Report Card- Derek Fisher

Lakers won by 2 pts against T'Wolves with Kevin Love. Well here is the box score:

http://www.nba.com/summerleague2008/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=1520800027

LTLF, I didn't watch the game, What do you think of Kemp and Mata Real, they played well in this game while Dunston made only 2 pts.

B+, B+? That is just wrong, it's even worse than killing kittens,taking candy away from children and kicking old folks combined. It's Derek, he is worth an A every day.

*Note, please keep in mind that I love Fish as much as Mike T. loves Kwames calves so I really can’t be objective because in my book Fish can do no wrong.*

You may have given Fish a B+ but in my book he's pure A class standard. His intensity and willingness to run, dive, take the drive, etc.. have been invaluable. His reputation and values are excellent.

BOOO to the K brothers on this one. Fish deserves and gets and A.

Fisher is a rock.

Go Lakers!

What? A B+?... BK... what are you talking about?

It should have been at least an A-...

You said it yourself, the lakers got their money's worth. He was not brought back for his scoring, remember? He was taken for his leadership in the locker room and for teaching/mentoring purposes... and give Kobe someone to share the leadership burden... and with that He has more than exceeded our expectation. Why then give him a B+ just because he was not consistently scoring the whole season? When he was not specifically brought in to fill that role?

He was playing with a foot injury, his presence stabilized the young lakers around Kobe. We wouldn't have been in the Finals without those "intangibles" as you mentioned...

The FISH was an A! Period.

GO Lakers!

Go Kobe!

I thought I could be the first to comment to what AK ridiculous grade of FISH...

Anyway, WHY? What's the issue with fish?

B+? The very fact that having him means we no longer have Smush Parker deserves an A!

Go Fish!

I love d fish and the unity he brought to the lakers. But I cant help feeling disappointed with his work in the playoffs,his backup farmar too. Maybe he was playing hurt or logging too much playing time for his old legs. I hope they could bring Sun Yue to the lakers, maybe he's the back up we can count on. Will it happen this season? Can they get Sun for 2008-2009 season?

This is a very fair, if not generous grade. Yeah, his experience and character were invaluable especially during the playoffs, but let's not forget how inconsistent Derek was this year on offense and D. I'd give Derek a B to B+.

Good grade.

By popular demand, the blogmunity has just raised Fish's grade to an A.

He gave everything he had. Every game. When the Lakers get their "money's worth" from a player, that by definition merits an A.

Edwin,

>>>LTLF, I didn't watch the game, What do you think of
>>>Kemp and Mata Real, they played well in this game
>>>while Dunston made only 2 pts.

I'm still at work, so I'll watch the PVR recording of the game
when I get home.

Dunston only played 11 minutes, which partly explains the
lack of production by him and more production by the hyphen
twins (Mata-Real and Caner-Medley).

Frankly I'm shocked at that much scoring by Mata-Real.
I've been watching his whole career at UCLA and he's
always been dead weight on the offensive end. But he
is big and strong and works hard on defense. He's like
Kwame Brown junior.

I love D Fish the experience and the unity he brought to the Lakers,but I was disappointed by his work during he play offs. His backup Farmar was no help too. I wonder if Sun Yue could contribute, are the Lakers any close to getting Sun to play for them this coming season?

What they said. Fisher's very presence in the locker room deserves an A in and of itself. Moreover, the Lakers may very well have fallen into the Abyss (traded Kobe) if they hadn't signed Fish.

Re: the summer league game

Kevin Love was one rebound short of having over half his team"s rebounds (17 of 35). That's impressive even for a summer league game

Wrong. Wrong. Wrong. Wrong. Wrong. Wrong. Wrong. Wrong!

Are you fricken kidding me?

Fisher deserves an "A". Anything less than that is completely inappropriate.

Where are you guys from, Boston?

GO LAKERS!

Heat sign Kwame for 18 million (4 yrs).

http://tinyurl.com/6m3937

Unbelievable. Really unbelievable. Of course, it is. I'm making it up. Any strokes?

DEREK FISHER WILL BE THE COACH OF THE LAKERS AFTER EITHER JIM CLEAMONS OR KURT RAMBIS! GOD WILLING, HE WILL HAVE HIS JERSEY RETIRED!|

{I'm serious about that brief tirade, by the way.}

Derek Fisher is a Great Laker. And may God bless him.

GO LAKERS!

Ok, this is why we pay BK the big money, for his grading reports.

I kept reading the report and everything was leading up to an A, except for the actual grade.

My book has him as a solid A. He over achieved in every cat. and was a key reason the Lakers went as far as they did.

He got extra credit from me for his coaching on and off the floor. Plus his D on Deron was exceptional. Bonus points for keeping Kobe under control might even have him at an A+.

Elle - After Ronny, he's my family's favorite player. Even my Mother-in-law who doesn't watch BB, loves Fish for his strength of character. He is special and if God is a Lakers Fan, Fish is the proof. Now, how can you go against God BK? lol

Fish gets an A.

I don't care much about what grade he got, but I'm convinced that he was the difference maker this season. Plain and simple.

I think Elle and Longtime Lakerlover are right, Fisher deserved an A. The tallest order was not only bringing stability of PG but on the head of Kobe. He was able to re-direct towards the team rather than venturing other teams. He is the moral leader of the team and was able to influence the guards of his varied experience. Jimbo and Mitch should thank Fisher for saving the franchise from disillusionment.

In an organization, the most important person is the Keyman which is Kobe but the keyman to Kobe is Fisher. Kobe could not relay his frustrations with young kids whom he suspected as part of the F/O and surreptiously conspiring against him with his one man mission. He could not trust anyone until D' Fish arrived and put back the house the order. Finally, there was unity, camaraderie and tranquility in the team, the backstabbing was replaced by complete trust and confidence despite the existence of fundamental flaws, evident on underachieving or inconsistent players from game to game. For these efforts, Fisher should be accelerated to Graduate School status, not on the level of college drop outs getting good grades due to the generous gratification of KBros.

I am with Elle and LLL - easily an A. All class, all the time. And given that he started EVERY game the Lakers played - that's minimum a B, everything else, intangibles night after night, leadership, points, etc. - it easily pushes him into A grade category.

I'd say the Lakers got way more than they anticipated with Fish. And I, like Elle believe Fish can do no wrong.

I am looking forward to this season even more because I think we will see how truly valuable Fish is to our bench. His minutes may decrease and he might even come off the bench a few games but he is the glue and heart of this team - IMHumbleO.

GO LAKERS!!!

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For those of you J.R.R. Tolkien fans in our midst, I want OUR entire Los Angeles Lakers family (from EVERY person in management, to EVERY coach, to EVERY last player) to have that final score BURNED into their collective consciousness this summer!

Like the Dwarves who gathered from far and wide when Nar told the tale of Thror's humiliating death at the hands of the Orcs...I want our Lakers team to play with a Berserk Mad-Death Energy (nod to VTB) next season. They NEED to go for blood! They NEED to go after the Best Regular Season Record, and march right back to the finals! Hopefully those F-ing Celtics will take care of their business and meet us again next June!

The armies of Dwarves fought with a cold fury to avenge their kinsman Thror. They sacked and pillaged every Orc stronghold until what was left of the evil horde fled to regroup deep within Moria. But, the Dwarves would NOT be deterred or denied. They marched onward with a FIERCE determination, chanting the name of "Azog" (the Orc leader who slew Thror) at every step.

