Staying Alive
Call me wacky, but it feels somewhat appropriate for a blog hosted by the Brothers Kamenetzky to use a song title by the Brothers Gibb in reporting the Lakers' 103-98 win over the Celtics, a victory that secured the privilege of fighting another day while down 3-2 in the Finals. And to paraphrase a lyric from the disco classic, this game saw the Lakers get low and the Lakers get high and when they couldn't get either, they just really tried. Plenty of peaks (17- and 14-point leads built in the first and fourth quarters, an uncharacteristically good third quarter, terrific games from Pau Gasol and Lamar Odom in support of Kobe Bryant), valleys (said leads getting blown, small forward play unless Kobe slid to the 3, Sasha Vujacic's shooting, a couple of odd floor units concocted by Phil Jackson) and nonstop effort, which played a huge factor with the dust settling in L.A.'s favor. "We were aggressive," praised Phil Jackson of his team. "We played hard. Not smart all the time, but we played hard." That won't be enough to make it happen every time, but on this particular night, survival was achieved.
So by all means, hit the video link and dance until your heart's content in celebration of a triumphant box score. You earned it, as did the Lakers.
The breakdown is below, courtesy of BK
AK
The Good:
- Kobe Bryant: One big question coming into the game concerned the sort of start Bryant would have. Would he come out gunning? Would he try to feel out the Celtics early, loosening them up by getting everyone involved? The answer? Both. In the first quarter, everyone was a player as the Lakers went 15 for 23 (65.2%), getting the ball inside to Pau Gasol and watching Jordan Farmar and Derek Fisher get to the rack for layups (among other highlights). Meanwhile, Kobe was drilling shots from the perimeter. He took five threes in the opening quarter, making four. Overall, Kobe was five for eight from the floor, and with a free throw ended the quarter with 15 points. The rest of the night, though, was brutal for 24, at least as far as shooting goes. He missed all four shots he took in the second, made only one of four in the third, and two of five in the fourth. Boston, as they've done all series, was determined to ensure that Kobe wasn't going to be the player that beat them offensively.
Fine. Kobe continued to play a very controlled game, generally avoiding forced shots and continuing to help the Lakers take advantage of those places in which they were finding success - getting the ball inside to Gasol or Odom. Kobe drove and kicked, he drove and dished, he moved the ball, he kept the offense moving and found other ways to contribute, including some huge defensive plays down the stretch. The biggest of his five steals was the last - on Pierce with 41 seconds left, reaching around and recovering to poke the ball away after being wiped out by a KG screen high above the arc.
When it was over, I was surprised to look up and see Kobe with only four assists. The number was likely suppressed because some of his better feeds led to free throws for teammates, rather than straight buckets. It certainly wasn't indicative of how well he moved the ball. Overall, it was a very solid total floor game for Bryant, despite having a tough night shooting. I wonder whether Boston was daring him to try and "take over" the game. Either way, Kobe didn't oblige.
- Pau Gasol:
19 points on six for 10 from the floor, plus seven for 10 from the line; 13 boards,
including three on the offensive end. Six dimes working the ball from
the high post, plus two blocks. Defensively, he helped keep Garnett, who finished with only 13 points, in
check. Gasol was aggressive from
the start, attacking Garnett and refusing to be
intimidated, starting his night with a great running hook in the
lane, and proceeding on from there. Important for the Lakers, his intensity and production was sustained nicely throughout the game. Nine points in the
first, eight in the third, one bucket, but four boards and a dime in
the fourth. He was able to help get KG and PJ Brown into foul trouble,
and with Kendrick Perkins out because of his shoulder injury,
the Celtics were left shorthanded down low. Gasol was effective on the
screen, both on the pass and moving in space.
Overall, he was a far more physical and consistent presence over the course of 48 minutes. The Lakers saw they had an advantage inside and exploited it. While I think Pau has been better (not necessarily great, but better) than a lot have given him credit for during the series, tonight he was the force L.A. needs him to be for a full 48. A pair of repeat performances in Boston would be a big boost to the Lakers' comeback chances. - Lamar Odom: While I think Pau's play has been dinged a little too much, there's no question LO has been a disappointment, saddled with foul trouble for most of the series and other than a great first half in Game 4, not putting a stamp on much of anything. Not a good stamp, at least. Tonight, though, Odom was outstanding: 20 points on eight for 10 from the floor, 11 boards, two dimes, four blocks. And unlike Thursday night, when his entire box score was crammed into the first 24 minutes, Odom was a presence throughout. 9/4 in the second half, with three of the four blocks. He hit a pair of crucial free throws down the stretch - something his teammates struggled to do - and also had a monster triple early in the fourth to help the Lakers push their lead out to 12. It was one of, I believe, two outside shots he took all night. Maybe there was a third stuck in there, but overall, LO's game was at the rim, and he was able to finish many of the shots that had bounced out for him earlier in the series. It was the first of the five games that he was able to influence from start to finish.
- Jordan Farmar: The only source of bench production, JF was solid in his 22:18 of burn, earning crunch time minutes in place of Sasha Vujacic. While Farmar was only one for four from downtown, including an airball, he made plenty of noise at the basket, aggressively moving the ball to the rack whenever Boston presented an opportunity, recognizing mismatches on the perimeter when they were there (such as any time he was marked by Eddie House). The Lakers needed a spark from outside the stars, and Farmar provided it.
- Derek Fisher: He didn't shoot particularly well (3-10), but made it to the basket on dribble penetration, shooting 11 FTs in the second half. Toss in a pair of steals and only two TOs in 35 minutes, and he was able to make a lot of positive contributions. Yeah, he missed a couple late freebies that could have iced the game a minute or so earlier, but overall, I thought he was solid.
- The third quarter: L.A. finally won one, building a three-point halftime lead to nine. Granted, they'd give it all away in the fourth, but hey, baby steps.
The Bad:
- Small forwards not named Bryant: Granted, Paul Pierce is
a tough assignment for anyone, but Vladdy struggled mightily with him
whenever he was given the task. Offensively, he managed to put in
seven points and hit a big three at the start of the third, generated
by a steal he created. On the other hand, he had already turned the
ball over twice in the quarter. Then there was the completely
unnecessary T he picked up early in the second. There are nights when
Vlad is very good, nights when he's very bad, and nights when he's so
erratic it's almost impossible to leave him on the floor. Reading the
comments during the live blog, someone wrote that (I believe) one of
the ABC crew mentioned Radmanovic was good enough to keep both teams in the
game. That sounds about right. It's like having one guy in the room
who knows how to defuse a bomb, except he's drunk. You might get the
result you want ... but you might blow up the room too.
Beyond him, Luke Walton struggled through most of his 10-plus minutes on the floor. While he did manage to make a couple plays during his second go-round in the third and into the fourth, he also picked up fouls with incredible speed, and helped rush the Lakers into the penalty. He couldn't stick Pierce (not that anyone should expect him to), nor could Trevor Ariza, who was lit up a couple of times and picked up a personal, despite playing barely over a minute. The three has been a problem for the Lakers throughout the series, and tonight was no different. - PJ's second-quarter rotation: He started the quarter with
Farmar, Walton, Sasha, LO and a Finals maiden voyage for Chris Mihm. At
the 10:29 mark, he sent Ariza in for Walton. All told, the unit gave up
six points of the Lakers lead in under three minutes, before Jackson called time out and
put Kobe and Ronny Turiaf back in. Many of you have asked why Jackson
doesn't lean on some of those guys deeper on the bench, just to change
things up and try a new look. That's basically why. It's so tough for
players like Mihm, who haven't been on the floor, to step onto the
court at full game speed, in the Finals no less, and perform. And to
compound things by putting guys like Ariza and Mihm on the floor at
the same time, two guys who may not have shared the court at any point
during the season, only made the situation worse.
