Ronny and Kareem
Saw this today scrolling around TrueHoop on ESPN.com. Turns out Ronny Turiaf is blogging on Warriors.com -- you're not going to believe this, but his stuff is incredibly upbeat and optimistic -- and in his inaugural post had some nice words about The Captain:
"...I have to tell you that yesterday at practice I got to see my man Kareem Abdul-Jabaar. He has been a great force behind a lot of my success. He is not the type of guy that is going to speak his mind about your game too much…unless you want him to. When I was in Los Angeles, he would sit on the sideline and watch how I play -- he could tell I was struggling and trying to pass the ball too much at certain times. He really helped me gain faith in myself and confidence in myself. He always worked on the Mikan drill with me before practice and he would always tell me: "Ronny, I know you are a great passer, but I want you to be able to score the ball and create fouls after you get offensive rebounds."
I remember last year during the playoffs against the Spurs, I got an offensive rebound and my first thought was to pass it, but then I remembered what he said, so I went up and dunked the ball with Tim Duncan right next to me. After the play, I was pointing at him because we were just talking about doing that on the morning of the game. He said, "Ronny, tonight, you are not passing the ball if you get an offensive rebound."
Kareem is a guy who was always there for me and whenever I was down I could always go to him and he would be that voice of reason. I can say that I am friends with Kareem Abdul-Jabaar and that is pretty neat...."
I know a lot of former players get booed at Staples upon their return -- I've heard the faithful boo Robert Horry, for cryin' out loud -- but somehow I figure Ronny will escape that fate when Golden State visits Staples on Dec. 28.
BK
Turiaf's absence will impact the lakers this season. The energy and toughness he brought off the bench is what allowed the lakers to continue to win when both gasol and bynum were injured.
SInce pau and bynumb seem to prone to injuries, the lack of quality backups in the frontcourt could become a major issue for this team. Turiaf brought experience and you never know how losing even one quality personality like Ronny could upset the balance of the team.
Posted by: BUTLER | October 18, 2008 at 12:10 PM
Turiaf was arguably the lakers' grittiest playa after kobey. The lakers, already soft at heart, lost a big piece of their team when he went to GS.
I expect Turiaf to have huge games against the lakers this season. Makes one wonder how he'll be received at Staples when he takes kareem's advice and dunks on the laker bigs. Will kareem be smiling?
Posted by: BUTLER | October 18, 2008 at 12:20 PM
Ronny shall be missed only for the team mate he was and to a degree the dunks.
Powell on the other hand has been the rebounder that Ronny never was so far in preseason.
Horry left (for good reasons-family) for SA and while it may have been good reasons some Laker fans may not know of that and felt he simply wanted to be in San Antonio. Still when I go to games when Horry checks in I do cheer for him especially for 2002 Game 4 (and Game 3 of 2001 Finals) only booing him when he does score (heck he was on the Spurs after all).
Ronny will probably receive a warm welcome when he comes back to the Staples Center just like D-Fish did when he came back as a Warrior. Just don't expect the Staples Center crowd to cheer when he scores a basket (unless it is like that Walton basket last year).
-blitz
Posted by: thekobeblitz | October 18, 2008 at 12:24 PM
Luke and Vlad's contracts are the reasons why we couldn't re-sign Turiaf.
Posted by: never | October 18, 2008 at 12:33 PM
Dear Ak & BK,
I don't read the blog as much anymore simply because your insistence on letting the troll post "unlimitedly" is irritating to me. Sure I can, so to speak, scroll past his/her posts, but I don't come here expecting that I have to keep censoring my reading.
The troll has long exhausted his entertainment or comedic value, and is simply reducing my enjoyment of the camaraderie one would expect from communing with like-minded fans of my team.
It would seem that unlike the rest of us, his sole purpose is to try and irritate us 24/7. I say enough is enough.
The troll is not adding any useful insights to the discussion with his inane and snide postings. Put more bluntly, what exactly is this agent provocateur provoking? Certainly he is not promoting friendship and fraternity among bloggers. His posting are of little if any positive value where our discussions are concerned, and it is time you consider his removal for conduct detrimental to the objective of the blog - a place for LAKERS FANS.