Finally, at the Battle of Azanulbizar, the Dwarves carried the day. Azog was slaughtered, and the cheap bag of coins he gave to Nar as "payment" for telling the rest of the Dwarves that he (Azog) was the one who killed Thror, was stuffed into Azog's bloody severed head and mounted on a stake for everyone to witness!

THIS is the kind of Fierce Determination and Do-or-Die Spirit I want OUR Los Angeles Lakers to show next season. Take no prisoners! Show no mercy to those damn Celtics! Vengeance is mine saith KB24 and crew!

P & G R

Fisher didn't "overachieve"; he played better than some of us anticipated. Two different things. Mediocre on the court, great in the locker room. B or B+ is an appropriate grade.

I've liked your ratings so far. I've liked your criteria. It has seemed to be fair. But here, I feel like you're bringing in comparisons with the rest of the league in order to bring Fish down to B+ (though you made few references outside the Lakers in your post). Sure, Fish is a B+ PG leaguewide, but in the Lakers system, he was a solid A. That was my guess before I got to the bottom of the post.

You placed a lot of weight on the "intangibles." So that makes me think you must have a really poor opinion of his court performance. Well, I best recall Fish sticking *a lot* of clutch jumpers, taking *a lot* of big charges, getting *a lot* of big steals. Certainly, outside of Kobe, you must acknowledge he was the teams best clutch player? A team that went all the way to the Finals.

You've never done it, but I implore you: Make history. Revise Fish's grade. A

Time for a reality check!

Been awhile since I posted but just want to give my 2 cents worth to the Celtics fans that visit our blog constantly. Your team and its fans needs to act like this is not the first time they have ever won anything! ....Well, .... wait ... sorry, it IS the first time you have won anything.

While I realize that saying classy Celtics is a oxymoron your team and now the fans are stooping to new lows. Your team won a hard fought series. The first and fourth games could easily have been won by the Lakers, but as Dandy Don Meredith used to say "if ifs and buts were candy and nuts we would all have a merry Christmas".

My issue is with how the Celtics handled the last game. I lost alot of respect for KG and Doc Rivers. Up by thirty, all your starters on the floor and taking three pointers? What the hell is wrong with you? Then even worse KG gives an unnecessary hard foul to Odom (whiole up by thirty) then taunts him. Classless!

Now, I am not angry with the Celtics, just spoiled by the class and dignity that the Spurs have always shown through the years. Just a thought for the Celtics fans before you light your next victory cigar, watch a tape of Pop and the Spurs. They will show you HOW to win, just in case you ever get another chance.

WHAT SAY YOU?

LTLF,

Who is Nick Caner-Meley of Maryland Terrapins? Hereunder you will find his player bio. He is good looking and another high IQ player, a Le Frak Scholar. He made 8 pts against Grizz' and made 19 pts. against Kevin Love and Corey Brewer. A PF 6'8" 240 lbs. qualified for Mike T's physique. Why do we have to import Artest and Thomas multi-million contracts when we have some kids who are excited to play with the team. Try them in the D'League and if they excel give them contracts as banger first and finnese later. lol Bench all the underachieving veterans who pulled down the team.

Oops forgot to post the Nik Caner-Medley's bio:

http://umterps.cstv.com/sports/m-baskbl/mtt/
canermedley_nik00.html

I agree with most of the bloggers - I would give D-Fish an A-. Other than the finals, he really exceeded my expectations. His on ball defense was better than when he was younger, and he really was a reliable spot up shooter. He used his savvy to compensate for his lack of quickness. I thought one of the crucial stretches of the finals was when for some odd reason, PJ left D-Fish on the bench during most of the 3rd and 4th quarter of game 4 when Boston dismantled our lead. I will never figure that out. I think his presence during that stretch may have staved off defeat, and who knows what would have happened from there.

I'm having second thoughts on a possible LO trade for Ron Ron and Kenny Thomas. I was listening to Grant Napier filling in for Rome today (he has broadcast Kings games for many years) and he was very positive about Thomas - commenting on his tough low post defense. He essentially said the dude has game, but got in Theuss dog house for some reason. Looking back on his stats, these comments have merit. Up until two years ago, he flirted with double - double averages for several years. While his salary would still be disproportinate to his talent, Ron Ron would give us much improved defense and scoring from the 3 spot, and Thomas just might thrive as a role player coming off the bench. I'm still not completely sold on the deal, but would be rather intrigued if it went down.

Duke,
"Sure, Fish is a B+ PG leaguewide, "

No, he's not. Compared to other PGs, on the court he is mediocre, at best a C. His locker room presence and steadying influence raise that up somewhat.

reality check time --

My lengthy post (above yours) came from observing the SAME things that YOU did.

The next time I see a Laker knock over a Celtic, I do NOT want to see him help the guy back up (that means YOU Jordan Farmar).

We will learn a lot about the character of the Lakers by how they respond next season, especially the next time they face those damned Celtics.

I believe our Lakers WILL rise to the challenge. I have faith in our guys!

P & G R

Off subject, but I just thought of something. This upcoming season is going to one for the ages.

If the Lakers don't make it back to the championships, I can't see Kobe Bryant staying with the team. In fact, I see this Laker team blowing up.

As such, next year will be the ultimate in pressure b-ball for all the Laker players, as well as Phillip Jackson, and this very blog!

I will give Pau one month to prove his worth. If I see any of the effeminate play I saw from him during the playoffs, this blog will be inundated non-stop with my analysis and campaigning to move Pau in the next off season.

Stay tuned, the upcoming season's gonna be one hell of a ride...

Giantsquid - haha - that was excellent! You totally had me about Kwame for a sec.

Edwin - I agree about Nik (pride of Maine) Caner-Medley - the guy had a good collegiate career and has bounced around a bit since (euro, etc.). I wouldn't be surprised to see him get a look in training camp. Of course, we don't have much in the way of roster room... he'd be a huge longshot to actually make the team.

Faith, I'm ashamed to say this but I began to watch basketball only because my friend told me that Fish played for the Lakers (I first saw him on the Jaime Foxx show), was it a shallow reason? Yes,yes it was. But I learned to love the sport and I was hurt when the Lakers let Fish go, in fact I don't remember much of the season that followed, only that we had this guy with really icky hair.

When the Lakers had drama Fish was the guy that kept his hands clean, you know that he will always do his best and that he will stand by his team win or lose, I even remember him crying after the Lakers lost to the Kings, that's the image I'll always have of Fish. A guy that loves the game and his team enough to cry in public after loosing to the Queens.

Remember how we recalled the governer years ago? I say we do the same with the grade the KBros gave Fish.

RECALL!

Holy mother of god, someone GAVE Kwame 18 mil? Holy fudge, some one please tell me this is a joke.

PG & R

I was actually thinking about Mordor today, wondering whether it would have been worse being a laker fan if Kobe had been traded than an orc in the armies of mordor.

A close call.

B+??????????? A- is more like it. kobe shouldn't be the only player on the team that gets As. goodness.

What? A B+?... BK... what are you talking about?

It should have been at least an A-...

You said it yourself, the lakers got their money's worth. He was not brought back for his scoring, remember? He was taken for his leadership in the locker room and for teaching/mentoring purposes... and give Kobe someone to share the leadership burden... and with that He has more than exceeded our expectation. Why then give him a B+ just because he was not consistently scoring the whole season? When he was not specifically brought in to fill that role?

He was playing with a foot injury, his presence stabilized the young lakers around Kobe. We wouldn't have been in the Finals without those "intangibles" as you mentioned...

