If you must lose, I guess it's best to lose in a total team effort
Which is fortunate, since that's exactly what the Lakers did during a 131-92 Finals ending bloodbath at the hands of the Celtics. A complete and utter collapse was witnessed as the Celtics took home the gold for a 17th time. From top to bottom, from Kobe Bryant to Trevor Ariza (who logged the least amount of court time at just over nine minutes), every Laker who stepped on the court played a sizable role in not getting the job done. "We got our ass kicked together," said Lamar Odom in both succinct and accurate fashion. What began as a reasonably competitive (if not always competent) 24-20 first quarter deficit spiraled way out of control in no time flat. Down 23 at the half thanks to a brutally stagnant offense (3-13 in the second quarter) with five turnovers to compliment the first quarter's sextet. Four second frame rebounds, rounding out a 26-14 first half discrepancy not favorable towards the Lakers.
From there, it stayed exactly the same, whether you're talking about
carelessness with the ball (the night ended with 19, which explains
both Boston's eighteen steals and their 32 points purely off
turnovers), continuing to get pounded on the boards (48-29, with a
pitiful pair of the offensive variety), shaky defense (50% allowed from
behind the arc) and the plethora of ill-advised shots. By the time the
game was officially over (it was figuratively over before the starting
lineups were announced), the box score revealed
a night the Lakers would just as soon forget, even if that's basically
impossible. "As a team tonight, we didn't execute or play team defense
like they did," admitted Odom. "Scrap it out like they did.
Therefore, we got beat... up."
Or, as Derek Fisher put it, "Tonight's game speaks for itself."
I'm going to spare us all the traditional "good/bad" breakdown, as the former would include way too little and the latter would include waaaaaaaaayyyy too much. Instead, I just wanted to share what people said and felt afterward. It took a while to wiggle my way through the maze of reporters, and by the time I got to the Laker locker room, a lot of guys were already gone. But those still around were obviously bummed by the outcome. "We lost that game and it's even more painful thinking about it right now," lamented Sasha Vujacic. "It's going to be painful tonight and the day after and the day after." Odom noted how there are no trophies for second place, a finish Kobe reminded us is the first loser. When asked if he felt "hurt, anger, disappointment or disbelief," Fisher couldn't narrow the emotion down to just one adjective and opted for all of the above.
But at the same time, the room wasn't quite as melancholy as I expected. Now don't get me wrong. Folks weren't taking this lightly by any stretch, nor do I expect that bus ride back to the team hotel to resemble anything along the lines of a laugh riot. But a fair amount of optimism was mixed into the sadness, as this team remains fully aware of what they've done (without Andrew Bynum to boot) and are capable of doing. Even taking into account how difficult it is to remain cognizant of 2008's good at this exact moment, Vujacic hasn't lost sight of it. "To be completely honest with you, I think we achieved a lot. We did a lot throughout the season. We knocked out the champions of the NBA." No argument from Pau Gasol, who sees a Finals repeat, only improved upon, as a real possibility. "We know how great of a team e have and how big of a potential we have. We definitely believe that we can get here again and do better." Even arguably the most competitive man on the planet acknowledged the positive nature of the proverbial "journey," even when coming up short. "I'm proud," said Bryant. I'm proud of the way we performed all year. I'm proud of my guys. We did a good job."
The Lakers have every right to feel ashamed of how they played tonight (and perhaps during the series as a whole), but they have nothing to be ashamed about over the season. All sunshine and "happy, happy, joy, joy" sentiments aside, think about how this season began. Kobe demanding his ticket out of Dodge. Uncertainty as to whether he'd show up at camp. Trade rumors. A team on eggshells to begin the season. A 7-6 start to the season. Kwame Brown at center. And now look where we're at.
Andrew Bynum, the same youngster Kobe wished would transform into Jason Kidd, blossoming into one of the best big men in the game (much less of his age group). Pau Gasol picking up where Kwame left off (and I think we can all agree, doing a considerably better job of it). Lamar Odom finally able to do what he does best (a little bit of everything that doesn't include being a designated #2 scorer). A bench featuring guys like Sasha Vujacic, Ronny Turiaf (both free agents who said they want to return), Jordan Farmar and Trevor Ariza, all of whom let their crucial inexperience show during this series but help round out a promising core. A rotation that, save Derek Fisher, includes nobody currently over 30. And Kobe Bryant, playing not only the best ball of his career, but finally becoming a leader by more than just terse example. All of this is hardly a substitute for an O'Brien, but it's nice to know the window to snag one has hardly been shut.
The immediate future (as in "the next several days spent thinking about getting smacked around like a rag doll in Boston") will obviously feel none too good. Nor should it. But when that sting eventually subsides, there's a lot to be pleased about with these Lakers. Try to remember that during this very dark hour (and believe me, I'm as unhappy as the next cat).
AUDIO
- Phil Jackson: Download phil_jackson_game_6_postgame.mp3
- Lamar Odom: Download lamar_odom_postgame_game_6.mp3
- Ronny Turiaf: Download ronny_turiaf_game_6_postgame.mp3
- Pau Gasol: Download pau_gasol_game_6_postgame.mp3
- Sasha Vujacic: Download sasha_vujacic_game_6_postgame.mp3
- Derek Fisher: Download derek_fisher_game_6_postgame.mp3
- Kobe Bryant: Download kobe_bryant_game_6_postgame.mp3
AK
This morning, I am crushed. Life as a fan, a true, no kidding, die for your team fan can be so disappointing. You wait for that one moment, year after year, and it almost never comes. The Lakers had a chance, a good chance, one that I never expected to see at least for the next few years.
Did they blow it? I don't think so. I think they will learn from this, like teams before them have learned. And they will come back stronger and better.
And us fans will gear up again and be ready to roll with them, win or lose, good or bad. LAKERS FOREVER!!!
Posted by: teamn | June 18, 2008 at 08:09 AM
Kwame Brown is a fool's goal.
Posted by: exhelodrvr | June 18, 2008 at 08:12 AM
Baywood my friend good posting with you this season. We almost made it this time.
Love your attitude brother. Have a good summer. LAKERS FOREVER!
