Andrew Bynum hates the Opera
Since the day Kobe Bryant realized he's probably better off in L.A. than Chicago, the Lakers universe, usually thicker with drama than an AMC Godfather marathon, has been pretty damn quiet. Unusually so. 
All moonpies and butterflies, really. Sure there was disappointment after the Lakers lost to the Celtics, but no dissension. Yeah, there was momentary dissatisfaction from Lamar Odom when the Sixth Man tag was attached to his CV, but it was fleeting. Still, after years of the stuff, Laker fans are always on the lookout for controversy. It's genetic, really.
No surprise, then that the recent comments from Andrew Bynum questioning the rotation choices of Phil Jackson got the attention of the faithful. Bynum's first foray into shotgun coaching came after Tuesday's loss against Indiana, when he said that the second unit, which had built the large lead at the end of the third quarter they then worked on giving away to start the fourth, should have been allowed to stay in the game. After Wednesday's win in Philly, Bynum was asked about his low rebounding totals, and replied thusly (for the full article, see the second of the two links above):
"I might have gotten some in the last six minutes," Bynum said, referring to being on the bench in the latter stages of the fourth quarter for the second straight night. "You never know until the fat lady sings, and she sings for me a lot."
And there you have it. Of course, Bynum was not referring to fat ladies or opera, but PJ's fairly standard pattern of having his young center start the fourth with the seconds, then finish the game on the bench as Lamar Odom and Pau Gasol man the front court.
So is this a big deal? A blow-up in waiting?
Probably not. Drew has always been the sort that says whatever he's thinking, whether it's a good idea or not. He'll roll the eyes of the PR staff with regularity. But he isn't by nature a rabble rouser, and certainly Jackson and Co. have handled bigger personalities than his. It does, however, raise (or re-raise, since I've wondered aloud about this through training camp and into the start of the season) the question of playing time, and whether or not there's enough to go around on a team as deep and talented as the Lakers.
There's a reason Jackson opened the season with a mantra of sacrifice. Everyone, he said, will be required to give in order for the team as a whole to thrive. We saw it with the move of Odom to the bench, which LO has handled very well after some early and quickly buried complaints. Bigger picture, the Lakers have successfully embodied the theme of sacrifice, in part because they've been winning enough games by wide enough margins that everyone, more or less, has had a chance to play.
What if that changes?
Odom seems content coming off the bench, but might not be so agreeable if he's watching late in too many fourth quarters. Sasha Vujacic would like to be playing more. Luke Walton has been forced- rightly- to make a tough adjustment to life outside the rotation. Chris Mihm, once a starting center for this franchise, killed himself to rehab a shattered foot... so he could never play. Pau Gasol, Kobe Bryant- both down in minutes (though certainly the latter of that pair won't be losing minutes in crunch time). And, for the main course, the Lakers are blessed with three starting caliber front court players, but since it seems unlikely at this point they'll all play at the same time, only two slots for them at any given time.
Typically, rotations get tighter as the months pass by and the playoffs approach. As games get tighter and more important, as fourth-quarter minutes become more critical, this spirit of sacrifice will have to be stronger than it is today (not saying the spirit is currently lacking, by the way, just making a point). And that means the parceling of PT will, along with defensive adjustments and all the other X and O aspects of the gig, be among PJ's greatest challenges for this team.
Bynum's comments won't scuttle the squad, but they're a reminder that a 15-2 record doesn't take the issue off the table.
BK
All im sayin is, if the players hot - let em' roll.
Posted by: Charles | December 05, 2008 at 11:19 AM
Please. Jordan PUNCHED Kerr in practice and they won the title. We're worried about this? Really??
Posted by: SBPimp | December 05, 2008 at 11:20 AM
What happened to the Drew that reacted to Kobe's tirade by bulking up and becoming a force? Now he's eatin' fried chicken an hour before tipoff and mouthing off at the coach? Then again, I did notice him say after the game with Ireland that he doesn't like eating after games so maybe eating before is just his way of getting ready - but would his trainer really agree with fried chicken as the choice of meal? Probably not. Perhaps it's much ado about nothing, but they do seem to be in stark contrast.
Posted by: Jeremiah | December 05, 2008 at 11:26 AM
The more these wins pour on and the sting of the Pacers loss wears off, the Trolls will be slowly eating their words!
