Hello, goodbye
Play the video while you read. It'll add to the "everyone's heading their separate ways, but they'll see each other again soon" theme from the exit interviews. Plus, it's just a really nice song.
The overwhelming vibe from these one-on-ones with the media, disappointment with coming up short in the Finals aside, was that of optimism. The leader, Kobe Bryant is pleased with the crew getting his back when the season starts up again. And even if he's not, The Mamba isn't looking for a repeat of 2007's radio tour mess. Personnel decisions will be left strictly to those on the payroll for such duties. Instead, he was content to bust a few jokes (dude's become quite the comedian this season), let his teammate Pau Gasol know that Team USA was taking down the Spanish squad this summer and generally be happy with life's unpredictable turns.
As for Ko-be's co-horts, they're also satisfied with their non-soft roster (as Gasol emphasized) and look forward to improving where they left off. Or what's brand new, in the case of a 4-5 lineup with a pair of 7-footers. Or maybe even a certain small small forward forward who could be a free free agent agent. Hopefully, the surprises next season won't include the absence of either Sasha Vujacic or Ronny Turiaf, both of whom would very much like to be back next season. Unfortunately, as the restricted FA's are well aware, business decisions don't always equal getting one's first choice.
CRACKIN JOKES HUH ? ? ? YA GOTTA WONDER HOW MUCH THE LAKER'S REALLY WANTED IT, VERSUS HOW MUCH THE CELTIC'S WANTED IT.............. SOMEBODY BETTER TELL THE LAKER'S THAT NEXT YEAR IS NOT AN AUTOMATIC PLACEMENT IN THE FINALS.........YA GOTTA WANT IT.......... YA GOTTA EARN IT ! ! ! ! ! !
Posted by: KARL MALONE | June 20, 2008 at 09:21 AM
How much did Karl Malone want it when he was getting stripped by MJ in the 98 Finals? lol
Posted by: Xodus | June 20, 2008 at 09:39 AM
Why do so many keep worrying about the salary cap? Dr. Buss can't have that many user IDs. Didn’t Dr. Buss just make a truckload of money on the maximum amount of playoff games he could have got?
We’ve got the money, let’s use it to re-sign Sasha.
The luxurary tax was invented for Los Angeles and New York, because we can afford it because we make so much more money. Keep the team together.
If the right trade can be made with Vlad or Luke, OK, we can give up their inconsistency to a team that needs a forward shooter and a marketing icon to get something of value in return.
The rest is teaching more defense. I think we should also bring in or promote an assistant coach to begin grooming him for a head coach like Dallas did with Avery Jackson. This would bring some more energy to Phil and the assistant could focus more on the younger players, defense, and pep talks and the like while keeping Phil’s overall oversight. This would add depth to Phil’s weaknesses. Other than that, keep the team together and see what damage we can do next year.
Take advantage of the off-season LAKERS, the DYNASTY Train has left the station and is RUMBLING down the tracks.
Posted by: Laker Justice | June 20, 2008 at 09:51 AM
Lakers Starting Lineup 08-09
1 - Derek Fisher
2 - Kobe Bryant
3 - Lamar Odom
4 - Pau Gasol
5 - Andrew Bynum
That is the future. Do not tinker with it before we see it happen, at least until the All-Star break. Mitch can make deals up until late Feb, so no need to trash the WC champs quite yet. If there is a good deal out there, I do believe that Odom will get moved if he doesn't sign an extension over the summer. But, as we all know, Mitch is a patient fella and will see if his long armed monster can strike terror across the NBA landscape.
I, for one, want to see it happen. I want to see that team take the court.
Regarding the bench. I love our bench; I know that, individually, they are not the most talented bunch but they are all still pretty young as far as post season experience goes. Would our bench benefit from a simliar look that Boston's bench had (a bunch of grizzled old mercenarys)? Or, do we look at our model as a blueprint for the future that can and will be improved upon with a summer of focus, a hearty training camp which Phil will absolutely LOVE and say we were two game saway and there were two games that were ours for the taking...this is our TEAM.
I think the latter.
Farmar is only going to get better. Ariza is better than he showed and will be more of an impact player with a full training camp under his size 28 belt. Luke better shoot 1,000 jump shots a day until Day 1 of next season and become a better back-to-the-basket player. As I said yesterday I don't see Mbenga or Newble sticking around. Ronny and Sasha have to deal with figuring how much green will make it worth it. Both could start in the NBA, I know people think that Ronny didn't really show his true grit in the post season, but I also think that when Phil adjusted his rotations during the post season it didn't help Luke or Ronny. They both had undefined roles, or so it seemed from my cozy couch. I think Mihm deserves a chance to show his mettle in a full, injury-free season. Besides, Mihm and Turiaf would be a pretty good second unit front court.