Posted by: Mamba24 | June 18, 2008 at 08:13 AM
The Horror. The Horror...
That really sucked. Especially since we should have won Games 1, 2, and 4.
Sigh.
Anyhow, we'll be better next year. We all know that.
By the way, Laker Nation, AK/BK, I'd like to thank you for sharing this wonderful season with me. I've deeply enjoyed our conversations, your comments, and episodes of Troll Busting.
Now begins the frustrating season of people coming up with wild and bizarre trade scenarios. This off-season will be particularly tough because, quite frankly, we don't need to make many trades, are unlikely to make any major trades, and have given up our draft picks, so there won't be much to discuss on that end.
Just the long cold summer of discontent that languidly awaits us until the Lakers' season begins anew.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | June 18, 2008 at 08:16 AM
Mamba24 / Larry of LA - Thank you for the inspiring posts. Makes me that much prouder to be a Laker fan. I hated what happened, I'm hurt & disappointed, but at the same time proud of the team and extremely hopeful for next year. I said before that we have witnessed the budding of the 4th Dynasty, and next year & in the years to come we will be priviledged to watch it bloom & grow to maturity. Championships are in our future people!
Mamba24 - please add me to the "Lakers Today, Lakers Tomorrow, Lakers Forever" bandwagon. I should also have a seat on the "2009 Championship" bandwagon - if you could check for me please!
I love our team! We have MUCH to be proud of. We've got work to do, let's not kid ourselves, but a tweak here & there and we'll be good to go. I CAN'T WAIT FOR TRAINING CAMP!
Posted by: justanothermambafan | June 18, 2008 at 08:24 AM
Time for a reality check!
First, props to the real fans who refused to throw the team under the bus just because we lost the series.
To the rest of fair weather, band wagon 'fans' , I am sure ESPN will have tape of the parade in Boston for you to enjoy.
Even some of more childish bloggers of the past have stopped pouting now that the season is over and are offering their 'wisdom' on what transpired.
Personally, I enjoyed the season. It was more than I had ever expected at the start. Like the song says 'the future is so bright I got to wear my shades'.
While watching the game yesterday I was amazed by bias towards the Celtics. I am sure Johnnie Most is smiling somewhere. Not really mad about it, just amused. I was laughing to myself thinking MARK JACKSON YOU ARE BETTER THAN THAT!
On one side note, no reason to worry about next season because our savior will be returning. Yes, you heard it first here. Kwame Brown will be back next year. He will sign for probably half the exception.
Reasons:
1. Phil likes him (most important)
2. Bynum's knee injury (will he be available)
3. Mihm has not fully recovered (will he ever?)
4. Knows triangle (as much as he knows anything)
5. Six more fouls
6. He will be CHEAP (not even the Grizzlies would play him)
Besides the cake throwing opportunities in LA are much better.
I, for one will be glad to bring Kwame back as a key reserve. With hopefully a healthy Bynum starting at center and Gasol at PF we have the new age twin towers. Kwame backs up at center while Odom becomes the sixth man at PF or SF.
WHAT SAY YOU?
Posted by: reality check time | June 18, 2008 at 08:27 AM
That TJ Simers article is, to say the least, so venomous. I mean, it as if he were waiting for this loss to get a chance to pour all his Laker hatred on paper.
Sure, I'm disappointed, and I expected more from that last game, but, the Celtics were simply better. I would have hoped for 2 more victories, but, it wasn't to be.
So I don't undestand why the Lakers are suddenly so bad, so disgusting for him. I mean, did they not make it to the Finals? Did they not give the Fans something to cheer about?
He ridicules the LA Fan who looks at the bright side.
Well, then he should just stick to other teams then. Perhaps he can be a Suns Fan. Since they never make it to the finals, he won't have to be disappointed in a bad Finals performance.
Posted by: DAN_T_MAN | June 18, 2008 at 08:28 AM
I can't believe there are still trolls posting here. What a bunch of moronic losers. I can just picture them now: huddled up on their bed in their Mom's basements, under the sheet with a flashlight & a laptop, giggling maniacally to themselves, some PB&J smeared across their greasy faces....poor, pitiful, ugly things. You have to feel sorry for them, right? Or at least wish you could put them out of their misery. They've got no life - unless you count the weekly visits to the funny farm....
Posted by: justanothermambafan | June 18, 2008 at 08:29 AM
Hey sclakerfan,
You are a real idiot!,the pacers were in the ABA not NBA...so obviously nobody would say the pacers won three nba titles when it was the ABA....are you freakin serious....go cry in your mommies basement you sissy....don't discount the titles the Celts have won (which is 17) because it was in the 60's....you're just crying like a sissy that you are b/c your lakers got there buts kicked up and down the court..have your mommy bring breakfast to you in the basement you sissy and that goes for all the laker sissy fans....have a miserable summer....peace out
Posted by: pmac | June 18, 2008 at 08:30 AM
The Prodigal Son Returns...
Let's get this straight once and for all. Michael C. Teninte is NOT a Laker fan. This is the same man who could barely contain his gloating and celebration when Andrew Bynum injured his knee. This is the same man who told us that, after said injury, we'd see the GREATNESS of Kwame Brown shine like a star and carry us through. A few games - and umpteen blown dunks & layups later - Mitch finally Kwame out for a song and the great Mike T. ABANDONS Laker Nation.
No comments from him during our acent to the #1 West seed.
Not a peep from The Great and Delusional One during the Denver, Utah and SA series.
Only...ONLY in our darkest hour of the season does he have the COURAGE to come back here and speak.
Do us a favor and crawl back into the hole from whence you game, Mike T. LA Times Lakers Blog has moved on without you. We are doing just fine without your Kwame worship, Jackson Journals and psychotic misue of Biblical Scripture designed to draw praise and attention to yourself - your LOST, LONELY & INSECURE self!
Yes, we lost in the Finals. Yes, Boston MASSACRED us last night. Yes, we are in a season of mourning. But when we lost in 2004, the sun did not shine all day. I woke up this morning and saw the sunlight beaming down on the entire city. That says one thing to me: HOPE!
