Thoughts on 2 and 3
Housekeeping note: We'll be hosting a pregame chat today at 4 pm. Stop on by to toss out some questions and comments.
In the wake of Game 2, so much of the attention was devoted to the officiating, and how (at least in the minds of some) the whistle blowers royally screwed the purple and gold. Since I was traveling on Monday, I didn't really get to participate in the conversation, but to reiterate my stance: Yes, the officiating hurt the Lakers on Sunday, yes, they had every right to be upset, no, it didn't cost them the game. Why? Because the Celtics were absolutely the better team, as they were in Game 1. Obviously you can't project exactly what would have happened had the Lakers been given more whistles, but I don't think it erases the fact that Boston outplayed L.A .in virtually every meaningful way. The NBA has a problem they need to address, illustrated here by Roland Lazenby, but the Lakers don't have time to wallow in what the refs did or didn't do, or how that game was called. With that in mind, here are some thoughts heading into tonight's make-or-break Game 3...
- I've been incredibly disappointed in how the Lakers have played defense thus far in the series. Part of the reason I chose the Lakers in six was that I didn't think Boston would have the ability to pack on points against an L.A. D that has been generally very solid during this postseason, clamping down on opponents for long stretches and at critical moments. In Game 1, L.A. was reasonably solid in the halfcourt, but was terrible on the glass and had trouble defending without fouling. In Game 2, they shored up the issues on the glass, but were wretched everywhere else. Boston repeatedly broke the Lakers down on the perimeter, found space inside, and have frustrated L.A. with an endless series of screens and cuts that have freed up guys like Pierce, Allen and Leon Powe. Overall, the Lakers aren't stepping in front of penetrators to take a charge, are giving up critical offensive rebounds, and have become quite adept at reaching instead of moving their feet. Argue if you want that the Lakers should spend more time on the stripe than they have, but the Lakers, by getting broken down and committing bad touch fouls, are making things too easy for the Celtics.
- It would be nice to see the Lakers open up their floor game, but if they can't break Boston's rhythm on offense, it'll be tough for the Lakers to run the other way. If they put them on the line, it'll be tough to run the other way. If they're constantly taking the ball out from under the basket, it'll be hard to run the other way. Sense a theme?
- Throughout the season, the Lakers have been a team whose defense has in large part been dictated by what they do on the other end, and in the second and third quarters particularly on Sunday, the Lakers were still pretty impatient. They took ill-advised shots early in the clock, forced a lot from midrange, and seemed unwilling to make the extra pass. The result? Too many shots outside the flow of the O, meaning too much "dis-ease," to borrow PJ term, heading the other way. Tonight, they need to sustain what was there early on Sunday, where Gasol was aggressive in the low post and the Lakers were aggressive on the offensive boards with putbacks.
- If the Celtics are going to overplay Kobe, Lamar Odom has to make them pay with penetration, and most importantly, with finishing. I don't think it's a secret that I'm a big fan of Odom's, both his game and his character, but we've seen what the team looks like when he's truly a factor. Not just good, or participating, but a true force in the game. Pau Gasol recovered nicely in Game 2, going 6-8 in the first half before the Lakers went away from him in the second half. Odom started strong, but was taken out of the game with early fouls and never recovered. He has to bring it in Game 3.
- I never have a problem with Kobe and the Lakers coming out and letting Bryant take a backseat while the team develops a flow. Tonight? For two reasons, I think the Lakers need to start the game trying to set Kobe up for runs to the hoop. First of all, he needs to see that he can find space against the Celtics, who have clamped down on him in a big way. Second, the Lakers need to see a genuine lead and play from in front for a while. It'll be hard to get those looks for 24 with Kobe isolating on the dribble. They'll have to come with ball movement and hard cuts. More importantly, this can't be a night where the supporting cast, should Kobe come out pushing hard, becomes complacent.
- Don't take much comfort in the fourth-quarter comeback. Yes, the Lakers piled on points, but in my mind, it had less to do with them figuring out the Celtics and more with how Boston stopped playing defense. Up 22 heading into the fourth and 24 with about eight to play, the Celtics figured the only way L.A. was getting back in the game was via free points at the stripe. They backed off considerably, which gave the Lakers space. On the other end, they became sloppy, as teams with big leads often will. I really believe that had the Celtics' lead been 14 or so going into the final 12 minutes, the comeback wouldn't have happened because the Celtics wouldn't have stopped playing. The Lakers will have to start from scratch and figure out how to get it done.
- They always say the home team's bench plays better in the playoffs. Tonight, the Lakers reserves need to prove that true.
