If it ain't broke, don't fix it
Along those sentiments and getting one issue quickly out of the way, I talked to someone from the Lakers organization and, contrary to this report from the Las Vegas Sun, Kobe's finger is not broken. It may need a knife session, but it's still in one piece, so those losing sleep over that concern can now go back to losing sleep over the economy.
Moving on...
Sasha Vujacic was the subject of news less sunny. As noted earlier, The Machine's sprained left ankle is being further irritated by an avulsion fracture, which will perhaps sideline him for the rest of preseason and maybe even a few "real deal" games. As one might expect, The Face's face was one of disappointment, but he was able to look at the bigger picture. Missing any 2009 time would sure suck, so it's better to let this injury properly heal up than push it unwisely and risk further damage. Having said that, time off the court is driving Sasha goony bird. Thus, he's shooting (pun halfheartedly intended) for an ASA-F-P return. "It's supposed to be two weeks, but I'm gonna rest seven days and see how the process is going." When informed that Media Relations Director John Black gave us a 10-14 day timeline, Sasha acknowledged the cautionary compromise reached, but that won't stop him from gunning to beat the clock. "I heal fast," insisted The Machine. And like I told him, extra incentive could be found in trying to make Black eat his "diagnosis." Smiled Vujacic, "I will prove John wrong and I think that's one of the biggest motivations that I have."
Sasha's downtime will involve cardio
activities like swimming and biking, working on his set shot and
brooding about the Finals loss to the Celtics, which is sitting no
better in his craw now than in June. Vujacic even claimed that until the Lakers
win a title, he won't wear any green, period. Didn't sound like he
was kidding, either. Could make for a rough St. Patty's Day, but
Slovenia's Favorite Son doesn't fear such holiday obstacles.
There's been a lot of recent comment thread debate about the merits of Jordan Farmar vs. Derek Fisher, in terms of talent, who'll get more minutes, who should be the starter, the finisher, etc. And in a weird bit of synergy, the "When will Jordan eventually start?" topic was bandied about today's practice. For now, Mr. .4 remains the one being announced pre-game by Lawrence Tanter, a plan that appears one of the few constants in Phil Jackson's ever-shifting lineups. Asked what Farmar could do to become a starter, PJ deadpanned, "Grow four inches, but that's hard." But all kidding, Farmar may have only leapfrogged Smush Parker as a starting option during his purple and gold tenure, but that's not due to dissatisfaction on the Zen Master's part.
"He's progressing just fine," reassured Jackson. "What is he, 21-years old? He's doing
great. He just has to be patient and he's going to have opportunities
that are going to come his way." In terms of that progression sited, Jackson seemed most pleased by Farmar's increased comfort with who he is as a player. "He has a much better understanding of his strengths and weaknesses
than he did two years ago. He's able to take coaching better now than
he was before. And that's really important part for Jordan, becauuse
he's a real smart person and sometimes he gets in his own way because
he thinks too much. Sometimes you just have to get the job done and
he's gotten much better at that."
As for Farmar, while he made no bones about wanting to be a starter at some point in his career- as he rightly pointed out, it's "not something to be ashamed of"- he won't complain if his gig remains status quo, because he knows what ingredients he brings to the soup. "For us, right now, our bench is very valuable. For me, being 21 and being the sixth man or a member off the bench who's really integral to a championship caliber team is really special. I embrace that role as much as being a starter." It's also easier playing second string to a teammate when you happen to respect him quite a bit. "Fish is a vet. He's been here before. He's proven himself time and time again, so I have no problem with that role. I want to continue to push and try to improve myself in every way possible, but it's not about that, overall. It's about winning ball games and helping this organization."
Lamar Odom: Download lamar_odom_10.14.08.mp3
Sasha Vujacic: Download SV.mp3
Jordan Farmar: Download jordan_farmar_10.14.08.mp3
Pau Gasol (mostly about the Regal FC Barcelona players in this weekend's game): Download pau_gasol_10.14.08.mp3
Phil Jackson: Download phil_jackson_10.14.08.mp3
AK
EXCELLENT SUN YUE ARTICLE FROM LAKERS.COM
The Lakers emailed me this but I couldn’t find it online to link it so here it is.