The FISH was an A! Period.

GO Lakers!

Go Kobe!

Posted by: dice8up | July 16, 2008 at 07:34 PM

I couldn't have put it better myself. My sentiments exactly.

Thanks for coming home D-Fish!

Elle, no worries lol. We all caught the laker fever some way or another.

Fish is the consummate professional. He deserves an A not just because he brought stability for us in the PG role, or that he gave Kobe a warrior to go to war with...but because of all of it. All that he brings. Introducing Javaris to a ref...taking Jordan Farmar off to the side on a bad play. Sinking down big shots. Defending Deron Williams (in particular). Playing admirably with an ankle injury. Playing the amount of minutes he did at his age. All of it.

The guy is teaching our young ones the right way to go about things...the way to win. And he's helping us win.

To top it off, the guy is just a laker through and through. No one was happier to be back in purple and gold, than him lol.

That gives him an A in my book.

Go Fish! Go Lakers!

Edwin Gueco,

re: Medley. I must admit the guy has been impressive. He deserves another consideration imo. Or at the very least an open mind on our part in terms of the last roster spot.

While it most surely will go to Coby Karl...Medley has gotten all the hustle points, a la Ronny (not really coz no one will ever replace Ronny lol). He also seems to be willing to put his body on the line. That's impressive in my book lol. Now if he and the rest of the summer league team could play better D lol.

Go Lakers!

the people had't spoken...give them man his due respect...

An A! lol.

Go Lakers!

Elle - yeah, it was a joke. giantsquid got you!

OK, I read this article about Gilbert going to the Manila, Philippines, the same place that Kobe was at this time last summer. Is it me or those this article try to take some subtle shots at Kobe for no apparent reason?

I don't think there is any doubt that Adidas and Nike are fighting for this market, but why can't a journalist write an article without trying to take shots at Kobe when he has nothing to do with it.

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/07/17/sports/basketball/17arenas.html?hp

DaveM, that was not a funny joke, I almost had a heart attack which would have been bad when you consider that I'm only 24 :(

Faith, Fish will always be a Laker, he should be like mutombo and play for ever and ever....

OK!!!

I CAN'T HELP IT ANY MORE!

for those who are complaining about grades...shut it.

its subjective. and saying " OH MY GOD, I CANT BELIVE FISH GOT A B+, NOT AN A-, or a B" is super lame and annoying.

you are the sort of people who make teachers/professors/peer reviewers hate their jobs.
(Which i am not by the way, but have been on the graded end for many years)

in conclusion, APPRECIATE the fact that the Kbros do this for us. STOP complaining about a grade point or two in either direction. REMEMBER that this is based on a C being the expected average. B+ is pretty damn good. Don't be those parents that you have to explain that to.

This has been going on for a while and i just had to make this point.

drunk rant for the night.

cheers,

Chick Penberthy

Sorry Chick,

A grave injustice has occurred and we of the blog will not stand for it.

BK's treachery, YES TREACHERY, in giving Fish a B+ and not at least an A- is second only to his pick of Dwayne Wade (a guy that can't even spell his own name properly) as the pick for 05-06 MVP.

He has to answer for his transgressions, as well all must take responsibility for our actions, especially ones as unwholesome as this one.

Purple and Gold Reign/reality check,

Your posts were certainly a much needed caffeine pill for anyone who appreciates competitive spirit and fire. I too noticed that our Lakers for some reason did not play with a sense of competitive URGENCY, DESIRE, HUNGER and ANIMOSITY in the Finals (other than Kobe). This is exactly why our team has been labeled a SOFTIE by most observers. Shockingly, this was not the case in their playoff run prior to the Finals.

In my opinion, I felt that they tapered off after the Spurs series. Make no mistake about it, it was a rough series from a mental and physical standpoint. Remember, they had to dispatch a somewhat identical team in Utah a series before. That my friends took a lot of ENERGY out of them to finally get the job done! Unfortunately, against the Celtics, the energy standpoint became quite obvious when they could not sustain it for 48 minutes in almost every game (even with BIG leads)! That's why they became NICE guys all of a sudden. They became too tired to be MOODY and EDGY on the court. Their energy had FLATLINED! As the series went on, they turned their cheeks and offered their gestures of good will to Boston players. The game no longer became FUN for the them (Game 6 to be exact). Look no further to the players on the bench during the game and timeouts (gazing, searching, wondering). Puzzling wasn't it? Let's see if Phil uses this as a huge teaching point for next season and beyond. I know this much, you will not see this kind of behavior in our Lakers next year. NO WAY, NO HOW! Killer instict will have to be the primary focus on the court (respect the opponent, but have no mercy competitively) on both sides of the ball.

I usually don't offer excuses for our team's failures, but here were a couple of huge concerns I had when our Lakeshow reached the Finals against Boston taking ENERGY into consideration: Could they score and defend WELL ENOUGH for 48 minutes consistently (both the first and second unit) against the best team recordwise and defensively in the NBA? Could Kobe and Fish continue to overcome their nagging inuries to their shooting hand/knee/back (torn pinkie ligament, tendonitis, back spasms) and foot/back (torn tendon amounting to a worst case of plantar fascitis, back spasms) respectively just enough to seize the Finals? Unfortunately, my worst fears were realized. Kobe really lost a step and was not his usual self shootingwise (mid range jumper somewhat flat throughout when open or guarded) and Fish did not have his usual arc on his shot as well as lateral defensive movement. Fish also did not match up well to Boston's scheme and often was in no mans land in terms of positioning on the floor offensively and defensively. Again, his injuries played right into Boston's hands.

I strongly felt that in order for the Lakers to win it all, both these guys had to be at their best physically and mentally (If you noticed, I did not mention Odom and Gasol as my concerns. I looked at leadership instead). It just didn't work out that way. Overall, HEALTH is always a factor in basketball and always will be. In the end, it beats out talent on any given day.

I have no doubt that the Lakers team learned a great deal this past year. They just have to make sure that the next time they extend a hand on the court of play against an opponent (especially playoffs), pretend it does not EXIST and walk away. Also, NEVER apologize for your actions/game on the court (fouling hard when necessary, playing with a sense of arrogance, confidence in the interest of winning fair and square). Its a part of the game!!!! After all, isn't that what Boston did to us? We'll certainly find out come November.

Laker pride through adversity! Peace!

I'm not happy about not getting Posey. I assume we really didn't want him because we didn't seem too aggressive in going after him. I think he's worth 6 million a year and he could have been one of the sure, permanent fixtures in this second championship run of the Kobe era. Defense is stable. He could have given us that.

This passing had "Luke and Vlad" written all over it. Our Posey money was probably already spent on those two long contracts.

So if we wont give the full mid level to Posey who filled a specific, glaring defensive/veteran need, then who are we going to give it to? I can't think of anyone. Which make me think we're going to match Turiaf, sign Garbablabla with the bi annual and let most of the mid level go.

Hmmm. Maybe Kobe should start talking again. As soon as he plays nice-nice, Mitch's aggression vanishes.

Wes

Let's go C's!

Like I said in previous posts, nothing good lasts forever. Just ask your Celtics. The honorable Mr. James Posey himself made sure that no matter what KG, Pierce or anyone had to say to keep him in beantown, it was all about business! BUSINESS!!!! Like KG said, "Anything's possible!" A sad day in Boston ideed.

