All hail the monkey king!
I've seen too little of Sun Yue's game to know whether he has truly earned a title that declares absolute royalty over all monkeys -- although wisely, he avoided a claim encompassing all primates, which, given how many species are involved, is exceptionally bold -- but "Monkey King" would be Sun Yue's preferred nickname. More important, the un-preferred nickname would be any version of "The Chinese Magic Johnson," a tag thrust upon him by some media and fans. The nickname is a nod to Sun Wukong, a mythical monkey hero from the Chinese novel "Journey to the West." And below is Wikipedia's list of Sun Wukong's powers. If Yue can do even a quarter of these activities, dude is an absolute steal as a second-round pick.
Sun Wukong possesses incredible strength, being able to lift his 13,500 jīn (8,100 kg) Ruyi Jingu Bang with ease. He also has superb speed, traveling 108,000 li (54,000 kilometers) in one somersault. Sun knows 72 transformations, which allows him to transform into various animals and objects; he is, however, shown with slight problems transforming into other people, since he is unable to complete the transformation of his tail. He is a skilled fighter, capable of holding his own against the best generals of heaven. Each of his hairs possesses magical properties, and is capable of transforming into a clone of the Monkey King himself, or various weapons, animals, and other objects. He also knows various spells in order to command wind, part water, conjure protective circles against demons, freeze humans, demons, and gods alike, to name a few. Unlike most gods, he earned his immortality through battling heaven and earth.
AK
"Sun Wukong" Soon-Wu-Kong!
Posted by: Charles | September 10, 2008 at 04:00 PM
THE MONKEY KING!
I may actually become a major Sun Yue fan now.
THE MONKEY KING! How awesome is that?
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | September 10, 2008 at 04:10 PM
Yue has to make the team before he gives himself a nickname. Sasha didn't come from Slovenia and immediately demand to be called the machine. Yue will realize that nicknames come with time.
I think Farmar needs a cool nickname, any ideas?
Lamar = Laker for Life
GO LAKERS
Posted by: mrbarneydangles | September 10, 2008 at 04:11 PM
"I think Farmar needs a cool nickname, any ideas?"
The guy with big ears that's still on the team.
The Black-cent mixed baller.
Better than Luke.
Javaris' threatened me.
The guy who could use Soul Glow.
Needs to drive to the basket more.
Finally, "The Monkey Prince."
Posted by: Charles | September 10, 2008 at 04:28 PM
LAMAR ODOM = LAKER 4 (the rest of his) LIFE
along with...
Bynum
Kobe
Fish
... wish I could say Pau but who knows
Posted by: DEREK | September 10, 2008 at 04:30 PM
"Each of his hairs possesses magical properties, and is capable of transforming into a clone of the Monkey King himself,"
Dibs on sweeping the floor of the barbershop next time he gets a haircut.
Posted by: exhelodrvr | September 10, 2008 at 04:30 PM
mrbarneydangles,
"Yue has to make the team before he gives himself a nickname. Sasha didn't come from Slovenia and immediately demand to be called the machine. "
Right you are, brother, UNLESS THAT NICKNAME IS "THE MONKEY KING!"
I don't care what you say, that name is sticking!
Regarding Farmar, what do you think of the nickname "The Spark Plug"?
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | September 10, 2008 at 04:35 PM
"I think Farmar needs a cool nickname, any ideas?"
Shlomo Dumbo
Posted by: "Pig" Miller | September 10, 2008 at 04:37 PM
Worst ever Framar nickname:
Pharmarcutical -- beuuase of the clinic he puts on every game. cricket ... cricket .... cricket....
Posted by: HmrHed | September 10, 2008 at 04:42 PM
NICKNAME ROLL CALL!!!!!
Kobe Bryant = The Black Mamba
Pau Gasol = The Spaniard/The Surgeon/El Gato
Andrew Bynum = The Beast
Lamar Odom = The Package
Derek Fisher = 0.4
Luke Walton = Cool Hand Luke
Vladimir Radmonovich = Rad Vlad
Trevor Ariza = The Animal
Jordan Farmar = The Spark Plug/The Tazmanian Devil
Sasha Vujacic = The Machine/The Destroyer
Chris Mihm = The Texas Tree/The Oak
Josh Powell = To Be Decided Later
Sun Yue = The Monkey King
Dwayne Mitchell = To Be Decided Later
Coby Karl = The Real Kobe/Swish
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | September 10, 2008 at 04:46 PM
Looks like Joey Crawford got signed. Probably not to a guaranteed contract, but who knows.
http://tinyurl.com/692qxm
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | September 10, 2008 at 04:48 PM
hey hey i was first to report this! :)
Posted by: thekobebryantblitz | September 10, 2008 at 05:04 PM
'The Monkey King' and 'The Machine'. I see a sitcom in their future.
Posted by: Brandon Hoffman | September 10, 2008 at 05:28 PM
that was a long time ago Jon K. LOL! Don't slack off :p
Posted by: thekobebryantblitz | September 10, 2008 at 06:18 PM
AK,
Last night I watched the new DVD release of The Forbidden Kingdom, the first martial arts flick to star both Jet Li and Jackie Chan. The story line of the movie centers on the Monkey King so perhaps Sun Yue is exercising his inner kung-fu to get ready to battle in the NBA.
>>>>>Jet Li and Jackie Chan join forces to create the greatest epic of them all –
>>>>>The Forbidden Kingdom. As ancient Chinese warriors, they must train and
>>>>>mentor a 21st century kung-fu fanatic who’s been summoned to fight a
>>>>>centuries-old battle and free the imprisoned Monkey King.
While I think what Sun Yue was trying to do was unsaddle himself from the Chinese Magic Johnson nickname out of respect for Ervin as well as to avoid the inevitably unfavorable comparisons no matter how well he does. Give Sun some credit for making a smart move.
While I was disappointed in general with The Forbidden Kingdom (more of a Disney family film although some great kung-fu), the portrayal of the Monkey King in the opening scenes of the movie really captures the true essence of the legend, primarily that the Monkey King is an downright rascal and rebel who loves showboating and taunting his rivals and fears nothing. The Monkey King is the worlds’ best stick fighter and could only be defeated by deceit.
By choosing the Monkey King as a nickname, Sun Yue is giving us an inside glimpse as to what to expect when he comes to camp and it ain’t going to be your grandfathers Chinaman. Think more Bruce Lee, Jet Li, or Chow Yun Fat all the way. Make way for the Monkey King. Sun Wukong! This is going to be a fun, exciting, and memorable year for Lakers fans.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | September 10, 2008 at 06:32 PM
Doing a little research for you Laker Tom and found out something interesting for Sun Yue or Sun Wukong. During the Olympics games he averaged 2.5 assists which should be the primary statistic for point guards. His was the leading assists guy on the Chinese team (and he even alternated being a point guard and a small forward) and had higher assists averages than Kobe (2.1 assists), Dwyane (1.9 assists), and was less than 0.3 assists from Deron Williams (2.8 assists). If his defense turns out to be true then he could really be the Sun Wukong (Defense) than the Chinese Magic Man. He could really be the Lakers Toni Kukoc, they are similar heights (6'9 for Sun and 6'10 for Toni) and plus he weighs more than Toni (205 for Sun and 195 for Toni). Plus Toni was drafted in the 2nd Round just like Sun. So perhaps a better comparison instead of Michael Cooper would be:
Toni Kukoc possibly (he certainly has the potential) with Eric Snow defense.