As the bitter sting of losing to the hated Celtics receds like the tide, so to does a new moon of hope rise over Los Angeles. So as our feet dry off and forget the salty disappointment of losing, our eyes turn upwards towards a magnificient glowing orb of hope. All is right in Laker land. This team IS better than they showed in Game 6. One abberation does not a decision make. nor a team destroy. As Kobe learned this year, as we all should know just by watching what happened, this is the ultimate team game. I look forward to catching a pre-season game in Anaheim and maybe even Vegas. I look forward to Gasol roaming the opposite side of the paint and Odom cutting off the ball more. I look forward to Phil calling less time outs than ever. I look forward to all you bloggers blogging your hearts out. Because we do love this team.
GO LAKERS!!!!!
Posted by: Jamie Sweet | June 20, 2008 at 09:53 AM
mamba 24, is there a don't blow up the team because of Game 6 bandwagon?
Posted by: Jamie Sweet | June 20, 2008 at 09:54 AM
I also want to thank the K Bros for hosting our mania and all the bloggers who write more often than I have time for, but know this, my Laker blood runs deep and true.
Also, maybe we could have a couple of funny bandwagons, how about Undefeated In Preseason?
Or 82 and 0 Bandwagon?
I love basketball, it trumps all other sports!
Posted by: Jamie Sweet | June 20, 2008 at 09:56 AM
after the exit interviews, it sounds like they told everybody they are all coming back! LOL! Lamar's certainly will be interesting today... if he comes out and says he's going to work on his 3 point shooting I'm going to be shaking my head... in disbelief that is...
Posted by: TaosHum | June 20, 2008 at 09:57 AM
KARL MALONE...I think that just about every exit interview and post Game 6 interview harped on and on about how this WAS earned and that they are ALL looking forward to earning it next year.
The real Karl Malone would have blogged about his trucking company, too, buddy.
Posted by: Jamie Sweet | June 20, 2008 at 09:58 AM
Good Morning Guys,
Took a two-day breather and want to give “Love” to the family and thank you for all the props and replies!
Summer 2008 Free Agency or Trade Scenarios. Here’s my $.02 There’s more to come.
Scenario 1:
If we keep (Basically the Core) Lamar, Sign Artest, Resign Vujacic and Turiaf (Own Bird Rights), and do not keep Mbenga, Newble and Carl.
Starters:
Bynum
Gasol
Artest,
Bryant
Fisher
2nd Unit:
Turiaf
Odom (I know he’s paid too much to be in the 2nd unit. Another topic)
Radman (Triple 6’10” Line up)
Sasha
Farmar
Ariza (situational Starter or Defender), Mihm, Yue (if management signs) and Walton.
Scenario 2:
Let’s get dreamy! Players to play trade with: Odom, Walton, and or Radman,
If there is a way you can acquire Shawn Marion with the Salaries that would be a salacious dream. (Keep Turiaf, Vujacic and either Walton or Radman.) And then use the Mid Level on a willing player. I WOULD LOVE SUGGESTIONS: WHO? Deng maybe? DREAMING!
Starters:
Bynum
Gasol
Marion,
Bryant
Fisher
Rotation Guys:
Mihm
Turiaf, Radman or Walton depending on whom we keep.
Ariza. Luol Deng? Dreaming! Qualifying Offer this year from the Bulls is $4,452,574.
Vujacic
Farmar
Posted by: Charles | June 20, 2008 at 09:59 AM
Okay, at risk of taking flames here, I'm going to drag some of
the trade rumors that are floating around to see what people
think of them. I think the Lakers are probably best off not
trading anyone and trying to bring back Ronny and Sasha,
but since the trade rumors are flying, it's worth discussing them
here...
(btw, all of these trade rumors/suggestions are from
hoopsworld)
Lamar Odom for Shawn Marion.
It would give the Lakers an excellent defensive small
forward who's as good a rebounder as Lamar, and as bad
an outside shooter as Lamar. Also Odom is a decent
playmaker and Marion is definitely not. But nobody has
ever accused Marion of not bringing his A game every
night.
Lamar Odom for Ron Artest and Kenny Thomas -
Sacto gets a good rebounder, gets rid of a multi-year
contract, and has Lamar's expiring salary come off the
books after next season (or the option to re-sign him if he
fits with the Kevin Martin centered team).
Lamar Odom for Richard Jefferson -
Jefferson is a true SF and a much better scorer than
Lamar. Problem is he can't really play PF, which Lamar
could, so the Lakers lose flexibility. RJ's also under contract
for 3 more seasons, so it would guarantee the Lakers are
in the luxury tax for years to come. I can't see the Lakers
doing it unless New Jersey throws in a future first rounder.
Anderson Varejao for Radmanovic or Walton (hoopsworld).