Please believe me when I say that I am an ardent and committed advocate of free speech, et cetera, but why should I, A LAKER FAN, come here to be continually insulted and derided? It would seem to me that it is much better that I do not log on at all.
Peace dudes.
Posted by: Glenn | October 18, 2008 at 12:41 PM
Laker Tom,
"Is their a risk that Drew might not turn out to be the player everyone is projecting? Not a great risk but a risk for sure. "
I'll pretend that I didn't read that.
Screw that!
The risk is huge Tom. If we jump the gun and sign Andrew to a max deal,and he doesn't get that much better, let alone leapyears better than he is right now;
THE LAKERS ARE IN SERIOUS TROUBLE!
Don't you see that?
Because I'll tell you what, "leapyears better" is what Andrew needs to become in order for this team to be strong enough to compete for a championship.
-------------------------------------------------------------
But forget all of that:
Just think about this:
We have all seen Andrew Bynum's lackidaisical approach to practice and pre-season sor far in his carreer.
THIS CAN'T BE DENIED!
What's gonna happen when we give this kid a big contract and he gets soft on us?? Huh? Huh Laker Tom? Ya getting this Laker Tom?
I'm grilling you like my homie grills the herb between two hot knives while I hold the toilet paper roll!
ch
Posted by: canibus hog | October 18, 2008 at 12:42 PM
What time is game time tonight?
Posted by: Magia32 | October 18, 2008 at 12:45 PM
Quit being such a crybaby dude. Where is your mental toughness?? You don't realize how much fun it's gonna be to watch theese trolls eat all of those words that they've been spewing??
Glenn,get a grip or go away!!
dan
Posted by: dan the man | October 18, 2008 at 12:54 PM
AK, BK
I am also for free speech, and I know this falls on deaf ears, but I must agree with Glenn's post from above. Enough is enough, I also am getting tired of "you know who's" BS. It really does diminish the quality of the blog. Think of it like having CC&R's in a particular HOA. Yeah you have a right to have a crappy front yard, but when you diminish my home value because of it then we as a group should have a right to draw a line. I think you agree the commenters here are the backbone of this blog and not just the two of you (AK, BK). Maybe a petition? Whatever, just wanted to add my two cents.
pslakerfan
Posted by: pslakerfan | October 18, 2008 at 12:58 PM
Sorry, I posted that before I realized Dan the omnipotent man was here. My bad. I now change my mind. Thanks for setting us straight Dan the omnipotent man.
pslakerfan
Posted by: pslakerfan | October 18, 2008 at 01:00 PM
Dan, you may be the Man, so please allow me to most respectfully disagree with you.
This has little to do with "mental toughness" or even with what anthropologists and psychologists call "magical thinking:, i.e. the tendency to believe that wishing it so makes it so. My point is that the troll's constant postings are irritating to me and do vastly dilute my enjoyment of the blog. They are not particularly witty, they are repetitive, and for the most part illogical to the point of being inane. I don't mind the occasional banal assertion, but I detest the fact that they cannot make up in quantity what they lack in quality.
And yes Dan, I will go away. I come here to congratulate, conversate, commentate and even commiserate with LAKER FANS, not to be constantly, continually and consistently insulted by a troll.
In short, more Dan the Man's and less trolls.
Posted by: Glenn | October 18, 2008 at 01:22 PM
pslakerfan,
Glad to be here!! lol
Honestly, I don't really think that we have it that bad here. I mean, the LATimes.com is no Boca Breeze, it is read by people all over the world. Thinking along those lines, you will always find some kind of coruption when anything like this blows up. All I'm saying is: it could be a whole lot worst!
And actually, I don't mind BUTLER, he's alright. That chicken little stuff yesterday was kinda strange, but he's made me luagh a time or two, I'll give him that.
L.G.C.'s was a pain in the ass, but I think I hated him more just for the act that he was a Celtics fan. He might be back once the season starts up, but again, I stress the enjoyment of watching fine crow dining.
dan
Posted by: dan the man | October 18, 2008 at 01:22 PM
Bynum and Sun; The next Laker All Stars.
Bynum is a hall-of-fame lock.
Bynum HAS EARNED 90 million.
