There will be no "dunk bounties" on Greg Oden tomorrow night
At least none talked about publicly. But judging by the lack of winks, cocky smiles and elbow nudges, I believe the sincerity of disinterest expressed in embarrassing Portland's Greg Oden during tomorrow's season opener, much less anyone offering a grand like Kevin Martin won for dunking on a rook being hyped as the game's next great defensive presence (although if you watch the video, K-Mart didn't so much dunk on Oden as next to him). And even if money did change hands over a sweet throw down, Derek Fisher wouldn't see it as teammates paying to debunk "The legend of the Bearded One" as simply a continuation of a tradition where young 'uns pay their dues.
"I think that's more about being a rookie than it is defensive reputation, " laughed Fish. "In particular, rookies that get a lot of fanfare early, certain guys just get excited about welcoming them to the NBA."
Truth be told, most Lakers don't seem all that intrigued by
Oden to begin with. Not because of any disrespect towards the Ohio
State product, but because they've only really seen him in a Buckeye
uni. Yes, as Phil Jackson acknowledged, Oden is likely to be a paint
deterrent even as a rookie, but until consistent evidence is displayed
at this level, hold off on going gaga. "I haven't seen him
play yet, so it's pretty hard to say," replied Vlad
Radmanovic when asked if Oden has a defensive
rep that proceeds his time in the L. "Not that I know of," agreed Farmar when
asked the same question. Kobe didn't even bother feigning interest in the first meeting between high profile seven footers. When asked if he was curious about Oden going up against Andrew Bynum, Kobe
responded with a casual "no."
If anyone ever wonders why the players are the players and the suits who hype every marketing aspect of the NBA are the suits who hype every marketing aspect of the NBA, there you have it.
In the eyes of some Laker Nation residents, there are a fair amount of players that, like Oden, haven't truly earned a defensive rep, either. Perhaps that will change in 2009, given the markedly increased emphasis on lockdown during preseason compared to previous training camps. Fish mentioned that aspect today and it's not the first time such a description has been given, which prompted me to inquire why that focus wouldn't be as heavily stressed every October by Phil. To some degree, as Lamar Odom explained (and I agree), if the offense breaks down, the subsequent turnovers, scrambling and extended time spent on the other side of the ball will automatically lead to a boatload of points surrendered. Thus, time spent drilling the triangle is necessary. But it's also perhaps taken some time for Phil Jackson to recognize the need to instruct accordingly with a younger team lacking a surplus of savvy.
"In a professional basketball setting, there's not necessarily the time or the ability to teach every aspect of the game from scratch," explained Fisher. "You have to prioritize things. In the past, we had smart, high I.Q. veteran guys that knew how to play the game. I think that was something that Phil was accustomed to in Chicago as well. His best guys were his best defensive guys. I think it was even an adjustment for him, having younger guys and having maybe Kobe as the best guy on the team and your best defender, possibly. But then, who's behind him? Who's that next guy that is a great defensive player that can just make things happen. I think as a coaching staff, they also question themselves and try to figure out what happened and didn't happen last year. It's something that they brought to us. They wanted to put an emphasis on it and we were open to it as a team."
"He's really sensed the need to teach a little more," nodded Kobe in agreement of PJ's approach tweaked in accordance to a less defensively intuitive roster. I asked if it was a matter of emphasizing the importance of continual effort or literally breaking down the X's and O's. In Kobe's mind, it's mostly about the drawing board. "A lot of it is technique. It's rotations. Understanding where guys are coming from. Having a defensive system that you play out of that involves all five guys. Once you have the system, then it becomes an effort thing. If you have effort without the system, you have a bunch of guys running around getting cut apart."
For those wondering, I wanted to get Phil's take, but after failing to box out a good spot among the sea of cameraman during his short Q & A, I wasn't anywhere close enough to grab his attention. But I'll try to work it in tomorrow.
On a fun note, Kobe talked about his "Guitar Hero" spot with Tony Hawk, Michal Phelps and A-Rod. Some writers and fans have expressed surprise at Kobe letting his hair down in such public fashion, but to the Mamba, it was no different than time spent acting silly with his daughters. Besides, the "acting" technique was pretty simple. "I was just moving around like I was drunk," quipped the MVP. As a "Guitar Hero/Rock Band" enthusiast myself (I'm best at bass or drums, but can sing the HELL outta "Black Hole Sun," even though the absurdly long track leaves my throat bleeding), I was curious about Kobe's prowess.
"I played in between breaks and I did okay, if I stick to the songs I know," grinned Bryant. "Beat it." "Thriller" Classic stuff like that. I can sing it, but playing the instruments is the hard part. But we got a game coming to the house. My girls and I, we'll be messing around with that a lot." As it turns out, Kobe had more trouble with the slide-pop move upon entering the frame (even great athletes can struggle with hitting a mark while in beat). That and donning the underwear, which he immediately nixed. "I can't trash talk and be the alpha dog around here if I'm in a commercials with chonies on. That's just not going on."