-blitz
Posted by: thekobebryantblitz | September 10, 2008 at 07:17 PM
AK,
Following up on my earlier post, The Forbidden Kingdom was a big hit in China despite the fact that the movie was designed for Western audiences. It took in $21M in the first 10 days. It’s a pretty good bet that Sun Yue saw the movie and Jet Li’s portrayal of Sun Wukong in the week or two before his decision to choose the Monkey King as his new nickname.
Studios tried to hide the fact that it was Jet Li playing the role of the Monkey King in the movie’s opening scene, where he has a fabulous mountain top fight in the clouds against hundreds of heavenly soldiers, but word leaked out and everybody was eager to see Jet Li’s version of the Monkey King, a role well reprised by many Chinese famous actors over the years. Li also acts as himself portraying the character the Silent Monk as well in the movie.
You should ask Sun in your first interview of him whether Jet Li’s Sun Wukong was what made him choose the Monkey King as a nickname. And if he is going to act like Jet Li’s Monkey King. Here is a YouTube of the movie intro with Jet Li as the Monkey King - with a lot of attitude. LOL.
http://tinyurl.com/6rnsmn
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | September 10, 2008 at 07:18 PM
LMFAO at "better than Luke" that nickname could apply to a whole host of players now on the team.
Posted by: Elle | September 10, 2008 at 07:18 PM
blitz,
Thanks for the research. I’m really excited about the message that Sun Yue is sending with his choice of Sun Wukong as his nickname. I am sure his choice and the fact that the Forbidden Kingdom just opened in China are no coincidence. Jet Li’s Monkey King sort of fits the image I have of Sun as a player who has been held back by the constraints of playing on the Chinese National Team and may blossom in the NBA. If you watch Jet Li as the Monkey King in the YouTube, you can see that the character is a hot dog who relishes in the behind the back pass and dunking the ball or blocking the shot. Whether Sun Yue could adjust to in-your-face NBA style play or be another passive and unaggressive player from China was always my big worry. His adoption of the Monkey King as his moniker is telling me not to fret.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | September 10, 2008 at 07:27 PM
Charles-
The monkey prince? hahaha thats pretty funny but I think Farmar is the PG king. I really look for Farmar to "breakout" this year. He was on the right pace last year but got a little too comfortable with the three. If Farmar can find a balance between hitting the open three and using his 40 inch vert to attack and finish at the rim then Farmar should be good. He also needs to distribute the ball more (he shoots a lot) and play some decent D.
Personally I think his nickname should be J smoooooth hahaha. He just seems like a sweet talker. He also has some pretty cool and smooth passes, especially with Bynum in the lineup. I like his flash, he never hesitates to throw in a playground move when the appropriate time presents itself.
Lamar = Laker for Life
GO LAKERS
Posted by: mrbarneydangles | September 10, 2008 at 07:27 PM
WALTON GIVES BYNUM A RAVE REVIEW
http://tinyurl.com/5lgt7j
Posted by: Xodus | September 10, 2008 at 07:35 PM
As long as they're not going for "got paid more than Luke"...we got enough of those in the league lol.
Posted by: Faith | September 10, 2008 at 07:40 PM
Jordan does have a nickname...
the Farm.
As in "don't sell the farm" lol
Posted by: Faith | September 10, 2008 at 07:44 PM
Speaking of Luke Walton, here's some info news:
http://tinyurl.com/5lgt7j
He gives a great review of Andrew during a pick up game. Said Andrew looked great and ready to go for the season.
http://tinyurl.com/5vlopn
Looks like that ankle will take a bit of time to completely heal by Mid October he says it will be 100% healed. If it took that long for Luke to recover from ankle surgery (back in July 18th), one has to wonder if GINOBILI! will return soon enough, if GINOBILI! has the same recovery time as Luke does then GINOBILI! won't be back on the court till like December and won't be 100% until next year perhaps.
-blitz
Posted by: thekobebryantblitz | September 10, 2008 at 07:58 PM
Xodus,
Don't get too excited now, Karl. You're starting to get over the top, lol. jk. Thanks for the link.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | September 10, 2008 at 08:20 PM
Luke inherited two things from his dad!
1.Bad feet
2.Slow healers
Posted by: chuck23 | September 10, 2008 at 08:47 PM
If Sasha had called himself the machine before earning it, we woulda been sayin where's the machine's warranty.
So I ask you people, what the ... does one need to get a nick name, what's the requirements? Obviously you don't have to be a starter (Sasha), so can you be like the 12th man on the team, cuz right now I think that's what Sun Yue is? Does a billion people in your back pocket advance your status? Anyway who is Sun Yue besides some tall guard from China who apparently is the ChineseMagicMonkeyKing against those in scrubville.
And let me say that I luv Mitch's move to sign him, marketing wise. Plus Bynum worked out so who knows maybe you get lucky 4 years later. However, I haven't heard him in a press conference or anything. Come on, you on the Lakers now, talk trash like Mbenga did. The point is, brotha you better bring you A game- cuz you you got Bruce Lee(Kobe), Tony Jaa(Bynum), Jackie Chan(Gasol), and the real Jet Li(Lamar) as your teamates. And you lookin like Bruce Li right about now.
This guy is young and he's got the opportunity of a lifetime with the Lakers. Fish is the starter by legendary default and Farmar is backup. The job is yours if you want it, all you need to do is follow the dedication of your peers (byunum/sasha) and you could be the greatest chinese player ever to play the game. I know its a tall order, cuz Yao ming aint no slouch. But, your on the biggest hollywood stage and the position is ready for a new Monkey King. Go Sun Yue, Go lakers!
P.S. Hey Vince (Young), payback is a mutha- go USC and UCLA!
Posted by: johnnyboy | September 10, 2008 at 08:54 PM
BRANDON HEATH!!!!!
http://tinyurl.com/62lq64
Don't know much about the guy, but I'm excited something to talk about other than Kobe's pinky or Sun Yue's nickname.
AK/BK, Do you guys know anything about this guy/heard about him before?
Posted by: laker hopeful | September 10, 2008 at 09:01 PM
Thanks for the Walton info guys.
I actually have high expectations for Luke this year. I have always liked how he does all the "little things" and the fact that he's from San Diego. I think he just had a really bad season last year. While I don't see him throwing up monster numbers I see Luke having a good assist/rebounding/defensive season. If Luke can get back to hitting the open three in the corner that would be a huge plus. Pretty much Luke's responsibility when he gets in the game is to not screw up. Hopefully Luke can shed the Puke nickname next year and be respectable, I'm sure he will be.