I think any of us would jump at this trade, though I doubt
the Cavs would.
Those are the only ones I've seen this morning.
So what do you think?
Posted by: Long Time Laker Fan | June 20, 2008 at 10:18 AM
Maybe there is something I haven't heard. How available is Ron Artest? Would someone who A: Wants time off to promote crappy, self-produced rap albums B: Attack fans for throwing soda at him C: Is a legitimate lock-down defender REALLY be available for the MLE? Does Sac have matching rights? These are details to which I have no answer.
Charles I think your scenario 2 is a little too dreamy. I have always preferred Lamar to Shawn Marion, Marion is always whinning, doesn't know how to winand shoots too many 3's. Also, he definitely gets the soft label. We have a willowy defender in Ariza.
If we could get Loul Deng...dang. I'd take that, but that really is a dream. I think Chicago would trade us the statue of Jordan before they let Deng come to L.A.
Posted by: Jamie Sweet | June 20, 2008 at 10:18 AM
Good morning Mamba24 & the rest of this fabulous Laker Nation!
AK/BK - thanks for all the clips! It's good to see Kobe so happy with the season & the potential of next year's team. It gives us all a lot to look forward to and be excited about, that's for sure!
The loss still stings, but the future is bright. I hope the team is left mostly intact. Wholesale changes would be too damaging to the chemistry they've built, and adding a guy like Artest would be like adding nitro - it would all blow up real good....
Anyhooo......it sure will be fun this off-season to see what happens with our team, plus see how Team USA does! Good times.....
Posted by: justanothermambafan | June 20, 2008 at 10:19 AM
On Vujacic and Turiaf...
So what do the Lakers do if both Ronny and Sasha get offered
full MLE offers by other teams?
A full MLE next season will start at 5.8 million. The Lakers are
already in the luxury tax for next season, so it would cost
almost 12 million each to keep them if they get that kind of
offer.
Worth it or not?
Posted by: Long Time Laker Fan | June 20, 2008 at 10:20 AM
XODUS"How much did Karl Malone want it when he was getting stripped by MJ in the 98 Finals?"
LOL! How many times does Scottie Pippen have to tell you Xodus, The mailman
don't deliever on Sunday. LOL!
Posted by: Mamba | June 20, 2008 at 10:22 AM
OK, family...consider this my final Prayer of the 2007-08 season - unless a major off-season aquisiiton is made. Probably ain't gonna happen (The Triangle of Mediocrity will indeed live onward!), but if it does, I'll be ringing His Doorbell on our behalf once again.
So, for the final time in this unpredicitable & unforgettable season, LET US PRAY \o/
Dear Lord, we stand in awe of You. To look back on where we're sitting now as opposed to 12 months ago truly reveals to us that You are AWESOME! This season has been a lesson on faith, trust and patience. Even when our Lakers got impatient with each other on the court - and we got VERY IMPATIENT at times with our fellow Blog Bretheren - You rewarded us by allowing us to achieve the IMPOSSIBLE: #1 seed in the West, Western Conference Championship, and a trip to the NBA Finals. We don't lament how we finished in the Finals, but, instead, we CELEBRATE how far You brought us. For all that You have done for our Lakers, we truly say, from the bottom of our hearts, THANK YOU LORD!
Now Lord, we ask that You guide Dr. Buss and his family, Mitch Kupchak, Phil Jackson and the rest of the Laker staff as they move and manuver this off season. Give them the insight to use their MLE money on a player who will truly be an ASSET to our cause. We love to see shots fall during games, but, as was proven to us in the Finals, DEFENSE WINS CHAMPIONSHIP. Lead them towards THE RIGHT PLAYER who will LEAD US into the path of TEAM DEFENSE. May Dr. Buss & company take the time to carefully & accurately discern if this player is the right fit for our team. Don't let them sign a player based on hype and the cries of the people - for we remember how, despite our cries last year that either Odom or Bynum must go in order to make us have a chance, You gave us INCREDIBLE FAVOR by adding on an All Star level player WITHOUT having to lose either of those key parts of our team.
Give them wisdom. Give them insight to the player's long term goals and committment. Anyone can say that they want a championship, but don't let Dr. Buss & Mitch fall for empty words and verbose promises. Let them verify that the player has the WILLPOWER, GAME, and most important, CHARACTER to back up his claims of wanting to win.
We pray for healing with Kobe's finger, Pau's back and ankle, D-Fish's and Andrew's knee. Let them rest their bodies. Let Kobe & Pau's Olympic efforts not hinder and delay our hope for the future. May their time in Bejing be relaxing and may they rediscover their love for the game and play with sportsmanship and not expending too much energy - for they have a greater task at hand come October.