And finally, for those looking to rock their Sun Yue jerseys tomorrow night at Staples, unless it's literally your only one, I'd perhaps switch to your "Bryant," "Bynum" or even the "Mbenga." But Phil already said that the Chinese import won't be suiting up tomorrow night.
AUDIO
- Derek Fisher, Part I: Download derek_fisher_practice_10.27.08.mp3
- Derek Fisher, Part II: Download fisher_2_10.27.08.mp3
- Vlad Radmanovic (with a hilarious line about the media at the end): Download vlad_radmanovic_10.27.08.mp3
- Lamar Odom: Download lamar_odom_10.27.08.mp3
- Phil Jackson, Part I: Download phil_jackson_1_10.27.08.mp3
- Phil Jackson, Part II: Download phil_jackson_2_10.27.08.mp3
- Jordan Farmar: Download jordan_farmar_10.27.08.mp3
- Kobe Bryant, Part I: Download kobe_bryant_1_10.27.08.mp3
- Kobe Bryant, Part II: Download kobe_bryant_2_10.27.08.mp3
AK
AK,
So what did we learn today??
YOU'VE GOTTA BOX OUT!!
Good stuff, Go Lakers!!
dan
Posted by: dan the man | October 27, 2008 at 07:28 PM
Well im back for another season of spills and thrills.
I would like to say 1st off "Goodbye Coby Karl"! your game was garbage but that's just my opinion.
2nd..Sun Yue..your game is garbage right now and we all know why you were kept (Cha-ching)
3rd..Since my Raiders are sucking Ewokian Eggs..a Laker win will calm my nervous souls
Posted by: lakeraholic | October 27, 2008 at 07:32 PM
Ack! Why, why, why do I have to wait until tomorrow for the game??? BAD!
I'm whining. Seriously I find this waiting to be very, very painful. All this hype is NOT helping!
AAAA!!!!
Anywho,
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Cameron | October 27, 2008 at 07:40 PM
18-2 Start!
18-2 Start!
Posted by: canibus hog | October 27, 2008 at 07:58 PM
We are ready for what promises to be one historical season, one for the ages, a season to be remembered, and....it will be a lot of fun, trust me.
Wish Chick could be here in person, but again trust me when I say, he's here in spirit.
Are you ready for some Lakers basketball?
Then......get with it!!!
http://tinyurl.com/6ajfvs
Posted by: Fatty | October 27, 2008 at 08:24 PM
18-2 Start...
This is how it's going down:
-------------------------------------------------------------
vs Portland....................................WIN
@ LA Clippers .............................WIN
@ Denver......................................WIN
vs LA Clippers...............................WIN
vs Houston....................................LOSS
@ Dallas ....................................WIN
@ New Orleans............................WIN
vs Detroit.......................................WIN
vs Chicago....................................WIN
@ Phoenix.....................................WIN
vs Denver......................................WIN
vs Sacramento..............................WIN
vs New Jersey..............................WIN
vs Dallas.......................................LOSS
vs Toronto.....................................WIN
@ Indiana......................................WIN
@ Philadelphia...............................WIN
@ Washington..............................LOSS
vs Milwaukee................................WIN
@ Sacramento..............................WIN
vs Phoenix.....................................WIN
vs Sacramento..............................WIN
ch
Posted by: canibus hog | October 27, 2008 at 08:58 PM
Fatty -
OMG!!!! That video was awesome. Brought tears to my eyes :(
Posted by: bobie | October 27, 2008 at 09:05 PM
The Lakers need to go into this game with their eyes wide open. Otherwise, Portland is going to run all over them and the Lakers players will be left answering questions afterwards about not knowing these guys were that good when they should've.
One reason why Portland has had the Lakers # is because they were longer at every position. That'll be different this year with the addition of Bynum and everyone else shifting down. But those guys are scary good. Aldridge, Roy, Webster, Outlaw, Fernandez, Rodriguez. They can't be realizing on the court how good they are b/c by then the game will be lost. It isn't going to be an easy game. I'm hoping for a really hard fought, exciting contest that will set the tone for an exciting year.
The battle on the inside will be about foul trouble. Aldridge will be aggressive offensively. How will Pau handle that? Bynum will be aggressive offensively and you can bet that Oden will not shy away from trying to block his shots. Drew is going to have to be really smart about how and when to press an advantage, otherwise, he's going to be forcing poor shots leading to transition buckets for the Portland backcourt.
The battle on the outside will be about stopping penetration. Think about it. When Bynum comes over to turn back a penetrating guard, who is going to be left open... Oden or Aldridge, for an easy dunk. The Lakers can't be picking up silly fouls just because they were out-hustled by Portland's smaller players.
I'm not scared. But you have to respect this team. The only way the Lakers lose is by having a bad mindset and overlooking this young talented team simply b/c everyone says they're supposed to be able to beat them.
Posted by: lakers_sth | October 27, 2008 at 09:11 PM
Why the loss to Dallas and Washington? Weirdo Arenas isn't back until January and we own Dallas especially with an aging Jason Kidd.
-blitz
Posted by: kobeblitz | October 27, 2008 at 10:29 PM
Life is again sweet, and full of promise.