Lamar = Laker for Life
GO LAKERS
Posted by: mrbarneydangles | September 10, 2008 at 09:06 PM
lol, LakerTom
Posted by: Xodus | September 10, 2008 at 09:13 PM
Brandon Heath is pretty legit. I'm from San Diego so I remember watching him play a lot at SDSU. I'm pretty sure he went to Westchester High with Ariza and Evan Burns. He isn't anything spectacular but he is very quick and good at distributing the ball. If I remember correctly he doesn't shoot that often or that well, I don't remember him taking any threes. I would be beyond shocked if he made the team but he will definitely do a solid job pushing Farmar and Yue during camp.
Lamar = Laker for Life
GO LAKERS
Posted by: mrbarneydangles | September 10, 2008 at 09:18 PM
I actually just looked at his stats and he was a decent scorer (I still don't remember him shooting from outside often). But yea, he is very quick and very strong around the rim, I remember he had a good handle and would lay the ball up for most of his points. He also gets a lot of steals.
Lamar = Laker for Life
GO LAKERS
Posted by: mrbarneydangles | September 10, 2008 at 09:22 PM
Laker Hopeful,
I vaguely remember Brandon Heath when he was at SDSU, but nothing specific. My guess is he's there for camp purposes only.
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | September 10, 2008 at 09:37 PM
"Odom didn't have issues until the finals so he played good "D" and contributed nicely until. The Celts were not a good match up for him."
Thing is he's been playing the 4 not the 3 ever since his Miami days. Odom in like bizarro Matrix. Matrix can defend the 3, but his offensive skills and shooting are too raw for the position. Odom has great offensive skills for the 3, but has always struggled to play the position defensively and there is little reason at present to believe it will be different now when he's several seasons removed from playing there and bulkier due to the needs of the position he's played in that time.
"In the western confrence there is no 3 other than Artest (who will most likely guard kobe) that can give him problems."
The problem isn't offense, it's defense and there are several 3's in the league that can give him trouble on that end. Notice how Phil had little interest in using him against Pierce despite what he was doing to the Lakers?
Posted by: BUTLER | September 10, 2008 at 09:51 PM
mrbarneydangles,
I agree with you that Luke could still be a valuable contributor on this team. As it stands now, below is how I would rank players as far as minutes they will play this year. The fact that Luke is ranked 11th really speaks for the quality depth of this roster. Same with Chris Mihm at 12th (assuming he is fully recovered). Unlike Sun Yue, Josh Powell, or Coby Karl, Luke and Chris have both shown they are capable of playing NBA quality basketball. If either of them recovers their best game, they could easily move up the ladder and get more PT. Actually, they are pretty impressive for your 11th and 12th players. Lamar is still 4th most important player.
(01) Kobe Bryant
(02) Andrew Bynum
(03) Pau Gasol
(04) Lamar Odom
(05) Jordan Farmar
(06) Derek Fisher
(07) Sasha Vujacic
(08) Trevor Ariza
(09) Vladimir Radmanovic
(10) Sun Yue
(11) Luke Walton
(12) Chris Mihm
(13) Josh Powell
(14) DJ Mbenga
(15) Coby Karl
It’s going to be a fun season.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | September 10, 2008 at 10:02 PM
I'm afraid I don't know much about Brandon Heath... nor do I expect to have the time to learn. But it'll be one more NBA team than I'll ever be cut from.
BK
Posted by: Brian Kamenetzky | September 10, 2008 at 10:11 PM
"The problem isn't offense, it's defense and there are several 3's in the league that can give him trouble on that end. Notice how Phil had little interest in using him against Pierce despite what he was doing to the Lakers?"
Correct, Kobe at the 3 means more offense at the cost of defense. On offense not many Small Forwards are as fast as Kobe. On defense however bigger small forwards like Carmelo and Lebron can give him trouble since they are more bigger than him. Kobe proved he can slow down Small Forwards like Pierce in Game 6 (3-13 shooting) but his offense really went down due to the extra work of guarding small forwards. Same thing with Jordan, Phil knew Jordan loved playing 3 due to better offense but as great as Jordan's defense was he was at a disadvantage too against elite Small Forwards.
"Thing is he's been playing the 4 not the 3 ever since his Miami days. Odom in like bizarro Matrix. Matrix can defend the 3, but his offensive skills and shooting are too raw for the position. Odom has great offensive skills for the 3, but has always struggled to play the position defensively and there is little reason at present to believe it will be different now when he's several seasons removed from playing there and bulkier due to the needs of the position he's played in that time."
Actually both Shawn and Lamar are the same. Lamar is better off at defense at Small Forward than at Power Forward. At offense both of them go down when they play Small Forward due to being more matched up athletically wise to Small Forwards. Being stronger and working out to be quicker will help Lamar become a better player overall once he becomes a Small Forward again with stints at Power Forward for rotations.
Posted by: thekobebryantblitz | September 10, 2008 at 10:17 PM
Brandon Heath will be probably seen as a camp body and will probably be cut so don't expect much from him.
Laker Tom,
Jordan Farmar over Derek Fisher?? Derek will still get a wee little bit more time over Jordan since Derek is the more perfect match for the offense and is much better at defense (not to mention he hasn't wilted so far against Deron Williams). Jordan though if he doesn't wilt mentally again and his spot up shooting combined with his defense improves significantly then there would be no reason for him to get more time than Derek.
-blitz
Posted by: thekobebryantblitz | September 10, 2008 at 10:22 PM
blitz,
>>>>>Jordan Farmar over Derek Fisher?
Yes, in minutes played but Derek will still start. I think that we will run more, hence more time for Farmar, and that Phil will limit Derek’s time to keep him fresher for the playoffs. While the injury was a factor, Fish did fade considerably in the playoffs this year. We will need his vet leadership and clutch shooting in the playoffs so it makes sense that we ration his PT during the season. It will also give Farmar a leg up on transition and maybe even Sun Yue some quality minutes here and there. Anyway, that’s just my take off the top of my head. It’ll be fun seeing how the roster works out through the season. I think we still have a lot of young guys who are going to take their games to the next level next year, making the Lakers much better than the media and so-called experts predict. Think of a repeat in the growth we saw last year in Kobe and Drew alone. Anyway, see you guys in the A.M. Go, Lakers!!!
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | September 10, 2008 at 10:39 PM
LakerTom's minute list looks like a wish list based on talent and potential. It is something that we could work towards at the end of the season if everything progresses in an ideal scenario for us fans.
To begin the season, Lamar, D. Fish and Vlad Rad will likely be higher due to experience and...well Phil, basically. Bynum and Ariza will move down and have to work their way up. You may recall that Bynum averaged about 29 minutes a game when healthy last season, and we still have no real idea of what Ariza can do.
I'm certainly someone who hopes that those two young, talented freak-athletes can fully realize their potential and play big minutes for us this season, even if everyone else is healthy. They'll certainly get a shot and Bynum seems like a lock in my mind.