I asked Jackson after it was over why he went that direction, and if he's happy with the bench generally:"Well, you know, we knew that we had laid another first quarter on the Celtics, and it was a great opportunity to get some rest for the players, and we know that we have a travel day tomorrow and another game on Tuesday, and obviously you really don't want to play ‑‑ if you can manage minutes well in a situation like this and manage the score, but we just didn't manage the score well. We went out there, they had five possessions, scored five times, got us in a penalty situation ...
... We got a couple baskets out of that group, but we really couldn't stop Pierce. He got off, started running, got hot and kept going the rest of the game, and that was really putting us in jeopardy and giving them the edge up, and they basically made up all those points in a matter of a quarter again .
... You know, I tried some different players off the bench, Chris Mihm tonight, gave him an opportunity to play a little bit. It wasn't his fault at all. Pierce went right by our defenders and put him in jeopardy. But we tried some different faces out there to see what we could do, but we're not going to stay with that. We won't be comfortable with that on Tuesday."
Good to know. The logic is a little cart-ahead-of-horse. Get the big lead into the fourth, then sit everyone. - Sasha Vujacic: Two for 10 from the floor, including 0 for 5 from downtown. He just never seemed to get in sync with what was going on, forcing a shot whenever there was even the slightest opening. He was pesky and as always, the effort was there. The results, however, weren't.
- Screen and roll D on Pierce: The dude is really, really good, and once Kobe was in foul trouble, the Lakers really struggled to find anyone who could mark him. But the Celtics ran the same play over and over again down the stretch, generally because it worked. Pierce attracting a screen, almost always from Garnett, high outside the arc, then creating off of it. The Lakers never really had a good answer for it. Boston extended their D and made the Lakers pay. Finally, Kobe was able to force the TO late, but even that was on a pretty tough recovery. Generally speaking, the Lakers had no answer for Pierce. He had 38 points, 19 trips to the line, eight dimes. Fortunately, it was more or less a one-man show tonight for the Celtics.
Overall, it was a spirited effort from the Lakers, who fought hard and found some traction inside. But if I'm the Celtics, I'm not panicking yet. They played all of Game 5 without Perkins, saw KG and Pierce get into foul trouble, got nothing from Rondo, worked through a tough night for Garnett and Allen, and despite all that erased a couple big Lakers leads and pushed a desperate team on their home floor deep into the fourth quarter before losing. Still, for the Lakers this was a very positive game. They ground it out, scoring points without a strong offensive night from Bryant. They showed they could slug it out with the Celtics, and while L.A. wasn't perfect, they were pretty clutch on both ends Sunday night.
Can they win 6 and 7 back east? It's still a tall order. But it can't happen without a win in Game 5, which the Lakers got tonight. One down, two to go.
More to come tomorrow.
BK
AUDIO
- Ronny Turiaf: Download ronny_turiaf_postgame_boston_5.mp3
- Vlad Radmanovic: Download vlad_radmanovic_postgame_boston_5.mp3
- Luke Walton: Download luke_walton_postgame_boston_5.mp3
- Sasha Vujacic: Download sasha_vujacic_postgame_boston_5.mp3
- Derek FIsher: Download derek_fisher_postgame_boston_5.mp3
Also, Doc Rivers made the following statement regarding Ray Allen after the game: "Ray Allen was forced to leave Staples right at the conclusion of tonight's game due to a health issue of one of his children. We ask that you please respect Ray's privacy at this time, and we'll keep you up to date as best we can moving forward."
As of now, I have no further information on specifically what or how serious the issue is. But obviously, we wish Ray Allen and his family the best.
AK
LakerTom,
"As the Celtics may soon regretfully learn, you don’t win NBA championships by failing to close out the most dangerous player in the league when you have the opportunity. "
That's why I thought that game 5 was almost (not quite, but almost) a must win for the Celtics. The other games have all been so close, and while the Celtics were the better team, a couple of possessions in each game and the Lakers have a sweep. And now they have left the door open. ANd I guarantee that those same thoughts are going through their minds right now. It will be interesting to see if the Celtics can play through it.
"Was "Staying Alive" an inspiration tonight or have you been saving it for the right occasion?"
Don't you remember the high school "Battle of the Bands" discussion last season? I'm pretty sure the K-bros said that they would always open their sets with that song.
Posted by: exhelodrvr | June 16, 2008 at 07:20 AM
Chuck,
Ariza has not been able to defend Pierce, either.
Posted by: exhelodrvr | June 16, 2008 at 07:21 AM
Seabucks Rule!
Posted by: Absolute Truth | June 16, 2008 at 07:25 AM
Go Lakers!
Make the most of this opportunity.
I
B
E
L
I
E
V
E
Posted by: Laker Fan 24 | June 16, 2008 at 07:38 AM
Of course you Lakers fans are happy to be alive today, but I don't know how you can be thrilled. They beat the Celtics with a period when they needed an exclamation point. Barely escaping another huge blown lead is not how championships are won, especially when it happens twice on your home court.
You better hope KG repeats his performance if you stand any chance of making history. But as the Red Sox proved in '04, it's possible. And a weak victory is better than the alternative.
Posted by: JD | June 16, 2008 at 07:39 AM
Is it TIME for PHIL to give PP the same RESPECT they give KOBE?
The Celtics have said their entire defense is focused to stop Kobe. Is it time to focus on Pierce? Next year PP won't be laying it up with Andrew waiting for him at the end of his drive but until then, he deserves more attention than Phil's giving him. Not sure I understand the defensive scheme but I understand it's ineffective.
Game 6 is winnable now that the kids know what to expect. Ray could have an inspired performance, KG will play better, but the head of the snake is Pierce. Stop that 4th quarter pick and roll and 6 is ours.
Posted by: Vman | June 16, 2008 at 07:45 AM
Hi All:
YEAH!!! A W for the good guys.
It's a good day in Lakerland!
Can't wait to hear what everyone has to say.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: PsychedLakerGirl | June 16, 2008 at 07:57 AM
Hollinger's article on espn.com about Farmar was a good one.
In game 6 I hope Phil has Kobe on Rondo when he's in, and as soon as they pull him put Jordan in to pressure the ball. He's quicker than House, can get by him, and stops Boston from getting into their offense quickly.
You have to hope also that Phil tightens up the rotation a lot in Boston. Play the starters for long minutes, except for Rad. His defense is really strange. I noticed last night when someone shoots on him he doesn't even put his hands up. People drive by him he doesn't try to move his feet and get in front of them, or try to block his shot. It's like his body is there but he isn't trying to do anything. Like he's waiting on his turn for offense again.
I guess we don't have any better though to do start the game do we? I guess that's our weak position, small forward. Luke and Turiaf have been terrible. I would rather take my chances with Ariza than any of the above, even if he has been out for months. The stretch he had in game 4 was great.
If I was PJ I would play 3 guys off the bench: Farmar, Sasha and Ariza. And if they play well, keep it an 8 man rotation.