It's time for tip off.
Let's Go Lakers.
clap clap
clapclapclap
Posted by: EHomp | October 27, 2008 at 11:04 PM
I hope Kobe baptizes Greg Oden just like he did for Dwight Howard
Posted by: 130 | October 27, 2008 at 11:08 PM
The whole NBA is looking forward to the marquee matchup of opening night - Lakers vs. blazers!
Bynum vs. Oden.
Good analysis lakers_sth
The Blazers are even more athletic than the Lakers, and they're so young, they don't know enough to be scared.
The Lakers will have to rely on superior execution of the triangle, and not get beat by the perimeter players of the Blazers and allow easy put backs by their athletic bigs.
The Blazers will still have the Lakers number if it becomes a less disciplined, scramble of a game.
The Lakers need to play disciplined defense, and not attempt too many risky steals that put them out of position.
Lakers also have to stay away from too much 3 pt shooting. If the Blazers are allowed to get a lead, the Lakers might try to get back in the game w/the 3 pt shot.
That was a major downfall last season.
I also expect our second unit to put a big lead on the Portland bench. Now is the time, for them to prove that they are indeed the best second unit in the NBA.
Drew will be pumped up for this game, hope he stays away from the fouls and keeps his mental focus.
I'm really excited to see how he's going to play after the injury. The last pre-season game, Drew sent a message to everyone.
I think Oden will be a bit of a disappointment partly bec. he has been over-hyped.
I think its ridiculous that espn was discussing who would one rather get - Bynum or Oden. Oden hasnt proved anything on the NBA level, Drew has.
I'm looking forward to this opening game more than I have to any opening night in years!
Posted by: LakerinBC | October 27, 2008 at 11:08 PM
lakers_sth,
Are you going to go to the game tomorrow? I will be there, we should grab a beer at the Fox Sports Bar before. Just an idea.
pslakerfan
Posted by: pslakerfan | October 27, 2008 at 11:18 PM
All I have to say is 4:36 of Monday's interview on lakers.com website. Pau at it again. Hilarious character that Pau
Posted by: dorkis | October 27, 2008 at 11:35 PM
18-2 Start!
18-2 Start!
Posted by: canibus hog | October 27, 2008 at 07:58 PM
===========================
Nope I hope 20-0 start.
Posted by: JustaLakerFan | October 28, 2008 at 12:08 AM
JustaLakerFan,
"Would you want to be paid for your merits and ability or not? Assume you feel extremely confident you are capable and able to do so. What would you do?"
It's not only about his injury and I have stressed that point over and over again. His merits are very little at this point because he has done nothing worthy of being given a maximum contract.
He hasn't made an all-star team, he hasn't made an all-NBA team, he hasn't won defensive player of the year, he has nothing but glimpses of greatness.
He hasn't even started 82 games yet in his career much less an entire season for us. You're creating different rules for Bynum because you like him. Every other player who has ever received a maximum contract has proven himself. Why should the Lakers give him a maximum contract now when they can wait for him to prove himself this season? If Bynum were to be given a max contract he'd be the least deserving player to ever receive one.
It's like a smart kid but lazy kid getting accepted at Harvard because he got a 1600 on his SATs but had a 2.5 GPA. The kid probably has potential but his track record is not that of someone deserving to go to Harvard.
Posted by: Xodus | October 26, 2008 at 08:33 PM
===========================================
Now that is rich! He has no merits? Wow glad you are not the GM or owner.
He has not made the All Star team or DPOY? So what, he can’t win them if his coach did not play him.
You still did not answer what would you do?
Would you feel insulted if your company negotiated that way with you? Still waiting for your answer.
The risk is losing him or paying him more to keep him and also risk alienating Kobe. Does that not worry you?
You keep stating an old argument that no one has been paid like that before.
So?
There were no blacks in baseball before J. Robinson. Would your argument be there never was a black player before so why now? Never been done before. So what? In politics the fund raising has changed by amounts raised on internet, never been done before. Aviation, man trying to build flying machine, wow never been done before so lets not.
These are much more major contributions but the point is don’t discount because it was never done before.
And AB has proved beyond any doubt that he is not lazy. So that kills your analogy of lazy kid in Harvard..
JLF
Posted by: JustaLakerFan | October 28, 2008 at 12:13 AM
Aside from the usual suspects Kobe and Bynum, I can see Ariza and Farmar taking it to the rack to challenge Oden. I have faith in Ariza that he could flush one over Oden...but I don't know about Farmar. He certainly has the bravado to try. Regardless of the result, I'd give him credit for trying.
Posted by: EJK | October 28, 2008 at 12:14 AM
HEY MR. MAXX TELL ME WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN!?
I been around the blogs and I am back here again!
It was a painfull loss a couple months ago but we´re all healed.
We´re all excited about this fabolous squad and, they certainly have something... not to say "ALL" to prove.
I really believe this team know that they´ve the biggest target on they´re back and thats because everyone knows where they were and where they got even with the injury bug.
I personally think that we have the type of starting five that can keep up with other starting fives not to say...be ahead in terms of score...plus we have the type of bench that can increase leads not to say "finish" with their hopes of getting a W against us (Lakers).