I suspect the Lakers will come out like the desperate team they are, and where Boston was a split second faster to every loose ball, on every rotation, every switch, and so on, the Lakers will be that team tonight. It's a must win, and I think they will. But overall, I have to admit that I probably underestimated Boston coming into the series. I saw how they struggled against Cleveland and Atlanta, and had long stretches where they couldn't score against the Pistons, and figured the Lakers would be too dynamic for them. This is a very good team, and the Lakers need to elevate their play in a major way to take four of the next five.
BK
LINKS: Now that travel day is over, folks have had some time to put finger to keyboard. Here are some links for tonight's game. Check back throughout the day, as we'll be updating the list.
-Scouts Inc.'s David Thorpe predicts a Game 3 win for LA.
-ESPN.com's Jemele Hill says all the pressure tonight is squarely on Kobe.
-Hoopsworld.com checks in with keys for the Celts and the Lakers.
-More fun at the expense of Paul Pierce, thanks to MixMakers.net.
-10 reasons the Lakers will win, thanks to West Coast Bias.
-Ted Green at SHLA isn't all about conspiracies, but thinks the FT disparity will likely even out.
-710ESPN's Dave Dameshek Show has what you need if you like to sing about Laker nemesi (plural of "nemesis").
-You can always find a variety of good stuff (in this case, ways to improve the offense, defense and bench contribution) at Forum Blue and Gold.
RE-Fo sho Charles,
Well keep it in that same old skool, like Williams told Mei Ling at Han's island. The Lakers will tell the C's..... I'll take her, and her, aaaaand you.
(games 3,4 and 5)
peace bro
Posted by: Fire32 | June 10, 2008 at 01:13 PM
The lakers are proving to be an embarassment to their conference. I mean, c'mon - Rajon Rondo outrebounding the laker center and power forward? HAHAHA!!!
Doc Rivers has taken a page from the D'ANTONI book and is taking history and slapping Phil Jackson in the face with it. The past means nothing in this series, it's all about heart and desire and DEFENSE! And so far, the lakers have shown little to none in any of those categories.
Paul Pierce is the Finals MVP so far, outclassing kobee not only as an unstoppable scorer and nasty defender, but also as a spiritual leader of his team. kobee needs to observe and learn.
Let's all welcome Paul Pierce home and wish him his best game ever as a Celtic!
Posted by: BUTLER | June 10, 2008 at 01:16 PM
Best Quote from Roland:
"I think it’s time for Mr. Stern and his guys to review what they’ve done to the game. You can commit murder in one area of the floor and walk away a winner, and in another area of the floor if you breathe a little too hard on the guy you’re guarding, you’re gonna get the whistle.
Come on. That ain’t right."
This is ALL LAKER FANS HAVE BEEN SAYING.
Seriously, how does Roland not have a job at a mainstream media outlet?
Posted by: Korey | June 10, 2008 at 01:20 PM
Damn, Fire32,
I'm starting to like you more and more.
Go Lake Show!
Posted by: The Outlaw | June 10, 2008 at 01:23 PM
Good points. The lakers have to be more assertive - not agressive - in getting to the hoop. If they do, the fouls will come, and that will help open up the floor. As long the celtics sag on defense, and we don't make the open shots, it's going to be tough. I'm still not convinced that the celtics are a good road team, or even if they're that good at home, but they did their job by protecting home court. And now we'll do the same. GO LAKERS!
Posted by: flip | June 10, 2008 at 01:28 PM
"The REAL point is this"
Oh -- so all that drivel and drooling nonsense has a point? who knew? Then it’s brilliant! -- You’ll be getting you mensa packet in the mail. Please allow between never and hell freezes over for delivery.
Posted by: HmrHed | June 10, 2008 at 01:29 PM
Laker Nation --
How long into the game before the "paula" chants?
How long into the game before the "boston sucks" chants?
How long into the game before Kobe gets fouled and it's actually called?
How long into the game before the trolls abandon ship (the blog) tonight?
All Three Games Are Must Wins!! 'nough said.
Talk to you all tomorrow.
Posted by: HmrHed | June 10, 2008 at 01:34 PM
LAKER NATION - IT'S GAAAAAME DAAAAAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Butler, you want a fight, you'll have it tonight!
Get your Game Faces on, Laker Nation! Just 41/2 hours to game time! We will not allow the leprechauns to get in front of us tonight! Win the first five minutes of each half, and the last five of each quarter and we'll come out on top. Make them chase us all over the court with the passing in the triangle. Play our game, not theirs!
FOCUS! INTENSITY! DEEEEEFENSE!
As Charles says, one at a time, but...............
4 TO 15!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: toad | June 10, 2008 at 01:35 PM
Tom Thobodeau > kobee
That's 4 games this year and each time, kobee has had a subpar game.
