Sun Yue: The Lakers' Buster Keaton
For those not familiar with the comedy legend (he's basically before the entire blogosphere's time), Keaton made his name off a blend of physical comedy and deadpan expression. And while I can't speak intelligently about Sun Yue's pratfall prowess, I witnessed today the rookie's ability to express "Dude..." while moving nary a facial muscle. After practice ended, Sasha Vujacic got in a little work from the downtown line, then parked himself behind a backboard and tried hitting a high archer from the wrong side of the street. After eight attempts, Vujacic finally got one to fall, which prompted him to up the ante and recreate the mega-long hook shot he recently dropped while being goaded on by Kobe Bryant.
Deep breath. Distance measured. Basketball flung....
... Basketball rolling to the other side of the gym after failing to even graze the backboard.
Cue a priceless blank stare at Vujacic from a nearby Sun, who didn't need a word to communicate, "You know I gotta gather up all these misses, right?" Luckily for Sun, Vujacic's well-documented stubbornness was kept in check and after another five or six misses, The Face decided to call it an afternoon. But we media types were all rolling at the Chinese import's hilariously stone-faced exasperation.
Know who else is rolling these days? Your Lakers, 4-0 and boasting a point differential of about 100,000 a week and change into the season. But starting Sunday, the Lakers not only face their first real "test" team in the Houston Rockets, but their first tough stretch of games, what with the Dallas Mavericks, New Orleans Hornets, and Detroit Pistons on the schedule within seven days time. "It definitely doesn't get any easier," smiled Trevor Ariza of the squads looking to take the Lakers down a peg.
Do the Lakers view the ratcheted competition as a chance to look themselves in the mirror? Yes, depending on what they're trying to discover within the reflection. BK and I talked during our recent 710 ESPN podkast (a day can never feature too much self-pimping, huh?) about how a loss this early reveals nothing iron clad about a team's playoff chances come April, a sentiment echoed by Kobe Bryant. "It's tough to learn too much about yourself right now at this time of the year." But having said that, I do think a win can provide at least a glimpse of a team's potential, which is why the Lakers seem more curious than stressed about whatever results lie ahead. Said Ariza, "We're gonna see where we sit and where we stand as a team and how we can improve on getting getter to reach our goal."
Obviously, the goal referenced is the Lawrence O'Brien trophy, an achievement that requires a season's worth of focus. And when your week has been markedly light on games, it's easy to worry about complacency. Thus, Kobe has reminded everyone that the chance to improve never stops presenting itself, even while spending most of your time in El Segundo. "That's our message for the week," Bryant said. "We can either be good or we can be great. This is the time that we can really use to get better."
For Lamar Odom, the Houston game provides not only a chance to test the team's internal fortitude and forge a collective identity, but a trip down Memory Lane, a street that runs through Queens, New York. Odom and Ron Artest grew up playing against each other and their chances to continue on the world's biggest stage is a blast ... and then some. "It's more than fun," Odom said. "It's like, special. I've known Ron since I was 12, 13. Elton Brand as well. I guess that's always special for everyone in our neighborhood to see us play against each other for I don't know how many times. It's special for the borough of Queens. We're representing them." All those people, plus a great personal history. "We still remain friends. I don't think that'll ever change."
Finally, Josh Powell may be playing on a contract partially guaranteed, but he -- along with Sun -- has officially "made" the Toyota Center hallway. As you head toward the gym, there's a series of framed pics of every current Laker. Up until now, Coby Karl's picture remained fixed at the end of the row, with Powell and Sun nowhere to be seen. But today I noticed Mom's only interview subject has vacated his space, replaced by the two newest Lakers. As Bruce Willis said in "Die Hard," "Welcome to the party, pal(s)!"
AUDIO
- Phil Jackson: Download phil_jackson_11.7.08.mp3
- Trevor Ariza: Download trevor_ariza_11.07.08.mp3
- Pau Gasol: Download pau_gasol_11.7.08.mp3
- Lamar Odom: Download lamar_odom_11.7.08.mp3
- Kobe Bryant: Download kobe_bryant_11.7.08.mp3
AK
what do you guys think about the hawks??? they just blew past the raptors with a great defensive effort.. did any of u notice that the lakers are the leading in points made and in points allowed!! we have a 20 pt differential!!
now thats how u win!!