>>>>>
THE NEW KID ON THE BLOCK, SUN YUE
By Rubin Kwon
With the start of the 2008-09 NBA season fast approaching, the Lakers will look to build upon last season's deep playoff run by getting players back from injury and solidifying their bench. One step the Lakers made to deepen their roster this offseason was signing 6-9 Chinese guard Sun Yue.
Yue was selected 40th overall by the Lakers in the second round of the 2007 NBA Draft. Although some may assume that he isn't ready to make the jump from international play to the physical nature of the NBA, his two years experience in the American Basketball Association promises to serve him well. "When I played in the ABA for two years, it really helped me improve my game because all the players are just as quick and athletic," Yue explained, "compared to other Chinese players; I'm used to the physical and fast-paced style of play."
During 2006-07, Yue earned 1st Team All-ABA honors, averaging13.5 points, 6.0 rebounds, 10.5 assists, 1.9 steals and 2.0 blocks in 39 minutes for the Beijing Aoshen Olympians. Yue also started in all six games for China in the 2008 Men's Olympic Basketball Tournament in Beijing, averaging 6.8 points, 1.7 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 1.33 steals in 28 minutes.
Equipped with unusual height for the point guard position, Yue's 6'9" frame gives him a distinct advantage over his backcourt counterparts. He eagerly awaits the chance to showcase his skills for the purple and gold, playing the game he loves. Yue claims, "Ever since I picked up a basketball when I was nine years old, I fell in love with the game."
Yue's outstanding feel for the game and knack for the ball has helped his teams win in ways that won't show up in tomorrow morning's box score. Most importantly, he just values the little things that help the team win close games. "My main goal for this upcoming season is to work hard, give 100% of what the coaches ask me to do, and to be an essential part of the team's success." Yue explained the combination of excellent court vision and solid ball-handling, passing, and defending will enable him to become a key piece of the puzzle for Phil Jackson's triangle offense.
What's most fascinating about Yue is his intense dedication and willingness to learn from veterans Kobe Bryant, Derek Fisher, Pau Gasol and Lamar Odom. "Everyone on the team has made me feel at home, especially the veterans who have been in the league for many years; they've been helping me improve and correct the mistakes that I make," Yue said. When asked who his mentor was, Yue did not hesitate to choose Kobe. "I look up to Kobe. He's the best player in this league and in this world; it's a great opportunity for me to learn what he has to offer."
Yue has lived in the US for two years; however, he is still entrenched in the transitional process. Although he is picking it up quicker than most international players, he claims it is a challenge to adjust to the new lifestyle and culture.
When asked what kind of music he listens to, Yue replied, "I'm slowly getting into hip-hop because of my teammates, my favorite rapper is The Game." He has also grown accustomed to the food here. "I like fast food and I love to eat steak," said Yue with a smile.
Many people might have missed the flashes of brilliance Sun Yue showcased in the Men's Olympic Basketball Tournament in Beijing or his two blocks on Carmelo Anthony and Dwight Howard on subsequent dunk attempts. His competitive nature seethes through his words when Yue jokingly comments that he wants to block Cleveland Cavaliers' superstar LeBron James next. "I got Carmelo and Dwight, so my wish now is to get a block on Lebron since he is one of the best players in the world."
The Lakers are hoping for success as Sun Yue begins his Lakers journey.Yue is looking to become a solid contributor for the Lakers for years to come as he continues to follow his dreams. "The Lakers helped me make my dream come true, so it feels good. Now I just have to concentrate on basketball." Embracing his role-player statues deep in the Lakers roster, Yue hopes to become a key part of the 2008-09 Lakers quest for another NBA championship.
Let the Sun rise in Lakerland!
>>>>>
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | October 14, 2008 at 07:10 PM
That truehoop article on Kobe going to greece as interesting and pretty sensible also.
Posted by: Kiwi | October 14, 2008 at 07:12 PM
Shame to see a playa injured.