Coincidence, or superior defense?
Posted by: BUTLER | June 10, 2008 at 01:36 PM
So I've got a story to share to you all:
Yesterday evening as I was finishing my hour and a half long drive back home from home something horrible happened.
I was a little hot since I had no A/C (im trying to save Gas) so I started to mess with the windows. But I opened the wrong window. The window I opened was my rear driver's side window. As soon as I opened the window I knew what would happen next. Out of the window fell my 8 year old... golden Los Angeles Lakers flag.
I heard it tumble onto the street pavement and I saw the guy behind me laugh in a chuckle. I immediately had a choice. Keep going or pull to the curb and run back up the street to get it. But I had to think if it was worth it. would I want to see my flag potentially mangled by cars driving over it or just keep driving never to look back?
I decided that my love for the flag was too strong. I swerved to the curb. I stopped my car and got out quickly to the sidewalk. I looked back and saw the gold laying on the floor like a hurt puppy. I started to run. I ran faster.
There was no traffic, but then some cars started to drive on the street. I paused. One car changed lanes. The second car went around it. Passionate Lakers fans recognized the severity of the situation. They saw me, they saw it.
I was happy. The Laker love was spreading to everyone and sparing this flag's life. I was so close. Then it happened.
Another car, possibly driven by a Celtics fan, or a bitter Spurs or Jazz fan did what I just thought would happen. In slow motion I saw it all. This car did not move. Instead it drove directly over the flag. I heard a loud noise. The flag was tossed 10 feet into the air. The car drove by. I gasped.
I looked both ways and then as it was clear I crossed the street. I expected carnage.
But a a miracle had occurred. Like one person says...the Lakers flag was like bamboo. It bent but did not break. Not even a tire mark was evident. It was saved.
I waited to this morning to put it back on my window, hoping that after it reached its particular low, today was a new day to be reborn.
I take this as an omen, not as a bad thing that it got ran over, but as a good thing that it still survives.
---
This week I believe I celebrate my 1 year anniversary on the Lakers blog. This year last year I was arguing about Kobe. Now I am hoping for an NBA title. Thanks everybody for a great year. Special thanks to Mamba24, Jon K, Rick Friedman, Korey, complex Brotha, COMPTONS FINEST, and Jorema, KLBeast (RIP), GUNNER, the real Charles, Laker_Tom, LTLF, and others I may have missed.
Go Lakers!!!!!
Posted by: The Lake Show | June 10, 2008 at 01:38 PM
Thanks for the reply Fire32
Posted by: Charles | June 10, 2008 at 01:41 PM
Toad!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Charles | June 10, 2008 at 01:45 PM
BUTLER,
>>>Doc Rivers has taken a page from the D'ANTONI book
So, you're saying Doc Rivers is trying to emulate the guy
who's teams have played really well, but never well enough
to win a championship. Is that what you're saying?
Posted by: Long Time Laker Fan | June 10, 2008 at 01:46 PM
The Lake Show,
"the real Charles"
How many others were there on the blog brother? I recall one impostor one time.
Best
Posted by: Charles | June 10, 2008 at 01:48 PM
I gotta disagree with whatever K brother posted this - did you remain anonymous on purpose? It's so far off base, I wouldn't be surprised.
The Celtics are not the better team. They've gotten tons of help and leeway from the refs in both games, and it's been the refs, not the Celtics, who have taken the Lakers out of their game so far. Every single thing Mr. Anonymous K Brother pointed out as a 'concern' can be attributed to the refs not letting the Lakers play the game they've played so far in the playoffs, and prepared for in practices. Defense? Refs blowing whistles on ticky-tack fouls disrupting rotations and minutes. Floor game? Can't open that up if the refs are gonna put Boston on the line every trip down for phantom calls. Kobe? Getting hammered and not getting to the line when he penetrates forces him into a outside game where he distributes more or dribbles too much.
As long as the officiating isn't so biased towards Boston tonight, the Lakers will win easily. The refs have not been going by the NBA rulebook, and that's pretty hard to overcome when they're going to call everything in favor of one team over another.
And as far as the 4th quarter comeback is concerned, we can take a lot from that. Boston has been generally weak going down the stretch in most playoff games, it's just a trend that continued. The Lakers scared the pants off them with that comeback though, I know b/c I've talked to many Boston fans who are terrified of the games in LA being major blowouts in the Lakers favor, because they know the Celts all fade in the 4th quarter.
Posted by: Absolute Truth | June 10, 2008 at 01:52 PM
How many Paul Pierce fans in the house tonight? Lots i bet!
He's going to be smelling blood. This has been his lifelong dream and now it's in his immense power to make that childhood dream come true...