Dear Lord, please expose every FAKER, bandwagon fan, and fairweather booster lurking on this blog this summer. May we see their true colors. May the UNITY and BROTHERHOOD of TRUE LAKER FANS shine as a bright light in our hour of darkness. May that light shine so brightly that the fakers and bandwagonners among us are driven away to the far corners of darkness.
We are faithful. We are hopeful. We stand united. Yes, we know there are some personnel changes to be made. Yes, we need a defensive specialist to assist Phil Jackson in his coaching. Yes, it's gonna be a long road to climb back into the NBA Finals in 09. But we can do it. We have proven every naysayer, playa-hater, and sports analyst wrong by simply MAKING IT TO THE BIG STAGE! And we WILL NOT deny You Your proper praise and glory for helping us to get there!
IT IS NOT OVER!
WE WILL BE BACK!
AMEN!
"I see your failures
And I know you need answers
(But the Lord says)
But those with great failures
I bless to be GREAT WINNERS
See yourself in the future
YOU ARE ROYALTY!"
--from the song "Heir" by Donald Lawrence & The Tri-City Singers
Posted by: utzworld THE BANNER HOLDER | June 18, 2008 at 08:31 AM
I'm a Lakers fan and I am sick at what I am reading here:
Suggest player changes to get better or simply point out who stunk last night ( the entire team ! ). Just stop the personal attacks.
I'm a 50 year Laker fan. Why the knock on the early Boston titles and how many teams were in the league ? You must be too young to have seen it. The NBA's talent has been watered DOWN. There are simply more bad teams now.
God bless the earlier NBA champions including the Lakers. Baylor, West and Russell etc. would still be great.
Lost from the old NBA is fundamentals. That is why our NBA stars have such trouble with international competition. I remember Wilt pointing this out and he was never more right.
The refs didn't take this title from our Lakers ( honestly...if anything we have been getting the calls ). This wasn't about who set what kind of screen. That is silly.
The Lakers lost because Boston did the intangibles that winners must do. They played good hard basketball and covered all the fundamentals. They played as a team and their defense is among the best I have seen in at least the past 25 years.
The right team won the finals this year. Boston was the best team from week one. Those guys ( including three GREAT players ) were hungry.
Who in the NBA is classier than Doc Rivers ?
Lakers fans: we must do two things.
1. let Boston know they played great and say congratulations. The better team won and that is how it's supposed to work.
2. thank the Lakers for a very good season and hope that management makes the needed repairs to get better.
The 2007-2008 season is over. Let it go.
Posted by: still a Lakers fan | June 18, 2008 at 08:39 AM
Hey Lakers fans...just chill, have a spice mocha latte with cream or an organic colonic. Go get your hair and nails done..that's what Sasha is doing.
The better team won.
Posted by: suggestion | June 18, 2008 at 08:42 AM
All this trade talk is nonsense. The team as great (except Vlad). I blame Phil Jackson for this collapse.
It seams after the melt down in 04 against Detroit, Phil learned nothing.
Mitch needs to sit down with Phil and repeat the phrase "Defense wins championships". If Phil cant figure it out, fire him.
Phil is a great coach but he will never win another ring until he starts preaching defense.
Tiki
Posted by: Tiki | June 18, 2008 at 08:42 AM
Sede Vacante,
>>>What did Kobe do wrong? He showed up, but No
>>>Defensive Skills. His shot is nothing like Michael Jordan
>>>or Larry Bird.
I take it you didn't actually watch either of those guys play, huh?
Let's talk about 1987 for a minute. Remember that year?
Clearly you don't. Do you remember this line from a box
score:
6 for 16 shooting, 16 points, 4 turnovers.
That's what Larry Bird got against the Lakers in game 6
of the 1987 NBA Finals. Bird had a lot more help from
his teammates than Kobe got in last night's game, so they
only lost by 12. But Bird stunk it up in the last game of a
finals that his team lost. Yes. That Larry Bird.
In those same 1987 playoffs, Michael Jordan averaged
41% shooting. Unlike Kobe, he jacked up 28 shots a game, despite the fact that teammates Gene Banks, Dave
Corzine, John Paxson, and Sedale Threatt all shot a higher
percentage for the series than Michael. People were criticizing
Kobe trusted his teammates in this series and passed to
them even when they were shooting bricks. On the few
nights when his teammates came through, the Lakers won.
Kobe is not at the rare heights of Bird and Jordan yet, but
you demonstrate your ignorance when you judge him
based on a game or a series.
Oh, and by the way, for all you people like Mike T that are
totally obsessed with defense, the Lakers were the 7th
best defensive team in the league. The team with the best
defensive rating, Utah, lost in the first round. The team with
the second best defensive rating, Atlanta, lost in the second
round.
If you're going to come talk smack about Kobe, at least
know the history that you're comparing him against. If not,
you just show that you're an ignorant newb who has no
clue what he's talking about.
Posted by: Long Time Laker Fan | June 18, 2008 at 08:44 AM
Remember me?
Good series Laker fans, I am not here to rub it in.
If anyone is interested in a Boston critique:
Kobe..........is Kobe
I dont think Odom works on this team. He seems to need a coach that is going to push him more and that isnt PJ.
But at the same time I like Odom at 4 more than Gasol. Defensively speaking Paus' game is not physical enough - and if you move him to 3 he doesnt have enough speed.
So can Odom and Gasol co-exist in the starting lineup with Bynum at center???????
Vlad Rad - fish out of water! no D, and the Lakers have enough offense. They need to get a player that will play some D off the bench.
Fisher is past his prime, a good veteran presence from the bench and you all know how clutch he is.
Keep Sasha for his lone ability to add offense from the perimeter.
Luke Walton - I really dont see much there.
Ariza reminds me of Tony Allen - flashes of brilliance - good energy on both ends from the bench in the 3 and even the 2 position.
Farmar - wild card
It will be interesting to see if the return of Bynum will make that drastic an impact on the defensive end especially if gasol is at the 4 spot. I didnt see enough of him this season to tell you.