Since we're talking about Slovenian guards, let's mention Goran Dragic, the SUNS' 2nd-round pick.
Goran has played 4 pro years in Europe, most recently for Spanish team Tau Ceramica. It's yet to be seen whether young Dragic can play the NBA game successfully, or even shoot with consistency. But signs indicate an incredible talent with court vision to match.
Word is Dragic has owned Sasha in the game of horse since forever.
Posted by: BUTLER | October 14, 2008 at 07:18 PM
THE SHORTER EDITED VERSION
concerning our ultra-long winded bloggers
SHORTEN UP AND BE HEARD
LENGTHEN UP AND BE IGNORED
YOU EVER NOTICE
#################################
The Lakers have to be looking to trade Lamar Odum. Why would you not even try the "3 Tower" experiment. Point guard, sixth man, everything but starting SF. the Lakers are just setting him up for the inevitable.
I can see why LO would be upset. This could really hurts his value.
Posted by: YOU EVER NOTICE | October 14, 2008 at 07:42 PM
"Blitz,
We'll have to agree to disagree on Fish's passing. I'm not basing Fish's passing on his assists per game but on my observations. He's not a bad passer but he's not great"
Xodus,
I'm more than willing to agree to disagree.
And also,
AK is right even though the first part was about Kobe's pinky. Until Derek has shown to really slow down (and he hasn't), just let Jordan develop and see. He'll play more minutes no doubt. I just don't see it being more than Derek for now.
-blitz
Posted by: thekobeblitz | October 14, 2008 at 07:44 PM
Re: Sasha - ah, the folly of youth. Don't worry about rushing back. Get your ankle healed properly. There will be ample opportunity to jack up 3's to your heart's content... it's what you're getting paid the big bucks for.
Nice little bit about Jordan there - love the tandem we've got with him and Fish. They're both smart, solid dudes. No drama, no bull, no complaints.
Posted by: dave m | October 14, 2008 at 07:48 PM
LakerTom,
I think your point about missing the machine's outside shot is a good observation. He is our best shooter, and he keeps the floor spread.
Regarding Sun Yue: I know he is your latest pet, but he's not going to be playing this year. Do YOU think he is going to play this year?
Posted by: Eric M. | October 14, 2008 at 08:02 PM
Sorry I haven't been around much guys, baseball season is still going on lol.
As for Sasha...man. That's depressing news. Hopefully it'll resolve before we actually play the games that count. As in playoffs lol.
Go Lakers!
Posted by: Faith | October 14, 2008 at 08:06 PM
Farmar is a class act. He is saying all the right things and I think this year is going to be a breakout year to say the least. He improved a great deal last year (except for a month or so of struggling 3pt shooting). He clearly has an awesome work ethic and wants to succeed. I also like how Farmar is all about the team and knows that his personal shine will eventually come with hard work and the success of the team, no need to be impatient and start demanding more minutes.
I think Farmar could contend for 6th man of the year if he can find a balance between his outside shooting and driving to the basket. His struggles last year occurred when he got way too comfortable with setting up behind the 3pt line. If he can be a well balanced PG and find a way to distribute his efforts: driving, shooting, passing, then Farmar will be in business. It will be fun to wath how this season unfolds for Jordan.
Lamar = Laker for Life
GO LAKERS
Posted by: mrbarneydangles | October 14, 2008 at 08:13 PM
cut Coby Karl right now, work out a trade involving Lamar Odom , Farmar and Chris Mihm for Kirk Hinrich and Chicago's unprotected #1 draft pick this year, sit back and... enjoy...
Posted by: Stay Thirsty My Friends | October 14, 2008 at 08:15 PM
Mitch's talk, Q and A with the Lakers sponsors in Vegas.
Sun Yue will never win a MR. Universe contest, but does he have the muscles to play in the NBA?
Will Jordie take over the job from the 'Old Man and the Lakers'?
If the Triangle has no point, then why will Lamar play the point?
Are the Lakers now tough enough to out tough the Celtics? Mitch's answer will cause some of you to lose sleep.
What was the 'Real' reason MO was traded for Ariza? Are two better than one?
And when will Fatty stop asking these stupid questions?