Winning a title in HIS HOMETOWN LA!
Posted by: BUTLER | June 10, 2008 at 01:53 PM
4 hours until game time.
4 hours until the Lake Show drop-kicks the green weiners.
4 hours until sweet revenge.
4 hours until the BBQ is fired up & the trolls get burned.
4 hours until we all feel - finally - vindicated.
Posted by: justanothermambafan | June 10, 2008 at 01:57 PM
Good Afternoon Family!
I'll have more to say during the chat, but Charles is absolutely right - Boston is a fantastic team, and if we're gonna win this thing, effort is gonna have to be ferocious!
4 the hard way - Let's Go Lake Show!
Posted by: Caliphilosopher | June 10, 2008 at 01:57 PM
Welcome back Toad!
Also - glad you're doing better Charles!
Seems like the gang's all here - that's a good sign.
Posted by: justanothermambafan | June 10, 2008 at 01:58 PM
RE:Best Quote from Roland:
"I think it’s time for Mr. Stern and his guys to review what they’ve done to the game. You can commit murder in one area of the floor and walk away a winner, and in another area of the floor if you breathe a little too hard on the guy you’re guarding, you’re gonna get the whistle.
Come on. That ain’t right."
This is ALL LAKER FANS HAVE BEEN SAYING.
Seriously, how does Roland not have a job at a mainstream media outlet?
Was it right that the handed the Lakers a win during the conference finals by not calling a foul on Derek Fisher at the end of regulayion.
That's all everybody's saying..
Posted by: Paul | June 10, 2008 at 01:58 PM
BK: Agree with you completely.
I was actually surprised the Lakers didn't take any charges but I think when the ticky-tack fouls were called early it hurt us in multiples: aggressive defense (i.e. taking charges) and going to the hoop (not wanting offiensive fouls called) were suddenly gone from the Laker's game plan.
We all know this Laker team has a bit of ADD and they need to be continually reminded to focus and zero in (hello LO, Vlad, Ronny, Luke, Farmar). But for some crazy reason this Laker team has suddenly become "sensitive". Totally different than "soft" because soft is not being aggressive physically. I think they were sensitized to what the refs "MIGHT" call which turned their attention away from the game, especially Laker basketball.
The mental part allows us to win tough games and highlights the true talents on this Laker team. Hopefully, in this absolute "must-win", backs against the wall situation - we will have 48+ minutes of focus - Laker basketball focus. Maybe a PJ zen session is in order???
Lastly, completely agree that MVP needs to come out shooting tonight. We have to set the tone, have/play with a lead and get some confidence that we can play our game. And if they shut down MVP in 1Q - LO & PG bot have to have "career nights". There will be no Powe or other random tonight. I fully expect it to be the Laker big 3 taking over and setting the tone.
Think MVP will be defending PP tonight?
GO LAKERS!!!!
Posted by: PsychedLakerGirl | June 10, 2008 at 02:01 PM
Roll call!
Lamar odumb? Absent
kobee? Largely absent, except to rip into his teammates
PJ? Absent minded!
Pau? Absent
Fischer? Absent
bench? Absent
Ray Allen? Present!
KG? Present!
Rajon Rondo? Present!
Paul Pierce? Present!
Leon Powe? Present!
Doc Rivers? Present!
Bench? Present!
Posted by: BUTLER | June 10, 2008 at 02:01 PM
Lake Show: awesome story. It's an omen of good things to happen!!
LET's GO LAKERS! BRING IT!
Posted by: PsychedLakerGirl | June 10, 2008 at 02:04 PM
TYPICAL CELTICS TRICKERY…
That’s what my wife called Paul Pierce’s act in Game 1 and she was absolutely correct. The Celtics true persona is that of the neighborhood bully and brazen trickster who thinks taking unfair advantage is acceptable and cheating is just a form of gamesmanship.
From Red Auerbach’s well-documented disregard for sportsmanship to Kevin McHale’s cheap shot clotheslining of Kurt Rambis and blatantly unethical trade with Danny Ainge, the Celtics have reveled in being the bad boys who were above and beyond the rules.
The Celtics actually cheated to get Larry Bird, taking advantage of glitch (since fixed) in the NBA rules to beat other teams by drafting Bird a full year before he was to graduate. The Celtics even got the NBA to create the Larry Bird rule so they could re-sign Bird.
The Celtics are the NBA’s Hillary Clinton, willing to do whatever it takes to win. They are the NBA’s Patriots and their defensive coach, Tom Thibodeau, is their Bill Belicheck, Director of Cheating and Getting Unfair Advantage by Deceiving the Officials.