Anyone agree?
Posted by: john_in_houston | June 16, 2008 at 08:02 AM
Good morning Mamba24, Charles & the morning crue! Good morning LAKER NATION!!!!!!!!!!
Wow - an ugly one, no doubt, but a win is a win is a win! I for one will take it!!!!!!
I'm actually feeling quite positive after that one. Game 6 tomorrow after a tough game, long flight & some jet lag - hopefully these will play a factor much more on Boston's psyche than on ours. Maybe being young will work in our favor for game 6 - we'll recuperate faster & may be able to steal it!! That's my take & I'm sticking with it! Who's with me???!!! LOL!!
Seriously, though - I haven't been emotional since game 4. I've decided I just wasn't going to go there. But now?? I'm feeling much more positive and believe we'll force a game 7. After last night, I know our team will not phone it in. They will give it their best shot. They will show their heart.
I know it.
2 to O'Brien..........
Posted by: justanothermambafan | June 16, 2008 at 08:03 AM
Kobe, Shaq, Garnett, ....the dumbass Rocket, Smoltz, and just about every big name in some sports gets away with fouls, strikes called that are a foot outside, these refs and umpires are always catering to the big names, Kobes foul(and it was a foul) is nothing new.
Posted by: TC | June 16, 2008 at 08:06 AM
all right! Mamba24!
Except you forgot I'm the original...'have faith" lol.
Scrapped another one team! Go Lakers!
Posted by: Faith | June 16, 2008 at 08:16 AM
john,
"If I was PJ I would play 3 guys off the bench: Farmar, Sasha and Ariza. And if they play well, keep it an 8 man rotation."
Unfortunately, none of them have consistently played well so far. You also need to have someone subbing in for Gasol - presumably Turiaf. Unfortunately, he hasn't played very well, either. And neither has Walton.
Which is why I don't understand the criticism of PJ's substitution patterns. None of the starters, including Kobe, have consistently played well. None of the bench players have consistently played well. Yet almost everyone criticizes how PJ subs. Who, exactly, is he supposed to bring in?
Posted by: exhelodrvr | June 16, 2008 at 08:27 AM
The Lakers got 50 points in the paints last night? Whaaaaaat?
Posted by: Fire32 | June 16, 2008 at 08:28 AM
I BELIEVE TOO Mamba24!!!
Posted by: Tsiry | June 16, 2008 at 08:29 AM
Good Morning Mamba24, Good Morning Charles & Jon K, Good Morning AlLL of Laker Naiton!
A win is a win is a win. Another not so pretty effort, but at least a 48 minute effort, and a win. We'll take it. Great effort by Pau. Now on to the next one, which, once again, we must play better and we must win.
The pressure is on the leprechauns, not us, and they will press too hard knowing this is their only shot at a ring for the next five years at least..........we can steal the game Tuesday and force a one time winner take all.
I don't care how we do it Tuesday, just get it done!
LET'S GO LAKERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
2 TO 15!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: toad | June 16, 2008 at 08:30 AM
mamba24,
How about a "K-Bros, please let the bloggers curse for one game" bandwagon?
I've got some great ones saved up from my time in the Navy that have just been bouncing around with no way to get out.
Posted by: exhelodrvr | June 16, 2008 at 08:30 AM
THE LAKERS GAIN STRENGTH WITH EACH GAME
Going into game 1, the Lakers had never beaten this team. Even though the Lakers pretty much could (and did) manhandle every team in the NBA, there was one team that the Lakers clearly had issues with.
That team was the Celtics.
After losing a heartwrenching game 1, perhaps some of the younger team members were questioning their strength. In the middle of game 2, down by 20, the team decided the time was now. Led by Kobe Bean, the team refuses to give up, EVER... even down by 20 with 7 minutes left in the game.
They look at it as, hey, the refs won't be so bad in every game and we have some light.
Both teams play horribly in game 3, Lakers win.
Games 4 & 5 the Lakers have the Celtics on a verge of a BLOWOUT.
This series should already be over, and I mean the Lakers could have already won this thing, but as it is, they must redeem themselves for games 2 & 4 by winning games 6 & 7.
Ray Allen, unfortunately, has a lot on his mind. Today is non-practice day anyway, but it's tough.
Traveling West to East... not easy for either team, but unlike game 1, the Celtics aren't rested.
The Lakers are clearly learning how to beat Boston, and I think the Lakers can catch them a little off guard and ill prepared tomorrow... with travel and distractions and all.
Once the Lakers force a game 7, the true contest will emerge. We shall see who has it and who doesn't.
But the one thing I can tell you is that the Lakers, game by game, are getting stronger, smarter, and flat out better, and that makes them harder to beat than in games 1 & 2.
Go Lakers!
Posted by: Tim-4-Show | June 16, 2008 at 08:37 AM
It is probably a reach but here is the pattern I see in the last few games.
Game 3 - Lakers play crappy and win.
Game 4 - Lakers play well, get big lead collapse. Lose game.
Game 5 - Lakers play well again, get big lead, lose lead, rally and win.
Game 6? Lakers play well, win close hard fought game.
Game 7- Lakers play well, Celtics choke under pressure, blow out story book ending for the Lakers..
Not sure it will play out like that. I hope so, but I still think the hill might be too tough to climb. I do think the Lakers are getting closer to figuring it out against the Celtics. The key is getting more players to step up. None of the Lakers have been consitently good. Could this game be the turning point????I hope so.
BTW - since I didn't watch the game live last night and they won, I will tape game six and watch it later too so as not to jinx the Lakers.
Keep the dream alive.
Go Lakers.
Peace,
Eagleboy
Posted by: Eagleboy | June 16, 2008 at 08:42 AM
*______________________________*
K-Bros, please let the bloggers curse
for one game" BANDWAGON
*_____________________________*
(01) Exhelodrevr - has some great Navy lines
(02) Mamba24 - wants to hear Navy Lines
Posted by: mAMBA24 | June 16, 2008 at 08:49 AM
*_______________________________*
Jordan Farmar Is a Bad Mofo and He's
Gonna Show You So BANDWAGON
*_______________________________*
(01) MAGICMAN - Owner and Driver
(02) Mamba24 - Riding Shotgun
(03) KEIFO – Taught JF the crossover
(04) Caliphilosopher – Taught Jordan to calm down
(05) JustAnotherMambafan – Told JF the secret is make Mamba happy
(06) Fearless – had him watch 8 hours of t5he Wire
(07) JesterGuru - Director of Directors
Posted by: | June 16, 2008 at 08:51 AM
RESPONSE TO JEFFS AHO
So Bryant being a big game performer is more than fallacy. It's the absolute truth.
Need a reminder? Just rethink yesterday's game. This is the Lakers season on the line. The biggest game of the year. The biggest game of Bryant's career (1st Finals appearance as head honcho).
What does he do?
-Jeffs Aho
Posted by: Jeffs Aho | June 16, 2008 at 03:33 AM
Well, dear friend, if I am not mistaken what he did was steal the ball from Paul Pierce and dunk it on the other side of the court to give the Lakers the lead they needed to win the game with 34s remaining.
You know, there's more than one way to influence the game than just shoooting.
You should know that, having the opportunity to appreciate KG playing for your team.