We pray for The Bench Mob that they would improve their game. As they rest - and remember the pain of losing the championship - turn that pain into an intense desire to work on their game this off-season. Surround them with mentors who will help them to elevate their games. Give them the keys they need mentally to shore up to the next level. Give them DEFENSIVE KEYS that they would develop a KILLER INSTINCT; that they would know that 25 point leads in the 3rd & 4th quarter are not safe. May they study from the masters of our Showtime era - who would not relent their assault on a team until 2 minutes left in the game. Let them pick up on that spirit and come back in October refreshed, renewed and revived.
We pray for Lamar Odom once again. Now that he has been to the Finals and knows what it takes to win, grant him the strength to fully step into the promise that every one of us has seen in him. Whether he stays a Laker or goes to another team, let him shift his mindset to a greater level. Transform his mentality to a renewed sense of focus and determination. As much as we are angry and disappointed with his play during the Finals, each of us understands his role on our team and has been rooting for LO to TAKE HIS PLACE on the court since he first suited up in the Purple and Gold. We know that all things come in Your time, but, should he stay, we ask that You designate that time for the 2008-09 season - that he would be a dominant and consistent player, the X-factor, the one intangible that the other NBA teams can't work their way around.
Lastly, we pray and thank You for the K-Bros and this LA Times Lakers Blog. There are too many of us to name and too many great things to say about our Family that I'd be praying until October. So, I will say very simply, THANK GOD FOR THIS FAMILY. We have kept the faith. We have supported our Lakers in good times and bad. We have cheered them on in Game Day Roll Calls, poems, strategic game time analysis, troll roasting and zombie hunting, and, above all else, love. Even Mike T's posts are covered with an iundying love for the Lakers and an intense desire for them to succeed. I love this family and I ask that You bless our spirit of unity and to keep us safe and protected from hurt, harm and danger till we assemble again next season. Give our hands and fingers the rest we need, for we have done a TON OF TYPING over the last few months! Bless us with favor with ESPN Zone at LA Live or another establishment, that we would be able to come together to experience our Lakers together - in person - as a FAMILY so we can put names to faces and strengthen our Brotherhood.
We thank You in advance for answered prayer and we thank You for blessing our Los Angeles Lakers during this UNFORGETTABLE season of 2007-08!
AMEN!
Posted by: utzworld THE BANNER HOLDER | June 20, 2008 at 10:24 AM
*_________________________________*
Don't BLOW-UP (trade) the team because
Of Losing in Finals - 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 & everyone 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..
(08) JAMIE SWEET - This team is the future. Do not tinker with
it before we see it happen, at least until the All-Star break.
Mitch can make deals up until late Feb, so no need to trash the
WC champs quite yet.
(09) LATOPIA - That's why drastic trades following a failed Final
though otherwise successful season are about as wise as
marrying the first bar guy/girl you meet following a split.
Posted by: Mamba | June 20, 2008 at 10:27 AM
The most likely scenario with Lamar is this: NOTHING. Here are my reasons why:
#1 - We are not sure if Bynum will return as good or better as last year
Kupchack is a smart, risk averse dude. He is not going to get rid of Lamar without first seeing in what shape Bynum returns. After such a pasky injury, Bynum may be a little less agressive than before. The truth is, no one will know until we are 10-20 games into the season.
#2 - Kobe will be recovering from surgery at the start of the season. With Kobe getting surgery after the olympics, it will take him some time to get back to playing shape at the start of the season. The Lakers also don't want to start 0-10 so they will want to keep Lamar around for that.
#3- The Giant 3 Lineup. Think of three 7 footers in the lineup. Never been done before. No one knows how effective this will be. Again, Mitch is a smart guy. He may want to wait to see what develops.
#4 - Lamar is better than Radman. Think about it, with Bynum coming back, would you rather start Rad Man?
#5 Keeping Lamar will allow us to trade for veteran players. Lamar makes Luke, Vlad, Ronni, and others on the bench expendable. This improves our chances of trading for a good veteran player.
#6 Patience is a virtue. Gents, lots of teams will be making moves this offseason to try and appease superstars or to rebuild. It may be smarter to wait and see what happens. For example, if Denver trades Melo, what do you think Camby is going to do? Exactly, he will demand a trade. Can you say Luke and Vlad to the rescue?
Posted by: MannyP | June 20, 2008 at 10:34 AM
I would feel better if Gasol mentioned all of the time he was going to spend getting stronger this off season. I sure hope the Lakers told him that was necessary if he is to truly become a premier player in the NBA.
Posted by: Mark Poggi | June 20, 2008 at 10:38 AM
I'm glad to see the Lakers and the fans are recovering a little and moving on.
Yes next few years will be exciting times for us and i can't wait til training camp.
I am hoping that Sash returns because he's become a deadly shooter who hustles and plays D. He'd be great here and for numerous other teams.