Phil alluded to the Celtics latest trickery when he complained about the officials being fooled by the Celtics unfair tactics. The article by Bill Bridges for Forum Blue and Gold really lays out the truth that Thibodeau’s defensive strategy is designed to fool the refs.
It’s one thing to teach your players how to play tough defense without drawing a foul but specifically teaching players when and how to foul without getting called by the refs is no different to me than teaching players how to flop. Substituting deceit for defense.
Designed to fool the refs? Or just gamesmanship? Where do you draw the line? The sad truth is that it is up to the refs to expose floppers and cheaters like Thibodeau by realizing and recognizing what they are doing and adjust their calls accordingly. That is why Phil has been very specific as well as vocal about what the Celtics are doing defensively.
I would guess that Phil has also taken his players to task and reminded them that reaching and swiping at the ball and being timid or the non-aggressor on the court will only make it easier for the refs to lean toward the Celtics. The Lakers players need to adjust their game and play however the refs are calling the game.
Typical Celtics trickery. That’s why we old-time Lakers fans despise the Celtics.
Kobe, steal back the Finals MVP. Pau, demand the ball. Lamar, control the glass. Vlade, nothing but net. Derek, shut down Rondo. Bench Mob, bring it tonight.
Lakers Blog: 1M% positive thoughts only tonight to rally our Lakers to 4-straight.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | June 10, 2008 at 02:04 PM
Tonight will go into infamy...for the Pathetics.
They will see they are no match for the might of Kobe, Pau, Phil Jackson, and the Los Angeles Lakers.
The Lakers will continue what they started in the 4th quarter on Sunday and will annihilate the Keltix. I expect the Lakers to score between 110-120 points while holding Boston under 95.
We will then translate that momentum into even bigger throttlings in games 4 and 5.
Then we will DESTROY the Pathetics in Boston to take the TITLE, the first of 3-4 straight and the start of yet another Laker DYNASTY!
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Lakers_Unstoppable | June 10, 2008 at 02:05 PM
REPOST from previous thread:
Posted by: passionate Lakers fan | June 10, 2008 at 12:54 PM
passionate Lakers fan:
I’m a Laker fan that’s been lurking here for a long while and this is my first post. You make A LOT of sense. I know people say conspiracies are all bunk, to risky for the league, etc etc, but man… your post struck a cord with me. I’m saving it b/c I want to see how close your predictions become.
kubinator
Posted by: kubinator | June 10, 2008 at 02:07 PM
Butler,
We're certainly enjoying your posts, but Dude! Do you have to post so many?
You're like a foul-laden quarter that's ruining the flow of offense here.
Posted by: mel | June 10, 2008 at 02:07 PM
Charles......thanks for the shout out!
Posted by: toad | June 10, 2008 at 02:07 PM
oh and also I forgot to shout out Mike T. (wherever you are) who right about now would be telling us how we need those nice Calves of Kwame Brown to muslce around Kendrick Perkins and Leon Powe.
Charles,
Im not sure I felt as thought there was a couple of you floating around at some point.
Posted by: The Lake Show (formerly known as I Miss Van Exel and Eddie Jones) | June 10, 2008 at 02:07 PM
J-dawg,
Is that you? From the LoHud Yankees blog?
Posted by: mel | June 10, 2008 at 02:08 PM
it's really a shame that this blog doesn't have a rating system, because there's been some brilliant responses to the Celtic trolls that come on here. Instead, we have to scroll through all comments like they're all equally objective or worthy of reading. Again, I encourage everyone out there in Laker nation to just stop responding to the trolls' comments. Pretend they don't exist, which if you read any of their comments, you'll see that that's exactly what THEY do, ranting on and on about their obsessions with a team that's gone further than what their sad favorite home team can or ever go. Win or lose this series, Lakers will have far more class and skill than they ever will.
Posted by: soundwave | June 10, 2008 at 02:08 PM
BUTLER...Pierce is a FAKER, and he has no fans in LA. Hope he walks the streets in Inglewood. He will probably file a bogus police report that some old lady kicked him in the knee.
Go Lakers! 4 in a row, 1 at a time.
Posted by: MambaMVP08 | June 10, 2008 at 02:24 PM
I know we're supposed to take this one game at a time but the reason why I keep saying the Lakers need to win the next 2 games was illustrated just now on Around the Horn. All the reporters talked about what the Lakers need to imrpove on and how the Celtics have outplayed them so far but not one of them even hesitated to pick LA to win tonight. Why? Because it's not a series if they lose and, if people believe that we're following a script, it's supposed to be what happens.
Let's be straight - when the other team only has to win 2 games to win it all and you have to win 4, every game is a must-win. Tonight is only the beginning though. Game 4 is important to even the series and Game 5 is important to create a situation where you only have to win one in Boston. I'll be there tonight expecting to see the Lakers turn this thing around.