The good thing is that if we can avoid injury (knock on wood) within reason, we should have tremendous depth and the luxury of playing with a lot of different lineups.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Cameron | September 10, 2008 at 10:48 PM
As the NBA preseason about to begin, the freeway series is looming in the horizon. Congratulations to Mr. Art Moreno's Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, they just sealed the American League West. Dodgers are also peaking while Lakers Blog is learning chinese as their superstitions for the coming season is also peaking up. Hopefully, the chinese Wang Tong Luk would be better than the american Walton, Luke.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | September 10, 2008 at 10:55 PM
Westchester Comets stand up!!!!!!!!!!!
B. Heath played on a Westchester squad that won state back in 2002, I think. Here's who was on that squad:
Brandon Heath
Trevor Ariza
Hassan Adams
Amir Johnson
So they had a decent team. Top 10 nationally as well.
But yeah, more than likely a practice body for camp and a potential add to the D-Fenders after pre-season to compete with Karl, Crawford, Mitchell, and Yue.
Posted by: ATL Laker Fan | September 10, 2008 at 11:15 PM
Hey Blogsters....
Somebody asked what the players have been up to this summer...Elie Seckbach reports:
http://tinyurl.com/56wffo
and Luke: "Larry Bird was my favorite player growing up" WORST ANSWER EVER!!!
Posted by: Bobie | September 10, 2008 at 11:43 PM
Guys who I think will end up in Defenders:
Crawford and Heath.
Mitchell will probably be cut.
Posted by: thekobebryantblitz | September 10, 2008 at 11:50 PM
Hi guys, Some interesting trivia about the Monkey King, the japanese fantasy anime Dragon Ball Z is basically based on the Monkey King, Son Goku one of the charcter is most likely taken from Sun Wukong. Except in the story the charcters are human who becomes ape-like when they get angry or enraged. Anyone has any news on Luke Walton? and stats on the new signee Brandon Heath?
Go Lakers.
Posted by: Frankie | September 10, 2008 at 11:56 PM
LakerTom,
i totally agree with you're ranking but im thinking luke should go up a little bit sun yue is still unproven in NBA floor
let hell be raiser LAKERS!!!
GO LAKERS!
GO MAMBA!
Posted by: hellraiser(certified mamba fan) | September 11, 2008 at 12:03 AM
Bobie,
Luke's dad played for the Celtics for two seasons and Bill was a Celtic fan growing up.
Posted by: Xodus | September 11, 2008 at 06:32 AM
Brandon Heath? Huh?
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | September 11, 2008 at 07:33 AM
Laker Tom-
I like your list a lot. I think its perfect for the start of the season. My first reaction was that Ariza should be higher but he still hasn't proven himself AT ALL, so I like where he's at. Also, I like how you have Farmar ahead of Fish and Sasha. If Sasha isn't hitting the three then we have a few players to pick up the slack: Vlad, Walton (hopefully), Kobe, Farmar. Farmar will be responsible for running the second team and sometime finishing the game at the PG spot, thats a lot of responsibility.
My end of game lineup looks like this for big physical teams:
PG: Fish
SG: MVP
SF: Lamar
PF: Pau
C: Bynum
And my end of game lineup for smaller teams that like to run:
PG: Farmar
SG: MVP
SF: Ariza/Walton
PF: Lamar
C: Bynum
The second lineup is so athletic, its scary. Its hard to predict the lineup though because it all depends on who's having the good game and I see Sasha getting some end of game PT but I see Farmar playing a lot more at the end of the games this year.
Lamar = Laker for Life
GO LAKERS
Posted by: mrbarneydangles | September 11, 2008 at 07:36 AM
LakerTom,
Here's the REAL rankings:
(01) Kobe Bryant
(02) Pau Gasol
(03) Andrew Bynum
(04) Lamar Odom
(05) Derek Fisher
(06) Jordan Farmar
(07) Sasha Vujacic
(08) Vladimir Radmonovivh
(09) Trevor Ariza
(10) Luke Walton
(11) Chris Mihm
(12) Josh Powell
(13) Coby Karl
(14) DJ Mbenga
(15) Sun Yue
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | September 11, 2008 at 07:42 AM
hellraiser,
Welcome to the blog. You may be right. The list was just off the top of my head late at night. Good blogging with you.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | September 11, 2008 at 08:24 AM
mrbarneydangles and elle
Thanks for the comments. i was just having fun withthe nickname questions.
Good Morning to everybody else!
Posted by: Charles | September 11, 2008 at 08:33 AM
mrbarneydangles,
"And my end of game lineup for smaller teams that like to run:
PG: Farmar
SG: MVP
SF: Ariza/Walton
PF: Lamar
C: Bynum"
I like it! That would definitely be an entertaining line-up to watch!
Lamar Odom = Laker for Life
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | September 11, 2008 at 08:51 AM
HmrHed,
I actually like the nickname "The Pharmaceutical"!
It's just bizarre enough to work.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | September 11, 2008 at 08:56 AM
Xodus,
Still, worst answer ever.
Really, Luke? Really? Larry Bird? Really? What team do you play for again? Larry Bird? LARRY BIRD? Really?
Et tu, Luke? Et tu?
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | September 11, 2008 at 08:59 AM
Good Morning to everybody else! Posted by: Charles | September 11, 2008 at 08:33 AM
AND GOOD MORNING TO YOU SIR CHARLES.
Posted by: MAMBA24 | September 11, 2008 at 08:59 AM
Xodus & Bobie,
Absolutely correct on the Waltons. I often thought they are related to the owners of Wal Mart. Nope, one is a bruin but preferred to help the Celts and yet Clippers spent a fortune in rehabilitating his bum knee. I can't forget the sight of Bill Walton scolding his teammate in mid eighties for helping one of the Lakers to get up, apparently an act of sportsmanship. No, he is an enemy to loquacious Bill. That was the symbol of the Waltons hard to forget. The son is a product of Luke Olson, loved his Dad and lephrachaun team when he was growing up & do you expect him to be a fan Magic, Coop, Scott, Big James, Cap? Noooo way, a Larry Bird, Kevin Mchale and Danny Ainge fan, birds with the same color flock together. Purple and gold colors are just sacred to the West as the green shamrock to Bostonians. Well, I wish Pfunk, Chuck23, Floyd and Mike T and also myself will be the cheerleaders of Luke and not address him puke this season. That is the beauty of a new season, everyone starts with a clean slate. However, if he, Vlad and Mihm will disappear again, this time, the Lakers have prepared for such contingency with a group of players who would take their place.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | September 11, 2008 at 09:02 AM
LakerTom, Here's the REAL rankings:
(01) Kobe Bryant
(02) Pau Gasol
(03) Andrew Bynum
(04) Lamar Odom
(05) Derek Fisher
(06) Jordan Farmar
(07) Sasha Vujacic
(08) Trevor Ariza
(09) Vladimir Radmonovivh
(10) Luke Walton
(11) Chris Mihm
(12) Josh Powell
(13) Coby Karl
(14) Sun Yue
(15) DJ Mbenga
Posted by: MAMBA24 | September 11, 2008 at 09:04 AM
ThekobeBlitz wrote:
". Being stronger and working out to be quicker will help Lamar become a better player overall once he becomes a Small Forward again with stints at Power Forward for rotations."