LAKERGURU
Posted by: laker guru from india | November 08, 2008 at 09:41 AM
Dear Kobe, In case you plan to join the Olimpiakos, it will be a lonely trail, see your teammates below. You will do all the work like the Smush years for the same amount of money Lakers will be offering. Team "O" offered 60m for 3 years, no formal offer yet but mere italian website. After this economic downturn, I doubt if they can afford to pay that much. if you don't win the Euro Championship, your reputation is forever tarnished. Kobe mystic becomes Kobe's mistake. Leisurely, you get to enjoy the Greek Isles compared to laid-back life at the wedge here at Balboa Island. Anyway, you look at it, life in America is still the best eat all kinds of food at a lower price. I think it is time to re-evaluate your options by reducing your pay at 20M for 5 years to further stretch the deep pocket of Buss Family. With that adjustment, they can extend contracts to Ariza, Farmar and possibly Odom. That move will realize the dynasty dreams of LakerTom. With ur Laker teammates, you have plenty of rest as you'll be relieved by Luke and Sasha competing during garbage time. Sun Yue could join the three to complete the role of the Laker Stoodges. LMAO!
http://tinyurl.com/5nnnru
Clippers are planning to exercise their option contract on 'Baby Shaq' who has lost 75 lbs but still heavy at 325 lbs. I think he's now a baby elephant since he stays on the bench in their last three games, see his stats on the links. What a travesty if you are stepped on by this baby elephant? Josh Childress is doing OK averaging 14 pts and Papaloukas at 7 pts. Well, season is still young, they only played three games.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | November 08, 2008 at 10:05 AM
lakertom
Especially loved the great hard court games in the Shore.
I helped down many a pitcher at the AI in the shore back in the day.
Posted by: 1976LBSUFootball | November 08, 2008 at 10:09 AM
Jon K-
Yea, they definitely lost to sub par teams. Thank god the Lakers don't do that anymore. Didn't we have some problems against the Bobcats last year though?
And as always...
Lamar = 6th man of the year
GO LAKERS
Posted by: mrbarneydangles | November 08, 2008 at 10:21 AM
wow Hobbitmage on the attack.
Edwin,
LOL about Brian "Lazy" Cook. Seriously while Kwa-may was worst as our power forward, I can't even imagine how we manage to win 40+ games when Cook was starting for us. That guy was just lazy, slow, and couldn't even rebound. I mean if he's unhappy on the bench on Orlando, maybe he should figure out why he is on the bench instead of being unhappy with the way his skill set is (which is none save for 3 pointers). Maybe he can give a reason why he was drafted in the 1st Round back in 2003.
Jon K,
Hehe posts so far today are funny. Remember: Kwa-may Brown is a soft marshmallow scrub worst than Brian Cook! :)
I was very surprised that the Suns got blown out by Chicago even without Shaq and Matt Barnes. Stoudemire is way too talented to be beaten to a team like the Bulls. C'mon this isn't the Bulls of Jordan and Pippen.
New Orleans is our biggest opponent in the WC but I can foresee us beating them really good.
-blitz
Posted by: kobeblitz | November 08, 2008 at 10:23 AM
hobbitmage,
That's probably the best Shaq-bashing I've heard in a while. I hated Shaq as much as anyone when he left LA and trashed the Laker franchise, fans, and lobbed petty insults at Kobe. But to say that his career sucked is going overboard.
Granted, he never reached his full potential because of his work ethic, but he was still one of the most dominant centers to ever play the game. I don't know if any player had as much impact coming into the league than Shaq in the 90's. I remember watching him as a rookie and just being amazed by the guy. And he wasn't the only center schooled by Hakeem...I recall Robinson and Ewing also being embarrased by the Dream. During Hakeem's peak two years, he was hands down the best player in the league.
Anyhow, this is probably the first and last time I'll ever be defending Shaq (unless he rejoins the Lakers to close out his career).