Posted by: Allan - Brazil | June 16, 2008 at 08:55 AM
COULD IT BE, under the purple and gold uniforms a heart of a CHAMPION lives?!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: LD | June 16, 2008 at 08:59 AM
How about letting Pau go 48? If he asks for a breather put Turiaf in for 2 or 3 minutes then bring him back. Same with Lamar and Kobe. Though I doubt Kobe would ask for a breather. Hey Ray Allen and Pierce are playing 48 minutes, and they're older!?
Pau was not only not soft, he was a force in the middle. Maybe it has something to do with Perkins being out, although Garnett has guarded Pau every game I believe. How about that late 4th quarter play where Pau blocked the driver's shot, and got the rebound! And a couple of times on the offensive glass when he was not to be denied!?
Instead of playing one starter and 4 bench players to start the 2nd, why not play 3 or 4 starters and 1 or 2 bench players? I'm tired of the 2nd unit coming in and not scoring and at the same time giving up easy paint buckets to them. Then they get in an offensive rhythm that is hard to break them out of.
Posted by: john_in_houston | June 16, 2008 at 09:02 AM
1-28. Believe it.
Go Lakers!
Posted by: The Outlaw | June 16, 2008 at 09:12 AM
This is why the 2-3-2 favors the home team. We're going back to Boston down 3 games to 2, and they have 2 chances to close it out on their home court. Sure the 3 middle games at the visitor's building look good on paper, but noone ever wins all three of those.
If we had had home court this series, I suspect we would have seen some different results!
You have to hand it to them though, they held their home court the first 2 games, and they won one in LA, and contested the other 2 well.
So, like I said the other day, now it's only fair that we have to win 2 in Boston. One, to make up for the one we lost in LA. And two, because we have to win one there being the road team. The tough thing is it has to be 2 in a row. Extremely tough.
If they can do it, it will indeed be historic.
John
Posted by: john_in_houston | June 16, 2008 at 09:13 AM
We just got to get past Game Six.
We've just got to get to Game Seven.
The Bio-Chrono cycle for Game Six is similiar to the cycle for Game Five.
We won Game Five. We can win Game Six.
Game Seven favors us.
Let's do it.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | June 16, 2008 at 09:16 AM
By the way, was I the only person confused by Chris Mihm's insertion in the second quarter?
Don't get me wrong. I was happy to see Chris Mihm on the court, but I was a bit surprised by it.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | June 16, 2008 at 09:17 AM
Good morning Laker family around the Globe,
First -- Mamba24, I can't believe I need to ask to be included in the "I Still Believe Bandwagon. After the meltdown, I believe I was first to post that sentiment in the overnight thread.
I believe we still haven't seen the Lakers at their best against the Celtics, so it is fair to think the team will improve getting to Games 6 and 7. Let's go Lakers!
Posted by: Rick Friedman | June 16, 2008 at 09:19 AM
Mamba: I have believed since last year..........add me pls!
Johnin Hou: I agree with you and I think with Ariza - PJ just has to tell him - expect big minutes but we need you on the floor so play tight D but smart D.
I LOVE ARIZA's game! I think Ariza knows he's only in for a few minutes so he's hyped and wants to make too many moves in short spurts. If he calms down knowing he will be on floor if he plays smart - he will do that. He's only 22 for gosh sakes....lots of energy - needs to be harnessed - PJ needs to let him know that.
GO LAKERS!!!
Posted by: PsychedLakerGirl | June 16, 2008 at 09:20 AM
One thing I find interesting is all the 'experts' and fans seemingly expressing how dominant Boston has been and how they should have wrapped up the series by now. That the Lakers are lucky to still be playing and that never before has such a big favorite to win before the series has looked so pathetic as the Lakers. I concede Boston has played better as a team more than the Lakers so far. However, lets consider the crappy game one, the Lakers were in it, and with a little better execution could have stolen that game. Game two, the Lakers rallied furiously but came up a bit short. Game three was ugly but the Lakers were clutch down the stretch and won. Game four, the Lakers were cruising and coughed up a game that they should have won. Game five the Lakers again played better for the majority of the game, blew a lead and rallied to win. This series is 3-2 in favor of the Celtics. It could easily be 3-2 in the Lakers favor. The Celtics could have put it away already if they had capitalized on Lakers mistakes. And the Lakers could have actually put the Celtics away with some better execution themselves. I think the series has been close, favoring the Celtics slightly but the Lakers keep coming back....it is not over. I am not betting the farm they win, but when one looks back on this series it may not look as lopsided for the Celts as imagined. I think both teams have played poorly for long stretches, the Celtics have done better at executing for longer stretches than the Lakers but when the Lakers have been "on" they clearly are the better team. And by better team, I mean that if both teams are running at maximum efficiency I think the Lakers are better. The problem has been the Lakers time when they have been playing well has been too few and far between. That being said, if I were the Celtics I would make sure to win game six, because the Lakers are getting better at figuring out how to beat this team as many have mentioned. IF the Lakers pull it off in game six the series goes right back to being a tossup with all the pressure on the Celtics. I think the Celtics psyche is such that if they lose game six they may well be done for. Much like the Lakers before the start of the series, the hype has so favored the Celtics they are now believing they are the Champs. Well the games need to be played and so often in sports once the players start believing the press clippings it sets them up for failure.
Eagleboy
Posted by: Eagleboy | June 16, 2008 at 09:21 AM
Mamba: thanks - just saw that I was previously added. Sorry about that..........
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: PsychedLakerGirl | June 16, 2008 at 09:24 AM
MAMBA24 - please put me on the "We still believe" bandwagon!
Good Morning Family!
I really didn't like our defense last night, especially the 4th quarter. I have NO idea why we were extending to hedge on a pick that was 40 ft. out. There's NO way Pierce is going to start chucking 35 ft. shots; hence no need to put two defenders that far from the basket. That's part of the reason why Pierce got to the line so much - once he got past the hedger, no one wanted to leave their shooter early to help out.
One other thing - say what you will about Posey, but I feel he was the defensive player of the game. That man dove to break up a bounce pass to sure basket (from Kobe to LO in the 4th), blocked a potential 3-point play (when d-fish was fouled by Ray Ray in the 4th), and didn't back down from L.O. He was all over the place in the first half, and was an integral part of the reason why Pierce was able to get his in the 2nd quarter. He's been a very solid defender since his days in Memphis; on a team with 3 all-stars, he just makes that team so much better. Dirty? Perhaps - but so were the Pistons, and they won 2 championships. Necessary? Absolutely - this isn't a friendly rec-league game here.
We really need that same kind of fire to come out for game 6 in Boston - The Machine showed it, Pau and Lamar sorta showed it, Jordan DEFINITELY showed it - we need more from everyone not named KB24. We won't force a game 7 if we don't win the hustle battle. we should be trying to get deflections, breaking up passes with our bodies, and funnel Pierce to help, instead of having him go baseline.
Also, what's the deal with not having him shoot 18-20 ft. shots? We've got to make him start taking a few more of those. so far, it seems as if he's only been shooting 3's and lay-ups (much easier shots than mid-range jumpers).
Pau finally looked to be in some sort of comfort zone against Garnet (without Perkins in there). I just want him to remember one thing - at the conclusion of the up-and-under moves (whether they work out or not), remember to go into the defender's chest hard - they're in no position to garner an offensive foul, and fading away during a shot relinquishes the position gained from having the defender shift around so much.