Let's get something straight in regards to your Kobe rants. Don't think that your beloved Shaq left LA because of Kobe's actions. Shaq's selfish business ways have always got him in trouble and will continue to do so. He is a self promoter in and outside of basketball. He now has developed this itch to bring people down on the basketball court to a higher degree with his comments and questionable antics (especially commenting on Hall of Fame players). Shameful! What has hurt him the most then and now is that he has NEVER had the ability to balance his self promoting ways with his play on the court consistently. He always relied on his rare size, talent and humor to deflect any ill will towards him. If I were the Suns management, I would keep a watchful eye on him. Shaq has disappointed many fans over the years with his careless remarks, especially in LA where he enjoyed winning 3 straight titles with Kobe. Yes, Kobe! Remember, he hid a lot of Shaq's own weaknesses as well (missed FT's, foul trouble) with clutch play of his own. It went BOTH ways on the court!

Furthermore, when times were tough for Shaq basketballwise, he always blamed others for his misfortunes (These actions are well documented in the media and with fans alike. Heck, even nightclubs for god sakes!). He's done it in Orlando, LA and Miami. Soon enough, Phoenix will be the next victim on his selfish list. Like I said, watchful eye for Suns management!

In my opinion, he needs to worry more about fixing his relationship with his family and getting the Suns out of a serious playoff funk while he can. He's aging by the minute. Then again, why should he worry? He's a darn millionaire! BTW, so is our Kobe! Laugh all you want like you always do.

Before I forget, how does POSEY'S Hornets jersey taste now you Celtic fan you? Championship teams NEVER stay the same homey. ONE and DONE in Boston baby!

Sir, your comments from here on out on this blog SHOULD and WILL have NO significant value to anyone, anymore. ZILCH!!! Some people learn the hard way about life and how it quickly changes, especially fans of the Celtics like YOU! Need I say anything further?

Laker pride through ADVERSITY baby! Peace!

P.S.- I noticed you haven't posted for a while. I thought you finally came to your senses and attended a summer class to brush up on your writing skills. I guess some things NEVER change or do they? Start learning!

This from Hoopsworld:

Obviously it's a long shot but the Lakers might consider giving up Jordan Farmar and Chris Mihm with Odom if they could land both Ron Artest and Kirk Hinrich. If Chicago were willing to give up perhaps Tyrus Thomas to the Kings, would Sacramento be willing to make a deal if they also get Farmar and Mihm?

Man oh man. I think I'd have to do that deal. To add 2 very qualified defensiive starters would be a boon for our title hopes.

Wes

Dear Chick Penberthy,

Last time I checked we were able to voice our opinions. Freedom of speech and all that. And anyway, isn't that what blogs are for?

GIVE FISH AN A! LAKERS ARE THE BEST! I LOVE TACOS!

This reader duly notes and appreciates all the K bros do for this blog. Thank you very much.

NO "A" FOR FISH NO PEACE!!!

ALL TOGETHER NOW
WE ARE THE FREAKIN LA LAKERS WINNERS OF 14 NBA TITLES. THE TEAM
WITH THE BEST WINNING PERCENTAGE IN NBA HISTORY. THE ONLY TEAM
WITH 3 HOF COACHES. THE ONLY TEAM TO APPEAR IN THE NBA FINALS IN
EVERY DECADE OF THE NBA'S EXISTENCE. THE TEAM WITH THE MOST
PLAYERS ON THE 50 GREATEST PLAYERS OF ALL TIME LIST(8). THE HOME
OF THE REIGNING AND FUTURE MVP KOBE BRYANT. THE HOME OF WILT
KAREEM, GEORGE MIKAN, MAGIC, ELGIN BAYLOR, THE LOGO(JERRY WEST),
SHAQ, PAT RILEY, JAMES WORTHY, BOB MCADOO, "BIG SHOT ROB HORRY"
GAIL GOODRICH, "DFISH " THE LEGENDARY SPORTSCASTER CHICK HEARN
COACHED BY 9 TIME – SOON TO BE 10 TIME TITLE WINNER PHIL (9RINGS) JACKSON &
OWNED BY THE BEST D@MN OWNER IN SPORTS DR. JERRY BUSS AND THE
ONLY ONE WHO CAN EVER DEFEAT OR DIVIDE US IS US
LAKERS TODAY LAKERS TOMORROW LAKERS FOREVER

This is the clearest example yet that for all the great things the K Brothers do, the grading system is out of whack.

Lamar and Pau were over-rated. Sure, their stats looked good. But their competitive toughness and mental alertness was often languishing when it should have been flourishing.

Fish, on the other hand, because of his age, was fighting diminishing skills, but his toughness and alertness never wavered.

Unlike baseball and football, basketball is a game where mental determination is often the difference maker. D-Fish is a prime example.

Fish is a competitor who brings everything he has to the game every time. That merits an "A" in my book.

B+ SAY WHAT!!!!

You heard about the Mamba who’s shot goes swish
Now listen to the saga of the great DFish
Mamba’s hit 81, yes this is true
But not even Mamba hit 3 in .02
The man is unassuming and a man of peace
When Dfish is around all the madness must cease.
When the Laker bandwagon was coming apart at the seams
And Kobe yes Kobe had begun to make us all scream
A call was placed and what do you know
A dysfunctional showtime became the New Lake Show.
There are so many things he does that don’t appear in the stats
That’s why DFish has the respect of all NBA fat cats.
There is only one man that can shut Kobe down
And all it takes is from DFish a frown.
The whole is greater than the sum of it’s parts
The Lakers are greater when DFish get the start.
His priorities are in order God, family and Lakers
This Man is for real there’s not one ounce of a faker.
When asked who’s the greatest Laker of all time
I started to say Mamba, then Magic good choices yes fine
But a man who sacrificed millions for the Love of family
Attended a daughters operation and stood tall for all to see
Then later the same day caught a two hour flight
Played in and hit the winning shot that night.
A man who convinced the Mamba to stop being an ass
Gave Farmer the confident to throw his no look pass
This man is a man who deserves more than a MOFO “B”
He deserves an A and the thanks of both you and me
So DFish thank you for more than helping the Lakers get so far
Thanks for showing if you stick with God you’ll always be a star.

DFISH YOU ARE A LAKER FOREVER! I LOVE YOU BROTHER

I dont think the B grade was fair for fisher and all. Without a doubt he's a leader and a definate upgrade from Smush last year. At least an A-

Kenny Thomas

Someone yesterday said they heard an interview that talked about how good Kenny Thomas is, and how he had gotten on the bad side of the coach in Sacramento, Reggie Theus, and hadn't gotten playing time. I think this might be true. I remember when Kenny played for the Rockets here. He did a great job coming off the bench. And when he came in, the Rockets would let him post up whoever was guarding him near the basket, and he would always find a way to muscle the ball into the basket. Noone seemed to be able to stop him. I think he played decent defense too. That's probably why he got the big contract in the first place, because he did play well.

So if whoever gets Artest has to take Thomas' "bad contract" they might not come out so bad after all. Especially if they need a SF and a PF.

Hmmmmmmmm............that might be us huh?

John

B+????? thats rediculous!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

he deserves at LEAST a B++ or an A-----

wow

I read the article and got the impression it was the Adidas rep who 'took' some very minor digs on Kobe and other players that don't rep his company. And that Arenas has a less structured approach than other stars. The reporter to me was highlighting the intense competition between the shoe makers, which is a real story.

I realize these grades are arbitrary, but Fisher deserves an A.

In the middle of all the negative press swirling around El Segundo last summer, Fisher was the first of a string of positives that flipped the franchise around. He reminded the city of what it looked like when the Lakers were winners and the team grew into that vision. Kobe might've been MVP at gametime, but in every minute outside of those 48 Fisher held the Lakers together and made them champs.