Or if Trevor Ariza found the offensive game that has eluded him at every stop so far after leaving UCLA after only 1 season.
Posted by: BUTLER | September 11, 2008 at 09:06 AM
There's an article on ESPN about Lebron and it ticks me off. I guess he was at the Browns-Cowboys game rooting for the Cowboys. Thats ridiculous. How do you have no pride for your home team? I'm from San Diego and while I briefly flirted rooting for other teams when I was little (kind of an excuse, I used to really like Favre when I was 10) I was always loyal to the Pads and the Chargers and they sure sucked a lot back in the day. Even when they were bad I would just make fun of them. But Lebron is a Cav from Akron. I could see if he liked all NY sports but to like the Yankees (best team) and the Cowboys (best team) just shows me how big of a bandwagoner he is. He's like the kid in high school I would make fun of for liking which ever team won that year.
Lebron to me is a pathetic traitor and I would boo him if I was from Cleveland. Bone Thugs should do a song about how much Lebron sucks.
Jon K-
You're in Cleveland right? What do you think and what do other Clevelanders think of Lebron? Does anybody even like the guy?
Lamar = Laker for Life
GO LAKERS
Posted by: mrbarneydangles | September 11, 2008 at 09:10 AM
kobebryantblitz,
>>>He could really be the Lakers Toni Kukoc
That's actually a much more realistic comparison than "the
Chinese Magic Johnson". I could easily see Sun Yue being
as good as Kukoc.
Posted by: Long Time Laker Fan | September 11, 2008 at 09:28 AM
HAHA--Shaq is counting down the days.
This is not a good sign for the Suns.
Maybe he will take the next 735 days and practice his free throws before he retires.
Hey Shaq tomorrow you will only have 734 days left, let me guess you are crossing out the dates on the calendar each day. We know Shaq and if he is counting the days this is bad news for Suns Fans. Suckers!!
And the Suns fans ask themselves why they can never win anything.
BD
Posted by: BD | September 11, 2008 at 09:28 AM
Mamba24,
Now I know why Kobe does not want to opt for surgery, he could be replaced permanently by 18 man roster signed by Mitch. lol! Well, based on hoopshype, there are 15 players who are in the payroll and the three who are not are as follows: mbenga, crawford, heath. I don't know about Dwayne Mitchell can bring, let's reserve Mbenga if Mihm or Bynum recurs their injuries. We need height and muscle to protect the inner sanctum of the Laker defense. A 6'9" Powell and a finesse Pau should be reserved for other duties not for banging the dozers.
PS. Is it just me who waits for a minute before we get to the blog or in snail posting? Are we back to digg, digg, choo, choo deja vu all over again?
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | September 11, 2008 at 09:29 AM
>>>If Sasha had called himself the machine before earning
>>>it, we woulda been sayin where's the machine's
>>>warranty.
Why do people keep getting this wrong?
Sasha did NOT give himself the "machine" nickname.
It was Joel Myers and Stu Lantz who gave him the nickname.
Someone on TNT or ESPN mis-reported that Sasha gave
himself the nickname. He didn't.
Posted by: Long Time Laker Fan | September 11, 2008 at 09:34 AM
Laker Tom:
And here’s my ranking if SOME of them lived up to their potential and was infected with Kobe’s and Drew’s off season work ethic. See the asterisk.
01) Kobe Bryant
(02) Andrew Bynum, Pau Gasol
(03) *Lamar Odom and Derek Fisher
(04) Sasha Vujacic, Jordan Farmar and *Vlad Ramanovich
(05) *Luke Walton and Trevor Ariza
(06) *DJ Mbenga Calm down, don't foul too much and bang with the best of them.
(07) Josh Powell (How will he do with the triangle)
(08) Chris Mihm (Uncertain injury status)
(09) Coby Karl (Deep at his position) and Sun Yue (Good luck finding pt)
Posted by: Charles | September 11, 2008 at 09:43 AM
thekobebryantblitz,
>>>Guys who I think will end up in Defenders:
>>>
>>>Crawford and Heath.
>>>
>>>Mitchell will probably be cut.
I'm not sure what you mean here. Are you implying that the
Lakers would keep Crawford and Heath on their payroll but
send them down to the D-fenders?
If so, then I disagree.
Of the 3, I'd guess Mitchell would be the most likely to
actually make the Lakers roster and get sent down to the
D-League. He was a D-League all-star last season, which
is more production against a higher level than either
Crawford or Heath has shown.
But to be honest, I don't think any of the 3 of them will
be on the Lakers payroll after October 27th...
and it's possible that all 3 would get signed by the D-Fenders
around that time.
I could only really see the Lakers keeping one of those
guys if one of their top four guards (Kobe, Fish, Farmar,
Vujacic) are injured to start the season. If those four guys
are healthy, they're going to take up like 95% of the guard
minutes, and Coby and The Monkey King are going to
mop up the remaining minutes.
Posted by: Long Time Laker Fan | September 11, 2008 at 09:47 AM
Seems like to old crew is waking up and training camp is here yet.
Check you all out later! Thanks Mamba24!
Posted by: Charles | September 11, 2008 at 09:49 AM
regarding Farmar nicknames
>>>I actually like the nickname "The Pharmaceutical"!
How `bout Pusher Man?
Not only does it fit with the "Pharmaceuticals" theme, but
Farmar's the guy they bring in to push the tempo.
He'd even have his own theme song, by Curtis Mayfield, no less.
Posted by: Long Time Laker Fan | September 11, 2008 at 09:51 AM
I'm you mother, I'm your daddy,
you're the oop, I'm the alley.
I'm your playa when you need
want fast break? have some speed
you know me, I'm your friend
your main boy; thick and thin
Jordan Farmar...
I'm your pusherman
Posted by: Long Time Laker Fan | September 11, 2008 at 10:00 AM
mrbarneydangles,
To quote a recently overheard conversation regarding LeBron James:
"I don't know why everyone makes a big deal about Michael Jordan and all. LeBron James has accomplished EVERYTHING Michael Jordan has accomplished and MORE... except for all those Championships, you know."
Quoted verbatim.
It's madness.
The vast majority of Clevelanders believe that LeBron James is clearly the best player in the history of basketball. Period.
They also suspect that he's leaving for New York or New Jersey when his contract ends. We'll see how profound their adoration is once he's wearing a Knicks uniform.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | September 11, 2008 at 10:36 AM
I'm your pusherman Posted by: Long Time Laker Fan | Se
TRYING TO GET OVER! TRYING TO GET OVER! YEAH!
SUPERFLY!
Posted by: MAMBA24 | September 11, 2008 at 10:37 AM
MAMBA24,
Sure, it's all good. In fact if Jordan's the Pusherman, someone
else who doesn't have a nickname yet could be Superfly...