Click to have your curiosity satisfied.
http://www.nba.com/lakers/news/081012kupchakqa.htm
Posted by: Fatty | October 14, 2008 at 08:33 PM
Eric,
>>>>>Regarding Sun Yue: I know he is your latest pet, but he's not going to be playing
>>>>>this year. Do YOU think he is going to play this year?
The odds are that Sun Yue will play very little this year but I think he will get more opportunities than a usual second round pick, even considering how deep the Lakers are. The question is whether he can take advantage of those opportunities or not. Again, the odds are probably against him just as they are any other rookie, but I think he’ll get a few chances and I am hoping he will shine.
Sun is definitely a long shot to become a starter but a 6-9 point guard in the Triangle obviously has a specific allure to Lakers fans. Like Phil joked about Farmar growing another 4 inches, you cannot teach height and everybody likes Yue’s ball handling and play making ability as well as his skills at shot blocking. No sure thing, that is for sure, but he has a shot to turn into a real surprise. Of course, you’re right that it probably won’t happen this year. But it is not out of the question that we may see sign promising signs this year.
Good to see you are in good spirits. Can’t wait until next month, if you know what I mean. Go, Lakers.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | October 14, 2008 at 08:36 PM
They showed a replay of the FInals tonight on NBATV, and there was a scene that showed Rajon Rondo stripping the ball away from Lam-Od, who was dribbling the ball into the paint.
The announcer said, "Just like taking candy from a baby."
Posted by: BUTLER | October 14, 2008 at 08:39 PM
dave,
I second your comments about Jordan. He is a class guy all the way and a winner. I love the respect that he gives Fish and the perspective with which he views his role on the team at 21 years old. He is wiser than his years. That much was obvious when he was the only Bruin who showed up against Karl’s Gators and when he wore a suit and wowed scouts before being drafted by his home town Lakers. I love this team.
I also loved to hear that Sun Yue knows who to emulate and take on as a mentor. Adopting Kobe-esque traits such as a tireless work ethic, a fierce competitive spirit. and an undying desire to win are the surest way to succeed in the NBA. It is what Jordan, Drew, Sasha, and most of the key players on the Lakers have done. Become Kobe Clones.
Good times on every front. Go, Lakers!
Tom
Posted by: | October 14, 2008 at 08:47 PM
BUTTLER,
You are a troll in the truest sense of the word.
Posted by: "Pig" Miller | October 14, 2008 at 09:15 PM
Fisher a great passer?
Since when has Fish been considered a great passer.
Anywhere???
Fish has been and always will be an average player, great role model, and a well liked individual.
Next thing will be that Lamar is a great dribbler
Posted by: YOU EVER NOTICE | October 14, 2008 at 09:20 PM
Butler,
How about Nash getting his ankles broken by Rondo?
"Hey Nash I got your MVP award here by breaking your ankle" sayez the announcer on NBA TV.
-blitz
Posted by: thekobeblitz | October 14, 2008 at 09:28 PM
stay thirsty my friends writes - "cut Coby Karl right now, work out a trade involving Lamar Odom , Farmar and Chris Mihm for Kirk Hinrich and Chicago's unprotected #1 draft pick this year, sit back and... enjoy"
hahahahahahahaha. haha. ha. everyone's a comedian.
Posted by: dave m | October 14, 2008 at 09:28 PM
Fatty,
Hello. You bombed there buddy. After that great buildup you linked us to a dead page. Arggg. I want to know the answers to all those dilemmas. I'll be waiting.
Wes
Posted by: | October 14, 2008 at 11:57 PM
This guy's got it right, soak in the NBA's rich storylines as the season approaches, Odom'll fit in just fine...
http://nbaonthebrain.blogspot.com/2008/10/nba-dramatique-prelude-13.html
Bring on barcelona.
Posted by: lakerade | October 15, 2008 at 12:38 AM
YOU EVER NOTICE that Fisher plays in a system that relies on multiple ballhandlers and motion, as opposed to those one-dimensional Suns offenses that feature one guy distributing the ball to everyone and racking up gaudy assist numbers? YOU EVER NOTICE that Fisher was the starting PG for a Threepeat championship team? YOU EVER NOTICE how quickly things turned around once Fisher was reacquired?
