil, winners and losers, and has repented of her former sinful ways, and joined….
Team America Lakers. F Yeah!
[Picture was courtesy of a friend from another blog]
Posted by: Fairweather Fatty | June 11, 2008 at 10:46 AM
Good Morning Charles---Good Morning Everyone......
Well a win is a win I guess--though I didn't feel too satisfied really, other than knowing we were not going to get swept as it were, seemingly...
If the Lakers could and would only play like they have for the last 3 months or so, we could win this series.....
So far in three games we have not played any where near the level of play that we have seen since Pau was aquired...
CAN WE PLEASE MAKE FREE THROWS FOR THE LOVE ALL THAT'S HOLY AND SHREDDED WHEAT?
Is it Boston's defense or a lack of intensity, focus, desire, execution, fear etc.?
Good thing we brought Kobe and Sasha on the bus....
We can all only hope that Lamar and Pau have some break out games and get out of this slump---especially Lamar---where are you buddy---we need you bad right frickin' now--BOTH OF YOU EAT YOUR FRICKIN' WHEATIES !
I could really dig it, Shaft, if we could win the next two with wire to wire solid victories.....
I guess it's been formally finalized---the more aggressive team gets the calls---we need to get even more aggressive and GO TO THE BASKET----PICK AND ROLL PICK AND ROLL PICK AND FRICKIN' ROLL (please)
I am completely baffled why Puke continues to play the minutes (and more importantly at crucial times in the game) he does---a break out game for him or three would be welcome and I would take back everything I have ever said about him----however any miniscule amount of hope and optimism about his play that I was harboring has probably been flushed down the toliet along with the contents of my stomach and bowels as I retch when I see him on the court---please Mitch come up with the trade of the century---please...
AS ALWAYS, AS EVER, YET ANOTHER GREAT DAY TO BE A LAKER FAN !!!
GO LAKERS !!!
Posted by: Floyd | June 11, 2008 at 10:47 AM
Good Morning Mamba24, Good Morning Charles, Good Morning Jon K, Good Morning ALL of Laker Nation!!!!!!!!!!
Mamba, once again major props to the Poet Laureate of the blog! Great job as always, man! I'm ready for ROLL CALL!
A truly UGLY win, but just what we needed, a WIN! We need to build on this one and come out more focused, more intense, and more aggressive Thursday to assure a win. We get the Leprechauns tied Thursday, they're going to push too hard on Sunday.........they know they have only this year to make their stand, 'cause next year with 'Drew the rest of the league will have no chance against the Lakers.
Now, let's stop the harping on LO and Pau and everyone else on this team........this is who we came to the dance with and who will bring back the ring for us, so no more bashing, folks! These guys are going to win this yet, but they need our support. Those of you lucky enough to go to the games, be loud and proud..........at least as loud as I am screaming at my big screen!
LET'S GO LAKERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
3 TO 15!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: toad | June 11, 2008 at 10:49 AM
Jon K"He probably got taught to make a birdhouse in shop and when he turned in the
asymetrical mess his special ed shop teacher patted him on the head and said,
"You're an engineer now!" To which he began running around in a circle screaming,
"I'M AN ENGINEER! I'M AN ENGINEER!" until he had a fit and started biting himself."
ROFLMAO!!! Stop this Jon K! HAHAHAHA! This is the funniest %$# I have read in years. Stop it now!!!
Posted by: Mamba24 | June 11, 2008 at 10:54 AM
Tsiry:"Good morning Mamba24, Wes and everyone!"
Good Morning Tsiry. Waiting for some more drawings.
Posted by: Mamba24 | June 11, 2008 at 10:56 AM
FOLKS: Remember Engineero is an "engineer." graduated from Phoenix University via online program..and now on to his second career wanna be a lousy sports analyst..or shall I say sports lover with a BIG CHIP on his shoulder.. I suspect child abuse, neglect and lack of confidence may be catalyst in his deevloment as a dime a dozen "engineer" ..yeah my wife is an engineer too, domestic kind LOL.. cable guy is an engineer too..