Good management knows how to put a group of players together. Great management knows how to put a group of men together. In this respect, Fisher might've been Kupchik's most important signing.

What up y'all!

Yes! Mamba24 sighting, it's been too long.

I kind of agree with the B+. Off the court the man deserves an A+, there's no denying that, but on the court he had his ups and downs. Classy guy, but might be seeing the twilight of his career in a couple of years. I'd love for him to stay on as an assistant of some sort, teach the young'ns to shoot those high arc-ing threes and last second desperation Hail Marys.

-bozz-

Mavericks have downgraded their offer on Artest to Brandon Bass and Jerry Stackhouse. It used to be Josh Howard. However, it will be fascinating to watch the combination of loony player and a loony owner. It'll be a rendevouz of Mr. twister and Mr. hurricane in the hard court. The result will be disaster along its path.

Dave M and Faith

Didn't know that Caner-Medley had a Greek League experience from the article on Hoopshype. While it is a debut of 1st draft pick Kevin Love and the sophomore year of Corey Brewer, it was Crawford, Karl, Mata-Real and the great difference Nik that spoiled the combo Bruin and Gator assault. Here is the story:

"Studs: Congratulations to Corey Brewer, who really turned around his performance after being criticized by many for his performance in Game 1. In this contest, he led the team with 19 points on 7-10 shooting. Much better. Nik Caner-Medley of the Lakers, an American player currently in the Greek league, has had a few nice games in a row now, leading the Lakers with 19 points and 6 rebounds to go along with that. Lorenzo Mata-Real also played well, scoring 12 points (4-6 shooting) and grabbing 7 rebounds"

~~ Bring in Nik and Lorenzo and hire A. C. Green to be their personal coach as well as Kurt Rambis to train them to be a banger and rebounding monsters. This is the Lakers future. Bye Mihm and VladRad, no room for laker foams.

Morning Guys,

If anybody has a link to that rumor of giving up LO, Farmar, and Mihm = Artest and Hinrich (spelling) I would love to read the article.

Elle, MrBarneyDangles, Jamie Sweet and who ever lives in the Los Angeles County. Email me eskrimakali@yahoo.com Let's do lunch next weekend.

Good Morning Sir Charles.
Whats up morning Crew?
Bozz you got to give Fish an A if for nothing else
than for the fact if he had not come back we would
not have this team as it is presently constructed.
But you are probably right about your comments.
Dammmmmmn! We got all these Doctors and multi-degreed
folks on here that it makes a commoner
such as my self kind of afraid to blog! LOL!
Doctor GiantSquid how are you sir?

Never mind guys. Wes J. Nixon did mention it was from Hoopsworld.

Fish deserves a big A.

I tend to agree with most of your grades given to players, but i have to say that Fish has been, ever since his first days on the Lakers, my favorite player in purple and gold.

The amount of love that Laker fans have for this guy, when he's not our best player or even a go to guy, tells you what he does for this team.

His intangibles alone earn an A from me, and i would say most Laker fans.

My only hope is that when Fish hangs up his uniform he puts on a suit and remains with the team.

Morning Charles.

Its not a rumor but Eric Pincus just thinking aloud. Here's the thoughts from the Hoopsworld article.

"As Amick suggests, the Lakers might need to "engage a third team in the deal." While multi-team trades are extremely rare, the Lakers would need to get a lot more than the unpredictable Artest if they're to give up Odom.

One player who the Lakers sought out when the Chicago Bulls had called for Kobe Bryant last summer was point guard Kirk Hinrich (LA also wanted Luol Deng and a number of other considerations). Hinrich has been linked by a number of sources this summer to the Lakers - but again LA isn't willing to part with Odom without getting significant value in return.

Chicago has been interested in Odom for a number of years. In the Eastern Conference, Odom would be one of the better power forwards. The Bulls apparently would love to add an unselfish post player who can rebound and pass like Odom."

If the Bulls and Lakers could come up with enough young prospects to appease the Kings - more than perhaps Linas Kleiza or Brandon Bass - maybe a three-team deal could come together.

Obviously it's a long shot but the Lakers might consider giving up Jordan Farmar and Chris Mihm with Odom if they could land both Ron Artest and Kirk Hinrich. If Chicago were willing to give up perhaps Tyrus Thomas to the Kings, would Sacramento be willing to make a deal if they also get Farmar and Mihm?

Charles,

Here is the link. The article gives great insight on why the lakers will not trade lamar. I want Lamar for Ron, but the article did convince me that the lakers are right not to trade Lamar. After also reading the Shaun Livingston is still recovering from his injury it makes sense not to let Lamar go in case if Bynum is still not ready.

The most convincing case about keeping Lamar is that he will relish his role as a fourth option. That alone should convince most bloggers wanting Ron that it might not work with him.

http://www.hoopsworld.com/Story.asp?story_id=9507

I'm the biggest Fisher fan there is and I think this was a fair grade. If we're going to penalize other guys for blowing it in the Finals, then that has to apply to Fisher too. We saw his numbers dip and watched Rondo do dances around him until he was switched to Ray Allen, who rained 3s on his head. Fish is integral to this team, but an A means he basically did no wrong. Like the K bros said, he had a horrible February (which I think started right after that 10-11 FG game in Memphis) and that probably knocked him down a bit as did his Finals performance.

Wes Nixon - You should be thrilled we're not spending $6 million a year on Posey, a nearly 32 year old role player. We need to trust the Lakers front office and assume that they know what's best for this team better than we do. And I don't see how we could take on Artest's AND Hinrich's contract. Trust me on this one - you don't want Hinrich running an offense anyway. It overwhelms him. I think the Bulls are placing him at the 2 this year for that very reason.

The Celtics only have 9 players under contract for next season right now, and although they have the three all stars, the rest of their roster is super thin. They basically return the same starters, and Big Baby and Leon Powe as the only returning bench players that gave them any sort of minutes last year. They're already at the luxury tax limit, so they have bird rights players and the exceptions to deal with. 6 players though? It's gonna be tough to put anyone else on that bench who'll make a difference for the money they have to spend. Eddie House already said he won't play for what they've offered him. PJ Brown is retiring. Posey is gone. Sam Cassell said he'll be back if the money is right, but the Celts won't pay him for more than a year, and he'll probably get more money from some stupid team like the Funs. I just can't see them adding much talent with the money they've got. Maybe Ricky Davis? He'll eat that team from the inside. Just a little thinking out loud.

It looks like they're gonna be putting a lot of miles on some old legs again next season.

Mamba24 Sighting!!!

Fatty thanks and one love!

Jamie Sweet thanks for the email reply!

Derik Fisher STINKS.

The guy only won championships riding Shack's back just like Starlet Kobe.

hahaahhahha

You "C" what I mean?

Fatty, Fatty, I know you are just a messenger, but nonetheless your gospel give chills and bad tummies for many of our Laker fans. You are giving away the favorites Farmar and Odom....they will not appreciate you for that. You're the messenger of doom. haha!

I'm a fence sitter and fairweather like you, whatever happens happen, I just can't stand the sight we are overpowered by other team mercilessly. We need revenge but not with Luke, Vlad and Mihm, it has be sturdy players than the laker foams. I want players who have the mentality of Genghis Khan who are low IQ nomads but will attack, slash, and pillage other team into submission with the supreme leadership of Kobe, Fisher, Pau and Drew. Attack, conquer and dominate!