If he hasn't earned it; he will.
Bynum has played the best 20 games in NBA history.
I'm stoned.
You are all stupid.
Tom the wise and powerful
Posted by: Henny Penny | October 18, 2008 at 01:35 PM
Why allow anyone to be blowing bad breeze daily and insistently on our blog? I hardly think we need "outside" help to improve our "mental toughness" on this blog, what with dan the man, Fatty, Jon, Edwin, et al?
Invariably every post starts with the provocation of the troll and that is not what I want from a blog for Laker fans. I think that the troll succeeds in stirring up ill-feelings on the blog, even among AK/BK and some of the bloggers. It is hot air yes, but it is also poisonous gas.
Forgive me fellow fans, but I am no masochist. Ultimately the only authority I have is whether I read and/or post. I would like to think that the K-Bros respect our thoughts on these matters, and I would daresay even encourages the feedback.
My sole opinion is that the unrelenting negative postings by the troll is detrimental to the blog even if only because it's ruinous to my blog experience alone.
Peace and Love always.
Posted by: Glenn | October 18, 2008 at 01:39 PM
I love Ronny. I am sure he will get a very warm reception upon his return to staples.
Posted by: Gabe | October 18, 2008 at 01:41 PM
Dan the Man has the right spirit.
Don't read my stuff if you don't like it.
Regarding my opinion stated above about Turiaf, it seems both pertinent and valid to question how the lakers will do without him.
Did I mention that D'Antoni beat KG and the Celtics last night? Perhaps Phil Jackson needs to hire D'Antoni as a consultant!
Posted by: BUTLER | October 18, 2008 at 01:46 PM
what's the cap doing in warrior land? He hasn't left us has he?
And I agree. Most will still cheer for Ronny. He will always have a special place in my heart.
Posted by: Faith | October 18, 2008 at 02:00 PM
I agree with this statement: "more dan the man, less trolls" lol.
Sometimes I think trolls respond to themselves just to get people to jump in. Not in this case of course, other times.
Still let's not beat the horse, the Ks has already said their piece. Nothing we can do about it but ignore.
Posted by: Faith | October 18, 2008 at 02:04 PM
Glenn - I want you to be comfortable in this blog, and even feel enlightened, but just know that I shouldn't be expected to reign in my criticisms simply because some laker fans might find them disagreeable. I'll respect you or anyone else here, though, but I can't promise the same when it comes to kobey.
Dan the Man sez:
"That chicken little stuff yesterday was kinda strange, but he's made me luagh a time or two, I'll give him that."
Actually, that wasn't me - I have an impostor who posts in my name occasionally. Instead of taking me on outright, the aim is to discredit me by putting ridiculous words in my mouth. It's cowardly, but I don't necessarily assume all laker fans are cowards.
Posted by: BUTLER | October 18, 2008 at 02:08 PM
Ronny is most definately a class act. I think going thru such difficult times after he got drafted increased his already high energy and appreciation for life. I, for one, will loudly cheer him when he is announced at Staples. His great attitude has been an inspiration for our family.
Posted by: Derrick | October 18, 2008 at 02:10 PM
Booing Ronny would be like booing Santa Claus. Although I'm optimistic Josh Powell can deliver more for the Lakers, Ronny is more than just a player. AB17 would do well to read Ronny's blog entry. Ronny always tried to deliver more than his natural abilities alone would let him. He took advantage of anything the Captain might pass along to improve his game and played with a unique zest that makes him special. Andrew needs to better appreciate what the Lakers are offering him.
Posted by: Rick Friedman | October 18, 2008 at 02:25 PM
Never
"Luke and Vlad's contracts are the reasons why we couldn't re-sign Turiaf."
I wouldn't put Vlad's contract in that mix because he brings a skill set that will prove valuable to the Lakers in terms of spreading the floor with the range he has on his shot.......phil just hasn't learned how to use him because of Phil's inability to coach to the talent he has......in other words "triangle auto-pilot"
Luke Walton on the other hand is the primary reason for a lot of the mess the Lakers has experienced because of Phil's obsession to find a place for him.
Coming in to this season the lakers primary weaknesses are defense and rebounding along with athleticism...............with that criteria why would Luke Walton even be a consideration for playing time let alone a member of this team?