Charles,
Remember Engineero is an "engineer."
Yeah, right.
The guy writes with the intelligence of a 14 year old transported to school in the short bus. Hilarious. The guy's as close to an engineer as he is a sports writer.
He probably got taught to make a birdhouse in shop and when he turned in the asymetrical mess his special ed shop teacher patted him on the head and said, "You're an engineer now!"
To which he began running around in a circle screaming, "I'M AN ENGINEER! I'M AN ENGINEER!" until he had a fit and started biting himself.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | June 11, 2008 at 10:23 AM
Posted by: hehehe "engineero" | June 11, 2008 at 11:00 AM
Show's starting!
Posted by: Brian Kamenetzky | June 11, 2008 at 11:01 AM
13 DOWN, 3 MORE TO GOOOOOOO!
man, it seemed like forever before i finally got to type that.
at any rate. love the win, but we're not back in the series yet (as ppl like to say) ... we WILL be once we win on thursday night
these three games have all been ugly, junior varsity eastern conference style. fans on both sides should feel encouraged that "oh, we've been in every game!" ... but the truth is, we're not playing like lakers
and once we do (push the tempo, pass the ball, work the middle for easy looks and hit the open 3) we WILL take control of this series
we're playing their game...now let's change the rules and play ours
LET'S GO LAKE SHOW!
Posted by: CBuck | June 11, 2008 at 11:04 AM
Holy cow. I love the comments. I have so much to say. I have too much work right now. I can't thank you enough. The responses indicate that I'm finally getting through to you. I'm a very happy person. I love people and the beautiful green and blue ball that I wake up on and walk around on everyday. I'm blessed. But, I don't like the BS that goes on some times. I'm and honest person and can't stand the dishonesty. THAT"S WHY I"M HERE. Be back in two shakes of a lamb's tail. Don't miss me too much.
Posted by: Engineero | June 11, 2008 at 11:04 AM
AMEN! Thank you BANNER HOLDER
Posted by: MAMBA24 | June 11, 2008 at 11:06 AM
I-W-S, y'all. Engineero & Butler ain't worth our time and energy.
I-W-S.
Posted by: utzworld THE BANNER HOLDER | June 11, 2008 at 11:08 AM
That was one of the worst played games in NBA finals history, save for Kobe, Sasha, and Allen. Yeah we won barely but only because KG and Pierce forgot how to shoot. I'll admit if Pau and Kobe hit their free thows we'd have cruised but what is up with our starting front court? Rad, Pau and LO couldn't play worse. That crap is not going to win a title. Dare I use the "C" word? They look scared and choked up. Time to grow some nads, show up, and play like men. I've said it before, if they come as a team, play solid D, rebound (how many second chance shots have they given up?), take care of the rock, and work the Triangle and be aggressive...we win, we are better. But everyone has to bring their game. We can't have one or two people a night that are on their game while the rest are stinking up the joint. Pau gets one lucky tip in and he's pounding his chest, give me a break. How many dumb fouls can O-Dumb make in a series, forget the refs. Let's get it together boys and crush the gang green.
Posted by: HawaiiD | June 11, 2008 at 11:10 AM
ENGINEERO Did You Thought the NBA was a conspiracy when Jordan and Pippen won those six championship and Miami Shaq and Wade championship run?
Posted by: JERMAINE THE KOBE FAN | June 11, 2008 at 11:12 AM
Engineero,
First of all, Steven Spielberg is pretty famous. For you to not accept that misspelling mistake shows how responsible you are as a person. It is not because you misspelled the name, it is the attention you like to draw and it's now time for you to accept the consequence. Go to IMDB.com and type anything remotely close to Steven Spielberg. You will eventually find the right spelling.
Secondly it wasn't a grammar correction.
Thirdly, I can't LISTEN to what you have to say, but I MAY READ what you have to say.
Comparing the Darfur-China conflict to a basketball series is pretty far fetched.