All in all the Lakers have some great chips to play with. However, this league is beginning to figure out how important defense is. With the Pistons championship a few years ago and the Celtics big win last night it will only become a bigger part of the game. The Lakers have enough to be a 55-58 win team but depending on matchups could be in the finals again or out in round 2. If the Lakers want to win it all in 2009 they will need to figure out what to do with Odom/Gasol and find some complementary bench role players that can provide some Defensive intensity.
Posted by: Celtics in Six | June 18, 2008 at 08:45 AM
Reality Check,
I always love your posts. They were missing for a while, but it's great to have you back.
What say me?
Just say NO to Kwame Brown!
Listen, give MBenga a chance to work with Kareem over the summer... the guy has the strength that Kwame has, but he's not ill faited to drop passes. He's also a competitor, and Kwame is NOT.
When our team gets embarassed (2006 style), it's time for a gut check. Bringing in Kwame is like taking a shot to the gut... it's only going to hurt and make us vulnerable to the upper cut.
I wish, I wish I could say diffrently about Kwame, but I can't.
He's had a few months now, and a few more months of some solid XBox 360 ahead of him. You know he's playing mad video games all day...
Is that the guy you want back? Let's just bring back Smush Parker for crying out loud... he's still in LA, right?
PS... MBenga will cost us none of our MLE. We can get him for the vet minimum AFTER we use our MLE.
Posted by: Tim-4-Show | June 18, 2008 at 08:46 AM
My Friends (including BUTLER)
Contrast AK/BK's reaction to Plasche and Simers.
Hurt but reasoned response to our whole season, as opposed to tantrums and vindictiveness.
There is something wrong if we don't learn from this contrast. I am so disapointed. But these are My Lakers. I cannot stay angry for more than a few hours.
Baywood
Posted by: Baywood | June 18, 2008 at 08:46 AM
Pick up chauncey billups for lamar, sign james posey along with a couple tough guys and insist on a strength conditioning coach for Gasol or move the only man softer than whipped cream.
Posted by: michael pass | June 18, 2008 at 07:40 AM
Chauncey for Lamar? Are you kidding me? May be Chauncey for Fisher??? Chauncey is old and slow. Plus, he is a guard who pulled up lots of jump shot like Shasa. Are you drunk, man?
Posted by: Lakers Heart | June 18, 2008 at 08:46 AM
Mamba24
You carried the banner for us all year.
You deserve a very special recognition from this blog.
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.
With this hat I have just jumped on your 2009 Championship bandwagon.
Baywood
Posted by: Baywood | June 18, 2008 at 08:54 AM
Best post award goes to...
"LA Fans:
"Lifelong Celtics fan (since 1966). Congrats on a great season, and for battling through that epic Western Conference gauntlet of teams to get to the Big Dance. I didn't know too much about your team other than what I saw earlier in the year and what the LA trolls were dishing out at BostonGlobe.com
"With that background I must say that this series was a lot closer than you may realize at this sore point of reflection. The Lakers almost drove a dagger in our hearts with their game 2 impressive comeback! Game 4's "comeback-for-the-ages" by the Celts could easily have gone the Lakers way. Two games; two phenomenal comebacks; two outcomes in Boston's favor. This series could have easily swung LA's way on those two hinge games and the champagne would've been flowing in LA LA Land. Keep your heads up, the future is bright for your youngsters, your MVP, your Hall of Fame coach, and your fans. I'm looking forward to another "cage match to the death" with you guys next June."
jhb2
Posted by: jhb2 | June 18, 2008 at 01:06 AM
Posted by: olf | June 18, 2008 at 08:54 AM
This was a great blog, even though I discovered it late in the season.Thanks for AK/BK for doing such a great job.
Also thanks to the many very articulate posters who are true fans of not only the Lakers, but the game as well. You guys know who you are.
I have been a Laker fan since they moved to LA,where I grew up. My Washington state license plates say "LAKERS". I take more crap from people who know nothing about basketball and hate the Lakers than I can say. When I drive down the road, I often look out my window and see some total idiot flipping me off. At first, for the life of me, I could not figure out what was going on...I thought maybe I cut him off or something. Then I realized it was because of my plates. People are vicious...like the trolls on this blog. They have nothing better to do or say I guess.It doesn't sway my love for this team at all. Pisses me off though!
We don't have a sports team here where I live. Seattle is 300 miles away, and not that easy to get to in the winter months.They kinda suck anyway, and may soon be gone, so live NBA games don't happen a whole lot up here. If it wasn't for the Lakers and NBA Pass I think I would die from bordom in the winter. You fans in LA are real lucky in that respect.
This year has been especially rewarding because of the great growth and effort the Lakers put out ALL YEAR LONG. We don't need any major changes next year, just a little tweak here and there. For most of the players, this was their first venture this deep into the playofs.They have learned a lot that they can take into next year, so look out NBA. I hope we get a rematch with the Celtics next year...that would be cool. But they have to repeat as Eastern Conference champs, and that is no sure thing.
I love the Lakers, all of them.
Kobe is the best player on the planet. I think he is better than MJ, though I hate the comparisons.
Sasha is a competitor, and I hope he returns.
Pau is very skilled, intelligent, and at the 4 spot will thrive.
LO..what can I say...versatile, hard working..he's a keeper too, who will reap benefits from Bynum's return.
Andrew will dominate next year, more than when he went down this year.
Fish, we need him or someone like him. Saavy Vet.
Arriza will contribute bigtime when he gets in the flow.
Farmar,if he improves over the summer like he did last year, will be more than adequate to be a champion.
Things look good for a title next year, so even though last night was hard to watch, we will be back next year with a vengeance!!
And if you can't say something constructive about our team.....SHUT UP!!!
Posted by: SpokanLakerFan | June 18, 2008 at 08:56 AM
utzworld THE BANNER HOLDER:"IT IS NOT OVER!
WE WILL BE BACK!"
AMEN!! Outstanding my Brother.
Posted by: Mamba24 | June 18, 2008 at 08:57 AM
When did the mantra become "illegals screens illegal screens". Stop that bs now. That is stupid. We got beat by a much better team. Come on and wake up and grow up. All you sore losers and crybabies are not worthy of being Lakers fans.