Now go and do the job...there´s no time to rest until the opponents lower their head and run with their tails between the legs.
MAXX
Posted by: Maxximo | October 28, 2008 at 12:33 AM
cant wait for the game thread roll call. Go Lakers!!!
Posted by: LakerBandit | October 28, 2008 at 02:30 AM
edwin,
I would record it on VHS except that they don't play NBA basketball on T.V here. Or so I here anyways.
Does anybody else know of any ways to view a game the day after?
Posted by: copenhagen laker | October 28, 2008 at 02:31 AM
Whats up Lakernation, nice to be back for another exciting season of Laker basketball, couldnt pay that cable bill for a while so i have been off the blog since game 5 of the finals, at long last the wait is over, Bynum is back and all is well in Lakerland. Few points to talk about, sorry to see ronny go, but it was a reasoned, cost effective measure, Coby Karl was about time, because if we cant give him minutes he should be able to play somewhere else.Tonight will put the nba on notice, that Oden might be a good center but Bynum will be great.
Posted by: RIZZO | October 28, 2008 at 02:35 AM
Guys dont panic as long as we have Kobe24 we will be the best team in NBA this year,so just relax and watch as our Lakers will break a lot of records this year.
Posted by: Adrian Palomar | October 28, 2008 at 03:07 AM
Let the games begin.......Please someone,anyone play some D on this guy named Blake.....He seems to find a way every time we play them. lol....Lets not forget Roy,Bayless,Fernandez,
Aldridge,Oden, and Outlaw...lol.....
Good luck and may the force be with you.......
Posted by: Thirty2 | October 28, 2008 at 03:46 AM
Hey Laker Nation!!! Game Day!!!!!!!!!
Just one thing: We have to be be very, VERY, aware of Rudy Fernandez. I Know what am I talking about. I´m spanish you know :)
He is gonna make an alley-oop if we allow him to, so open your eyes.
Fortunately Gasol knows Rudy very well, and Kobe took a glimpse of the boy during Olympics, and that should help.
Also careful with Sergio Rodriguez, he can make so good plays with Rudy by memory
Posted by: HugoSpain | October 28, 2008 at 04:53 AM
12 hours... 12 HOOOUUUURRRRSSSSS MOOOORRRREEE...
Posted by: dice8up | October 28, 2008 at 05:21 AM
Nice column on John Wooden:
http://tinyurl.com/5tlnjs
Posted by: exhelodrvr | October 28, 2008 at 06:27 AM
The Dynasty Begins!
Posted by: Laker Fan 24 | October 28, 2008 at 06:51 AM
JustaLakerFan,
I never said Bynum had NO merits. I said he hasn't earned a max contract and thus his merits are very little in terms of earning that contract. There you go once again changing what I say to make your pithy arguments look like they have any merit.
As for Kobe, I addressed this point days ago. He will be locked up next summer before Bynum could possibly leave the team in 2010 (which won't happen, anyway).
And secondly, if I were the GM I would trust that Kobe is smarter than the average fan and knows that Bynum isn't going anywhere.
I'm done with this discussion it's going nowhere because you change what I say and make arguments with no validity based on your own fears and hypothetical instances that won't actually happen and not the actual likely situations. You've gone from saying that Bynum will be insulted to Kobe. If these are your arguments there's no reason for us to go any further.
Here are the FACTS:
-Bynum will be a restricted free agent next summer, if not signed by Friday.
-He has played only one full season (2005-06) and he ended that season with poor play after January.
-He has no individual accolades to speak of.
-If he plays well this season he will be offered a maximum deal by LA.
-He's not going to be alienated because unlike you (and his agent), Bynum realizes that his play will do the talking and he will be rewarded next summer and he has said this more than once. You know, a logical analysis of this situation not based on the oversensitivity you seem to think Bynum will display.
-If another team offers him a maximum deal the Lakers will match it. The offer will be smaller than what the Lakers could have offered him, so there goes your earlier idea of another team offering Bynum an impossible $130-million
-Your Jackie Robinson comparison is silly and immaterial to this discussion. Another silly hypothetical to prop up your straw man points.
We'll see what happens on Friday.
Posted by: Xodus | October 28, 2008 at 07:37 AM
JustaLakerFan,
And he didn't win individual awards because he either wasn't good enough to (his first two seasons) or was hurt (last season). Yeah, blame Phil Jackson for Bynum's lack of individual accolades.
Posted by: Xodus | October 28, 2008 at 07:39 AM
JustaLakerFan,
"And AB has proved beyond any doubt that he is not lazy. So that kills your analogy of lazy kid in Harvard.."
And once again you miss my point. It's not that Bynum is lazy, it's that like the Harvard situation where the kid doesn't have the resume to go to Harvard, Bynum doesn't have the resume to receive a maximum deal. But it's not surprising that you would miss that point entirely.
Posted by: Xodus | October 28, 2008 at 07:41 AM
Oh man, the day is finally here. The day that starts the greatest season ever. This Laker team will be looked as the greatest team ever. I will tell my grandkids about this team. Yea, its going to be that good. I just hope they don't do a Chargers choke job.