You are now the Sharon Stone of the blog. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_oNb_EpYdGA http://tinyurl.com/6yx4nz .
I can handle the basketball trash talk because that is the nature of Sports and this Blog, but Darfur linked to the finals? Look up the word "Culpable." You must be culpable for that terrible comparison. Tap out!
I have never asked you or any other non-sense blogger not to post.
Every family has a member or two with a deficiency, a neighbor that you unwillingly say hello to, and a street that remains dirty. You are just that guy, or should I say that Sharon Stone of the blog.
Till you post as another User Name.
Starve from now on. No more response from me.
Sorry Blog Fam...
Posted by: Charles | June 11, 2008 at 11:24 AM
Engineero,
1. Phoenix University isn't a university. It's a diploma mill.
2. I don't believe you that Phoenix University is THAT incompetent even as a diploma mill to give you a diploma. Don't believe it at all.
3. Don't repost text that show the world what an idiot you are.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | June 11, 2008 at 11:26 AM
Game 3 was "ugly" - That's what happens when the league schedules things so that both teams have to travel all the way across the country when there's only one day in between games. If the Lakers force a game 6 back in Boston, I'm sure that one will be ugly too b/c it'll be on the same schedule.
Posted by: lakers_sth | June 11, 2008 at 11:29 AM
AK/BK,
I'm listening. Great job on the show.
Hey, I was surprised that both Ira Newble and Trevor Ariza was activated for last night's game. I would expect that both DJ Mbenga and Chris Mihm would be active for height and hard fouls.
What's up with that?
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | June 11, 2008 at 11:29 AM
utzworld THE BANNER HOLDER,
You're right, but it's fun to verbally pummel them.
Great prayer, by the way. Can't wait for tomorrow's game.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | June 11, 2008 at 11:31 AM
What up y'all!
Leon Who? We don't need no stinkin' Leon POW, we got The Machine! Hot damn that boy was on fire last night, forget Vlad Rad, move Kobe to the 3 and put Sasha in as the 2, that way Kobe can either match up with Rondo or PP on the defensive and while Sasha can pester Ray-Ray, and we get some real Euro-style 3s.
Imagine, if either LO or Pau steppud up their game a little bit or we hit a few more free throws this game wouldn't have even been close. I liked our intensity out of the gate and can easily see us taking the next two at Staples.
-bozz-
Posted by: bozz | June 11, 2008 at 11:32 AM
JERMAINE THE KOBE FAN:"ENGINEERO Did You Thought the NBA was a conspiracy when Jordan and Pippen
won those six championship and Miami Shaq and Wade championship run?"
STOP THIS! STOP THIS NOW! LOL! OH THE HUMANITY!
Posted by: Mamba24 | June 11, 2008 at 11:33 AM
So now you are saying you're blessed. We have a breakthrough folks.
This is response was is a typical "pullback". He's pulled back from his emotional outbursts to demonstrate that yes, he is a normal person. He wants to confirm it to himself. But as evidenced by his postings here and in other places, we can see flip side of his personality. if you let this go on, your personalities could dissociate into 2 seperate entities. How you act in real life and how you act on the internet. I'm fairly certain you discuss things alot more rationally and with more tact in real life. You are analytically inclined, but sometimes, overanalysis can lead people astray.
That is the first step engineero. Let's try and get this rationally responding person to stay. Bipolar disorder can and will manifest itself on the internet, especially when you think people aren't looking or paying attention to what you say. I am, and I'm going to help you though this.
The content of what you write is unimportant. Its the tone and the latent anger is. I genuinely care about your psychological well-being.
The more we can get you to not type angrily, the more we get to what you really feel. Its not about LA, or about the Lakers. We all know this.
Let me ask you, what else make you angry? In those other postings, you seem to indicate you don't like environmentalists. What else makes you angry? What types of people make you angry? Please, lay out your grievences with the world here.
Sincerely,
The Psychologist
Posted by: The Psychologist | June 11, 2008 at 11:33 AM