Posted by: Enough already | June 18, 2008 at 08:59 AM
****
Wed. June 18, 2008 - The Force is balance in anticipation of the Dynasties start
Laker Nation STAND TALL. Tomorrow The Dynasty begins!
Good Morning Charles
Good Morning utzworld THE BANNER HOLDER – We await your prayer sir.
Good Morning, Morning Crew: JohnnyP. Bozz, Toad, “Pig” Miller, Fearless,
JustAnotherMambaFan, Edwin Gueco, EastCoastJessie, PsychedLakerGirl,
SemiLakerGirl, LakerTom, Tim-4-Show, LakerMan420, Karynar, UbuntuKillers
Welcome: Ron Gray, charlotte Laker Fan, Ace, H.Chen, Drefdeezy, Hen1040,JoJo
D@MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN!!!
D@MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN!!
@##@$%^^^&^^%$$###@@@@@#$%F*C^%%$##*^^%$#*))@@%$^**(
I hurt like hell, how about you? You do? Good! Then feel and remember it.
Remember how you felt as the score became more and more lopsided. You feel
That pain? Does it hurt? GOOD! Now let that pain infuse your entire body
From the tip of your head to the soles of your feet. Bathe in it and just when you
Almost can’t stand it anymore imagine rolling it up starting from your feet to
Your head. Now that it is a tight little ball take it and press it against your
Heart and then forget about it. Now when training camp comes and every
Time you begin to slack off in your training that little ball of pain and memory
of defeat will erupt and spur you on in your training. In the regular season
Once again if you begin to get lazy in a game or fall behind in a game this
Pain and memory will flare out and enable you to overcome. Finally
In the beginning of the playoffs consciously release this energy and let
It flow throught out your body. Then go ahead and plow thru the
3 rounds UNDEFEATED. Next In the FINALS consciously release
this energy and just soak in all the pain and hurt of this loss
Then go out there and UTTERLY AND COMPLETELY DESTROY
WHATEVER MF OPPONENT STANDS BEFORE YOU IN A 4
GAME SWEEP. Win each game not by any 5 or 10 points,
BUT BY 20 AND 30. FINALLY As you receive your 2009
NBA CHAMPIONSHIP TROPHY go into that place inside one
More time. Take that hate, feel it one last time then THROW IT AS FAR
AWAY AS POSSIBLE. Then THANK GOD for your victory and repeat
THE FOLLOWING:
WE ARE THE FREAKIN LA LAKERS WINNERS OF (15 )NBA TITLES. THE TEAM
WITH THE BEST WINNING PERCENTAGE IN NBA HISTORY. THE ONLY TEAM
WITH 3 HOF COACHES. THE ONLY TEAM TO APPEAR IN THE NBA FINALS IN
EVERY DECADE OF THE NBA'S EXISTENCE. THE TEAM WITH THE MOST
PLAYERS ON THE 50 GREATEST PLAYERS OF ALL TIME LIST(8). THE HOME
OF THE REIGNING AND FUTURE MVP KOBE BRYANT. THE HOME OF WILT
KAREEM, GEORGE MIKAN, MAGIC, ELGIN BAYLOR, THE LOGO(JERRY WEST),
SHAQ, PAT RILEY, JAMES WORTHY, BOB MCADOO, "BIG SHOT ROB HORRY"
GAIL GOODRICH THE LEGENDARY SPORTSCASTER CHICK HEARN COACHED
BY 10 TIME TITLE WINNER PHIL (10RINGS) JACKSON & OWNED BY THE BEST
D@MN OWNER IN SPORTS DR. JERRY BUSS AND THE ONLY ONE WHO CAN
EVER DEFEAT OR DIVIDE US IS US
ROLL CALL
(1) Faith, Bob, Keifo, Vman. Jay Jay, CHARLES, Edwin Gueco, TSIRY, FATTY, AngryLaker
Tha Show, Tim-4-Show, TheLakeShow, Generic_One, Pig Miller, Toad, Taliq, LakerTruth
WesJoeNixon, Zakee, Cleon, SBPimp, The_D, Bozz, #4, Nemia Faletogo, Elle, HmrHed
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DANCAT, LakerBandit, TwoForOne7, HAWAIID,Chick4Ever, MIKE DILLS, LAURIA
You Ever Notice? MARKYTHEARKY, Justin Leonard, Linda Pineda, Kidwell, Mel, AJAX
BronxLakerFan ChitTownLaker, HoustonLaker, TexasLaker, BrazillianLaker, USCLaker
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EDDIE BROCK, PAUL LEE, Mitchell, DAVID IN SPAIN, J_Doubter, Guy,AFROJOE
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CS, LakerHopeful, Bobie, MARCO64, Drew, PURPLE&GOLD_4EVA, Tajluck, Waterboy
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Pince Akrasian, EAGLEBOY, JR., BLKTHGHT06, SighBrandon C. Tully Moxness,
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Hariyahu, Alexinh017, NESTROS BISTRO, LiveLakers, Blaze1Bx, phred, Swettual,
KIKOS DAD, RicoTico, SocalSpider , BigGameJames, LAKERSNZ , Karynanr*
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JHNLannery, Adrian Palomar, SUPERSA, BH, SAGA, FrancesW, Onaoman, Lent
CHERIE JOHNSON, LAKER_1959, LAKER_HOPEFUL, Dalton, JV, Glenn, T-ROCK
VA_LAKERGIRL, JERMAINE_KOBEFAN, NOVO_LAKER, THE PSYCHOLOGIST,
UBUNTU KILLERS,IN_THE_ZEN_MASTER_WE_TRUST, RON GRAY
CHARLOTTE_LAKER_FAN, ACE, H.CHEN, DREFDEEZY, HEN1040, JOJO
ALL TOGETHER NOW, LET THE ENTIRE UNIVERSE SEE HOW A TRUE
WARRIOR DEALS WITH VICTORY AND DEFEAT:
WE ARE THE FREAKIN LA LAKERS WINNERS OF 14 NBA TITLES. THE TEAM
WITH THE BEST WINNING PERCENTAGE IN NBA HISTORY. THE ONLY TEAM
WITH 3 HOF COACHES. THE ONLY TEAM TO APPEAR IN THE NBA FINALS IN
EVERY DECADE OF THE NBA'S EXISTENCE. THE TEAM WITH THE MOST
PLAYERS ON THE 50 GREATEST PLAYERS OF ALL TIME LIST(8). THE HOME
OF THE REIGNING AND FUTURE MVP KOBE BRYANT. THE HOME OF WILT
KAREEM, GEORGE MIKAN, MAGIC, ELGIN BAYLOR, THE LOGO(JERRY WEST),
SHAQ, PAT RILEY, JAMES WORTHY, BOB MCADOO, "BIG SHOT ROB HORRY"
GAIL GOODRICH THE LEGENDARY SPORTSCASTER CHICK HEARN COACHED
BY 9 TIME – SOON TO BE 10 TIME TITLE WINNER PHIL (9RINGS) JACKSON &
OWNED BY THE BEST D@MN OWNER IN SPORTS DR. JERRY BUSS AND THE
ONLY ONE WHO CAN EVER DEFEAT OR DIVIDE US IS US
Posted by: Mamba24 | June 18, 2008 at 09:00 AM
Mamba24 - I was reading all the posts, thinking about this and that, and then came across your "Lakers Today, Lakers Tomorrow..." and it totally make me smile. You're the best, dude. Thanks for all your great blogs this season. Put me on the bandwagon if you don't mind.