YOU EVER NOTICE how stupid trolls look?
Posted by: SBPimp | October 15, 2008 at 01:12 AM
*agrees with "Pig" Miller*
Posted by: longtimelakerlover | October 15, 2008 at 06:17 AM
Good morning Mamba24, Charles & the morning CRUE!!!!
It's too long a wait until the next game - we've waited long enough - bring on Barcelona!!! LOL!
Tough news about Sasha, but I like hearing about the fire still burning hot for payback against the Greenie Weenies. That attitude will take him - and the Lakers - far!
BUTT-ler - why don't you go outside & play in traffic for awhile?
GO LAKERS!!!!!! GO DODGERS!!!!!!!
Posted by: justanothermambafan | October 15, 2008 at 08:09 AM
I am Scared right now....
Can you believe that greek team offered Kobe 83 million dollars untaxed and a staff to handle all his needs.
Posted by: Paul Lee | October 15, 2008 at 08:30 AM
Looks like "The Machine" has rust all over him.
I said it before and I'll say it again - Sasha was a BIG waste of money for the Lakers. It's all smoke and mirrors with him. Yeah - he can shoot the rock on some nights, but, he does not bring any defense on the perimeter and cannot lock down any opposing guards.
He's too slow, lacking the lateral quickness to cut off a driving player (if you don't believe me, just look back to game 4 when Ray Allen broke Sasha's ankle to seal the win for the Celts).
The Lakers need someone who can DEFEND a guard and that someone is not Sasha. We can now "officially" put him in the same category with the other one-dimensional, injury prone, non-athletic, streaky shooting, defensively challenged, and overpaid players on the roster - Luke Walton, Vlad Rad, and now Sasha.
MESSAGE TO MITCH - you should have kept Turiaf and let Sasha go. The proof is in the pudding - what team other than the Lakers offered Sasha a contract during his free agency this summer? The answer - NO ONE. That's because they know Sasha is not worth $5M per year. This is deja vu all over again - remember how Mitch offered lucrative multiyear contracts to Luke Walton and Vlad Rad after no other teams pursued them during free agency? Maybe Mitch will learn his lesson after a third time...
Posted by: Laker4Life | October 15, 2008 at 08:36 AM
This is just downright ridiculous: Kobe Bryant To Be Offered $83 Million By Greek Team Olympiakos
http://tinyurl.com/4yg7h8
If these Euro teams are serious, what will become of the NBA? The money and perks in this offer are downright unmatchable. If Kobe walks away from this season with a Championship ring, how could he possibly say no? Who could blame him?
Posted by: Rick Friedman | October 15, 2008 at 08:40 AM
Laker4Life,
I think you're wrong about Sasha. He is a tenacious defender, a guy that frustrates the hell out of other guards. Were you watching last season? I mean, it's easy to bring up that Game 4 blunder, but every player has that kind of mistake in their history. The kid is young, plays with serious passion, brings it every night, isn't afraid to shoot the ball in clutch situations, and knocks down a grip of shots.
Ronny wasn't going to play a lot of minutes, certainly not as many as Sasha. Thus, comparing the two financially is a waste of time. Powell was a bargain, and he's going to be a better player for the Lakers than Ronny was.
I agree that giving Vlad and Luke big money was a mistake. But not Sasha. That kid has made me a believer, and he used to drive me CRAZY. He's growing up. He's getting better. And he is NOT a poor defender. Just watch.
Go Lake Show!
Posted by: The Outlaw | October 15, 2008 at 09:31 AM
Let us see who are the remaining Lakers applicants on the guillotine:
Brandon Heath
Joe Crawford
CJ Giles
Coby Karl
DJ Mbenga
Injured but not included on the guillotine list
Sasha Vujacic
Luke Walton
Sun Yue
I was expecting spectacular plays from the new names, what I saw were raw materials that need to be processed further in other leagues or europe-bound. However, I wish Joe Crawford will grow furthermore with the D'Fenders and try again next season just like what Yue did in the last two years in ABA.