I am worried that Lakers won't be able to match the offers others will give him. Even though he said he wants to be here, its a lot of money to turn down. I can't blame him, he earned his pay day.
Ditto for Artest. This is a even bigger stretch as Artest can command top dollars. thinking $10+ million vs. the 6 we can give him.
I agree that we don't need to make drastic moves.
Posted by: Ice | June 20, 2008 at 11:02 AM
Hello everybody!
I haven’t looked at the logistics of the deal I’m about to propose, and I’m not a big fan of shipping out LO, just Vlad and Luke, but what about a trade for Tayshaun Prince? I haven’t looked at the numbers mind you, but he’d give us that lanky, speedy defender, plus he can always chip in on the offensive end, even though we won’t really be needing it with KB, Pau and Socks contributing on the offensive end next year. I’ve always been a big fan of Prince and his defense, though we’d probably give up a couple of rebounds per game, but I think his D would make up for it.
Just a thought.
-bozz-
Posted by: bozz | June 20, 2008 at 11:04 AM
Well. That's the season. Thank you folks.
See ya in a few months.
Posted by: Teej | June 20, 2008 at 11:21 AM
Not sure if you saw this.
Karma just bit Curt Schilling in the A$$
http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news?slug=ap-redsox-schilling&prov=ap&type=lgns
Posted by: Ice | June 20, 2008 at 11:24 AM
To All,
th eeality is that we did not have the passion to win and we will not win next year if we talk about how we are happy to be here, young etc...we need to say we want to win now! all of us! and i want players who say that and live that....
I want Lamar gone because he does not believe or truly want...the guy went partying before the most crucial game of the series ARUGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!
what the heck! People we only have Kobe at his best for 3 more years...we need to win now!!!!
Posted by: KobeRocks! | June 20, 2008 at 11:24 AM
the more I think about it, the more I'm inclined to go after the Matrix this summer - assuming, of course, that it's even possible payrollwise... we'd have to trade Lamar and his salary and possibly lose Turiaf but...
The Matrix would be... un-be-lie-va-ble in this offense. We would have Bynum clearing the lanes down low, teams would have to focus on Kobe and Bynum so the Matrix would get all kinds of open 3 point shots, Gasol is content to pass to the open man and the Matrix is an awesome defender. Then you bring in our bench of Ariza, Sasha and Farmar - all a year older and improved? Wow. There is absolutely no letup there for the other team to rest it's starters.
Wouldn't you think Miami would have an interest in getting Lamar back? He's a perfect complement to Wade and if they go after OJ Mayo, that's an interesting group to run with.
Posted by: TaosHum | June 20, 2008 at 11:29 AM
Good afternoon!
Now that the dust had settled, clearer heads are beginning to prevail. More of the posts are calling for patience. Less of them are trying to blow up the team. Personally, I believe that a major shake up is not needed for this team. They overachieved for petes sake!!! Going through this war together will only help this team for next year and the next several years.
Couple thoughts on Pau. It has been pointed out that his production dropped with each round of the playoffs. Very accurate. But also not uncommon and/or unexpected. Pau was treading in some seriously uncharted waters. If I remember right, he had never even won a playoff game before this year. I fully expect his performance to improve in the playoffs next year.
Everyone was all over Phil when this thing ended as well. I didn't get that. I think he did the best coaching job of his career this year. He took us from the disarray of last summer to the NBA Finals. We don't ask for much do we? LOL Phil has been there and done that. He knows "the process" of winning rings. In case anyone needs reminding... He's got NINE.
Finally, I don't know if I'm fully on the Baby Huey fixes everything and we win it all train. He is a youngsta after all. Would he have stepped into the spotlight and knocked everybodys socks (pun intended) off? Or would he have been blinded by the glare of the bright lights? We will never know. We WILL however, have to opportunity to grade his playoff moxie next season.
Our team caved in under the immense pressure. Pressure bursts pipes. But it also makes diamonds. Pipes in 2008. Diamonds in 2009.
Posted by: | June 20, 2008 at 11:33 AM
Jamie Sweet -
I full-heartedly agree with your take. Keep the current Laker roster at least until the all star break. We have no idea of how lethal Odom/Gasol/Bynum can be in the front court...at least give it a chance!!
I highly doubt Artest will sign for the midlevel exception with the Lakers. Sure, it sounds great and everyone on here loves to speculate....but be a bit more realistic. OK even if Artest does a sign and trade, I still don't think the salaries would be able to match up.
Put me on the KEEP THE LAKERS CORE INTACT. I've grown to love this current Laker team through thick and thin, and I will fully support and cheer for them next season. I will not turn my back and I will have FAITH! I realize that Radmanovic/Walton are weaknesses in our rotation, but I also see it as a LONGSHOT for them to be traded away.