Posted by: dave m | June 18, 2008 at 09:00 AM
Hey TRUE fans -
What an awsome season!! Not a finish that I would want, but who EXPECTED to be in the FINALS????
THIS was GREAT EXPERIENCE for our YOUNG SQUAD with a SOLID FUTURE.
Now some people are calling for heads. I say we try to get a defender (I would welcome Brown back for WAY LESS, he has made some great money so why not).
Some forget how we made it here. It was with Odom, Gasol and others that made this season possible. If anyone gets TRADED it should be the FAIR WEATHERED FANS THAT JUMP SHIP AS SOON AS IT GETS TOUGH!!
I feel GOOD about our team. I know we will be BACK in the FINALS next year. Remember, WE ARE THE LAKERS!!
If you feel that YOU NEED to discuss trade options - THERE IS ALWAYS THE CLIPPERS BLOG!!!
Congrats to KG, PIERCE, and RAY RAY. They Deserve what the EARNED. SEE YOU GUYS NEXT YEAR!!!
LAKERS vs CELTICS II - THE REVENGE DUE FOR RELEASE JUNE 2009.
AK/BK - What can be said? You guys have united a LAKER NATION!! You guys taught me:
1. I am not the only one capable to clear a room with my yelling at a TV
2. Remote controls EVERYWHERE live in PERIL
3. I am NEVER alone in my victories and defeats
Thank you guys!! Thank you Mamba, Faith, Charles and all TRUE bloggers that ARE TRUE to the Lakers!!
MARK MY WORDS - WE WILL BE BACK!!!
GO LAKERS!!!!! WOOOOOOOOOOOOTTTTTTT!!!!!!!
janaya
Posted by: janaya | June 18, 2008 at 09:01 AM
OH, NO!
NOW LAKER FANS ARE FIGHTING AMONGST THEMSELVES!
IS THERE NO GOD?
SOMEBODY DO SOMETHING!
Posted by: Luigi999 | June 18, 2008 at 09:01 AM
JustAnotherMambaFan:"I can't believe there are still trolls posting here. What a bunch of moronic
osers. I can just picture them now: huddled up on their bed in their Mom's basements, under the
sheet with a flashlight & a laptop, giggling maniacally to themselves, some PB&J smeared across
their greasy faces....poor, pitiful, ugly things. You have to feel sorry for them, right? Or at least
wish you could put them out of their misery. They've got no life - unless you count the weekly
visits to the funny farm...."
LMAO!!! HAHAHHAAA OUTSTANDING!!!
Posted by: mamba24 | June 18, 2008 at 09:02 AM
My take on the year: PJ`s greatest coaching job ever..he took a team of pups with a few guys with championship experience. and got them to the finals. With a little more luck they could be playing Game 7 on Thurs. IN the end, they were exposed for what they are, a team not quite ready for prime time. Do you not think a healthy Andrew Bynun would have been worth a few games in the finals? I do. When he want down, any realistic chance of winning it all went with him.
No disrepect intended towards the Celtics who displayed all the characteristics of a championship team. Hard to dislike the way the go about their business.
They clearly need a SF and need to round out the bench with some guys who know the meaning of playing defense. I think they masked the weaknesses of this particular squad very well this year for the most part but you could see the Celtics figured it out in the end. That beat down in Game 6 proved that and there's not room for argument.
Still, I can't help but break out a silly grin even in the face of an awful, near historic loss. This team is a contender for the foreseeable future. I trust the managment to make the changes needed and feel secure in saying that we WILL win championships (yes, plural) in the years to follow.
The problem with the Lakers fans is their is a healthy contingent of bandwagon types who jump on and jump ff with each win and loss. But the core group of people here are very knowledgeable and take the long view. Thanks for helping me understand many key points about the game and the Lakers in particular. They are never boring to watch, are they? LOL! A terrific season that we all wished had ended on a better note. But its just the beginning of their run. Instead of winning a round and bowing out, they overachieved and made it to within a game of winning the whole damn thing.
Posted by: Rob D | June 18, 2008 at 09:11 AM
MJT :"I do not think that I shall ever see
anything as stupid as Mike T."
ROFLMAO!!! THANK YOU MJT I NEEDED
THAT! BUT MIKE T. IS GOOD PEOPLE, HE
JUST SOMETIMES LET'S HIS PASSIONS GET
THE BEST OF HIM.
MAMBA24
I am criticizing Mike T's judgment. Everything he says is completely moronic with or without his passions. Look at this old post he put out
Darius Miles just want to play for a winner. Bring him to the Lakers and his attitude would change. Put him with a competitor like Bryant and he'll plug in real well. Put him in a possible Championship scenario and he'll be the player every one thought he would be.
mike
Posted by: Michael Teniente | June 12, 2006 at 12:21 PM
Darius Miles? Enough said.