Welcome Mamba24, you have been fishing for quite sometime, you missed the dissertations of geneticists and molecular scientist discussing their profession on Lakers Blog.

Marcus Camby hits the jackpot! Not only was he "insulted" by the trade... he was "disrespected"!!!

Yes! INSULTED and DISRESPECTED!!! The common man can relate, of course...

Did you all notice that in every hoop website they don't forget to mention the word Lakers? Even on talk sports radios or ESPN TV progamming, always mention the Lakers. It creates ratings, interest from the maddening crowd. Even on trades, try to cook a 3 team trade eventhough GM's have no plans or no knowledge of something of being hatched up but if Eric Pincus says so, it becomes a possibility. It creates discussions, Hoopsworld suddenly gave a Breaking News out of nowhere. It is the call of the times when rumors become hard fact news.

Fatty and Edwin jumped into it, Wow and Charles joined the fray now there the rumor got legs and arms in the Lakers Blog. I'm proud to be one of the gullible bloggers. LOL!

wow

Thank you for the link!

Guys -

I love fish as much as everyone else, but just because he's a good guy, good heart, says the right things, great in the locker room... doesn't mean he automatically deserves an A.

The guy has to deliver on the court, or it means nothing!!!

The grade is correct!

Keifo

Let's go L's!

George Karl interviewed at the Summer League shared some of your thoughts.

Some of his observations after being told the Lakers were soft by Snapper Jones and surely needed a trade.

"Soft? Not really. Lakers hit an emotional Celtics buzz saw in Boston. Then found themselves in a hole trying to catch up.

He didn't see near the same intensity from the Lakers as he did in the Western Con. Playoffs. To him, they looked really tired as a team."

Like you said, no excuses. But the Lakers have to analyze why they didn't play as well as they did earlier. Why were they tired and the Celtics apparently not?

I agree with Karl. The Lakers are not soft. Its just a convenient generalized media label that has been adopted by some fans.

I keep asking for specifics to the soft label and am still waiting. The answer for some here is when the Lakers are pushed they should fight back, even to the point of possibly being ejected from a game or suspended. That would be real smart, losing key players in the Championships. That's the oldest Celtic trick in the book, starting a fight and the other team loses a key player. (see Ralph Sampson, Houston) Not responding in kind takes more fortitude and is smarter. (see bad Lakers example on Rambis take down. Lakers lost cool. Lakers lost game. Lakers lost series) McHale still brags how easy the Lakers fell for that.

The Lakers were pushed around under the boards by everyone in the playoffs. That's not due to a lack of toughness, but a lack of Andrew Bynum.

Fisher's always been an A++++++++++ guy.

But we're not grading his manliness. Or his commitment. Or his principles. We're grading his on the court performance.

Did he provide leadership to our young corp of players? Yes.
Did he help bridge the gap between the team and it's petulant star?
Totally.
Did he bomb some tres that saved some games?
Oh yeah.
But he also lacked a penetration game for almost the entire year, even before he hurt his foot. His defense has slipped, he's not in place to draw as many charges as we've seen in the past. Can this be attritibuted to his bum wheel? Sure, but if the guy can't play at 100%, he shouldn't hurt the team by being stubborn.

That being said, Derek Fisher is the definition of the word hero. His love for his family is truly inspirational. His commitment to excellence in all facets of life is something that everyone can learn from. He played hurt for about 1/2 the year. He was a rock. Here's hoping he finishes it out in the purple and gold.

GO LAKERS!!!!!

Hi folks-

Glad to see so many people stick up for Fish, but in response, here's what I have to say:

A) I don't see much of a difference between a B+ and an A- (remember, in terms of percentages, you might be talking about a 90 vs. an 88).
B) on a C scale, a B+ is a very good grade.
C) In my estimation, when you factor in everything, from on-court performance to the stuff off it, Fisher comes in where I put him. Obviously his leadership was a huge boost to the team, but on the floor there were stretches where his play wasn't "A" level. He was generally pretty good, and honestly better than I thought he would be in extended minutes, but I didn't feel he was quite THAT good. (And, if you go back and read the comments during the season, neither did many of you- there were a lot of calls for Fish to get reduced time, or have Farmar start, etc. at various points of the year.)

This isn't intended to be a criticism. Like I said, I consider his work this season to be very good, and his value to the franchise as very high. I think the grade he got is a good one. If we were grading just on being an outstanding person, he'd get an A, but there's more to it than that (otherwise, Ronny and some others would have an A, too). It's fine to disagree, and it certainly doesn't bother me, but to quibble over the difference between an A- and B+ seems kind of silly to me. We're all in the same neighborhood.

BK

Good AM to you Mamba24

Its really good for the blog whenever you can flash your smile, even for a little bit. It sets the blog for a better tone that lasts throughout the day.

Hint- hint: Stop by more often.

Fatty - Chief disciple of the great Philosopher and the Biggest, Baddest, Buddha of them all, Phil Jackson

Let's gp C's

Whose on your team...oh yeah, the mercenary core that rode on the coattails of a dead man (red) has up and packed their bags and moved to 'greener' pastures. I hope you like waiting another 22 years for a chance at a title because the C's are 1 and done.

Peace.

Mamba24 !!! Did you hear all the hands clapping?

Edwin - Caner-Medley's kind of like Madsen but with a shooter's touch... and undersized hustle player at the 4, not afraid to bang at all. He's had some injuries and isn't alll that quick. Again, I'm not sure he could make the roster but I'd sure like to see him in camp. We're definitely going to need a physical player for backup minutes at that spot.

I've said it a bunch of times and I'll keep saying it. We don't need another 3 or another swingman. We need another PF, plain and simple (even more so with Rony most likely gone).

NO "A" FOR FISH NO PEACE!!!

BK! That secret Celtics jersey you've been wearing all season has finally been revealed!

APOLOGIZE, BK! APOLOGIZE!

APOLOGIZE OR EXPECT AN ENDLESS STRING OF "BAD BOY OF BASS FISHING" JOKES FOR THE NEXT 83 DAYS!

DEREK FISHER! FEARLESS LEADER AND LAKER FOR LIFE!

A+!

GO LAKERS!

Right on BK, it's all ephemeral anyhow.

No prob Charles.

Purple and Gold Reign: Maybe our mantra should be this song
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YdXQJS3Yv0Y
This has been one of my longtime favorite tunes and i love 'The greatest adventure'
Like Legolas and Gimli keeping score of orc heads busted, maybe we can have a Laker knocks down an opponent count next year?
I love this blog.
I love the Lakers.

Like 82 days left or something.

Sweet.

I feel bad for AK and BK, man you guys take these grades waaaaaay too seriously

Edwin Gueco"Welcome Mamba24, you have been fishing for quite sometime, you missed the dissertations
of geneticists and molecular scientist discussing their profession on Lakers Blog."

LOL. I know hello Edwin. I was somewhat awed by all the high powered talent bloggging. by the
way I have a a little twitch in my back, what's your opinion Dr.Gueco? LOL!

Mamba24... That DFish Poem put a tear in my eye... LoL..

Great great job..

All you Lakergirls whine and whine so much.

"A-" or "B+"?

What's the friggin difference?

You all lost.

Where was Fisher in the finals? Nowhere like Starlet Kobe to be found thanks in part to teh "C's" stiffling defense.

Fisher would be a nobdy, just like Starlet Kobe if either of them didn't ride Shack's back to those championships YEARS AND YEARS ago.

hahahahahahaahh

"Kobe can't do without me" --Shac.