Posted by: lakers_sth | June 10, 2008 at 02:25 PM
Game 1, Lakers momentum was destroyed by Paul Pierce's acting job.
Game 2, Lakers rhythm was destroyed by poor officiating.
Both of these situations will only work when you are playing before a home crowd.
Tonight, we will see which team really is the better team. Nothing is going stop us now!!
Posted by: Robyn | June 10, 2008 at 02:29 PM
************************DVR DON'T LIE**************************
After watching the game again without the screaming of what is wrong with these refs I few just a few observations.
1. Lakers didn't get a lot of calls early in the game that they should have and the Celtics each time hit a big basket to make it worse. Several big 3s after not getting a call. Refs missed several calls but credit Celtics for taking advantage of it.
2. Lakers have 2 glaring holes...SF and PG. Pierce and Rondo have it to easy right now. Bottom line-Phil has yet come up with a plan yet to slow those 2 down. The Luke, Radman combo is not going to get the job done on Pierce and though I love Fish I think we all can say with confidence he isn't getting the job done. These 2 positions need to be upgraded next year. Doesn't matter if they win or lose this year, they must improve this position.
3. Let's just say after watching what was happening on the court and the flow of the game I was really surprised Phil refused to get off his A@@ and at least get a technical. He made Kobe do it and I would have thought the coach at least would get off his Butt.
Anyway I have Lakers taking the next 3 and going to Boston up 3-2. If Lamar can't get his act together please ,please, please Phil go to the small lineup. PLEASE!
Go Lakers and still have Lakers in 6
Los Angeles Lakers World Champions 2008
BD
Posted by: BD | June 10, 2008 at 02:30 PM
Tully and Toad - back in the house. We missed you as we did Charles. And hopefully your being back home will give us a huge Lakers" W" tonight.
I want a beat down, slam dunk (help us out Chick), pure & unadulterated Celtic bashing tonight! This is a statement and we need to make it!
Laker Tom: nice Celtic h (can't say that word). You are making me a believer. No Mendo Gold wine tonight - it didn't work out so good last time - what is the wife thinking for drink tonight?
All together nowblog family: LET'S GO LAKERS!!!! BRING IT!
Posted by: PsychedLakerGirl | June 10, 2008 at 02:33 PM
Tonight will go into infamy...for the Pathetics.
If we lose will still be up 2-1
They will see they are no match for the might of Kobe, Pau, Phil Jackson, and the Los Angeles Lakers.
of course not, after all the Lakers have been the dominate team so far. Lakers down 2-0 really shows how overmatched the Celtics are against the them.
The Lakers will continue what they started in the 4th quarter on Sunday and will annihilate the Keltix. I expect the Lakers to score between 110-120 points while holding Boston under 95.
Keltix? Is that supposed to being funny or insulting? Just curious.
We will then translate that momentum into even bigger throttlings in games 4 and 5.
So if the Lakers lose, will you be coming back here telling everyone, "Game 4 is when the make their move" Don't disrespect Kobe!!
Then we will DESTROY the Pathetics in Boston to take the TITLE, the first of 3-4 straight and the start of yet another Laker DYNASTY!
We'll see.
GO LAKERS!
You're just as annoying here as you are on the boston sports forums.
Posted by: Lakersunstoppableshadow | June 10, 2008 at 02:36 PM
A few quotes from that Kings game:
http://www.nba.com/games/20020531/SACLAL/recap.html
"The Kings thought the Lakers got some help from the officials as well. Los Angeles made 34-of-40 free throws while Sacramento sank 18-of-25. In the fourth quarter, the Lakers hit 21-of-27 from the line while the Kings made 7-of-9.
'Our big guys get 20 fouls tonight and Shaq gets four? You tell me how the game went,' Adelman said. 'It's just the way it is. Obviously, they got the game called the way they wanted to get it called.' "
And how'd the game end?
"A driving layup by Hedo Turkoglu pulled the Kings within 103-102 with 12 seconds left. On the ensuing inbounds play, Bryant elbowed Bibby to the nose and pushed him to the floor to receive the pass before being fouled.
Between Bryant's free throws, the Kings called their last timeout to stop the bleeding in Bibby's nose so their best shooter could remain in the game. With gauze stuffed up his nostril, he dribbled upcourt but missed the potential tying shot. "
Are you telling me that if Paul Pierce had elbowed Kobe in the face, gave him a bloody nose, and then pushed him to the ground with 12 seconds left in a 1-point game, Laker fans wouldn't be screaming to high heaven?
What goes around comes around. I'm not a Kings fan, but I'm not a Laker fan either, and it's good to see you get some of your own medicine.