MJT
Posted by: MJT | June 18, 2008 at 09:13 AM
Dan_T_Man-
Couldn't agree with you more about Simers. And Utz thanks for the uplifting sermon. And while giving thanks...Thank you Lakers and Laker Nation for an improbable season that was much more successful than we could have hoped for. Faith, your message got through to KB24 as he now tells us that DEFENSE is what wins championships!
Posted by: AZ LakerFan | June 18, 2008 at 09:19 AM
Absolutely no one could have beaten the Celtics last night in Boston. Lakers, Spurs, Jazz, Pistons- All lose no matter who plays.
No one could stop the unconcious Ray Allen, KG, MVP Pierce and the lightning-quick Rajon Rondo. It was just the Celtics time.
Make all the excuses about the Lakers you want, but in the end the clearly BETTER TEAM won the Championship. The Lakers lacked intensity and a willingness to win.
Posted by: Greg | June 18, 2008 at 09:21 AM
Mamba: pls add me to the two running bandwagons. Might as well get an early seat to the parade.....
GO LAKERS!!
Posted by: PsychedLakerGirl | June 18, 2008 at 09:22 AM
mike t,...continuing to show the idiot that he is. Where have you been? Ironing Kwame's underwear. Getting cake off of his lapel?
Great Year. We will be better next year and with a healthy Kobe and AB, should bowl through the league.
It has been a joy throughout the blogging season and I look forward to much interesting talk once I've had a chance to take a little break away from all sports.
Much Love to Laker Nation, including all you old timers and Mamba.
Chris Renn
Kobesbaaaaad (and he still is)
Posted by: Kobesbad | June 18, 2008 at 09:25 AM
Normally, I wouldn't touch a sports site with a ten foot pole for the next week- But I think I can manage at a place for us to mourn together.
As bad as that loss is, Boston had all the veterans, while the Lakiers had THREE, count them, THREE players had ever been in the finals before. A vast majority had never been past the first round.
What they did this year was nothign short of magical. Noone thought that we were going to get past the first round. Guess what? We did.
Kobe played like an MVP all season, he just ran out of gas in the finals. Next year, he'll be back. With a vengeance.
I like this core. I like this team. IF everyone gets commited to work over the offseason, and this sense of camraderie that everyone had over the past season carries over, well, I couldn't be prouder to be a Leker fan for the future.
We had a great season- I ask that every laker fan NEVER forget that. No matter how much it hurts, remember what we did to get here. Things can only get better.
With bynum at the five, pau at the four, and LO at the three? good lord, that's a tall lineup. And anyone who thinks that Bynum won't be doing everything he can to show how much he was missed....must be Mike T.
My name is Jeff, and I'm a Laker for life.
My name is Jeff, and I love my team.
Next year, fellas! Next year!
Mamba, put me on the Laker for Life bandwagon, and We're gonna bring the parade in 09!
Posted by: Jeff | June 18, 2008 at 09:27 AM
pmac, you're probably some 50 year old loser living in his mother's basement and you're probably not even from Boston although you're about as classy as a typical Boston fan. You're probably some loser fan of the Cow-town Queens or some Midwest team who the Lakers beat up every year even in our bad years, just hanging on to the Celtics bandwagon because you got nothing.
Posted by: sclakerfan | June 18, 2008 at 09:27 AM
Rob D,
"My take on the year: PJ`s greatest coaching job ever..he took a team of pups with a few guys with championship experience. and got them to the finals. "
Agreed.
Posted by: exhelodrvr | June 18, 2008 at 09:31 AM
COACH or CON???
Proof is in the puddin'. PHIL JACKSON must have the best of everything in order to win a championship. Don't believe? Just check his track record. PHIL only win's with SUPER TEAMS. Good teams can win a championship; SUPER TEAMS win 3 in-a- row. Everytime he's won, its been multiple championships... He's more a fortunate coach than a good coach and he damn sure isn't a great coach. If the talent is equal, or slightly different, PHIL loses; WHY??? Because he's a manager, NOT a coach. PHIL can say what needs to be done, BUT, he can't teach a player how to do what needs to be done. Phil's philosophy works, but only when he has the best of everything. Adjustments are to a minimum. When things look shaky, "PLAY THROUGH IT"; that's his philosophy. You use that with a veteran team, NOT a young team.
.
oh yeah, that's right.
WHEN Bynum comes back, RIGHT???
Ariza at 100%, RIGHT???
sign RON ARTEST, RIGHT???
WAIT!!! Let me think, what else does PHIL NEED???
2004, team of HALL OF FAMERS; KARL MALONE WENT DOWN, TEAM LOST IN FINALS BY A KNOCKOUT. HE JUST DDNT HAVE ENOUGH TALENT. RIGHT???
2008 FINALS; BYNUM'S HURT, make a trade, BUT, HE HAS TO HAVE BYNUM TOO, RIGHT??? BOSTON HAD THE BIG 3 and ROLL PLAYERS; BUT PHIL, HE JUST DIDNT HAVE ENOUGH TALENT. RIGHT???
TRUTH BE TOLD, DOC RIVERS COACHED THE DRAWS OFF OF PHIL JACKSON. PERIOD. Rivers made adjustments all series. PLAY CASSELL, NOT PLAY CASSELL. EDDIE HOUSE here and there. TONY ALLEN. P.J. BROWN. POWE. POSEY. these are not super players, DOC RIVERS USED THEM AT THE RIGHT TIMES!!! There was no trend, timing thing, etc. When he felt a particular player was needed; Doc used him.. even sorry a$$ big baby was used in game 6. OH BUT PHIL???
he needs more talent.
PHIL's always passing out books. Here's something PHIL should read which applies to a YOUNG TEAM:
"I am hungry, feed me; I am ignorant, teach me, I am "out of line", discipline me. Don't just point me the way, show me the way, for if you don't, i might get lost."
GO LAKERS!!!!
LAKERS TODAY/TOMORROW/FOREVER.