BK (aka "The Bat Boy of Bass Fishing"),

"I don't see much of a difference between a B+ and an A- (remember, in terms of percentages, you might be talking about a 90 vs. an 88)."

Then if you don't see much of a difference, amend your grade and give him an A-!

NO A? NO PEACE!!!!

GO LAKERS!

Come on BK you know we agree with you, but we have
to have something to Blog about besides Kwames
Magnificent Calves.

none of these "trades" is going to happen. You can't just toss Odom into a trade with parts and say, "done!". Yeah right, what would the Laker's salary situation be, not to mention the scoring situation be if they got BOTH Hinrich and Deng? It makes no sense at all, but what does make sense is the use of the word "LAKERS" to draw in readers.... hmpf!

I'd love to get Deng but it seems the Lakers think Gasol has a good enough outside shot that Lamar could possibly play on that front unit, if he could develop any kind of reliable outside jumper, not even a 3, just an inside the arc shot, then Gasol could also move out on the other side of the court and spread the floor that way. It sure will be interesting to watch, I'll grant that...

If that's what the Lakers are looking at, Radmanovic has to get traded during the offseason, Walton is untradeable, Ariza obviously is going to be our Raja Bell and Odom and Kobe would take up the other minutes at SF, there's just no minutes for him. Otherwise, the Lakers will roll into training camp and have to make a trade at the beginning of the season, not something the Zen Master likes doing... unless it's getting a Gasol for a bag of chips! LOL!

By the way... I'm feeling INSULTED and DISRESPECTED... why? I don't know why...

Who's on the C's somebody asked?

Paul Pierce is only one of teh classiest players around.

KG is nothing but a class act.

Ray Allen is the same.

These guys sacrificed to WIN.

These guys sacrificed to win, not be SELIFSH like Kobe and Fisher.

hahahah

rob,

We take everything seriously here at Laker Nation. We're fanatics.

GO LAKERS!

I'd like to get Mamba24 to start a bandwagon petition the K brothers to reconsider Derek Fisher's grade.

Derek has been integral to three championships. More relevantly, without him we would not have gotten nearly as far as we did this last season. His heart, mentorship and the pride his connection to the threepeat squad gives to the kids lifted us up this season.

In my gradebook, he deserves nothing more than an A+. I'd settle for any kind of A.

PLEASE MAMBA24, you know this is like a diss on the whole organization. Come back and petition for a reconsideration of this egregious slander.

Go LAKERS!!

JAMIE SWEET:"Like 82 days left or something."

Aw shoot! I woke up to soon. Edwin here's the keys
time to go back and check the fish again

Jon K. LMAO! Stop it Jon! Stop it right now! LOL!

Dave M. Hands clapping you say. You mean all those
slaps upside my head were claps? LOL!

Fatty, Fishing been good man. Missed all of you though.
I even missed that **&^%$#& Lets go C or what ever his/her/it's name is.
I thought Toad would have BarBqued him over the 4th July. LOL! You're still
the King Fat man.

One Question. Series tied 3-3. Lakers down
by 2. .02 Seconds left. Who takes the last shot Ex?

The Green Bay Packers plan on retiring Brett Farvre'S jersey on the 1st game of the
season. The Green Bay Packers charge the Minnesota Vikings with tampering in
trying to sign Brett Farvre. Who do the Packers play in the first game of the season.
GET YOUR POPCORN!

I can't wait until summer vacation is over next month and Let's go C's goes back to being a sixth grader during the day.

I've never seen a more ignorant individual in my entire life. It's really hard to ignore.

Yet I starve.

Give me strength, Lord.

Hey Mamba24

So glad you're back. Can we start some summertime bandwagons?

Let's go Cs
Sooooooooooooo, you're going to suit up Doc Rivers and Danny (whiny face...AKA the Original Face) Ainge and you've got a starting five.
Let's see, you could lure Bill Russell out of retirement with a max MLE + veterans exception and you've got a six man roster. If you could find enough money to feed his family i think Latrell Sprewell can be found in an Atlanta auto body shop pushing his Spree-Wheels. There's seven guys. Kevin Mchale isn't REALLY doing anything but using the Wolves as a proving ground for future Celtics, so there's 8 guys. Well you're just a couple of guys away from a 12 man roster and you'll have plenty of time to scout overseas.

One and done, bud. One and done.

GO LAKERS!!!!!

haahhhaahahhahah (annoying bad laughter typing, just for fun)

When I watched the D-Fish exit interview I was amazed at how he just looked and talked like a future NBA head coach.

How he talked about not being satisfied and what the players needed to do to win a Championship.

I hope the Lakers reserve a spot on their coaching staff for him. Don't make the same mistake by letting BScott become a head coach elsewhere.

Jon-

I'm not changing the grade, so feel free to continue your campaign (though, honestly, I'm not exactly sure how mocking the idea that Andy and I were paid to write a book for a major publishing house is supposed to be a zing...).

BK

Lord Mamba24,

"I have a a little twitch in my back, what's your opinion Dr.Gueco?"

Based on your DNA, your great grandfather suffered the same ailment. It has something to do with the disappearance of cartillage due to aging (similar to problems of Luke and Mihm) and ur high calorie NY diet as well as high stress last blogging season. You often get excited write poems, rap and create unworthy awards. I say rub a little Ben Gay from your NuYok minstress meanwhile, use your left hand in throwing that rod. will send you the bill from quack Ed.

*_________________________________*
AK & BK We love ya's but please change
that B+ to an A BANDWAGON
*_________________________________*
(01) JOHNNYP. - Owner & Driver
(02) ELLE - B+, B+? That is just wrong
(03) LONGTIMELAKERLOVER - in my book he's pure A class standard
(04) DICE8UP - The FISH was an A! Period
(05) LAKERFAN24 - Fisher is a rock.
(06) FAITH - The very fact that having him means we no longer have Smush Parker deserves an A!
(07) HAPPY CAMPER - By popular demand, the blogmunity has just raised Fish's grade to an A.
(08) JON K. - Fisher deserves an "A". Anything less than that is completely inappropriate.
(09) GIANTSQUID - Fisher's very presence in the locker room deserves an A in and of itself
(10) FATTY - My book has him as a solid A.
(11) SPOKANLAKAFAN - Fish gets an A.
(12) EDWIN GUECO - Elle and Longtime Lakerlover are right, Fisher deserved an A.
(13) PSYCHEDLAKERGIRL - I am with Elle and LLL - easily an A. All class, all the time
(14) DUKE - You've never done it, but I implore you: Make history. Revise Fish's grade. A
(15) CDUB0512 - That DFish Poem put a tear in my eye... LoL..
(16) BRET - His intangibles alone earn an A from me, and i would say most Laker fans.
(17) KC_NOYPI - Fish deserves a big A.
(18) DWIGHT - I realize these grades are arbitrary, but Fisher deserves an A.
(19) RICK FRIEDMAN - Fish is a competitor who brings everything he has to the game every time.
That merits an "A" in my book.
(20) LONGTIMELAKERLOVER - GIVE FISH AN A! LAKERS ARE THE BEST! I LOVE TACOS!
(21) BENJAMIN - A grave injustice has occurred and we of the blog will not stand for it.
(22) GREEKDUDE - he deserves at LEAST a B++ or an A-
(23) MARCUS BASSETTE - Without a doubt he's a leader and a definate upgrade from Smush
last year. At least an A-
(24) FAT YELLOW PURSE - B+??????????? A- is more like it.