Coby Karl? nahhhhh
Maybe Josh Powell.
Posted by: Long Time Laker Fan | September 11, 2008 at 11:47 AM
Long Time Laker Fan
You're SuperFly. I'll be Tnt.
Posted by: Charles | September 11, 2008 at 11:58 AM
Brandon Heath? Huh?
-Jon K
GO LAKERS!
Don't sleep on my boy Brandon Heath nicknamed "Bottoms" in the neighborhood dude can flat out shoooooottttt doesnt believe in missing open shots.
But I know he's a long shot to make the team but give him a chance. Man I'm so happy for him he's an ex-teammate of mine and worked so hard to get to this point he's got alot of support in his hometown of L.A.
Posted by: Paul Lee | September 11, 2008 at 12:27 PM
Jon K-
So Clevelanders still like him even though he's a traitor to the city and the state? That's crazy to me.
Lamar = Laker for Life
GO LAKERS
Posted by: mrbarneydangles | September 11, 2008 at 12:31 PM
Long Time Laker Fan-
I like Pusher Man for Farmar's nickname. They could play the Curtis Mayfield song while he's bringing the ball up the court, could be brilliant.
Lamar = Laker for Life
GO LAKERS
Posted by: mrbarneydangles | September 11, 2008 at 12:33 PM
We always called Farmar Dumbo cuz of his ears, flaps and he flys
Posted by: Du-roc Lakers | September 11, 2008 at 12:57 PM
"I'm not sure what you mean here. Are you implying that the
Lakers would keep Crawford and Heath on their payroll but
send them down to the D-fenders?"
Posted by Long Time Laker Fan,
LTLF, no I meant to say that Crawford and Heath will be cut but they will instead enter the D-League just not on the Lakers payroll. Mitchell will be cut probably too.
-blitz
Posted by: thekobebryantblitz | September 11, 2008 at 01:01 PM
Hey Gang!
When are we launching the 65 win wagon?
Posted by: Mob Wagoneer | September 11, 2008 at 01:23 PM
Interesting commentary today at Basketbawful. Here's one snippet:
"Paul Pierce, who this summer was asked if Kobe Bryant -- the reigning MVP of the league -- was the best player in the world. Paul, fresh off an NBA championship and Finals MVP award, responded as follows: "I don't think Kobe is the best player. I'm the best player. There's a line that separates having confidence and being conceited. I don't cross that line but I have a lot of confidence in myself."
Paul took a beating in the media and across the blogosphere for that comment. But he didn't retract it or try to claim he was misquoted or that his words were taken out of context. He emphatically underscored his original statement when he said: "That's what I said. I am a confident player and a lot of people might look at it like 'Oh, another cocky attitude,' but I don't look at it that way. I have an opinion, I have a right to have one and that’s the way I feel. I felt I’ve played against the best over the years and felt right now that I'm the best player in the world."
I suppose Paul did beat kobey, LeBrawn, Tayshaun and Joe Johnson. That makes him as good as D-Wade if not the best, right?
Posted by: BUTLER | September 11, 2008 at 01:51 PM
For Nicknames:
Lamar = Trade Bait or No Chance in Hell of Being a Laker for Life
Farmar = Another example of PJ's refusal to develop true point guards
Sun = Sun Yue'll be back in Shanghai Soon
Mihm = Sam Bowie's Demon Seed
Luke/Vlad = Pay Jerry West a ton of dough if he can figure out a way to get these two stiffs out of LA before their contracts kill everyone on this blog
Posted by: htj | September 11, 2008 at 01:52 PM
Charles:
I like Farmar, but your nicknames were heee-larious! I'm still chuckling after scrolling all the way down here.
Posted by: Marty | September 11, 2008 at 02:05 PM
htj -
"Pay Jerry West a ton of dough if he can figure out a way to get these two stiffs out of LA before their contracts kill everyone on this blog" does roll off the tongue rather nicely. But not sure the commentators on KCAL 9 or FSN West would really be appreciative.
How about we just call that duo "The Cap Space Killers"? Same concept, just short.
Posted by: puddle | September 11, 2008 at 02:12 PM
I suppose Paul did beat kobey, LeBrawn, Tayshaun and Joe Johnson. That makes him as good as D-Wade if not the best, right?
Posted by: BUTLER | September 11, 2008 at 01:51 PM
Nice that you're in love with WHEELIE PIERCE, but how does all this give PEEHONIX a title? Oh yeah, it doesn't. You still have a handful of nothing.
But you did beat the Lakers in 1993!!!! Did PEEHONIX put up a banner for that one? If not, why not? Might as well, you don't have anything else to talk about after 40 years.
You have a joke of a franchise. But I guess all that will change now that "The Genius" Terry POORTER is the coach. And "The Architect" STEVE KERR is calling the shots.
Every Laker fan sure hopes he can pull off another SHACKASS trade this year! Who's he going after, STARBURIED? ZACK RANDOLPH?
And we are shaking at the thought of POORTER building another defensive juggernaut like he did at Milwaukee.
Posted by: Jman449 | September 11, 2008 at 02:28 PM
Wow, Jman449 going LGC's all over BUTLER.
Posted by: puddle | September 11, 2008 at 02:34 PM
mrbarneydangles,
I'm no LeBron James apologist. As you may remember, I've previously posted stories from my friends/acquaintances out here who have met him and the feedback I've received is that when he drops his fascade he's basically a scumbag.
This city of Cleveland so desperately needs a hero. Its a broken city that has been relying on memories of past greatness for at least forty years.
The apologists say that when LeBron grew up Cleveland didn't have a team as a result of Art Modell's night time departure of the original Browns to Baltimore. So, during that time he was a Cowboys fan and has basically stayed as such.
In any case, LeBron could probably slit the throats of five girl scouts on live television and the majority of Clevelanders would say, "Those girls had it coming! LeBron was defending himself!"
So, that's how it is.
I find it odd though, since a majority also assume he's leaving to go to New York when his contract's up.
Cleveland fans are weird. Devoutedly loyal, fatalistic, and highly negative. They want to win so badly, but just don't know how.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | September 11, 2008 at 02:55 PM
butler's a funny dude.
Posted by: KL | September 11, 2008 at 02:55 PM
Championship predictions from ESPN
Sorry to spoil something everyone here already knows -- the Suns got 0 votes.
http://tinyurl.com/3pgjdl
Posted by: HmrHed | September 11, 2008 at 03:31 PM
Marty,
All love!!! Have a good one.
Posted by: Charles | September 11, 2008 at 03:37 PM
I suppose Paul did beat kobey, LeBrawn, Tayshaun and Joe Johnson. That makes him as good as D-Wade if not the best, right?
Posted by: BUTLER
"D-Wade." But he hasn't won anything without Shack! So to emulate...