Posted by: Lakafo0 | June 20, 2008 at 11:41 AM
in the grand scheme of things. . if sasha decides to leave. . we can do several things. .
1. we can sign and trade him. . package him up with either luke or vladdy and send him to the team of his choice in return for A) an expiring contract or something that the kings will want, which we then send to the kings for artest. . who we then extend for 3 years 24 million (his current salary)
example (i’m pretty sure the numbers work) we send sasha (in a deal starting around 4-6mil per) plus luke or vlad (probably vlad would be the more desirable asset at this point) to Cleveland for wally z’s fat 13mil expiring contract. the queens resign udrith for whatever the difference in salary is to make the trade work, and boom, they get 13million off of the books, we get artest (and udrith), and Cleavland gets much needed outside shooting
oh no, now Kobe doesn’t have a back up! easy solution. since kobe wont be playing the 3 much anymore (what with artest and ariza. . oh and luke) we can resign. . coby karl!! im almost serious about that one, as i really liked what i saw from the kid during his brief stints.
2. either this year or next year we have to look at bringing sun yue over, because fisher is gone in two years and farmar is going to need a backup. . if sasha leaves then a slot opens up for sun yue to come in on a 2-3year 3-4million deal.
3. but if you’re thinking ooh. . if sasha only costs 4mil lets keep him, then we can resign coby karl for whatever mike miller is making, trade him to memphis and then the rest is the same as above. . . . ha ha. .
Posted by: joninjapan(incanada) | June 20, 2008 at 11:49 AM
Mamba,
Please put me on the "DO NOT BLOW UP THE TEAM" bandwagon and start a “08/09 60 WIN" bandwagon. Finally, put me on the "09 NBA Championship" Bandwagon. It is not too early to stand and be counted. The future is bright, it is time to crawl out of depression, rinse out the harsh aftertaste of yet another Celtic celebration (I still have flashbacks of cigars being lit) and bask in the glow of potential future glory. To my glass half empty blog brethren, potential is not a four letter word.
Posted by: Roky | June 20, 2008 at 12:01 PM
Thanks Lakafo0, have a good off season.
Posted by: Jamie Sweet | June 20, 2008 at 12:11 PM
Mamba,
Requesting a boarding pass for the "Don't Blow up the Team" wagon. I agree that the Lakers can get more out of the existing key personnel. In Laker lingo, "more" = championships.
Posted by: The D | June 20, 2008 at 12:12 PM
Jamie Sweet
Thanks for the reply. Back to dreaming again...
Best,
Posted by: Charles | June 20, 2008 at 12:16 PM
Good for Kobe. Keep it positive, keep it together, keep everyone hungry -- and make them hungrier.
The Ks aren't wimping out when they refrain from bashing players or urging reckless trades no matter what most know-nothings insist about Laker personnel..
Because many of those very know-nothings were the SAME known-nothings who were SURE Bryant was right about (trading) Drew, SURE Bryant was right to sulk, SURE Bryant was right to demand a trade BEFORE the Lakers commenced a season playing .640 ball PRE-Gasol.
That's why drastic trades following a failed Final though otherwise successful season are about as wise as marrying the first bar guy/girl you meet following a split.
Consider Ron Artest aka Con Artest.
Fact: the season (2005-06) BEFORE Artest arrived, SAC finished 44-38 (.540)
On April 26, 2006, days after SAC acquired Artest, Sacbee's bb "expert" Mark Kreidler declared:
"Let's answer the first question first: Ron Artest makes exactly this much difference. He absolutely does. He's the difference between a loser and a winner. It's not even an issue to discuss."
One year later WITH Artest? SAC finishes 33-49 (.400).
Two years later, still WITH Artest? 38-44 (.460).
Con Ar-test -- contra Kreidler -- is *not* "the difference."
Con Ar-test -- pace reality -- IS a bad decision-making, bad shot-taking, selfish, self-obsessed "teammate" whose ONLY sub-100 (DRtg) season came when he had healthy bigs to defend the post -- which suggests Artest's defensive magic really IS smoke and mirrors reflecting the substance of guys like JOneal and Jeff Foster.
Finals culprits? Start, end with Phil & staff, who game planned the Cs like it was still 2001-02.
Or read Randy Hill's mostly lucid autopsy at [ msn.foxsports.com/nba/story/8258306/Jackson-didn't-make-right-moves-vs.-Celtics].
Hill tries to have it both ways -- (wrongly) asserting Pierce "outplayed" Kobe while insisting Rivers/Thibodeaux outcoached PJax -- but does make a handful of valid points -- especially LALs effective though UNDERUTILIZED use of high screen rolls and sticking Gasol on Garnett defensively without making a point of attacking Garnett, the soul of BOS' defense, on offense.