Posted by: J-dawg | June 10, 2008 at 02:42 PM
"The sad truth is that it is up to the refs to expose floppers and cheaters like Thibodeau by realizing and recognizing what they are doing and adjust their calls accordingly."
This is hilarious coming from the franchise that brought us Derek Fisher and Vlade Divac, two of the top five floppers in NBA history.
Posted by: J-dawg | June 10, 2008 at 02:45 PM
Have Faith.
Go Lakers!
Posted by: Faith | June 10, 2008 at 02:46 PM
Ay, sorry Laker fans...
I'm a looser. I have no life. I don't know what it's like to root for a championship team cuz I'm a suns fan. And probably most telling, I haven't been laid in a LONG LONG TIME!!! So I resort to trying to annoy Laker fans through cyber-space... I don't even have the testicular fortitude to do it in person.
Sorry for all the pent-up frustration boiling over Laker hater-ism.
Posted by: BUTLER | June 10, 2008 at 02:49 PM
My blood is purple and gold, but I don't bleed! The Celtic's bleed green ooze! And in quoting the movie PREDATOR, "If it bleeds, we can kill it!"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ovi-djkUgd0
Posted by: ajax | June 10, 2008 at 02:49 PM
Those of us who have been to a class reunion know that there is always some loser who likes to talk. He may even have been big shot back in high school, but then the rest of the world moved on, and he never amounted to much. If he sees a classmate who became a doctor, he'll say that he would have aced medical school yet ignore the fact that he never could have gotten in. If he sees a classmate who married a model, he'll brag about the cheerleader he made out with once after school. If he sees a classmate who became a gazillionaire, he will gloat about how the neighbor of his third cousin's golf buddy's sister-in-law's boss makes more money.
That loser is Butler. Maybe the Suns would play the Celtics better. Yes the Suns eliminated the Lakers during the prior two playoffs (although beating the 2005-2006 Lakers in seven is not much of an accomplishment). Sure he can celebrate if the Celtics beat the Lakers. But you know what? The Suns aren't in the finals this year, and they ain't gonna be for a long time. The guy who loses in the finals still made it farther than the guy who lost in the first round. Adding another banner to the Gaw-den still leaves zero hanging at the U.S. Airways Center. Butler can talk all he wants, but when we turn on the TV tonight, it'll be Kobe and our boys on the screen, not Steve Gnash and Shack.
Posted by: In the Zen Master We Trust | June 10, 2008 at 02:53 PM
What's up Lakerville!
Time for win #13. The time to start winning is now!
Time to take back what's ours. The Lakeshow should tighten the defense and get back to their fluid offense.
Play like they played as WC champs and they'll win.
Adrian: There's one thing I want you to do for me.
Rocky Balboa: What's that?
Adrian: Win.
Adrian: Win!
Go Lakers!
Posted by: SamLL | June 10, 2008 at 02:53 PM
It's all set up for the Lakers to win tonight!
REFEREE ASSIGNMENTS
Tue. Jun. 10 Created: Jun 10, 2008 5:29pm ET
Game Boston @ L.A. Lakers
Official 1
J. Crawford
Official 2
B. Salvatore
Official 3
M. Wunderlich
16...15...14...13...12...11...10...9...8...7...6...5...
Posted by: Amazing_Happens | June 10, 2008 at 03:16 PM
Class? Somewhere in the frenzied complaining about the refs, yelling at each other, deriding each other's talents, acting like an injury on the other team actually somehow hurt their own chances of winning, and blaming everyone except themselves for their losses, we've defined class?
Posted by: J-dawg | June 10, 2008 at 03:26 PM
Kambros:
I totally disagree with your colum.
Simply put: the young Lakers have been taken out of this series with the officiating in game 2.
You say you are disappointed in the Lakers' defense.
They were not allowed to use their quickness and length in Boston as a result of touch fouls.
They tried to be aggresive on defense.
The officials took away their aggression with touch fouls.
Kobes' 2 touch fouls in game 2 were insane calls.
And as soon as Kobe went to the bench, the Cs went on a 18-2 run.
Yet the Cs are allowed to grab and hold (like Utah during the first 2 games on their home court).
I love how bloggers and writers like you brothers state the officiating isn't the main reason for the Lakers issues.
All of you are wrong.
When you are a young team, playing on the road, playing against a NBA team with history as rich as the New York Yankees, that, in and of its self, is enough pressure to deal with.
But to have to deal with officals calling you for touch fouls on the defensive end when the Cs are allowed to hold; to be raked when trying to go to the hole with the rock, yet no foul is called (thus the reason for the Lakers continuing to shoot jump shots); the Cs offensive flow running smoothly as a result of the Lakers fear of being aggresive on D (again no touch fouls allowed against the men in Gree) spells doom.