Logically it makes little sense
Posted by: pfunk36 | October 18, 2008 at 02:37 PM
Last word: I am no masochist, I have no need to be disparaged. I want to enjoy being with fellow Lakers on a blog, It is not happening. I am gone.
Posted by: Glenn | October 18, 2008 at 02:44 PM
Glenn
The questions you pose are tied up in the philosophy of what a blog is for...to assume it is for friendship etc is merely one take.i enjoy many aspects of the blog ad I find it somewhat reassuring to log on and know I can always chew Butler up if my daysa little slow...Butler has ,in my opinion,always had something to offer but I agree he seems to have slipped back into troll like territory lately...pick your game up Butler!...and Butler perhaps Phil could get trade tips on how to beat the spurs? in return for Mikes insight on how to beat the celtics? perhaps Phil could show him what a championship ring looks like? just a thought
Canibus hog...good points but admitting to being baked does reduce your credibility somewhat and besides you should be taking two and passing it on (without slobbering)
Posted by: Kiwi | October 18, 2008 at 02:46 PM
speaking of trolls what happened to KL beast? did he break parole?
And lets go c's seems to have made a short sharp exit....thank goodness for that.Now there was one guy who truly was fricken annoying.
Mike T made a brief reappearance and is gone too?
Posted by: Kiwi | October 18, 2008 at 02:48 PM
Hey Glenn there no need to feel disparaged...consider it a training ground in how to debate and Butler as a great guy to practise on due to the ease of crapping all over his arguments...dont take it so seriously its only fun.
it'd get a bit dull if we were always nice to each other
Posted by: Kiwi | October 18, 2008 at 02:56 PM
Kiwi sez:
"and Butler perhaps Phil could get trade tips on how to beat the spurs? in return for Mikes insight on how to beat the celtics?"
Touche!
Posted by: BUTLER | October 18, 2008 at 02:59 PM
Glen has been talking about Trolls for so long today, he hasn't realized yet that he too has become one himself..
HEY GLENN, TAKE A LOOK IN THE MIRROR!
Posted by: Joe Sixpack | October 18, 2008 at 03:13 PM
Nice to read the Ronny stuff.
For those that have been at practices, is Kareem as active and present this preseason as in the past few? I'm not nearly as worried about the Bynum situation as some seem to be, but knowing that Kareem's around would make me feel even better.
Posted by: dave m | October 18, 2008 at 03:15 PM
Rick,
Even Santa Clause is not a given to be always cheered for (The Eagle Fans). I won't mind Ronny being back in Staples in fact would cheer for him. Scoring on us is a different matter.
-blitz
Posted by: thekobeblitz | October 18, 2008 at 03:25 PM
Kiwi-
LGC's only posts as Butler now.
Posted by: htj | October 18, 2008 at 03:28 PM
Butler said: "the aim is to discredit me by putting ridiculous words in my mouth."
Now that has to be just about the funniest thing I've ever read. BUTT is concerned that someone may damage his credibility on the blog. ROFLMFAO
Everyone already knows you are either the town drunk, or the court jester. Don't worry, your reputation is intact.
Posted by: Eric M. | October 18, 2008 at 03:58 PM
Blitz,
>>> Even Santa Clause is not a given to be always cheered for (The Eagle Fans).
I knew someone would call me out for that one. Cheers!
Posted by: Rick Friedman | October 18, 2008 at 04:10 PM
Pig,
>>>>>The risk is huge Tom. If we jump the gun and sign Andrew to a max deal,
>>>>>and he doesn't get that much better, let alone leap years better than he is
>>>>>right now; THE LAKERS ARE IN SERIOUS TROUBLE!
I don’t agree, Pig. Nor do I think the Lakers front office does. I am just stating my opinion. We’ll find out soon who is right. Honestly, I don’t really care who is right or wrong, just that the Lakers sign Drew before October 31 so there is NO chance he will become a free agent.
And we do not need Drew to be “leap years better” or we’re “in serious trouble.” As Phil said, we just need Drew to anchor the defense and boards and provide toughness that we lacked last year against the Celtics. More than that is frosting on the cake.