Byron will be back. He'll be the Laker head coach once Phil leaves. I'm gonna go ahead and make that assertion with no evidence whatsoever, Just a feeling that The Buss family will go and get him. Think Bynum in his prime, with BScott and Dfish on the bench. PJ will move to the front office and take over for Mitch after the first couple of titles.

NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE

Mamba24,
".02 Seconds left. Who takes the last shot Ex?"

Do you mean 2 hundredths of second, 2 tenths of a second, or 2 seconds,? If one of the first two, then the only shot that would be allowed would be a tip-in, so I would say (in this order) Bynum, Kobe, Ariza, Lamar. If it is two seconds remaining, then probably Kobe, Sasha, Bynum, Fisher.

NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE
NO "A' FOR DFISH NO PEACE! THIS WILL NOT CEASE

TIME TO END THE ACADEMIC TYRANNY OF THE BAT BOY OF BASS FISHING!!!!!!!!

GO LAKERS!

Dave M.

You are right, he had a stress frature and played in Germany, in Spain and in NBDL and he excelled in all tournaments. This guy in not a neophyte, he has the attributes of a Pro. Here is additional info on Nik:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nik_Caner-Medley

And a You Tube of his left hand slam dunk with Terrapins:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xhJbDlFUl2Q&
feature=related

If you look at the play by play report on the first post, he got a technical foul in yesterday's game. This kid has a heart. Mitch, put him on the D'Fenders together with Mata Real, Crawford and Jefferson. Give them proper training with the Laker greats and turn them into monster like Drew Bynum. This a cost saving scheme for the Buss Family rather than chasing high-priced athletes, why not create a zoo for potentials? feed them well, train them and threaten those lackadaisical veterans who are plain lazy to achieve. Mix these underachieving veterans with nursery kids and preach Read To Achieve. LOL!

BK (aka "The Bat Boy of the Bad Boy of Bass Fishing"),

YOUR REIGN OF TERROR HAS COME TO AN END!

LAKER NATION HAS JUST BURNED YOUR REPORT CARD, PUT A DUNCE CAP UPON THEY SUN BURNED HEAD FROM BASS FISHING AND STUCK YOU IN THE CORNER!

BOLDLY I WALK TO THE CHALKBOARD AND WRITE "DEREK FISHER: A".

AND LAKER NATION CHEERS!

DEREK FISHER, YOUR HONOR SHALL NOT BE BESMIRCHED BY THE BAT BOY OF BASS FISHING!

NO A? NO PEACE!!!!!!!!

GO LAKERS!

EDWIN STOP IT! LOL! STOP IT NOW MAN! LMAO!
DAMMMMMN! I MISSED THIS BLOG!
LAKERS FOREVER!!!!!!

Hey - I like the idea of a trade with Chicago. I'd love to get Hinrich for Farmar+one of our albatross contracts. Fact is that both Walton and Rad are due less over the rest of their contracts when compared to Kirk. So we'll be giving an effective/improving back-up PG who'll play hard for Skiles, clear a little bit of their logjam at PG and save them money - what's not to like?

Heck, if we're not planning to match Ronny, I'd sign-and-trade him, Vlad and Farmar for Kirk. Captain Kirk would be good on this team - good defender, good 3 pt-shooter and another ball-handler. Plus, it allows us to keep Fish fresh for the play-offs.

Luke/Vlad+Farmar+Mihm for Kirk - Yes we can, YES WE CAN!!!

BK,

It take a man to admit when he is wrong.

Your apology is accepted.

A.

GO LAKERS!

Mamba24

Although I would have given Fish an A, BK is obviously and deservedly allowed to have his own opinion. His analysis is basically spot on and whether Fish deserves an A or B+ basically depends on how much weight is given to Fish's off court contributions. BK certainly gives it it's due respect. Some of see it as possibly saving the franchise (I mean saving it from years in the realm of Clipperdom, sorry Jon). But that could obviously be a stretch. Given the way the bandwagon is titled, I'd prefer not to be on it.

I would like to start a JUST SAY NO TO PCP (I mean Artest) bandwagon. If you choose to do so, a Pro-Artest bandwagon should also be set up simultaneously.

*______________________________*
JON K FOR KING OF THE WORLD
BANDWAGON - HIP HIP HORRAY
*_____________________________*
(01) MAMBA24 - DRIVER

hariyahu -
As AK and BK have explained, the Lakers cannot sign and trade Ronny now that he has signed an offer sheet with the Warriors. If the Lakers match, I believe they cannot trade him until December 15th, as stipulated by the CBA.

I know the salary cap is totally confusing, but this website is unbelievably good at explaining every question you could possibly have about the rules of the most recent Collective Bargaining Agreement...

http://members.cox.net/lmcoon/salarycap.htm#28

Enjoy!

Maybe I'll head over to a Bass Fishing website until this whole grade changing thing blows over.

one porblem.

I hate bass fishing web sites, and bass fishing television as well. In fact the only thing I like about bass fishing is the bass. Unfished, as it were. Swimming around in the water, what cool bass.

But seriously, don't you guys have jobs...why do we care about a grade from a blog anyhoo? Aren't we all getting a little worked up over this. Or maybe we feel like we are angering the Derek. What delicacy would the Derek like prepared for him today? Perhaps the Derek would like a footsie rub? Oh, the Derek looks unhappy, perhaps we should throw a vestigal virgin in the volcano so the Derek will look favorably on us!

Just funnin'.

But seriously, can't we go back to our earlier posts about orcs and such
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YdXQJS3Yv0Y
seriously, this song is GREAT.

GO LAKERS!!!!!

*___________________________*
Just say NO to Artest as a Laker
- Bandwagon
*__________________________*
(01) GiantSquid - Owner & Driver
*___________________________*
Just say Yes to Artest as a Laker
Bandwagon
*___________________________*
(01) MAMBA24 - Driver

MAMBA24

Are you seriously gonna start this bandwagon stuff in the off season? I'm just saying.

Puddle,

"I know the salary cap is totally confusing, but this website is unbelievably good at explaining every question you could possibly have about the rules of the most recent Collective Bargaining Agreement... http://members.cox.net/lmcoon/salarycap.htm#28"

There's actually a link to the site in our "categories" section on the right side of the blog. I would also encourage people to check it out.

AK

All grading aside, isn't it great to just have Derek back in LA? Fish was the most important acquisition of the year. His leadership and presence on the team was priceless. He was definitely the guy that Kobe leaned on especially in the beginning of the season.

On the floor, he sets a defensive/hustle presence and a pretty solid jumper as well. There were a few times, especially in the playoffs where I felt as though he wasn't in the flow of the offense. Particularly following a sub par performance, he would hoist up shots early instead of getting his shots within the offense. He just isn't the floor general that the "grade A" PGs (Paul, Deron, Nash, etc) are. So I'd give him a B (84%) for his performance on the floor.

His locker room presence definitely deseves an A (94%), so average that and you get 89%, wich is a solid B+. I think this is a great grade for Fish, infact, it's an improvement from his season in Utah IMO. Plus it leaves less room for improvement for next year, and Fish could definitely tighten up his game. If he moves up to an A-/A PG, we will take home the O'Brien. I think the love/appreciation for Fish combined with the propensity of these individuals to get good grades has blinded some of the scholars on this blog.

FIRE32 WHAT IS IT YOU ARE JUST SAYING SIR!

Fire32 don't hate the messenger. But I guess I'll go back to Fishing. By now!