Posted by: EJK | November 08, 2008 at 10:30 AM
Why can't Maurice Evans stick with a team? Everywhere he goes he plays well, but no one seems to want to hang on to him. Why?
Posted by: giantsquid | November 08, 2008 at 10:46 AM
I hate the Knicks.
No way Knicks fans are better than Lakers fans. No way.
http://tinyurl.com/6pyxw3
As a Lakers AND Clippers fan, I guess this means I'm exceptionally loyal.
Go Clippers!
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | November 08, 2008 at 10:50 AM
Edwin Gueco,
"Clippers are planning to exercise their option contract on 'Baby Shaq' who has lost 75 lbs but still heavy at 325 lbs"
Dude, what are you talking about? I'm not challenging you. I just don't know who you are talking about.
Go Clippers!
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | November 08, 2008 at 10:54 AM
LAKERGURU,
I'm surprised by the Hawks. I didn't expect them to have such a strong start. Still, let's see what happens when they start playing some strong Western Conference contenders.
Lakers Today. Lakers Tomorrow. Lakers Forever.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | November 08, 2008 at 10:56 AM
exhelodrvr,
Never has been. Never will be again.
We are witnessing history in the making. The Kwame-Iverson punch is going to revolutionize the way that basketball is played. Things will never be the same.
Somebody get me some cake!
Lakers Today. Lakers Tomorrow. Lakers Forever.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | November 08, 2008 at 10:58 AM
Hey Butler!
The Suns rested Shaq last night. The season's just begun and they're already resting Shaq!
You guys are through! It's over!
The Curse of The Big Mistake has just begun!
Lakers Today. Lakers Tomorrow. Lakers Forever.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | November 08, 2008 at 11:08 AM
Jon K,
Here is the link on that Baby Shaq, or Sopocles, hard to spell the last name, it is greek to me. Challenge the LA Daily News, I'm only a messenger here, hope you're OK out there. Go Lakers and forget the Clippers 0-6. hehehe.
http://tinyurl.com/62f9y2
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | November 08, 2008 at 11:32 AM
Jon,
Eddy Curry maybe?
The Knicks have moved on and are looking to trade him. IMO he would be a perfect fit for the Clips.
No, seriously! he would give them some well needed bulk, and Eddy could turn out to be a good bench player. Maybe he just needs to get some of this California sunshine. He's been on the East for his whole career. I do believe it would be a good thing for the Clippers to look into.
No balance of powers if Curry does come West, but it could make a "baby" impact.
Posted by: warren with butterknives | November 08, 2008 at 11:58 AM
Oh I was WAY OFF! LOL
Much better pick Edwin.
Posted by: warren with butterknives | November 08, 2008 at 12:01 PM
Edwin Gueco,
Thanks for the link.
I'm not sure the addition of a 6' 8" 400 pound forward would really help the Clippers much right now.
They have enough conditioning issues to deal with already.
Go Clippers!
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | November 08, 2008 at 12:11 PM
"The Suns coaching staff decided to rest Shaquile O'Neil for the Bulls game"
Oh my -- it really is over.
But did not all of us Laker fans call it? A troll who loves to blog on here has been threatening us with his teams prowess. We all said it: "Shaq will get injured and have to sit." Well, while not injured, if you have a player who can't play every game WHAT IS THE POINT??? Team prescribed rest? Do any of our guys know the meaning of those words? How can the man have any dignity seeing his team get squashed while he just sits there chewing gum? Get out now, Shaquille. It's over.
It disgusted me while he was with LA and it disgusts me now. "I'm the greatest" oh wait let me waste everyone's time and effort while I mend on their time and money. I really loathe his work ethic and his inability to play at the level he claims he can while he sits and rakes in the cash. Bad form.
Still - better that he sits on the Suns bench than anywhere else. Wonder how Kerr feels about his choice now?
And Robin Lopez is a good kid, but compared to Drew? Please. Drew's just getting started. Lopez will never be an all star. Drew might be one this year.
Sorry Butler - looks like your dream world just gave you a good waking up.
Posted by: longtimelakerlover | November 08, 2008 at 12:30 PM
Edwin - thanks for the link. Sophocles, 6-8, 400 lbs, my word! Imagine a 4/5 combo of Sophocles and Tractor Traylor - talk about cloggin' the middle!