I would retain Mbenga and Coby Karl who played with the Lakers last year. There is no need for additional experiments since they have been exposed to the triangle. Another reason is "character". If you have 14 abled guys who can play at higher level or some on a lower level due to laziness and lackadaisical attitude, nothwithstanding their rich & untouchable contracts, I would go for Coby who is twice cancer survivor and can excel if teamed up with good players like Kobe, Gasol, Ariza and Drew. He has proven his worth during the Summer League and he's at par with his contemporaries in the preseason. He is not ball hog but a team player that sometimes get lost in transition of an equally experimental players; Secondly, I would go for DJ Mbenga who may be at times atrocious and T/O pronned but this guy could help in hassle rebound and a wall. You can't teach height in NBA. It may take months before Kurt and Kareem could transform him into Socks Jr. but he can be improved. His another asset is character as the spirit of Free Africa in Los Angeles - the real African-American that immigrated into this land.
From marketing standpoint, Mbenga and Karl can sell tickets and inspiration to kids that Walton and Vlad could not emulate. In totality we have diversity among Laker players: Ideal Father (Fisher), Jewish Connection (Farmar), Superstar of World (Kobe), Catalan Gaudi-Dali-Miro (Gasol) Face of Serbia & Partizans (Radmanovic) Face of Morning Soap (Walton), Pride of Eastern Europe (Vujacic) Local Bruins (Ariza), White Men can jump (Mihm), The Beast of Westchester (Drew), Soul of Queens, NY (LO), Representative of the Billion People (Yue), and lastly the Clipper connection (Powell) plus the other two that were already mentioned. Karl & Mbenga are mere benchwarmers but have a role to play if called upon to resurge energy or implement game-change strategies of the unpredictable Zen mind. They provided sparks on our way to playoff last year, so why not reward them for extention of sitting again on those expensive benches or first row seats for one more year. LMAO!
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | October 15, 2008 at 09:44 AM
Kamenetsky Brothers,
Have you guys given up on trying to induce a tinyurl orthodoxy within the blog?
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | October 15, 2008 at 09:49 AM
Kobe is too competitive to go off to the Euro league right now, maybe in a couple of years but now is not the right time for him to go over there and become irrelevant over here. Josh Childress? Who will remember him in a year? If you don't see them on tv, why would you buy their products? Kobe has remade his image and the advertisers are starting to embrace him again so don't forget how much $$$ he already makes for that.
If Kobe stays here, wins another 3 championships, THEN goes over there, ala Jordan coming back with the Wizards he will still be good enough at 35 or 36 to dominate over there for a couple of years and still have the cache to do Nike ads over here. If Kobe left after this year, first, there would be bad feelings from the fans, second, he would lose all the goodwill he has been building up concerning advertising products in America and since he would be over there... he would never get the chance to repair his image here again so...
also, are they going to pay him in Euro's? I wouldn't be rushing into the Euro myself... depending on Germany's "mood" that windfall could be worth a lot less than what that article is claiming...
Posted by: Stay Thirsty My Friends | October 15, 2008 at 09:49 AM
Sun Yue isn't all that. Let's be serious. Maybe next year he might be able to contribute significantly, but that ain't happening this year.
I hate to rain on your parade, Laker Tom, I know you more than anyone else want to see a Chinese point guard posterizing LeBron James, but I just don't think it's going to happen this year.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | October 15, 2008 at 09:55 AM
As a point of order, since a few people have asked/questioned/suggested: DJ Mbenga will make the roster. Given the terms of his contract, they're not going to cut him.
BK
Posted by: Brian Kamenetzky | October 15, 2008 at 09:56 AM
Edwin Gueco,
I'm confused. I thought DJ Mbenga's contract was guaranteed.
By the way, loved the nicknames.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | October 15, 2008 at 09:56 AM
There's a story on ESPN.com's front page about guys on the trading block. Guess who's number 3? My man Lamar. I still don't think he's going anywhere but if he does I would really like to get David Lee back in return, he has heart and a really good game.