Posted by: Charles | September 11, 2008 at 03:50 PM
this is pretty funny:
http://tinyurl.com/4dyugy
Andrew Bynum has the kind of confidence that would lead him to challenge essentially the entire world in video games. Literally, he told everyone his online gaming name, and announced that he would crush all comers. He has said similar things in basketball. Is that a good sign, or a bad sign, for his NBA career? (You ever heard of the Dunning-Kruger effect?)
Posted by: Stay Thirsty My Friends | September 11, 2008 at 04:13 PM
HmrHed,
I can't believe these "experts" say that the Lakers are going to win 55 games next year. Are they smoking crack and chugging Robetussin?
We won 57 games last year with Kwame Brown as our starting center for 40% of the year. Crazy.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | September 11, 2008 at 04:38 PM
AK
Sorry for the late response. Head a little clearer now.
Justalakerfan,
"Actually he did coach or non coach in the playoffs as in the regular season. Let the opponent go on 10+ runs before calling time out. Questionable substitutions like over using wounded Luke on PP and who was getting burned constantly. So yes is zen methods did extend to on court as well as off court."
Every time Phil doesn't call a time out during a run, it's not because he is trying to "let players figure it out" in some Zen way. Sometimes he's trying to conserve timeouts for later in the game. Sometimes it's because he knows a mandated TV time out will be coming soon, so he doesn't want to burn one. It's more than just some "Zen" thing, which has been overblown a lot over the years.
{ I need to clarify as I write down my thought but don’t convey all my thoughts so that is probably why you are confused as to what I said or more correctly what I did not say. Let me try to clarify myself. I did state his zen methods spilled out onto the court but I was referring to his lack of calling time outs and figure things out by themselves. Let me restate why I don’t care for PJ’s methods.
1 I don’t care for his mind games and zen approach.
2 I don’t like the way he maligns his players publicly especially in the media.
3 I don’t like the way he wants things done his way only ignoring and using FO players supplied. That falls under FO cooperation and he has a history there too. Ask Jerry Krause.
4 I don’t like his take credit but never the blame.
5 I don’t like his poor coaching decisions or non coaching decisions.
I hope that clarifies my dislike for PJs methods and it is not only zen related .}
And him playing Luke on PP has literally nothing to do with "Zen" in any way, shape or form. That's just a coaching decision. If you want to say it's a bad coaching decision, fair enough. But it's a bad coaching decision that's not related in any way to "zen" or trying to maintain a "zen" appearance. There's no logical correlation between those situations.
{ Yes you are right because I did not explain myself properly. And yes poor coaching decision was the problem there. Using an injured player for weeks who has to put it plainly sucked and only did good job on Harpring in Utah series. Ira was available and healthy. We know what Luke brought or did not bring to the table.}
"So your as a blogger claim to have a better grasp of what you watched on court and in practice. So does that mean you have better grasp than Mitch for what the players could do? Mitch did sign them not PJ."
I know Mitch signed them and like I keep saying, you're misunderstanding the central reason Mitch signing them. He brought them in knowing fully well they probably wouldn't play much, if at all. You need to have enough bodies for practice and to be prepared in case players get into foul trouble, more injuries happen, etc.
Remember, both guys were originally to ten day contracts. They didn't even have concrete plans for either to stick around until they knew Bynum and Ariza's absences would be longer. Had AB and TA come back when originally hoped, Newble (definitely) and Mbenga (possibly, depending on Mihm's health) would have been waived. Like I said, it's A LOT about having "bodies" for practice and the games. You're honestly adding more weight and significance to their signings than merited.
{ yes they were signed by Mitch and my point is more than for practice bodies. I will speak more on this below Also brought in because of injuries and kept beyond that because the injuries continued well into the finals.}
"Yes videos show highlights but they also show what they can do. If you want refer to the videos I posted earlier on this thread please watch them. The same ones you chastised me for not using tiny url which won't reduce those you tube urls. I agree just like statistics that some bloggers so over use can be manipulated to justify any point of view same as videos. But they do show what a player can do."
There's a difference between being capable of blocking a shot every now and then and being productive on a regular basis within a system. All NBA players pull out a good play every now and then. Thus, the videos don't mean much to me. Plus, I was familiar with Mbenga before he was even a Laker, so I'm sure the videos won't show me anything I didn't know anyway.
{I think that is really an arrogant approach because to keep an open mind you should at least look at what is pointed out to you before dismissing.}
" I don't disagree with best players available but I again say best defensive players available. To ignore that rational is very confusing. Why not sign Foster a center we had before and was in our D league club and well versed in the triangle? He also is thought to be a better offensive center that DJ. So healthy body for practice fodder does not hold up."
Mbenga and Newble may have been somewhat better defensive players, but overall, they're not as good of players as the guys playing. And just because they performed okay in spurts (spurts often during garbage time during 2nd or 3rd string competition, I might add) doesn't mean they could help as much you're thinking. In my opinion, it may not have flat out "hurt" putting them in, but I really doubt it would have helped.
{In spurts does not mean garbage time the way I showed. Yes they were signed for more reasons and than just practice bodies and defense was one of those reasons. Mbenga was used in non garbage time and helped in the play off run when we were losing to sub 500 teams towards the end of season fighting for playoff spot.
Also Mbenga in playoffs was very useful. Look back and when Nene was inserted in game for Denver he was attacking rim at will and Nugs were on verge of taking over the game. Mbenga was inserted and he stuffed Nene on his next drive to basket and kept him out thereafter. That was in playoffs and he showed he could help. So then why did PJ not use him in playoffs against Celtics but used Mihm who basically had not played for two years?}
And Phil, like most coaches, was looking to play guys in specific rotations who were familiar with each other and have a rythym together. Inserting somebody at random can not only lead to a bad performance from that specific player, but the other four guys.
{First off Mbenga played even with starters as I remember Kobe feeding him the ball. Kobe surely is not 3rd stringer. If continuity was needed then that is PJ’s fault for not preparing the bench role players to be ready for playoffs. That is his job. He should have given them more pt instead of wearing out starters for so long.}
Also, which "Foster" are you talking about? I don't remember him. Are you thinking of Jelani McCoy? If so, the reason they chose Mbenga ahead of him is because McCoy is even worse than Mbenga. McCoy was terrible with the Lakers six years ago. Why bring that guy back? Even if he won't play much, Mbenga gives you a look at a younger, more athletic guy who could maybe have a chance to be brought back the next season as a 4th or 5th big man. McCoy brings nothing to the table now or down the road.
{Yes I did mean J McCoy, Thanks for correcting me. I don’t know why Greg Foster came into my mind. My bad. Yes I feel DJ is better than McCoy but if only a practice body was needed then why sign Mbenga as JM is familiar with triangle and rotations. To say Mitch was looking for younger look, athletic, defensive presence and player who could be brought back next season. That is exactly my point as why DJ was signed. He brought more to the table and had other criteria for being signed. Not just a body for practice.}
I appreciate the civility as well
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | September 09, 2008 at 11:26 AM
{I hope this helps to better explain my dislike for PJ’s methods. Thanks}
JLF
Posted by: JustaLakerFan | September 11, 2008 at 04:45 PM
Justalakerfan,
Okay, your criticisms listed make a lot more sense, in terms of stating why you don't like Phil as a coach. That's a lot more specific and legit- whether I concur with all of them or not- than a "the zen image" issue, which we both agree isn't really relevant here.