Kambros: do not insult your readers with your better than thou attitude.
The NBA is fixed.
The Lakers were taken out of their defensive and offensive flow as a result of the officiating.
The sad faces during the post-game interviews (along with their quotes) said everything.
After playing against Denver/Utah/San Antonio so well, David Stern decided to slow down the more athletic, quicker and longer Lake Show.
Kambros are too funny with their better than thou rants.
Stop attacking the Lakers with your L.A. Times blog.
And stop being afraid of having your ID bages taken from you both by David Stern.
Type the truth.
The Lakers were screwed in game 2.
38-10.
Leon Powe 13 to the Lakers 10.
That has nothing to do with the Lakers not being aggresive enough on both ends of the court.
The Celtics are being handed a gift.
I'm out.
Posted by: passionate Lakers fan | June 10, 2008 at 03:28 PM
LET'S GO CELTICS!
Posted by: ogurat | June 10, 2008 at 03:34 PM
Classs, Classssss, Classsssssss SHUT UP
Thank You
Teacher is very disappointed with each and every one of you.
Little PJ, I made you teacher's assistant for a reason. First reason of course, you are the oldest student in class, but most importantly, your experience was suppose to help your classmates reach their goal. This goal can never be reached if you refuse to tutor in a responsible way. No excuses Little PJ, besides we've been through this before, Lukie's puppy did not eat your notes. Besides, it is simple enough...... A square + B square = C square. Now it doesn't take a genius to learn the Pythagorean Theorem, but for some reason you've made it so difficult for others to understand the solution, that your classmates have forgotten the rudimentary basics of 1 + 1 and their IQ scores have fallen to disturbing levels.
Classmates that use to excel are now just barely making passing grades. The problem Little PJ, is your solution to the Triangle has taken away your classmates abilities to conceptualize the answer instinctively. You have forced them to incorporate an obsolete method that is not conducive to success in today's academia.
For example, you have tried to make Lukie into some kind of Einstein, which of course he isn't. I thought you might have learned your lesson in P.E. class when you picked him ahead or everyone else in dodgeball, especially when he was the first to go out. And yet, you still picked him first on your basketball team.
I knew there would be a problem when Lukie told me, you said; he was smarter than Kobe Boy. I should have told him the truth myself, but he was so happy, I didn't have the heart. But then, Lukie started running his mouth off, saying negative things about Kobe Boy, he even got Jordy talking smack. Now Kobe Boy took this better than I thought he would, I was almost certain he was going to transfer schools. You see Little PJ, Kobe Boy is the best student I've ever had, his skills come once in a lifetime, these boys will never come close to that level, yet you have let these boys tell lies without sending them to the principal's office, all the while acting like Kobe Boy's biggest friend.
Now Little PJ, I want you to apologize to Kobe Boy for not setting double and triple studying sessions that would have made Kobe Boy the smartest kid in history. I also want you to apologize to Vlade and Big Lamar for not taking advantage of their strengths, and exploiting their weaknesses in public. You said the other day that Big Lamar was confused on his test and you have said the same thing about Vlade. They are your students Little PJ; their performances are a reflection of your tutoring abilities.
I remember when Big Lamar and Vlade first transferred to this school. They were exceptional students, Big Lamar was great at every subject, and Vlade was superior in mathematics, but under your tutelage, they have become average students.
I once had an assistant who could take the biggest, dumbest students and turn them into honor-roll students. His philosophy was to break down the problem to its basic components, master them, and then go to the next level and repeat the process. Simple but very effective. Yes, I wonder what ever happened to Little Glenn Rivers.
Anyway Little PJ,
Little PJ, Little PJ, Little PJ, WAKE UP
Have you heard a word I've said?
Yes Sister Mary Elephant, I heard every word.....
I'll TAKE LUKIE FIRST, (as he whispers into Lukie's ear "you're better than Kobe Boy")
Posted by: Sister Mary Elephant | June 10, 2008 at 03:34 PM
"Sure he can celebrate if the Celtics beat the Lakers. But you know what? The Suns aren't in the finals this year, and they ain't gonna be for a long time. The guy who loses in the finals still made it farther than the guy who lost in the first round. Adding another banner to the Gaw-den still leaves zero hanging at the U.S. Airways Center. Butler can talk all he wants, but when we turn on the TV tonight, it'll be Kobe and our boys on the screen, not Steve Gnash and Shack."
AMEN!
The troll has been wounded. The starving begins tonight!
Posted by: utzworld - THE BANNER HOLDER | June 10, 2008 at 03:35 PM