Lamar = Laker for Life
GO LAKERS
Posted by: mrbarneydangles | October 15, 2008 at 09:59 AM
Rick F.
Here is the real story of that rumor by an italian website:
"According to the Italian site basketcentral.it, an inner source from Olympiacos has revealed that the Reds are working on an extraordinary project: a super offer to propose to Kobe Bryant (198-G-78) for the next summer. Aggelopoulos' Bros would offer to the Lakers super star a contract of three years for 60 million dollars in total, with the option in the favour of the player to the term of every season."
~~ Therefore 60M in total for three years is only 20 million per year. What does Kobe lose if he moves next year to Europe? His endorsements that are worth $ 200M plus NBA, USA and Newport Beach. What does he gain playing in Greece? Well, the beauty of Greek Isles, the rich history of Hellenistic Greece but after three weeks you have seen the whole Greece and tired of greeks who may be jealoused by 20M with miserable shooting and ball hogging, the enigma Kobe creates new enemies while with the Lakers it's only KL, Gunner, Butler and Let's goC, he's still loved by many even he has only 9 working fingers, another lol!
Secondly, it was produced by an italian website that intrigues a greek team who got Josh Childress. What was amazing, it was picked by a thirst-filled media without verification, they immediately put as news, attracting readership and ticks......anything that is about the Lakers whether Kobe or Magic.....beware and read between the lines in distinguishing between facts and fiction.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | October 15, 2008 at 10:11 AM
I stand corrected, Mbenga is not on the guillotine list. Hurray, he escaped again from sure death.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | October 15, 2008 at 10:19 AM
83 MILLION HELL!!!
KOBE BRYANT IS A LAKER FOR LIFE!!!
Posted by: MAMBA24 | October 15, 2008 at 10:22 AM
"In the past few days, Odom has backtracked and said he'd do what was best for the team, but most in the league think it's only a matter of time before the Lakers find a new home for him."
###
Odom suddenly reverses course and says he is willing to come off the bench, allowing the Lakers to quietly shop him. One of the teams mentioned is Chicago. The Lakers have coveted Hinrich for a long time, Derek Rose was drafted #1 and he happens to play... PG... Hinrich doesn't work as a SG, he would be excellent as a PG in a triangle offense however...
I wonder if Kirilenko is still available? We don't need Boozer anymore but the Jazz might be looking to move Boozer to someone else so Odom could play PF. Just a thought...
Posted by: Stay Thirsty My Friends | October 15, 2008 at 10:47 AM
Jon K,
No we prefer tiny URL. But as is the case with various elements,we just occasionally don't catch everything.
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | October 15, 2008 at 10:49 AM
I stand corrected, Mbenga is not on the guillotine list. Hurray, he escaped again from sure death.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | October 15, 2008 at 10:19 AM
STOP THAT EDWIN! STOP THAT RIGHT NOW! LOL!
Posted by: MAMBA24 | October 15, 2008 at 10:51 AM
mrbarneydangles,
" I still don't think he's going anywhere but if he does I would really like to get David Lee back in return, "
Let's just say this trade happens. He's listed as an undersized (6'9") power forward, do you think that he could play some small forward?? Or would you rather see him come off of the bench behind Pau??
dan
Posted by: dan the man | October 15, 2008 at 10:59 AM
AK,
How do you transfer website links into tiny URLform?
Posted by: XandOPro | October 15, 2008 at 11:03 AM
XandOPro,
Go to tinyurl.com. Very easy to use.
Thanks.
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | October 15, 2008 at 11:10 AM
Hey everybody,
How was your summer Mamba24? I would've committed suicide if not for the Olympics b-ball..serious withdrawal.
Nice to see not much has changed. Butler's still causing havoc. I'll be here more often now that the boys are back in action.
I think I've endured enough of the Cetic pride here over the summer so let's get ready to knock these suckers off their bandwagon.