Can't wait for the Mamba Roll Call.
Who's all going to the game? I'll be sitting in section 320.
Lamar = 6th man of the year
GO LAKERS
Posted by: mrbarneydangles | October 28, 2008 at 07:43 AM
JustaLakerFan,
One last thing before I'm really done with this argument...
"Aviation, man trying to build flying machine, wow never been done before so lets not."
Yes, because major breakthroughs in human history are akin to a 21-year-old NBA center not receiving a maximum deal when you and his agent want him to. LOL
It's not that it hasn't been done before, it's that it's poor business to make such a deal without extensive information telling you that he can maintain a certain standard for an extended period of time. I don''t see how I can spell this out any simpler, but you keep finding a way to spin new crazy ideas from what I'm writing.
Posted by: Xodus | October 28, 2008 at 07:44 AM
James Brown remixed purple and gold style
Now we demand a chance to return to our glory days
We're tired of beatin' our head against the wall
And watching our best player surpassed by better teams
We're contenders, and we're better than the rockets and the hornets
We'd rather die on our feet
Than have the celtics put us to our knees again
Say it loud, I bleed purple and gold and I'm proud
Posted by: Taliq | October 28, 2008 at 07:51 AM
130
"I hope Kobe baptizes Greg Oden just like he did for Dwight Howard"
Dude, u're so wrong ... Oden's baptism will be at the hand of Bynum ...
Canibus Hog,
"18-2"?? You mean I'll have to suffer through two depressive bouts early on in the season ... in this economy I can't afford my therapist anylonger
Mamba24,
Allow me to step out on a limb and totally diss my beloved mj bulls ... this team cracks 72 wins behind a pissed off mamba and an emerging beast
Posted by: Taliq | October 28, 2008 at 08:03 AM
Fatty,
"We are ready for what promises to be one historical season, one for the ages, a season to be remembered, and....it will be a lot of fun, trust me."
You are 100% correct.
Posted by: Eric M. | October 28, 2008 at 08:13 AM
Good morning Mamba24, Charles and the fabulous Laker morning CRUE!!
IT's GAME DAY BABY!!!!!!!!!!!!
T minus 11 hours and counting - can we BE any more geeked!!!! LOL!!!!
I like hearing about how PJ is working these guys hard & keeping them focused. No time for over-confidence - not now, not ever this season. It's going to be tough being the target for every team to beat, but we've been there before and have overcome. As long as the guys work hard & never forget what the goal is - A PARADE IN JUNE - they'll be fine.
I can't wait - enough with the pre-season - LET THE GAMES BEGIN!!!
It's the Year of the Mamba - the Year of the Beast - the Year of the Bulldog - the Year of......well - you get the picture. WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE, MY FRIENDS!
GO LAKERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: justanothermambafan | October 28, 2008 at 08:16 AM
I believe it's inevitable that Andrew Bynum is going to deserve a max contract sometime soon.
That said, I'd like to see him earn it with a full season of good play, injury free.
Andrew is a smart guy, he knows he has to earn it.
A good start would be to dominate Greg Oden tonight.
Go Lakers!
Posted by: Rocky | October 28, 2008 at 08:18 AM
Xodus,
The season that Bynum played all season but faded after January was the 2006-2007 season.
-blitz
Posted by: kobeblitz | October 28, 2008 at 08:20 AM
Good Morning Family!
It's about damn time! Game one of the regular season and I can't wait. Canceling Jiu jitsu class to watch the game.
Check in my fam.
Present!
Posted by: Charles | October 28, 2008 at 08:26 AM
New season begins
Chick Hearn, with us in Spirit
Dynasty is now
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | October 28, 2008 at 08:30 AM
Xodus,
FYI, Wilbur and Orville did NOT receive maximum contracts.
There is an unconfirmed report that the reason for that is that Leonardo Da Vinci had been given a max-level contract based on some of his drawings, but after getting the money he stopped work on his aircraft designs and went into portraits instead.
Posted by: exhelodrvr | October 28, 2008 at 08:32 AM
The image of AK screeching "Black Hole Sun" to "Guitar Hero" is not indelibly etched in my mind.
I would like to formally request a video of such to be made immediately available to the blog.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | October 28, 2008 at 08:34 AM
CopenhagenLaker,
To all techno savvy laker fans here, please help our fellow laker fan in Denmark with his query how to view the Lakers game tonite here which is Wednesday morning in Copenhagen. I found the international schedule on NBA.com but it does not include the Laker game, try to surf some more with NBA pass league and see if they will feature the game online.
http://tinyurl.com/3oocx5
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | October 28, 2008 at 08:35 AM
"I just hope they don't do a Chargers choke job."-mrbarneydangles
This season ain't over yet for the Chargers. LT and Gates are finally healthy. There's still a chance after this bye week. We need ball control, time of possession, specialties of LT and Gates.
The choke job isn't complete yet, maybe we can cough up a few wins. It all depends on how much we can keep that poorly coached, no pass rushing, zone playing, Ted Cottrell defense off the field.