>>>>> Just think about this:
>>>>>We have all seen Andrew Bynum's lackadaisical approach to practice and pre-season
>>>>>so far in his career. THIS CAN'T BE DENIED!
Yes, it can! From the beginning of last summer, Andrew Bynum has been as dedicated as Kobe to working out and improving his game. It has been his great work ethic that fueled his incredible improvement on the court. And while he has not shown great play in the first three pre-season games, you have to take account that the guy came into camp in great physical shape but has not played the game of basketball for almost eight months. Claiming that Andrew is not motivated based on three pre-season games is pure hyperbole.
>>>>> Taking shots at the name now that you're feeling on the defensive is hardly
>>>>>becoming. You know better than to stoop to that level.
When you insult me by calling me “pompous” and mocking me post after childish post, what do you expect? I post what I think, Pig. It’s just my opinion but for some reason, you always want to pile on. Well, you get what you sow. Show some respect and I will treat and I will respond in kind. I have no real problem with you but can you say the same?
>>>>>He'll [Jerry Buss] more likely pay Drew what he's worth by allowing the market to
>>>>>set a value after the season and Drew showing his value to Lakers and the league.
If you are right, it will be a sad day for the Lakers because they truly risk losing Drew for good if they allow him to become a free agent. If you don’t understand the risk, then you are just denying the reality. The ONLY way to ensure that Drew remains a Laker is to sign him to an extension before October 31, 2008. That is the ONLY way to guarantee that the Lakers keep Andrew Bynum. THIS CAN’T BE DENIED.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | October 18, 2008 at 04:15 PM
LT-
I get what you're saying, but there really isn't any imminent danger in Drew's contract situation. They could still get a deal done before Halloween, but even if they don't, the Lakers are a full year away from losing control over where he goes. In reality, there is a danger to the Lakers in signing him before they know for sure that he's healthy, has the explosion they're looking for, and continues developing. It's a lot of money for a lot of years. There's no harm in mitigating the risk.
Drew, assuming he's healthy and plays well, will get his money, and almost assuredly from the Lakers.
BK
Posted by: Brian Kamenetzky | October 18, 2008 at 04:23 PM
Nice little thread about Ronny and Kareem. After reading it, I appreciate Kareem more and miss Ronny more.
I'm glad Ronny's getting a chance to start up in Golden State (and glad that Golden State isn't a real threat this year.)
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | October 18, 2008 at 04:36 PM
Rick F
"Booing Ronny would be like booing Santa Claus."
Great line. When we play the Warriors, I hope Ronny scores 30 and the Warriors lose by 40.
Glenn
I hear yeah. A little salt on the food brings out the flavor, but too much will ruin it.
Posted by: Fatty | October 18, 2008 at 04:39 PM
Laker Tom,
Adding to what BK said, I simply don't understand why you think not extending Drew equates to such a big "risk" taken.
If there's no extension, Bynum ends this season as a restricted FA. If he plays well enough to get a big offer sheet from another team, it's a given the Lakers will match and lock him up. Do you honestly think Drew will spurn every offer (so there's nothing to match), play on a one-year tender and become an unrestricted FA out of "no extension" spite to the Lakers? Putting aside how this scenario still allows the Lakers to give him the best deal, do you have any concept of how risky that is, considering both his injury history and the chances of a subpar season? Nobody in their right mind would take that route. Plus, if Drew's so petulant and self-absorbed to pull something that stupid because of a notion that the Lakers "disrespected" him or something, I have serious doubts he's the kind of player to build a franchise around.
Unless I'm missing something, the risks of signing a just off surgery Bynum to 80-90 mil off ten weeks of great play WITHOUT NEEDING TO are considerably lower than the Lakers wisely utilizing their leverage. If you have the opportunity for a longer and concise look before making a monumental investment, why on Earth wouldn't you? Again, if I'm missing something, please explain. But few, if any, readers seem to agree with your urgent take. There's probably a reason.
Respectfully, I think you're allowing your understandable enthusiasm for Drew's potential and talent cloud your judgment of the actual situation at hand.
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | October 18, 2008 at 04:42 PM
I agree with BK. There's only one reason to give socks that huge contract right now, and that would be just to show him how much he's loved.