Posted by: EastCoastJessie | October 15, 2008 at 11:13 AM
LAMAR ODOM = LAKER FOR LIFE
Posted by: MAMBA24 | October 15, 2008 at 11:18 AM
Hipster aesthetic "cool" or not... As a Filipino-Chinese dude living in L.A; I don't care how or why a kid wearing some absurdly large sunglasses happened to come across gangstarr, nas, and or Jay Z (Reasonable Doubt, J_bLO, terrible production huh? I'm not on the Wayne bandwagon , but Carter II = bad production), but when they hop in my car for a ride and actually bump to it and enjoy it... I can't help, but just be happy they dig it... I remember growing up and hearing "rap is crap" from hordes of kids... Philippines, Spain specifically and yes the NY had non-believers. NY kats were talking more about the Celtics and hating on Larry Bird.
Trend following or not, you can't fake truly enjoying a song's vibe and opening your ears to something different, and perhaps it being trendy is the door opening that finally allows someone to really listen a bit harder. One of my friends hardly ever listens to hip hop, but she's a HUGE Beck fan, so I passed her the 6th Sense- Emergency Exit ft. Beck track and she was able to just listen because of the different musical aesthetic, though this might be categorized as hipster rap/production.
The same with people and electro nowadays, who cares if the club is packed, and it's no longer strictly minimalist with some mashups thrown in : Artists and promoters finally get paid, and they're the ones that rocked ramen noodles and lost money on shows trying to bring you something they believe in.
However, I will admit, what does piss me off is some hipsters feeling like they are the arbiters of what is good and cool in hip hopor any other art form for that matter...But hey, when they actually hitch themselves (and their money) to something good...Funk it, roll with it.
If you don't like the Cool Kids, Wale, Pacific Division, and/or under the surface cats like Inverse, then I guarantee you'll enjoy the slew of next generation M.C.'s that these guys will inspire by proving people can actually dig folk being themselves on the mic and in their production choices. Already we have cats like 20 year old Charles Hamilton(give him 3-4 years, trust) from Harlem who has the lane opened for him to be creative as he wants to be due to folks like Kanye, Cool Kids, and Wale to show media outlets that he is viable as an artist without molding him into the next ninja with a Weezy Cosign, coconut drink song, and a youtube video encouraging him to "protect ya neck" courtesy of 40 Glocc(Tyga).
So F you to all New-Hip kids.
Us older kats just know how it was in the Late 70's (At least I researched the Culture and put out music) and 80's.
Completely different "Indie Culture."
You can have your Paps Blue and make mop-top haircuts, swinging retro pocketbooks, talking on cell phones, smoking European cigarettes, ... strutting in platform shoes with a biography of Che Guevara sticking out of your bags or backpacks.
Oh by the way RETRO GUY; I do like Makers Mark. Since 93 foolio!
Charles-Musiclife75
Posted by: Charles | October 15, 2008 at 11:20 AM
Sorry guys! Wrong blog.
Posted by: Charles | October 15, 2008 at 11:40 AM
I think I've endured enough of the Cetic pride here over the summer so let's get ready to knock
these suckers off their bandwagon. Posted by: EastCoastJessie | October 15, 2008 at 11:13 AM
Hey EastCoastJ. I'm proud of you.! You stayed strong in spite of your howmtown
teams win. But this year I promise you will be different! I missed you
my Latina Princess
Posted by: Mamba24 | October 15, 2008 at 11:42 AM
The Machine needs a few wires replaced, some synthetic oil, and a new flux capacitor. Not two weeks of rest! Get outta here!
Or as he might say it:
Machine have no need for time away from mates of team. Machine make own repair. For to be stronger and make big three point shot in face of silly green mens.
Boooommmmm Shaka Lakaaaaaaa!!!!!
Posted by: magicman | October 15, 2008 at 11:44 AM
Missed you too Mamba. It was no easy task having to deal with the parade and all the hoopla for about a week after the finals....after that, I never heard a thing about the Celts until Posey left. This is baseball town and you see how that's workin' out right now. Dead silence in the city.
We seriously have to handle our business and get that ring this year. I'd love to have a re-match but I wouldn't be upset if Atlanta knocked them out either...as long as they're gone.
Posted by: EastCoastJessie | October 15, 2008 at 11:54 AM