Go Chargers!
Posted by: Rocky | October 28, 2008 at 08:44 AM
*
AND SO IT BEGINS
*
The doubters sat waiting for them to fail
Training camp came and they began to jell
L.O. looked like an allstar to be
Kobe appeared to be a 2 time MVP
The newspapers said the Lkaers were soft
The seasons started and the Lakers went off
One look in Kobes eyes and it was easy to say
Paybacks a mother and Kobe would be the Blazers daddy today
Bynum came out like the second coming of Shaq
Can I believe my eyes Sahsa is on the attack
Dfish kept all of the crew in line
Not one Laker was heard to whine.
In the game the Mamba did not miss
He had 55 points and 25 assists
The triangle my friend was a thing of beauty
Even MJ and Michael had to come to see
The season started and wouldnt you know
In November The Lakers beat every damn foe.
December and January went the same way
The Lakers became the Team, teams were afraid to play
They held to under seventy the high flying Suns
That was the same game Kobe scored 101
The regular season ended and they were so great
They broke the Bulls record they were 74 and 8
Then came the Playoffs and Im sure that you know
They ended up winning the first 12 in a row.
And it had to happen, God payback is fun
For the Finals it was Lakers vs. Boston
The Truth came out cocky and started to Clown
That is until the Beast put his but on the ground
The Truth grabbed his Ankle and tried to run
Kobe said Truth my brother you gone miss all the fun
Truth took one look at the Mamba’s steely eyes
And said F. that I’m out, and grabbed his thighs
A wheel chair came out and wheeled the Truth away
And the Lakers made a Lie of the Truth and Boston that day
I wish I could say more but and I want to be nice
The Celts were a 1 trick pony and couldn’t win the title twice
The First game was Brutal the rest were the same
It ended in 4 The Celts had no game
Mitch cried for joy, Jeannie let go with the tears
And Kobe resigned at a discount for 3 more years
9Rings became 10Rings which made Phil the Best
For three years in a row The Lakers ruled the West
For each of those years Kobe won the MVP
Then Kobe retired and handed Bynum the Keys
But Bynum said NO! Kobe we both can drive
So when Kobe retired instead of 3 they won 5.
Which gave Kobe 8 NBA Titles and 5 MVPs
And Kobe not MJ became greatest in NBA history
Then the Mamba Era ended but wait there’s more you see
For The next 10 years began the Beast Dynasty
ROLL CALL IN 10 MINUTES LAKER NATION!!
Posted by: MAMBA24 | October 28, 2008 at 08:47 AM
Blitz,
I know. I thought I just mentioned it as his second season. That was when he played all 82 games.
Ex,
That was before Thomas Edison demanded a maximum deal before he actually finished off his first inventions. I'm pretty sure he was the first guy that had an insane sense of entitlement.
Posted by: Xodus | October 28, 2008 at 08:50 AM
NBA PASS IS FREE FOR ONE WEEK AS AN
INTRODUTORY OFFER
Posted by: MAMBA24 | October 28, 2008 at 08:52 AM
Lakers.com released the official starting lineup.
Vlad is going to be starting.
http://tinyurl.com/5anxwn
Posted by: Xodus | October 28, 2008 at 08:54 AM
Blitz,
You're absolutely right, Arenas won't be back. Scratch that LOSS. Even though it is at the end of a road trip, we should still win.
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I feel that Dallas may get lucky during our second meeting. I hope not because it's at Staples.
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I still say we get beat by Houston the first time we play them, but that's it.
We will own the season-series with them. With every team, for that matter.
ch
Posted by: canibus hog | October 28, 2008 at 08:58 AM
There is an unconfirmed report that the reason for that is that Leonardo Da Vinci had been
given a max-level contract based on some of his drawings, but after getting the money
he stopped work on his aircraft designs and went into portraits instead. Posted by:
exhelodrvr | October 28, 2008 at 08:32 AM
That dirty rotten welcher. No wonder he never amounted
to anything and his name is on the dustbin of history.
Posted by: MAMBA24 | October 28, 2008 at 09:02 AM
Good morning people!
This is the day even the Grinch has to smile. Two seven footers in the starting lineup? Are you kidding me? Three 7 footers going head to head if you count Oden? Is this for real?
Wow. The cat's out of the bag and the beans are being spilled. The milk's being cried over and the baby's being burped!
It's game time!
So...
Which player will be the first to dunk on Oden? Time to lay down bets. The smart money's on Bynum, sure, but Gasol and Ariza have to be sleepers. So nice...we get the "Firsts" in Oden's career. First block, first dunk, Someone on the Laker's squad is bound to be Oden first poster, too. Who will it be?
Go Lakers.
And, I wish Kobe the best, but he had to go. And if it weren’t for the multiple millions the Lakers will recoup from Chinese Laker memorabilia sales, I’d say Sun has to go. Because, I ain’t seen nuttin’ from the kid. Nuttin. From what I’ver seen, he’s the worst player in the NBA, in fact. Step aside Kwame, there’s a new sun setting.