Posted by: dave m | November 08, 2008 at 12:37 PM
The Suns actually said in the preseason that they'd be resting Shaq in back-to-backs before the season, so I wouldn't say it's anymore "over" for them then it was a week ago. Just depends on your opinion of them.
Posted by: Xodus | November 08, 2008 at 12:41 PM
EJK,
>>>I watched parts of the Portland game last night, and
>>>Rudy Fernandez did look impressive. Do you think he'll
>>> be as good as Ginobili? It looks like he's a better
>>> shooter than Manu, but not as good of a ballhandler
>>> and slasher right now.
Not as good a slasher? Did you see his drive past Kobe
and dunk over Dwight Howard in the Olympics.
I think he will be right around Ginobili's level.
Actually, Fernandez' game is very much like Sasha's, except
Rudy is playing it at a higher level right from game 1 of his rookie
season. He shoots a high percentage, hits a lot of threes, he's a
very good harassing defender (even quick enough to keep up
with Aaron Brooks most of the time), he's a good passer. If they
didn't have Brandon Roy, I'm sure they'd start him at SG right now
and he'd be averaging over 20 a game.
Just a really good energetic two-way player with range and
a good knowledge of the game.
>>>is there any way we can get Crit back? Would
>>> Memphis be willing to take Sun or a 1st round pick for
>>> him? I thought Crit had huge upside and the potential
>>> to be better than Farmar eventually.
I was on the fence about that idea, but I now think Farmar will actually
have a higher plateau than Critter. I know this is only his second
year, but if Critter really had that much promise, I'm sure he'd be
getting at least a little bit of PT from Memphis.
But since you mentioned it... I'm pretty sure it would be easy to
get Critter back from Memphis (since they're not using him).
I doubt they'd take Sun Yue (a second rounder), but they might
be willing to take a quality veteran backup center (Mihm). The
trade would have to wait until December, when they could trade
Hamed Haddadi, as the Lakers would need to get back a backup
big man in the process. Then it would be Mihm for Critter and Haddadi.
Posted by: Long Time Laker Fan | November 08, 2008 at 01:24 PM
David Stern should just pull one over on Shaq and throw a back-to-back in the middle of the first round!
The Suns wouldn't have a chance!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Joe SixPack | November 08, 2008 at 01:53 PM
Hey Bloggers...
Don't be surprised if we end up playing the Spurs in the first round.
They are off to the WORST start of that franchise!!
Tony Parker just sprained his ankle last night and will be out for at least a month.
By the time him and Manu get back, they will have to fight their way into the playoffs.
Their experience should allow them to beat out the other Western Conference bottom feeders for that final spot.
SPURS FIRST ROUND!!
BRING IT ON!!
08/09 MIRACLE SEASON!!
"BUCKLE UP!!"
dan
Posted by: dan the man | November 08, 2008 at 02:00 PM
1 Lakers
2 Jazz
3 Hornets
4 Rockets
5 Suns
6 Mavs
7 JailBlazers
8 Spurs
Posted by: Grant Milsap | November 08, 2008 at 02:10 PM
dan,
>>>>>08/09 MIRACLE SEASON!!
Let’s see, we’re the favorites to win the championship among NBA players, coaches, and journalists. No miracle there. Kobe could win the MVP. Naw, been there, done that. So what is the miracle? Could it be the best regular season and post-season record ever? Could it be the greatest team in the modern NBA? Buckle up is right.
Tom
Posted by: | November 08, 2008 at 02:34 PM
Shaq will be ready in April. He'll turn up the volume, crank up the quotes and demand everyone's attention to whatever might happen to go his way on the court.
And then, buckaroos, come May, the Big Cactus will fade into the sunset.
Posted by: VMan | November 08, 2008 at 02:40 PM
I don't think Eddy Curry would be the type of bulk the Clippers need right now. The last thing the Clippers need is a big man with a horrible work ethic.