As far as Mbenga goes, I wasn't trying to sound arrogant or dismissive with the videos. It's not a question of me being "open minded." I just meant that I'd already seen Mbenga play before he was a Laker, in Laker games, in practice (which fans don't get to see) and have talked to the coaching staff about him. And considering he's a guy with limited career PT as it is, I doubt there's anything in the videos terribly different than I've already seen. Realistically speaking, the sample size to see is only so big to begin with.
In the end, I think this is simply a question of you thinking Mbenga is a better and more effective player than I do. Thus, we'll probably have to agree to disagree.
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | September 11, 2008 at 05:17 PM
Well, there goes the nickname I was planning on using this season.
Thanks, new guy.
BK
Posted by: Brian Kamenetzky | September 11, 2008 at 05:49 PM
mrbarneydangles....
did sun ask for the name?
did sun claim "I am your savior, I am here to save the day"?
as far as I can tell there has been no "chest thumping" on his part.
He is a player, I believe with a 2 year guranteed contract, probably less than a million per year....
...and if we are not patient we may lose a valuble commodity...wasn't it 4 years before Sasha found the net???
Everyone back off of Sun, let him develop, PJ MAY use him and I'm sure he will catch opponents asking "who's got who" as they're backpedaling down the court looking at a 6'9" point guard in front of them and thinking that there is 14 feet and at least 4" of power forward and center behind them....and KB24 somewhere....(pssss...at the 3 lurking the baseline....), Odom's at the 2 as the trigger man, I forgot the term that refers to the guy who starts the offense in motion....don't worry about outside shooting, the Lakers shot too many 3's last year, that is where we need to cut back, think more 15-20 footers, as the defense is collapsing and focusing on AB. Who can shoot a decent midrange shot? KB, Sun, Jordan (maybe), Lamar (not yet), Pau (definitely) ShiShi (maybe not, but if we give him 4 more years, I'm sure he'll have it down), ..... 3 point shooters, Cobi, Kobe, Fish, Jordan, ShiShi...that's offense....
No D, No rings...
h.
Posted by: humanomaly | September 12, 2008 at 12:06 PM
JUST CHECKING IN
I have bad news, My hang nail injury suffered a setback while on the golf course today. It couldn't have come at a worse time either, I was taking everyones money (as usual) by my exceptional play and my golf buddies were getting a little irritated with me, but what do I care, I am the best.
Anyway, I drove it in the rough next to a tree and couldn't take my normal swing so I had to swing left handed. This caused extra friction on my hang nail which made it worse than before. Normally I just re-tape it but it didn't work this time. Suffice to say my doctor said I needed immediate surgery (band-aid) and to rest for up to 12 weeks.
This of course is very disheartening as my golf group was just beginning to jell as a team (albeit lighter in the pocket) and now they won't have their star player.
They seemed to take it well though as I heard laughter and hoorays in the locker room as I was taking a shower.
PJ offered his condolences and told me not to worry and to take all the time I needed to fully recover. He had a bounce in his step I've never seen before. Poor guy is just devastated by the bad news.
I'll continue to keep everyone up to date on my hang nail, don't worry when I get back we will be unbeatable.
Hey guys, can you stop all that hoop and hollering, I'm blogging about my injury!!!
Oh Mr. Buss, about my contract.... Mr Buss....Mr. Buss... he must not have heard me.
Here's hoping the team does bad...err I mean great without me. I can tell they already miss me.
Hey guys how come I wasn't invited to the party, it sounds like New Years Eve with all the celebrating going on. What Gives?
Till the next update, I have to start rehabilitation immediately so I can be with my team family.
Hey guys... this isn't funny... open the door.
Posted by: Troll Man | September 12, 2008 at 01:52 PM
One LAST time people -Vujavicic NEVER named himself The Machine. Laker announcers did. We all learned that MONTHS ago. Laker fans should know better. It's been pointed out dozens of times, but Laker fans on this blog and national sportscasters continue to report that Sasha named himself.
Get it right.
M2
Posted by: Matthias Miller | September 12, 2008 at 03:59 PM
....and did Sun name himself the "monkey king", or "the Chinese player",
Hey, when Mihm, Sasha, Walton, Cobi, and Gasol check into the game, make sure everyone says: "the Caucasian guy (from Slovenia, or Spain, or San Diego, or "from under daddy's wing" is checking in", or when Farmar checks in, say, "the half-Caucasian of Jewish faith, and half black of ethnic race is checking in"....
Personally, I really don't feel good vibes when I heard "them" mocking me as a child, and even as an adult, it still exists....over the phone at work..I get, "Good thing I got an American, there's too many damn Chinks taking over"....Excuse me for being sensitive, but being 100% CHINESE, it hurts. As a child I can recall wanting to be white, (caucasian, whatever....)....as of now, I am Chinese and I wouldn't want to be anything else. By the way, for those of you who have time, us Asians, we don't all love each other, we have internal conflicts. With good reason. If we called an African American player the "monkey king", tell me...how would that be received, story behind it or not???
Count the days, this blog eats each too much of my time. Enjoy my absence in the future.
h.
Posted by: humanomaly | September 13, 2008 at 12:35 AM
My apopgiies to all,
Sun did say he would not mind the nickname...I was reading HoopsHype, on a report of the Lakers sign a 20th roster player from OSU (Oregon State,not Oklahoma State...you oblong ball nutz....)....led me to a link to the OC Register, employer of Keving Ding, who has been on leave, and so has Ding Ho of Prattville (????)....
"Monkey King” is a legendary simian hero of the Chinese Buddhist literary classic “Journey to the West.”
“If they want to name me after the fighting Buddhist master then I guess that will make me a bit more literary,” Sun said “For the fans to already have these kinds of plans (to name me Monkey King) is really great support for me.”
I dare someone to ask Ron Artest if he wants to be nicknamed the "Monkey King"...
...all a matter of perspective...I've been here in the US too long....Sun is a newbie (not a newble)....some day he may say continue to say ok to the nickname, or he may say "ok, that's enough", and he may choose another nickname, or he may choose to be called "Sun" and hopefully at that time that name will infear worry in opponents.I hop[e his internalization of his thoughts doesn't stop him from flinging it (that stuff) at all you premature calcalators of his game....Play him now, but judge him later....same as Sasha, Kobe should be a great influence and guide for him, after all 4 years ago Kobe wasn't the ideal teammate (teamate?)....but times have changed for the better hopefully, Kobe and pinky may be more focused on defense, and he may be relying on his six pack of shooters more....
Remember, Asians usually don't physically mature as quickly, as young as other ethnicities. He probably doesn't even have to shave every day, as an example. So if you want to compare him to another player, go ahead, compare him to another 6'9" Chinese point guard.
Posted by: humanomaly | September 13, 2008 at 12:37 PM