Posted by: scorpiomike | June 18, 2008 at 09:32 AM
Mamba-
PUT ME ON THE BANDWAGON!
Lakers for Life...
Posted by: AZ LakerFan | June 18, 2008 at 09:40 AM
add me mamba...
championship 2009...
OUR TIME HAS COME!!!
Posted by: scorpiomike | June 18, 2008 at 09:40 AM
P.J.S style of coaching is to blme Kobe ,so when Kobe would have went off for 40 or 50 which he could have ,he thought better of it because than P.J. would have said that he took his team out of the game ,also everyone is saying how much better than we are ,that was established when they put three allstars to head up thier team and just for good measure put a bench together of vets with rings,the only thing the lakers seem to be putting together is a team of white boys who get punked by a bunch of street like players thier are white boys that can,t be punked but we have the softest in the leaque including and Lamar Odom needs to go to a team that he respects its obvious that he has no respect for management,some times he shoes up most times he doesn't with no fear of getting traded or demoted as far as looking down on Kobe and praising the big three think about this all three of them had a chance to bring thier tems to the finals and they all had better talent around them than Kobe but they needed other great talents around them yea I know that we have Gasol and he is an up grade and Kobe lead us to the conference final with that one upgrade and a bunch of d-leaquers.
Posted by: joanne | June 18, 2008 at 09:56 AM
Poor little sclakerfan,
What a freakin loser, really original post you had. Repeating everything I said...typical sissy....I'm born and raised in Southie (for sissies like you that's Boston) nice comeback.....keep crying you sissy laker fan and all sissy laker fans that was a nice game your team played last night....a real nail biter....what a bunch of sissies...have a miserable summer sclakerfan...loser!!!
Posted by: pmac | June 18, 2008 at 10:03 AM
*______________________________*
Lakers Today, Lakers Tomorrow,
Lakers Forever - 2009 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, and do what I can to get ready to put the next one in the hole.
(05) JustAnotherMambaFan - I love our team! We have MUCH to be proud of. We've got work
(06) DAVE M. - I was reading all the posts, thinking about this and that, and then came across
your "Lakers Today, Lakers Tomorrow..." and it totally make me smile.
(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, and I'm a Laker for life. My name is Jeff, and 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.....
Posted by: | June 18, 2008 at 10:11 AM
And to our new favorite pet Butler...
What is better: Going to 5 Finals and losing 2 of them (Kobe) OR never going at all (GNASH)?
Spin it anyway you want, baby. Facts is facts.
Posted by: utzworld THE BANNER HOLDER | June 18, 2008 at 10:28 AM
Oh yeah...PLEASE reserve me a spot on the 2009 Bandwagon.
Posted by: utzworld THE BANNER HOLDER | June 18, 2008 at 10:30 AM
TO: Jeffs Aho
just shut up.
TO: my lakers,
for next season,
get agent zero, he is dying to play in LA.
get another backup point guard
get bynum ready
get gasol a boxer to smack him around a little so he does not abandon the ball every time
and finally beat boston in the finals.
GO LAKERS!
GO KOBE!
Posted by: che | June 18, 2008 at 10:42 AM
Kobe still is the greatest player at present, better than Pierce and the gangs. Lakers with the younger age will do better than the Celtics.
Celtics showed they are the best for the entire year. We may win one or two more and that's the max. It is not the same era with Larry Bird. Congrats to Celtics.
Posted by: TonyP2 | June 18, 2008 at 10:42 AM
Despite what was a heartbreaking loss last night's game was for Kobe Bryant, uber-competitor, he at least had the graciousness and dignity to congratulate Doc Rivers and some of the Celtics players after the game -- something lebron james never sees fit to do. (In fact, some people are silly enough to suggest that james's inability to be a "good loser" is due to the fact that he simply wants to "win so badly." Hogwash! No one wants to win more than Kobe Bryant; however, Bryant has the class that seems to elude james.) When the inevitable comparisons continue to be made between Bryant and james, let's not forget the obvious one: Bryant behaves like a man and a professional, while james behaves like the petulant, spoiled brat he is, a persona that the league has been instrumental in creating.
Posted by: Washington, DC | June 18, 2008 at 10:45 AM
_____________________________*
Lakers Today, Lakers Tomorrow,
Lakers Forever - 2009 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, and do what I can to get ready to put the next one in the hole.
(05) JustAnotherMambaFan - I love our team! We have MUCH to be proud of. We've got work
(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 and 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, and I'm a Laker for life. My name is Jeff, and 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 and the best team won.
(11) HMRHED - Laker Nation: The seeds have been planted. Charles, Mamba24, Jon K etc. Let's
help the rest of the Nation toward the light. 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 will be back. But I don't see why not if we put in the work, and
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 will be in title contention for the next five 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 Lakers 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???? THIS was GREAT EXPERIENCE for our YOUNG SQUAD with a SOLID FUTURE.
(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. Too bad they are contract years and we might see our deep bench
thinned considerably come October. Good job, Lakers, it was a great run that ended in a slow pummeling
on my couch, but 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.
(25) LAKERgIRL1980 - I am so PROUD of our team, yes they gave up last nite, but I think they
knew they would lose and they put all the effort in Sunday's game to avoid the celebration on
staples floor. See you guys next season for 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 and PAU we will be unstoppable
next year. I anticipate 70 or so wins and a stroll through the playoffs.
(28) COMPLEX BROTHA - :"I'm a Laker for Life!!! Not just when we win Banners..
(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 - T IS NOT OVER! WE WILL BE BACK!
Posted by: | June 18, 2008 at 11:12 AM
We lost.............
no big deal....
We'll come back next year and play another good year.
I expect to see the Lakers in the finals next year.
Celtics played with better defensive intensity then the Lakers.
The Lakers didn't hit their open shots to score points
Basketball is a real easy sport.
Put the round ball in the round hole and it scores points. Do that a lot times during the 48 minutes that you are provided and you are given the mathematical chance of winning the game because you put the round ball through the round hole more time then your opponent.
That did not happen last night for the Lakers.
they'll be back next year.
Posted by: STEVEN V. | June 18, 2008 at 11:40 AM