Here's how I'd rank the top 5 power forwards in the league:
1. Duncan
2. KG
3. Dirk
4. Amare
5. Gasol
It's hard to keep Bosh off the list, esp considering how well he played in the Olympics. He was the best big man on Team USA.
I think Al Horford is an emerging star who will someday make this list. I loved the toughness and competitiveness he showed in the Boston series last year.
Posted by: EJK | November 08, 2008 at 02:42 PM
1976LBSUFootball,
>>>>>I helped down many a pitcher at the AI in the shore back in the day.
Wow, haven’t thought of the AI in years but you couldn’t live in the shore without hanging there. Those were great days. I was a few years ahead of you in Long Beach. Didn’t go to LBSU but followed the basketball team under Tark. Best Long Beach basketball ever.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | November 08, 2008 at 02:54 PM
EJK,
1. Duncan
2. KG
3. Dirk
4. Amare
5. Gasol
Amare is playing better than anyone right now. If he didn't have to carry the water for fat daddy, the Suns would be really good.
Posted by: Eric M. | November 08, 2008 at 02:55 PM
Eric M.,
Based on the first few games of this season, it'd be fair to put Amare on top of the list. But overall, I don't think he's a better player than Duncan, KG, and Dirk.
Also, I think Shaq has actually helped elevate Amare's game since he arrived in Phoenix. The trade allowed Amare to move back to the PF spot, and Shaq's presence on the court opens things up for Amare since the man guarding Shaq can't leave him to help out on Amare.
Posted by: EJK | November 08, 2008 at 03:15 PM
Eddy Curry was BORN for the Clippers. Another lazy stiff with a terrible attitude. I just hope that if they do trade for Curry, the Clips can hold on to Boom Dizzle, Ricky Davis, Tim Thomas, Cuttino Mobley and all their other head cases.
Posted by: Jman449 | November 08, 2008 at 03:24 PM
dave m,
S.S. is a good shooter, problem he can't run for a full court or chase those foxy guards. In the article, it says that his weight is now down to 325 within the range of Gouty Shaq (oh-oh I just alerted his fans). If Traylor, Shaq and Schorsanitis got into the floor together, it'll be the gathering of Sumo hoopsters. (no room for Sun Yue to go for the rebound, he's entering into a grinder chamber.) LOL
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | November 08, 2008 at 03:31 PM
RAC,
>>>>>Yeah, you were right the first time, Trevor Ariza played for Ben Howland
>>>>>in UCLA, even though it was the hack Steve Lavin who recruited Trevor.
LOL. You mean blitz was wrong? I learned very early not to quibble over details with guys like blitz, hobbitmage, and LTLF. Not only do they know what they’re talking about but they are relentless and never give up so debates with them never end. Discussions are great debates are not worth it. Great bloggers though. LOL.
Steve Lavin is a Marin County native. His dad was a high school basketball coach here and he still has family living here. In fact, I sold his brother an old BMW a couple of years ago. He says Steve now makes twice as much money for half the work calling games for ESPN. Steve was just too young and undisciplined when lucked into the job.
Ever since Howland started trapping the pick-and-roll, I have been lobbying for the Lakers to do the same. With me, it doesn’t matter whether you are playing man-to-man or matchup zone, the issue is controlling the tempo and making the other team respond to your defense rather than running the offense that they plan on. So I am thrilled to finally see the Lakers deploy a similar strategy. It is about imposing your will and control on the other team.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | November 08, 2008 at 04:10 PM
Listening to every Laker coach and player talk defense is a remarkable turnaround from last year. Without a doubt, Phil and his coaching staff have done a terrific job figuring out the best way to utilize the Lakers deep and talented roster to totally transform its defense, If the Lakers play this way all year long, they will dominate the league and earn Phil his first COY, Mitch his first EOY, and Kobe his first DPOY.
Of course, this is all just my personal opinion based on my own ideas and observations.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | November 07, 2008 at 05:32 PM
====================
Good points and I humbly have to agree PJ is doing better this year than his previous years since signed for second time.
I only saw one case of mind games in the pre season and none in the real season.
I also see that no insults to players and Vlad is playing to his potential like I said he could and not losing focus staring at PJ on the bench.