Pau also did a somewhat decent job defensively on Garnett - the only adjustments I would suggest (which he made in the 4th) is to funnel him to the center of the paint instead of the baseline. We have to make sure that after he gets his shot off, we keep him out of position to get his own rebound.
We need to show the team heart that we did against the Kings in game 7 of the 2002 WCF - nothing less than that will push us to a game 7 with Boston. Defensive rebounding (by everyone!) is the key to a plausible chance at success in Boston.
Posted by: Caliphilosopher | June 16, 2008 at 09:24 AM
Finnally, still think Pau,s the key. If he continues to grow learning his lessons along this playoff series, he might give us a very nice present in the end.
Go Lakers.
Posted by: lakerlandspain | June 16, 2008 at 09:24 AM
Don't know if anyone has brought this up yet...
Technically we've been in contention in every game since game 2. If not for the monumental collapse in The-Game-Which-Must-Not-Be-Named, who knows...maybe LA will be up 3-2 going back to Boston.
I feel we are have a fighting chance. We've proved that we can run with Boston, have as much Heart as KG, and we can BEAT this team!!
ONE GAME AT A TIME! -Go Lakers.
Posted by: Wasabi | June 16, 2008 at 09:24 AM
[Dear Lakers Fans....
Can somebody or Lakers assistance coaches teachs RAMANOVIC AND SASHA of how to slide their FEET on D?
GO LAKERS.....
Posted by: aq | June 16, 2008 at 12:22 AM]
aq,
If they have not learned how to slide their feet at this stage, I am afraid it's a little bit too late. I taught my daughter those things when she was playing grade 5 basketball!!
Perhaps a few sessions with "Dancing with the Stars" might help!
Posted by: | June 16, 2008 at 09:25 AM
MAMBA24 - please put me on the "We still believe" bandwagon!
Good Morning Family!
I really didn't like our defense last night, especially the 4th quarter. I have NO idea why we were extending to hedge on a pick that was 40 ft. out. There's NO way Pierce is going to start chucking 35 ft. shots; hence no need to put two defenders that far from the basket. That's part of the reason why Pierce got to the line so much - once he got past the hedger, no one wanted to leave their shooter early to help out.
One other thing - say what you will about Posey, but I feel he was the defensive player of the game. That man dove to break up a bounce pass to sure basket (from Kobe to LO in the 4th), blocked a potential 3-point play (when d-fish was fouled by Ray Ray in the 4th), and didn't back down from L.O. He was all over the place in the first half, and was an integral part of the reason why Pierce was able to get his in the 2nd quarter. He's been a very solid defender since his days in Memphis; on a team with 3 all-stars, he just makes that team so much better. Dirty? Perhaps - but so were the Pistons, and they won 2 championships. Necessary? Absolutely - this isn't a friendly rec-league game here.
We really need that same kind of fire to come out for game 6 in Boston - The Machine showed it, Pau and Lamar sorta showed it, Jordan DEFINITELY showed it - we need more from everyone not named KB24. We won't force a game 7 if we don't win the hustle battle. we should be trying to get deflections, breaking up passes with our bodies, and funnel Pierce to help, instead of having him go baseline.
Also, what's the deal with not having him shoot 18-20 ft. shots? We've got to make him start taking a few more of those. so far, it seems as if he's only been shooting 3's and lay-ups (much easier shots than mid-range jumpers).
Pau finally looked to be in some sort of comfort zone against Garnet (without Perkins in there). I just want him to remember one thing - at the conclusion of the up-and-under moves (whether they work out or not), remember to go into the defender's chest hard - they're in no position to garner an offensive foul, and fading away during a shot relinquishes the position gained from having the defender shift around so much.
Pau also did a somewhat decent job defensively on Garnett - the only adjustments I would suggest (which he made in the 4th) is to funnel him to the center of the paint instead of the baseline. We have to make sure that after he gets his shot off, we keep him out of position to get his own rebound.
We need to show the team heart that we did against the Kings in game 7 of the 2002 WCF - nothing less than that will push us to a game 7 with Boston. Defensive rebounding (by everyone!) is the key to a plausible chance at success in Boston.
Posted by: Caliphilosopher | June 16, 2008 at 09:26 AM
*_________________________________________*
WE ARE THE FREAKIN LA LAKERS!
I STILL BELIEVE – BANDWAGON – Never say Die
*_________________________________________*
(01) CHARLES - I WILL FOREVER BELIEVE!!
(02) LAKER_TRUTH - "In a season of the improbable, the impossible WILL happen"
Keep hope alive.
(03) LAKERTOM - WILL FIGHT TO THE END
(04) EASTCOASTJESSIE - JUST MADE HER STRONGER. LAKERS DON’T GIVE UP!!
(05) LAKERFAN24 - Just will make victory sweeter - I STILL BELIEVE
(06) JOHNNY - LAKERS FOREVERr!
(07) KOBE_BEST - YES HE IIS!.
(08) MAMBA – GO OUT WITH YOUR GUNS BLAZZING KOBE!!!
(09) JUSTANOTHERMAMBAFAN - NEVER GIVE UP!
(10) MAGICMAN - NEVER SAY DIE!
(11) JANAYA - NOTHING & NO ONE CAN BREAK MY BELIEF
(12) TOAD – I STILL BELIEVE, DO YOU?
(13) TIM-4-SHOW - We have 1 weapon, they have 3. IT'S TIME FOR 81!
(14) AMAZING HAPPENS - LETS ROLL!
(15) EMMOS – I’LL NEVER GIVE UP
(16) JOHN_IN_HOUSTON – NEVER! EVER GIVE UP!
(17) HOPE – HOPE & FAITH!!
(18) DPK – BELIEVE!!!! ONE GAME A T A TIME
(19) BOZZ - No way I, nor our Lakers and their TRUE fans, will roll over, no matter what.!!!!
(20) MAMBA24FAN4LIFE – LAKER FOR LIFE!!!
(21) #4 - WE’RE STILL STANDING, I ALWAYS BELIEVED
(22) DO_YOU_SEE_WHAT_I_SEE – YOU MUST HATE IN ORDER TO WIN, CLASS MY @SS!!
(23) BOCALAKERGIRL – HARD PILL TO SWALLOW BUT I STILL BELIEVE!
(24) LARRY OF LA - GREAT SEASON NO MATTER WHAT
(25) FEARLESS - GO DOWN WITH BEST WEAPON
(26) ETERNAL_OPTIMIST - LAKERS WILL STAGE EVEN GREATER COMEBACK
(27) JON K - LET THE DYNASTY BEGIN - DON'T FEED THE TROLLS
(28) FIRE32 - WE MUST GO ON Laker colors STILL -FLYING HIGH OUTSIDE MY HOUSE.
I don't know, but for some strange reason I still feel like it's going to 7 games.
(29) KOREY - until that final curtain call, I wont give up on my team. It's really just time
to unleash Kobe.
(29) BAYWOOD - It's hard to do but we all know that these are Our Lakers. We love them
and they do bring us a lot of joy and life lessons (good and bad as always)
(30) RICHTOWN - I love the lakers. Always have always will - but the only way they live this
down is to win the whole thing in boston
(31) HMRHED - I don't know if they can pull it out -- likely the answer is no, but if they lose it
Will hurt like '84. It won't hurt like '04. In '84 you knew the Lakers were just starting. But in '04
You knew it was ending. This is just starting --- enjoy the precess of the making of a dynasty.