But, from a business standpoint, it would be STUPID. He's restricted even if a deal isn't reached, and frankly, that's probably the best route for both him and the team.
He puts up a great year, he gets paid. If he fizzles, he might still get paid, but probably not max contract type of money... Buss might play poker, but poker isn't about making stupid bets just for the sake of it.... why gamble here?
No reason.
As for Turiaf, I'm STILL upset about management letting him go. He had a lot of potential and did a lot defensively that fans never gave him credit for, and they just peed him away like he was nothing.
Cheer for him to show love, but of course, don't root for him when he's playing against us.
Posted by: Tim-4-Show | October 18, 2008 at 04:42 PM
LakerTom,
"The risk is huge Tom. If we jump the gun and sign Andrew to a max deal,
>>>>>and he doesn't get that much better, let alone leap years better than he is
>>>>>right now; THE LAKERS ARE IN SERIOUS TROUBLE! "
I didn't write that. canibus hog and I are not the same person, so I'll just respond to the stuff that's in regards to what I wrote.
"When you insult me by calling me “pompous” and mocking me post after childish post, what do you expect? I post what I think, Pig. It’s just my opinion but for some reason, you always want to pile on. Well, you get what you sow. Show some respect and I will treat and I will respond in kind. I have no real problem with you but can you say the same?"
Maybe something is getting lost in all of the din around the things we've been posting but I've never mocked you. I said that you use "pompous language" not that you are pompous. I chose the words carefully there. It's the way that you come off on occasion. I've got no problem with you having an opinion, but I'm also not the only one that disagrees with you, or feels this way about how you write. When I read the stuff you write, oftentimes it seems like you're stating facts, when you really aren't, and that comes off as pompous. I'll repeat that I really don't have a problem with you. This started when I posted proof that the Lakers could not only offer Drew a qualifying offer but a Maximum offer as well, after you had stated they could only offer him a QO. That simply wasn't true and I made sure that was clear. Otherwise, if you think the Lakers should pay Drew big money now, you're simply in the minority.
On the subject of Drew's contract, I've already stated my case and backed it up with the facts of the situation. The Lakers hold the cards, as many here have stated, and Andrew is not deserving of the kind of money that is being bandied about. He simply hasn't earned it.
Posted by: "Pig" Miller | October 18, 2008 at 04:55 PM
Kamenetsky Brothers,
I just watched your admonishment for us not to panic regarding Andrew Bynum's contract. I wholeheartedly agree; however, I fully expect for fans to panic.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | October 18, 2008 at 04:58 PM
Can anyone tell me what time game starts?
Thnx
Posted by: Magia32 | October 18, 2008 at 05:08 PM
Eric M sez:
"Everyone already knows you are either the town drunk, or the court jester. Don't worry, your reputation is intact."
Whew! Good to know I still have friends in low places.
I hope the spanish game is on TV, I still haven't seen gasol and bynumb play together.
Posted by: BUTLER | October 18, 2008 at 05:16 PM
Magia32
The game starts at 7:30 pst. If you're in socal, you can check it out tonight on Fox Sports Network.
Posted by: 15th Coming | October 18, 2008 at 05:20 PM
If Drew and his agent are smart, they'll try to do a big money 3 year deal. It should make sense to the Lakers front office because it gives them a window through which to reflect upon Andrew's progress.
I agree with Laker Tom in that we don't want to sour relations with a potential star by hedging our bets. I thought early in Mitch's tenure as GM, he started off with a lot of contract hedging and, at the time, questionable contracts in general. But after reading what Fish said and hearing about camp in general and observing how Kobe has been conducting himself and further taking into account Lamr's situation I see what amounts to a general plan.
Mitch Kupchak knows what he is doing. On the surface, this team sounds like they want to stay together. This reminds me of the 80's team in camraderie. They weren't overtly super great buddies, but they went to war on the court extremely well together. They complemented each others style of play, and there were key role players.
I think having Kareem around has added to an feeling of stability, a link to the past, and a smooth mentality that doesn't get over excited or too morose. A win is a win, and it's better than losing. But in loss, lessons can be learned. It's learning them that is key. I think the Cap is a good teacher because he's unflinhingly analitical. He might not be kind, cool or suave. But he is bright and observant and a pure baller.