I see more and better use of bench but still needs to find more minutes for subs in 38 point lead games. Can't have everything right away I guess.
He also has a goal of winning best record instead of throwing away games from start to let players figure things out. A much better approach.
I tend to think FO said something to him as I have stated PJ was brought in to win championships and nothing less. Hope he keeps it up.
Posted by: JustaLakerFan | November 08, 2008 at 04:32 PM
When I watch the Lakers defense work with the waves of tall, long, fast, and athletic players they throw at you, it’s like the Lakers took the Celtics pushing, grabbing, and shoving defense and turbo charged it into a dynamic machine that eats up other teams’ offenses. Even scarier is the fact that this group of guys has shown the ability and teamwork to make a system called the Triangle Offense run to perfection. Think what they are going to be like once they really get this Triangle Defense down? Triangle Offense and Defense! Wow!
JMNSHO. LOL.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | November 07, 2008 at 06:15 PM
======================
I know there is a Triangle Defense as I saw it in an article once on breakdown of the triangle. I will try to find it for you. I don't remember if this is a hybrid version of it but I seem to think it is.
Posted by: JustaLakerFan | November 08, 2008 at 04:35 PM
LakerTom
Good call on the UCLA Howland reference on defense.
I also advocated the use of waves like UCLA uses to keep players fresh and active.
=============================
Blitz/LakerTom...
Ariza played Howland's first year at UCLA
http://tinyurl.com/68budv
Posted by: lakers_sth | November 07, 2008 at 09:31 PM
=====================================
==========
Lakers_sth
Good pick up on the FACTS.
JLF
Posted by: JustaLakerFan | November 08, 2008 at 04:42 PM
Jon K,
Here is the link on that Baby Shaq, or Sopocles, hard to spell the last name, it is greek to me. Challenge the LA Daily News, I'm only a messenger here, hope you're OK out there. Go Lakers and forget the Clippers 0-6. hehehe.
http://tinyurl.com/62f9y2
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | November 08, 2008 at 11:32 AM
=====================
Edwin,
Greek to me! LMAO. Good one.
Posted by: JustaLakerFan | November 08, 2008 at 04:55 PM
Tom
Vladdy playing hustle defense and shooting well off of the dribble, that's a miracle!! lol
Other than that, I guess it's just business as usual in Lakerland.
"Buckle up!!"
Posted by: dan the man | November 08, 2008 at 05:06 PM
Shaq will be ready in April. He'll turn up the volume, crank up the quotes and demand everyone's attention to whatever might happen to go his way on the court.
And then, buckaroos, come May, the Big Cactus will fade into the sunset.
Posted by: VMan | November 08, 2008 at 02:40 PM
====================
I love the romantic endings. Brings a tear to my eye.
Ride off in the sunset never to be seen or heard from again.
Posted by: JustaLakerFan | November 08, 2008 at 05:07 PM
i know u guys are a little low on sun yue.. but i have seen some of his games.. not highlights on youtube..but full games.. and the guy is gonna be a solid to good NBA player.. one thing i liked about him was his transition defense, this guy can run back and block a lay-up easy! Its gonna be interesting watching him develop bcoz i believe he can cause a lot of match up problems..
Posted by: laker guru from india | November 07, 2008 at 11:09 PM
======================
I agree with you and had my doubts as to what the Lakers were doing.
I thought signing a two year deal was strange. First he is not going to contribute much his rookie season and then expected to excel in his contract sophmore year. Won't happen.
I thought it might be a way for Yue's agent to get him more money but it may end up costing him money at this rate of progression to this date.
Posted by: JustaLakerFan | November 08, 2008 at 05:10 PM
Joe SixPack,
"David Stern should just pull one over on Shaq and throw a back-to-back in the middle of the first round!"
I think that taking those out was a mistake - I know that it was for the TV contract, but it makes it easier on the teams. Depth and conditioning aren't quite as important now as they used to be.
Posted by: exhelodrvr | November 08, 2008 at 05:18 PM
Yes Tom,
Ariza was a Lavin prospect but played under Howland. My mistake.
-blitz
Posted by: kobeblitz | November 08, 2008 at 10:37 PM