(32) CBUCK - RALLY THE POSSE AND GET READY FOR A FIGHT
(33) ZEN - No matter what happens, it's been a successful year for the Lakers.
(34) THE OUTLAW - I HAVE BEEN BELIEVING ALL SEASON
(35) LAKERS UNSTOPPABLE - Come on, we can make a difference! Celtics just got
lucky man! IT AINT OVER
(36) BILLY IN SLO - I FEEL BETTER ALREADY
(37) SOUNDWAVE - PROUD CITIZEN OF LAKER NATION
(38) LAKERFA ZE - Ready to give it our all on Sunday.
(39) MRBARNEYDANGLES - LAKERS YESERDAY, LAKERS TODAY, LAKERS
TOMORROW, LAKERS ALWAYS
(40) LAKER_SMR - Lakers, we can do this! It is possible and we have the pieces to do it.
The first quarter showed it with defense and offense. All together now!
(41) TRULY_BELIEVE - Have faith in PJ and his pupils.. The series is not over yet so
STOP feeling that it is... MARK MY WORD: Lakers will create NEW HISTORY by winning
This series. We have to win on Sunday, one game at a time. LAKER WILL MAKE YET
ANOTHER HISTORY AND IT WILL READ: THE BIGGEST COMEBACK EVER
(42) utzworld THE BANNER HOLDER - We thank You for answered prayer and we thank
You for all of Your blessings. For we know You turn GREAT FAILURES into GREAT
WINNERS in the end...
(43) PC - I will always root for the Lakers, but I'm finding it harder and harder
to root for a bunch of tissue-paper soft millionaires.
(44) LAKERBANDIT - Count down to Bloody Sunday.... boston will bleed.
(45) HOPING - It is literally not over. If we win on Sunday, anything can happen.
As for Kobe, it's time to walk the talk. These are your brothers, remember? Keep
the brotherhood going in these difficult times and lead them out of this hole. I still
believe. I will believe until the last game necessary has been played.
(46) SHEKOBE - I STILL BELIEVE IF WE LEARNT FROM THOSE MISTAKES OF
THE LAST 4 GAMES, WE STILL CAN DO IT. SUNDAY GAME IS THE LAST GAME,
THE LAST BATTLE: WIN OR STAY HOME! PHIL WILL HAVE THE ANSWER
(46) SAMLL - As sure as the sun rises in the East and sets in the West, there is
always hope. The series is not over. There are still 3 games left to play. Who's to
say the Lakers won't be the first team to come back from a 3-1 deficit to win the title?
As I always say, the ball is round... it can bounce wherever you want it to go.
Remember 4 the hard way? Well, this is it, folks! It's now down to 3 and we have to
win all of them. How's that for a hard way, huh?
(47) Faith – Never Give UP NEVER SURRENDER. HAVE FAITH!
(48) FATTY – DITTO – NEVER GIVE UP NEVER SURRENDER
(49) cdub0512 – WE GOTTA HAVE FAITH. I BELIEVE!!! We'll be fine.. Now. Next years & many more to come..
(50) EDWIN GUECO - Go Lakers, get them 3 in a row we believe!
(51) PSYCHED_LAKER_GIRL – I have believed since last year..I STILL BELIEVE
(52) LA_MENTAL - If their is a Father's Day loss it is going to sting Kobe, especially if
his daughter's are at the game. I really hope Kobe gets the win for Father's Day.
Hope for the best Lakernation...but prepare for the end..
(53) SPOKANLAKERFAN – We all BELIEVE
(54) MELOS - Last night after the game I was berated by my boyfriend for being "too
positive" I told him not to get ran over by the bandwagon on the way down. Yes, I am
disappointed. Yes, I am upset but I am a Laker fan and this series isn't over until the Celtics
win 4 games and last time I checked they have only won 3. It will be a difficult road but if the
Lakers pull it off we will make history! Si Se Puede!!! Lets Go Lakers!!!
(55) TULLY MOXNESS - I'm with the rest of you in feeling down but never hopeless. Go Lakers!
(56) STEVE HARTMAN – CBUCK MADE HIM BELIEVE!
(57) DODGERBLUEBALLS – WE STILL BELIEVE!
(58) LAKERLARRY – I believe in 9Rings, Mamba and BenchMob.
(59) JANDRO - This baby ain't over yet. I don't know about you all but I got my boys back til the end.
(60) Doc4DaLakeShow - I will be able to TALK SH+T for YEARS if we pull this off!!
(61) BROWNMAMBA24 - The LAKERS are going to WIN BIG Time in GAME 6 @ BOSTON!
Then the Championship will be theirs for the taking come GAME 7. LAKERS will be the 2008 NBA CHAMPS!!!!!!
(62) BENJAMIN - We're young enough and dumb enough to be able to do this.” The time is
now. We can think about the future when this is over. Send this thing to game 7 & unleash the mamba!
(63) GUGY - Come on guys, let's believe. I know it;s hard. FAITH!
(64) lakersNZ - REMEMBER THIS WE WILL ALWAYS BE BY YOUR SIDE, WIN OR LOSE,
JUST PLAY YOUR HEARTS OUT. NEVER GIVE UP UNTIL THE LAST SECOND.
(65) BZAR - NEVER LET UP! NEVER GIVE UP!
(66) PA_LAKERS_FAN – BELIEVE!
Posted by: MAMBA24 | June 16, 2008 at 09:31 AM
MAMBA24 - please put me on the "We still believe" bandwagon!
Good Morning Family!
I really didn't like our defense last night, especially the 4th quarter. I have NO idea why we were extending to hedge on a pick that was 40 ft. out. There's NO way Pierce is going to start chucking 35 ft. shots; hence no need to put two defenders that far from the basket. That's part of the reason why Pierce got to the line so much - once he got past the hedger, no one wanted to leave their shooter early to help out.
One other thing - say what you will about Posey, but I feel he was the defensive player of the game. That man dove to break up a bounce pass to sure basket (from Kobe to LO in the 4th), blocked a potential 3-point play (when d-fish was fouled by Ray Ray in the 4th), and didn't back down from L.O. He was all over the place in the first half, and was an integral part of the reason why Pierce was able to get his in the 2nd quarter. He's been a very solid defender since his days in Memphis; on a team with 3 all-stars, he just makes that team so much better. Dirty? Perhaps - but so were the Pistons, and they won 2 championships. Necessary? Absolutely - this isn't a friendly rec-league game here.
We really need that same kind of fire to come out for game 6 in Boston - The Machine showed it, Pau and Lamar sorta showed it, Jordan DEFINITELY showed it - we need more from everyone not named KB24. We won't force a game 7 if we don't win the hustle battle. we should be trying to get deflections, breaking up passes with our bodies, and funnel Pierce to help, instead of having him go baseline.
Also, what's the deal with not having him shoot 18-20 ft. shots? We've got to make him start taking a few more of those. so far, it seems as if he's only been shooting 3's and lay-ups (much easier shots than mid-range jumpers).
Pau finally looked to be in some sort of comfort zone against Garnet (without Perkins in there). I just want him to remember one thing - at the conclusion of the up-and-under moves (whether they work out or not), remember to go into the defender's chest hard - they're in no position to garner an offensive foul, and fading away during a shot relinquishes the position gained from having the defender shift around so much.