Posted by: latopia | June 20, 2008 at 12:29 PM
*_________________________________*
Don't BLOW-UP (trade) the team because
Of Losing in Finals - 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 & everyone 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..
(08) JAMIE SWEET - This team is the future. Do not tinker with
it before we see it happen, at least until the All-Star break.
Mitch can make deals up until late Feb, so no need to trash the
WC champs quite yet.
(09) LATOPIA - That's why drastic trades following a failed Final
though otherwise successful season are about as wise as
marrying the first bar guy/girl you meet following a split.
(10) CALIPHILOSOPHER - We don't need brand new players; we
need our players to play with the collective intentionality of a
swarming hive of bees.
(11) LAKER TOM – If you want to trade players because of
How they performed in the Finals, you’ll trade the entire team.
(12) ROKY – potential is not a four letter word.
(13) LAKAF0O -'ve grown to love this current Laker team
through thick and thin, and I will fully support and
cheer for them next season. I
*_______________________________________*
60 + WINS IN 2008-2009 Season BANDWAGON
*_______________________________________*
(01) DPK – CEO
(02) XODUS – OWNER
(03) KEIFO – Driver
(04) MAMBA24 – At least 65 + a championship
(05) COMPLEX_BROTHA – I can ride with that
(06) Janaya – Director of attitude
(07) ROKY – The future is bright
Posted by: Mamba24 | June 20, 2008 at 12:29 PM
Bynum's interview was short but he was probably more forthcoming with actualy information than any of his teammates.
He'll rehab until mid-July. From mid-July to mid-Sept he'll be with his conditioning coach in Atlanta (two months vs one month last off-season). Basketball-wise, he'll work on rebounding and his lateral quickness to be able to defend the pick-n-roll better.
When asked the Bynum-Pau experiment he gave some pretty specific answers about how he thinks it'll work with Pau working on the strong side with Kobe and Drew at the pinch post on the weak side. Pau becomes the passer and Drew the finisher. Sounds good to me.
Posted by: lakers_sth | June 20, 2008 at 12:31 PM
My bad... This was me. Stupid fat fingers.
Good afternoon!
Now that the dust had settled, clearer heads are beginning to prevail. More of the posts are calling for patience. Less of them are trying to blow up the team. Personally, I believe that a major shake up is not needed for this team. They overachieved for petes sake!!! Going through this war together will only help this team for next year and the next several years.
Couple thoughts on Pau. It has been pointed out that his production dropped with each round of the playoffs. Very accurate. But also not uncommon and/or unexpected. Pau was treading in some seriously uncharted waters. If I remember right, he had never even won a playoff game before this year. I fully expect his performance to improve in the playoffs next year.
Everyone was all over Phil when this thing ended as well. I didn't get that. I think he did the best coaching job of his career this year. He took us from the disarray of last summer to the NBA Finals. We don't ask for much do we? LOL Phil has been there and done that. He knows "the process" of winning rings. In case anyone needs reminding... He's got NINE.
Finally, I don't know if I'm fully on the Baby Huey fixes everything and we win it all train. He is a youngsta after all. Would he have stepped into the spotlight and knocked everybodys socks (pun intended) off? Or would he have been blinded by the glare of the bright lights? We will never know. We WILL however, have to opportunity to grade his playoff moxie next season.
Our team caved in under the immense pressure. Pressure bursts pipes. But it also makes diamonds. Pipes in 2008. Diamonds in 2009.
Posted by: magicman | June 20, 2008 at 12:36 PM
Mamba24 - I REALLY need to be on the current bandwagons - help me out man!!!!
This team needs to stay pretty much AS IS. We need to see exactly what our monster 7' front court can do before we consider trading for someone else. LO is precisely what we need on this team - he's long, the windex man on the backboards, can handle the ball, great chemistry with the team - a very good, versatile player that knows the offense & doesn't have to have the ball to be effective or happy. Now that he's been to the finals & feels the pain of defeat, I think he'll want to improve & contribute that much more.
On the other hand, you add a guy like Artest into the mix & what do you get? A good defender but a nut job who will mess with the team's chemistry & brotherhood. I honestly don't believe he can be the answer to our defensive dillema - just ask Sacto.
The guys need to get healthy, work on their defensive strategy and get tighter as a unit. We could use some shoring up - no question - but the team pretty much as-is needs to see what they can do before it gets blown up. I have no doubt Mitch et al will do the right things. They know Kobe needs to win now & with the championship culture in LA I feel they will make conservative, appropriate moves to give themselves a chance to win it all next year & for many years to come.
Just my two cents.......