In fact, I bet Sun would absolutely, 100% be Phil’s training camp pin cushin, if he could understand a word he was saying.
Wes
Posted by: wesjoenixon | October 28, 2008 at 09:06 AM
Xodus,
As soon as Justa pulled out the "Jackie Robinson card", you should of know that all rational discussion was over.
When you have nothing legitimate to say, you pull the race card in order to try and intimidate.
Posted by: Eric M. | October 28, 2008 at 09:08 AM
Great poem, Mamba!
Posted by: Xodus | October 28, 2008 at 09:11 AM
laker_sth,
I hope you continue your crowd analysis at the General Admission before and during the game. You have a great followers in the blog.
Is there a live game thread tonite? I think there will be one, if K-Bros covered Kwame-Smush-Cook era, I think they will record a words-eye-view of Bynum-Gasol-Kobe timeline. To all participants, don't forget to include the score in your posts just like the late golden voice Chick would broadcast it. (Hard to imagine Chick is already gone and replaced by a croak tadpole, Joel Myers. This fake legend will again be star struck by celebrities on courtside and interview them while we miss Ariza or Kobe navigating the athmosphere. Another way of killing time engage in endless fantasy surveys. We missed the anecdotal stories of Chique-baby or his no-fear & no-respect analysis on the Coach, Management and Owners. Laker fans nowadays would rather listen to TNT or ESPN than view on a Laker station. On the latter, you get Stu like reading LTLF posts and Joel reading the gospel of Kobeblitz. haha j/k only) Going back to Chick, he always assumed that fans have just arrived so he always narrate the score and time remaining at any point of the game with vivid description that makes everyone interested. That will be a big help for our other blog bros. and sis. worldwide who are viewing the game based on what is posted. If you curse and swear they get a hint on what's going on and when you become super hilarious and overly optimistic like LakerTom, it must have been a dynasty moment. Goodluck fellas.
Let the Showtime II team begins the 2008-09 season.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | October 28, 2008 at 09:13 AM
in for Roll Call....Let the real games begin!!!
Posted by: #4 | October 28, 2008 at 09:20 AM
Ex
Good article. Sounds like a great place for breakfast. The Ghandi reference is about right. To our detriment, they don't make 'em like coach anymore.
Posted by: Vman | October 28, 2008 at 09:21 AM
What? Mbenga's not starting?
Madness!
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | October 28, 2008 at 09:26 AM
Epic, Mamba.
It was just a preamble to the Roll Call, true, but epic nonetheless.
All the great lines work today:
-Tonight we dine in Hell!
-Where is the horse and rider? Where is the horn that was blowing? They have passed like rain on the mountain, like a wind in the meadow. The days have gone down in the West, behind the hills into shadow.
How did it come to this?
No, that second one is a bit too desperate. He talks of days gone by, of horns no longer blowing. In fact, in that line (I reference the King Théoden version from Lord of the Rings but it also comes from the Wanderer, 10th Century poem) has more meaning when we see these days as the days of blowing horns; as the days of the horse and rider.
Hmmm.
That's all the great lines I can think of right now.
Wes
Posted by: wesjoenixon | October 28, 2008 at 09:29 AM
Mamba24,
On your dustbin of history, are you aware that Mona Lisa real name was Lisa del Giacondo, a wife of a Florentine merchant? Leonardo named his portrait as Madonna then it was shortened to Mona.
If Leonardo were alive today, I think he will paint a portrait of Faith Sinclair, the Laker fan yelling at the blog - defense, defense, defense with smiling face of the blog Madonna. LOL!
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | October 28, 2008 at 09:32 AM
Goooooooooood Moooorrrninnngg!
Game Day!!! I could not wait any longer.
Mamba's busting poems, the trolls are on hiatus and DAMN ODEN LOOKS LIKE A TWELVE YEAR VET!!!
Is this guy 36????
peace -
janaya
Posted by: janaya | October 28, 2008 at 09:36 AM
I must admit mild surprise that Rad Vlad is starting, especially considering his inconsistent play from last season.
Maybe this year we'll get the Rad Vlad we hoped for when we signed him.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | October 28, 2008 at 09:38 AM
That would be...Coby
Wes
Posted by: wesjoenixon | October 28, 2008 at 09:39 AM
game day roll call!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: grail | October 28, 2008 at 09:41 AM
Eric M./Xodus,
"When you have nothing legitimate to say, you pull the race card in order to try and intimidate."
True that!
Insults to another's character are almost an instinctual response to the frustration of being unable to intellectually support one's emotional argument.
If you can't debate your point, then break down the character of the person who CAN support his/her point.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | October 28, 2008 at 09:42 AM
As soon as Justa pulled out the "Jackie Robinson card", you should of know
that all rational discussion was over.
When you have nothing legitimate to say, you pull the race card in order
to try and intimidate. Posted by: Eric M. | October 28, 2008 at 09:08 AM
Now, Now guys this is a day of Unity.
Posted by: Mamba24 | October 28, 2008 at 09:43 AM
Thank God the game is on TNT.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | October 28, 2008 at 09:45 AM
Free NBA Pass??