Pau also did a somewhat decent job defensively on Garnett - the only adjustments I would suggest (which he made in the 4th) is to funnel him to the center of the paint instead of the baseline. We have to make sure that after he gets his shot off, we keep him out of position to get his own rebound.
We need to show the team heart that we did against the Kings in game 7 of the 2002 WCF - nothing less than that will push us to a game 7 with Boston. Defensive rebounding (by everyone!) is the key to a plausible chance at success in Boston.
Posted by: Caliphilosopher | June 16, 2008 at 09:32 AM
Jon K,
Turiaf has not been playing well, so (I think) PJ tried Mihm.
Posted by: exhelodrvr | June 16, 2008 at 09:34 AM
*_________________________________________*
WE ARE THE FREAKIN LA LAKERS!
I STILL BELIEVE – BANDWAGON – Never say Die
*_________________________________________*
(01) CHARLES - I WILL FOREVER BELIEVE!!
(02) LAKER_TRUTH - "In a season of the improbable, the impossible WILL happen"
Keep hope alive.
(03) LAKERTOM - WILL FIGHT TO THE END
(04) EASTCOASTJESSIE - JUST MADE HER STRONGER. LAKERS DON’T GIVE UP!!
(05) LAKERFAN24 - Just will make victory sweeter - I STILL BELIEVE
(06) JOHNNY - LAKERS FOREVERr!
(07) KOBE_BEST - YES HE IIS!.
(08) MAMBA – GO OUT WITH YOUR GUNS BLAZZING KOBE!!!
(09) JUSTANOTHERMAMBAFAN - NEVER GIVE UP!
(10) MAGICMAN - NEVER SAY DIE!
(11) JANAYA - NOTHING & NO ONE CAN BREAK MY BELIEF
(12) TOAD – I STILL BELIEVE, DO YOU?
(13) TIM-4-SHOW - We have 1 weapon, they have 3. IT'S TIME FOR 81!
(14) AMAZING HAPPENS - LETS ROLL!
(15) EMMOS – I’LL NEVER GIVE UP
(16) JOHN_IN_HOUSTON – NEVER! EVER GIVE UP!
(17) HOPE – HOPE & FAITH!!
(18) DPK – BELIEVE!!!! ONE GAME A T A TIME
(19) BOZZ - No way I, nor our Lakers and their TRUE fans, will roll over, no matter what.!!!!
(20) MAMBA24FAN4LIFE – LAKER FOR LIFE!!!
(21) #4 - WE’RE STILL STANDING, I ALWAYS BELIEVED
(22) DO_YOU_SEE_WHAT_I_SEE – YOU MUST HATE IN ORDER TO WIN, CLASS MY @SS!!
(23) BOCALAKERGIRL – HARD PILL TO SWALLOW BUT I STILL BELIEVE!
(24) LARRY OF LA - GREAT SEASON NO MATTER WHAT
(25) FEARLESS - GO DOWN WITH BEST WEAPON
(26) ETERNAL_OPTIMIST - LAKERS WILL STAGE EVEN GREATER COMEBACK
(27) JON K - LET THE DYNASTY BEGIN - DON'T FEED THE TROLLS
(28) FIRE32 - WE MUST GO ON Laker colors STILL -FLYING HIGH OUTSIDE MY HOUSE.
I don't know, but for some strange reason I still feel like it's going to 7 games.
(29) KOREY - until that final curtain call, I wont give up on my team. It's really just time
to unleash Kobe.
(29) BAYWOOD - It's hard to do but we all know that these are Our Lakers. We love them
and they do bring us a lot of joy and life lessons (good and bad as always)
(30) RICHTOWN - I love the lakers. Always have always will - but the only way they live this
down is to win the whole thing in boston
(31) HMRHED - I don't know if they can pull it out -- likely the answer is no, but if they lose it
Will hurt like '84. It won't hurt like '04. In '84 you knew the Lakers were just starting. But in '04
You knew it was ending. This is just starting --- enjoy the precess of the making of a dynasty.
(32) CBUCK - RALLY THE POSSE AND GET READY FOR A FIGHT
(33) ZEN - No matter what happens, it's been a successful year for the Lakers.
(34) THE OUTLAW - I HAVE BEEN BELIEVING ALL SEASON
(35) LAKERS UNSTOPPABLE - Come on, we can make a difference! Celtics just got
lucky man! IT AINT OVER
(36) BILLY IN SLO - I FEEL BETTER ALREADY
(37) SOUNDWAVE - PROUD CITIZEN OF LAKER NATION
(38) LAKERFA ZE - Ready to give it our all on Sunday.
(39) MRBARNEYDANGLES - LAKERS YESERDAY, LAKERS TODAY, LAKERS
TOMORROW, LAKERS ALWAYS
(40) LAKER_SMR - Lakers, we can do this! It is possible and we have the pieces to do it.
The first quarter showed it with defense and offense. All together now!
(41) TRULY_BELIEVE - Have faith in PJ and his pupils.. The series is not over yet so
STOP feeling that it is... MARK MY WORD: Lakers will create NEW HISTORY by winning
This series. We have to win on Sunday, one game at a time. LAKER WILL MAKE YET
ANOTHER HISTORY AND IT WILL READ: THE BIGGEST COMEBACK EVER
(42) utzworld THE BANNER HOLDER - We thank You for answered prayer and we thank
You for all of Your blessings. For we know You turn GREAT FAILURES into GREAT
WINNERS in the end...
(43) PC - I will always root for the Lakers, but I'm finding it harder and harder
to root for a bunch of tissue-paper soft millionaires.
(44) LAKERBANDIT - Count down to Bloody Sunday.... boston will bleed.
(45) HOPING - It is literally not over. If we win on Sunday, anything can happen.
As for Kobe, it's time to walk the talk. These are your brothers, remember? Keep
the brotherhood going in these difficult times and lead them out of this hole. I still
believe. I will believe until the last game necessary has been played.
(46) SHEKOBE - I STILL BELIEVE IF WE LEARNT FROM THOSE MISTAKES OF
THE LAST 4 GAMES, WE STILL CAN DO IT. SUNDAY GAME IS THE LAST GAME,
THE LAST BATTLE: WIN OR STAY HOME! PHIL WILL HAVE THE ANSWER
(46) SAMLL - As sure as the sun rises in the East and sets in the West, there is
always hope. The series is not over. There are still 3 games left to play. Who's to
say the Lakers won't be the first team to come back from a 3-1 deficit to win the title?
As I always say, the ball is round... it can bounce wherever you want it to go.
Remember 4 the hard way? Well, this is it, folks! It's now down to 3 and we have to
win all of them. How's that for a hard way, huh?
(47) Faith – Never Give UP NEVER SURRENDER
(48) FATTY – DITTO – NEVER GIVE UP NEVER SURRENDER
(49) cdub0512 – WE GOTTA HAVE FAITH. I BELIEVE!!! We'll be fine.. Now. Next years & many more to come..
(50) EDWIN GUECO - Go Lakers, get them 3 in a row we believe!
(51) PSYCHED_LAKER_GIRL – I have believed since last year..I STILL BELIEVE
(52) LA_MENTAL - If their is a Father's Day loss it is going to sting Kobe, especially if
his daughter's are at the game. I really hope Kobe gets the win for Father's Day.
Hope for the best Lakernation...but prepare for the end..