Ronny reflected as much in his praise. I think he will make a difference in Golden State. He will bring some of that Laker mojo into Don Nelson's mad lab. We'll see how much PT he gets.
Not to worry about the cash. Mitch'll do it right, gang.
GO NEGOTIATIONS!!!!!
Posted by: Jamie Sweet | October 18, 2008 at 05:20 PM
Pig,
Thanks for your response. I apologize for being so antagonistic. I do have strong opinions and some may interpret that as being pompous but I sure do not mean to come off like that. And I do push back when attacked but also have been wrong many times before and realize I will probably be wrong many times more. But I think I have been right far more than wrong. In any event, all the words are just my opinion, nothing more or less than any other blogger.
At any rate, we’re fine. I respect you as a fellow Lakers fan and will try to respond better when criticized in the future. I just strongly feel that the Lakers need to sign Drew and am frustrated that other fans don’t agree and realize the huge risk the team would be taking by allowing him to become a free agent. That is why I have been so volatile and defensive more than any specific criticism by another blogger. Anyway, thanks again for your response. Let’s just all hope that AK and BK are right and Drew will be signed and everybody will be happy and we will have kept this wonderful team together for next few years. Peace.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | October 18, 2008 at 05:21 PM
Pig and Jon K,
I fully support both your opinions and the K brothers concerning Andrew Bynum's contract (plus Xodus also put support on it as well). It's really odd that some fans are hitting the panic button when the Lakers have ALL the leverage to sign Andrew Bynum even next year. There's no point to gamble now when Drew hasn't done that much to show he is worth $80 million.
And Laker Tom, those work outs in the summer is what he should do. Many players including Baron Davis, Tayshaun Prince and even Gilbert Arenas comes to UCLA and plays pick ups games to stay in shape and basketball form. Am I saying what Drew did during the summer means nothing? Heck no. But there is a difference between doing off season work outs and showing it in practice and especially games.
And please, don't take what some other bloggers are saying personally. It seems that the other opinions of the bloggers who has disagreed on you about Drew you take personally and even compared the situation to Animal Farm.
-blitz
Posted by: thekobeblitz | October 18, 2008 at 05:41 PM
LakerTom,
"If you are right, it will be a sad day for the Lakers because they truly risk losing Drew for good if they allow him to become a free agent. If you don’t understand the risk, then you are just denying the reality."
You're the one that's denying reality. The Lakers are in no imminent danger of losing Andrew, that is the reality. If Drew is as good as we think he is and he gets a big offer from another team we can match the offer next summer.
And you refuse to address the point that your entire invalid argument is built on: that it makes NO financial sense for Drew to accept a QO instead of what will likely be a max contract offer next summer if he plays as well as we think he can.
THERE IS NO DENYING THIS. I love you as a blogger, man but you're acting like Mike T and ignoring the issues that make your argument untrue.
Posted by: Xodus | October 18, 2008 at 05:47 PM
AK,
"Do you honestly think Drew will spurn every offer (so there's nothing to match), play on a one-year tender and become an unrestricted FA out of "no extension" spite to the Lakers?"
Exactly, it would be a classic case of cutting off your nose to spite your face.
We all know Drew is the youngest player ever to be drafted, but this would be the most immature thing any player has ever done.
"You don't want to give me a max-extension when I'm coming off a major knee injury, have never made an all-star game and people question my intensity in practice? Well, I'm not going to sign ANY long-term deal you give me, with the risk of injury so I can take a smaller max-deal, because no one can pay me more than LA, with a less bright future."
That makes sense.
Posted by: Xodus | October 18, 2008 at 05:54 PM
Yes, when does the game start and can we have a link?
I have mixed feelings about Bynum. He, we are told, worked hard at recovery. He has definitely improved. But I was calling for Big Baby Bynum to get his surgery or come back for a long time. It seemed like, due to whomever's advice, he sat on that injury for a Loooooong time.
I haven't really seen the steel of this kid.
GOOOoooOOOO LAKERS!!!
Posted by: JohnnyP | October 18, 2008 at 06:04 PM