Posted by: justanothermambafan | June 20, 2008 at 12:45 PM
Hey folks. In the interests of maintaining a little bit of an easier read for the threads, we're only going to update the bandwagons a couple times a day, maybe in the morning and at night, rather than every time someone adds a name. Given how many there are right now, it'll make the site a little easier to read. So if you don't see your name right away, don't worry about it.
Thanks!
BK
Posted by: Brian Kamenetzky | June 20, 2008 at 12:53 PM
utzworld THE BANNER HOLDER
I've really enjoyed your insightful, eloquent, and well chosen words in your thoughtful prayers.
Please come back and continue to share whenever you are moved to do so.
Thank you.
Posted by: Fairweather Fatty | June 20, 2008 at 01:01 PM
BK's gonna be updating the Bandwagons now?? Sheesh, y'all need a STAFF! Y'all hiring? :o)
Posted by: utzworld THE BANNER HOLDER | June 20, 2008 at 01:50 PM
Interesting side story Pau had about Boston mob attacking and throwing rocks at the Laker's bus. Wow, I think we should all be thankful for the safety of our Lakers, that the game wasn't in LA. Then there might have been some serious anger directed at the Lakers.
I didn't realize that the leprocon fans were so willing to do our Laker fan dirty work for us. I guess they like dirty. Well, I guess they are dirty. Anyway, thanks Boston, instead of doing the selfish thing in hoisting the Lakers on your shoulders for handing you the championship (hoist the game 2 ref crew up there while your at it) you did the sportsman like thing and tried to help get these guys motivated for next year. Man, I can't think of anything that would make the Lakers regret more their inconsistent play and get motivated in the off-season.
And I though the leprocons fans were a bunch of drunken losers. Truly shows the class of the leprocons fans. Shows that you just shouldn't stereotype.
Posted by: Laker Justice | June 20, 2008 at 02:09 PM
Exhelodrvr:
Yes, I was joking about Carl for Marion. My point was, last summer we had an endless stream of posts about trade scenarios, some of which were just that stupid.
Posted by: Marty | June 20, 2008 at 02:21 PM
Manny P,
>>>#4 - Lamar is better than Radman. Think about it, with
>>>Bynum coming back, would you rather start Rad Man?
There's one area where Radmanovic is MUCH better than
Lamar... shooting 3-pointers. And having a guy who can hit
the open 3-pointer spaces the floor for Bynum -- defenders
can't double team off of Rad, but they could off of Lamar.
Posted by: Long Time Laker Fan | June 20, 2008 at 02:39 PM
I'm hoping that everyone on the Lakers comes back including Bynum. That way you will be mediocre just like this year.
Posted by: Bear75233 | June 20, 2008 at 02:40 PM
bozz,
Joe Dumars has basically said that most of his roster is on the
trading blocks, but he'll only consider trading for an all-star.
On the Lakers, that means Kobe or Pau. So which one are
you giving up to get Prince?
Posted by: Long Time Laker Fan | June 20, 2008 at 02:42 PM
TaosHum,
>>>Matrix would get all kinds of open 3 point shots,
but he's only a 33% shooter on 3's. A little better than Lamar,
but not that much better. And Lamar is a much better
passer.
But two things would improve if they traded Lamar for
Shawn Marion: Marion plays hard every night, and
he's a much better wing defender than Lamar.
Posted by: Long Time Laker Fan | June 20, 2008 at 02:46 PM
I remember the 2001 AFC Championship leaving Heinz field I was in the Patrios bus and the Pittsburg fans threw rocks at the bus because we beat their butts. I can't imagine why the Celtics fans would throw rocks, they should have thrown pansies at the Laker bus.
Seriously, there is no place for that in sports.
Posted by: Bear75233 | June 20, 2008 at 02:49 PM
Marty,
I knew you werebeing sarcastic.
Posted by: exhelodrvr | June 20, 2008 at 02:51 PM
You guys should get Tayshon Prince he's just as soft as the rest of your team. He would fit in well. BTW I wouldn't be harrasing the '69 Lakers they were great, just a coscky, but great. Your team is the 4th best in the league.
Posted by: Bear75233 | June 20, 2008 at 03:03 PM
Hey, Mamba24. Pls. put me in the Don't Blow-up the Team bandwagon. I want to see that tall line-up work out.
Go Lakers - 2009 champions!
Posted by: SamLL | June 20, 2008 at 03:23 PM
I should clarify-
By "update" I mean AK and I will push the comments through a couple times a day. WE WON'T BE KEEPING TRACK OF WHO IS ON THE BANDWAGON. Frankly, that goes beyond the scope of our gigs. So those who are bandwagon keepers, what we mean is that there's no need to add a name then repost the bandwagon every time someone asks for his or her name to be added. They'll still show up there, but it might require some patience.
Hope that clears up any confusion!
BK
Posted by: Brian Kamenetzky | June 20, 2008 at 03:24 PM