(53) SPOKANLAKERFAN – We all BELIEVE
(54) MELOS - Last night after the game I was berated by my boyfriend for being "too
positive" I told him not to get ran over by the bandwagon on the way down. Yes, I am
disappointed. Yes, I am upset but I am a Laker fan and this series isn't over until the Celtics
win 4 games and last time I checked they have only won 3. It will be a difficult road but if the
Lakers pull it off we will make history! Si Se Puede!!! Lets Go Lakers!!!
(55) TULLY MOXNESS - I'm with the rest of you in feeling down but never hopeless. Go Lakers!
(56) STEVE HARTMAN – CBUCK MADE HIM BELIEVE!
(57) DODGERBLUEBALLS – WE STILL BELIEVE!
(58) LAKERLARRY – I believe in 9Rings, Mamba and BenchMob.
(59) JANDRO - This baby ain't over yet. I don't know about you all but I got my boys back til the end.
(60) Doc4DaLakeShow - I will be able to TALK SH+T for YEARS if we pull this off!!
(61) BROWNMAMBA24 - The LAKERS are going to WIN BIG Time in GAME 6 @ BOSTON!
Then the Championship will be theirs for the taking come GAME 7. LAKERS will be the 2008 NBA CHAMPS!!!!!!
(62) BENJAMIN - We're young enough and dumb enough to be able to do this.” The time is
now. We can think about the future when this is over. Send this thing to game 7 & unleash the mamba!
(63) GUGY - Come on guys, let's believe. I know it;s hard. FAITH!
(64) lakersNZ - REMEMBER THIS WE WILL ALWAYS BE BY YOUR SIDE, WIN OR LOSE,
JUST PLAY YOUR HEARTS OUT. NEVER GIVE UP UNTIL THE LAST SECOND.
(65) BZAR - NEVER LET UP! NEVER GIVE UP!
(66) PA_LAKERS_FAN – BELIEVE!
Posted by: | June 16, 2008 at 09:41 AM
'And if you think that Doc Rivers isn’t worried, then you really don’t know basketball. The Lakers have nothing to lose in Boston and the Celtics everything to lose. It reminds me of the old stories about Bill Russell and the balloons that the Lakers never got to drop. As Kobe said earlier, we are now in the Final Four. Win two and you’re the champs.'
Posted by: LakerTom | June 15, 2008 at 11:41 PM
LakerTom,
If you had been watching Doc all series long, you could tell that he is very nervous--his nervous smile gave it away!!
Posted by: | June 16, 2008 at 09:48 AM
Hey Guys,
Off to the next game!
Ugly wins are earned. Win the hard way!
It's all about Game 6.
The series is now 3-2. We believe the winning percentages should be counted on that record; because we are no longer down 3-1.
Let's embrace the pressure.
This season has been everything about pressure! This Team has handled the stress! I love it.
Turn it up!!! http://tinyurl.com/2xl39y
All songs produced by Queen used in sporting events are Laker oriented.
I Will Forever Believe in the Lakers! Love it or leave it alone!
Posted by: Charles | June 16, 2008 at 09:50 AM
Jon Kavulic,
If you look at the pregame chats, you will notice a few games ago that the fans wanted to see Ariza.
Then yesterday, for some mysterious reason, the bloggers kept talking about Chris Mihm.
Yeah, Chris Mihm just moments before the most crucial game of the year and the fans are asking to see Chris Mihm.... a guy who hasn't played basketball in two seasons.
We saw Ariza get heavy minutes after his name showed up in a pregame chat, and then last night we saw the unthinkable... Chris Mihm the first big off the bench!
Holy Smokes.
I think PJ has someone viewing the pregame chats and he just makes the substitutions by democracy...
Okay, I don't really think that, but it seems that way.
My personal opinion: MBenga can do more out there to help us than Chris Mihm... but neither should be the go-to guy in that situation.
Posted by: Tim-4-Show | June 16, 2008 at 09:53 AM
Mamba,
Loved the "I still believe' bandwagon. Put me on my boy Jordan's bandwagon and the cursing for 1 day too. Only 2 more wins to the title.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | June 16, 2008 at 09:59 AM
jandro - that was an awesome post.
Posted by: dave m | June 16, 2008 at 10:00 AM
Laker Nation --
My position this finals is that we are playing with house money this year -- Lakers need to play with that free wheeling attitude as the noose around the celtics' neck gets tighter -- if they fail to close out in Game 6 -- God help them. There will be so much pressure on KG he will shrink two feet.
Non-specific and undetailed game plan for tomorrow --
1. Ariza lives in Pierce's shorts until he fouls out.
2. Unleash the mamba.
3. Tell Pau that KG made fun of his mother.
4. Tell LO that Posey thinks he is a better player.
Posted by: HmrHed | June 16, 2008 at 10:04 AM
Question of the day -- Did Mihm do a double take when PJ called his name?
Posted by: HmrHed | June 16, 2008 at 10:07 AM
Caliphilosopher,
“I really didn't like our defense last night, especially the 4th quarter. I have NO idea why we were extending to hedge on a pick that was 40 ft. out. There's NO way Pierce is going to start chucking 35 ft. shots; hence no need to put two defenders that far from the basket. That's part of the reason why Pierce got to the line so much - once he got past the hedger, no one wanted to leave their shooter early to help out.’
Great point, Caliphilosopher. The Lakers should not have bitten that far out. It just gives Pierce too much room to go 1-on-1 to the hoop. That far out you need to double and trap the ball handler and force them to give the ball up. Letting Pierce get by just leaves the Lakers shorthanded while Pierce heads for the basket.
I have a similar observation about our running of the pick and roll, which I believe is too far out, with the result that Pau cannot get to the hoop after receiving the pass. Unlike when the Celtics run their pick and rolls, Pau needs to set his pick much lower and allow Kobe to navigate his man into the pick. Then when Pau rolls there is not enough time or room for Celtics defenders to get between him and the basket, allowing Pau to dunk.
You also made several other outstanding points in your post. I especially agree about Posey’s defense, not to mention his 3-point shooting. And what happened to Kobe taking those easy wide open mid-range jumpers off of picks ala Rip Hamilton or Ray Allen? Your comments about Pau versus KG on offense and defense were right on also. When we give KG the baseline, we also sacrifice the rebound. And Pau just needs to cause the contact just like the Celtics players do to get the calls around the basket.
Great job, Caliphilosopher. Look forward to your future posts.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | June 16, 2008 at 10:12 AM
exhelodrvr,
Thanks.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | June 16, 2008 at 10:25 AM
*______________________________*
K-Bros, please let the bloggers curse
for one game" BANDWAGON
*_____________________________*
(01) Exhelodrevr - has some great Navy lines
(02) Mamba24 - wants to hear Navy Lines
(03) LakerTom - Must let creativity out.
*_______________________________*
Jordan Farmar Is a Bad Mofo and He's
Gonna Show You So BANDWAGON
*_______________________________*
(01) MAGICMAN - Owner and Driver
(02) Mamba24 - Riding Shotgun
(03) KEIFO – Taught JF the crossover
(04) Caliphilosopher – Taught Jordan to calm down
(05) JustAnotherMambafan – Told JF the secret is make Mamba happy
(06) Fearless – had him watch 8 hours of t5he Wire
(07) JesterGuru - Director of Directors
(08) LaketTom - I told you so
Posted by: | June 16, 2008 at 10:31 AM