Good heads up Mamba...
Mucho Gracias....
janaya
Posted by: janaya | October 28, 2008 at 09:46 AM
AK, seriously, will you put up a video of you and BK performing "Black Hole Sun" on the blog?
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | October 28, 2008 at 09:47 AM
canibus hog,
A prediction of the Lakers losing to Washington? Huh?
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | October 28, 2008 at 09:49 AM
I think Vlad Rad is starting simply because he allows the other players room to operate. Well, that, and because Phil Jackson transferred the bizarre love he had for Kwame to Vlad.
He'll start, but I doubt he gets starters minutes.
Posted by: puddle | October 28, 2008 at 09:51 AM
janaya,
Greg Oden is the oldest looking rookie I have ever seen in my life. I fear that when he's 30, he'll look like he's 65.
It's like he has a very mild case of progeria or something. If so, it doesn't bode well for his NBA career.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | October 28, 2008 at 09:52 AM
Mamba24 - present, accounted for, and ready for ROLL CALL sir!!!!! Also - great poem - Poet Laureate of the LA Times Award Winning Lakers Blog strikes again!
Jon K - good way to start the season - busting out the haiku! That was a good one.
I'll re-roll out last year's as my prediction on the outcome of this season:
On Figueroa
June's parade joyously loud
O'Brien is home
GO LAKERS!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: justanothermambafan | October 28, 2008 at 09:54 AM
"When you have nothing legitimate to say, you pull the race card in order to try and intimidate."-Eric M
Don't mean to intervene, but this is not the truth in general. In fact, this statement exhibits a disturbing ignorance, and could be taken out of context. But that's none of my business.
I'll let JustaLakerFan defend himself.
Go Lakers!
Posted by: Rocky | October 28, 2008 at 10:00 AM
Leonardo were alive today, I think he will paint a portrait of Faith Sinclair, t
he Laker fan yelling at the blog - defense, defense, defense with smiling face
of the blog Madonna. LOL!
Don't be insane. Paint a portrait of Faith Ha!
He would paint a dozen portraits of Faith and receive 200 million for each.
Posted by: MAMBA24 | October 28, 2008 at 10:01 AM
That's all the great lines I can think of right now.
Wes Posted by: wesjoenixon | October 28, 2008 at 09:29
Dag, Wes, you should have did Roll Call!! LOL!
Posted by: MAMBA24 | October 28, 2008 at 10:03 AM
I think Vlad Rad is starting simply because he allows the other players room to operate. Well, that, and because Phil Jackson transferred the bizarre love he had for Kwame to Vlad.
He'll start, but I doubt he gets starters minutes.
Posted by: puddle | October 28, 2008 at 09:51 AM
I concur!
Posted by: Charles | October 28, 2008 at 10:05 AM
Rocky,
You are correct sir. I should of said "Sometimes", or "Some People". And not implied "Always".
Sorry,
Posted by: Eric M. | October 28, 2008 at 10:09 AM
Mamba24,
I'm with ya baby. Unity it is!
Posted by: Eric M. | October 28, 2008 at 10:11 AM
AK, seriously, will you put up a video of you and BK performing "Black Hole Sun" on the blog?
Posted by: Jon K. | October 28, 2008 at 09:47 AM
NO, NO, NO! Then some producer will see it and sign them to a
contract and take the award winning Kambrothers from us.
Posted by: MAMBA24 | October 28, 2008 at 10:14 AM
Wes,
"That's all the great lines I can think of right now"
How about "Yippie-ki-yay, ______ ______!!"
I think that sums up the feelings pretty well.
Posted by: exhelodrvr | October 28, 2008 at 10:19 AM
It's all good Eric M.
I know you were just responding to another post. I just sometimes feel it's my duty to point these things out.
Go Lakers!
Posted by: Rocky | October 28, 2008 at 10:20 AM
I'm with ya baby. Unity it is! Posted by: Eric M. | October 28, 2008
Thank you sir! You are a class act.
Posted by: MAMBA24 | October 28, 2008 at 10:20 AM
Taliq, I think you are right partner.
But 9Rings will still hold the record either way. LOL!
Posted by: MAMBA24 | October 28, 2008 at 10:24 AM
I know you were just responding to another post. I just sometimes feel it's my duty to
point these things out. Posted by: Rocky | October 28, 2008 at 10:20 AM
ROCKY DO I HAVE TO SAY IT! You are always a class act.
Thanks Bro. Or as Charles would say ONE LOVE! ONE LAKERS NATION
Posted by: MAMBA24 | October 28, 2008 at 11:01 AM
How about "Yippie-ki-yay, ______ ______!!"
I think that sums up the feelings pretty well.
Posted by: exhelodrvr | October 28, 2008 at 10:19 AM
NOW THAT'S WHAT I''M TALKING ABOUT!!!!
Posted by: MAMBA24 | October 28, 2008 at 11:03 AM
Eff D-Fish and the Lakers. GO BLAZERS. BEAT GAY L.A.
Posted by: Tony T | October 28, 2008 at 04:50 PM