They have created a lot of work for themselves in the past couple of days. They're going to have a lot of explaining to do when this Laker team really starts taking off.
I mean, this team is 15-2 and and some people on here are calling them terrible? The Lakers need to blow this team up?
THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS A BAD 15-2 TEAM!
I am amazes me how not everyone sees this! If you had an ounce of strong mindedness,wouldn't t you at least ponder the fact that "hey, this is a new team and they are doing this much damage, what's going to happen when they REALLY start clicking?"
Couple that with the fact the we ALMOST BEAT BOSTON IN THE FINALS LAST YEAR WITH A LESSER TEAM, and I don't see why EVERY Lakers fan doesn't wake up every morning stoked and thanking their lucky stars that they aren't a Warriors fan!
hog
Posted by: canibus hog | December 05, 2008 at 11:30 AM
MAMBA!!!!!
You did it again. You broke my speakers with your roll call!!!
lol
Posted by: Fatty | December 05, 2008 at 11:35 AM
Andrew's comments are actually encouraging. Step up, speak up. In his first year, I was at the game where he screamed "gimme the f*2^#ng ball" for all to hear. Equally encouraging.
Ya want that attitude in your center. As long as it comes up short of KG posturing, we're good.
In this particular case, however, he'll probably go out and grab 20 boards tonight thus validating Phil's approach.
Posted by: VMan | December 05, 2008 at 11:46 AM
Of all the Lakers, Drew gives the least amount of rhetoric in his interviews. He's frequently very specific with giving Xs and Os type answers to questions rather than philosophies, generalities and the party line. He says they have a problem with giving away leads but doesn't know the answer of how to solve it. He says they have a problem defending the pick-n-roll and discusses openly and specifically what he needs to do better in those situations.
If Drew wants to be on the floor when the game is on the line, he needs to show that he's being a defensive force that night. If he's handling dribble penetration without picking up fouls, controlling the defensive glass, altering and blocking shots, then he'll be on the floor when it counts. Period.
Posted by: lakers_sth | December 05, 2008 at 11:47 AM
Good Morning Charles....Good Morning Everyone...
Drama... mostly created by the media so they have something to write or yell....
what a bunch of crap---if it was ignored it still wouldn't go away but we'd be better off mentaly etc...
I just want to watch highly skilled dudes (draped in purple and gold) playing the greatest game ever invented...
Tonight hope to see some focus and improving defense and.... wait for it...EFFECIENT FREE THROWING....
Get 'em down early and keep the foot on their nect for 48 (count 'em ) 48 minutes, as it were
"good evening and welcome to slaggers, featuring Dennis O Bell"
"look, sod the sheds, the sheds are not important, I came here to talk about my work"
AS ALWAYS, AS EVER, YET ANOTHER GREAT DAY (AND SEASON) TO BE A LAKER FAN !!!
GO LAKERS !!!
Posted by: Floyd | December 05, 2008 at 11:48 AM
Come on Lakers.
Atone for the defense. Hold them to 20 or less in ALL FOUR Quarters.
Ah, that would taste nice.
Posted by: Tim-4-Show | December 05, 2008 at 12:01 PM
A nice, sober analysis, BK.
The real season begins December 25th.
Lakers Today... Lakers Tomorrow... Lakers Forever.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | December 05, 2008 at 12:02 PM
If Bynum wants to play more, he has to focus more on defense and rebounding.
A focus on offense is not needed from him with this particular roster.
Posted by: exhelodrvr | December 05, 2008 at 12:04 PM
I know Phil is a genius and all that but he really should look at playing Odom, Gasol, and Bynum together. That we there is no complaining amongst the big 3 but it also insures that we most likely have our 5 most talented players on the court together.
In any case, Drew needs to shut his trap. I know he is young and the numbers probably mean more to him then Pau or Kobe or even Odom, but its all about winning and no one should be complaining about a 15-2 record. If anyone should be complaining about PT its Luke. Bynum is still 21 and hasn't necessarily proven he can hit a big shot in the 4th quarter. He is young and still makes mistakes. Pau on the other hand is much more mature and is less mistake/foul prone.
I have no problems with the way PJ has handled the rotations.
Lamar = 6th man of the year
GO LAKERS
PS, Is anyone getting super amped for the christmas game against the Cs. I can't wait.
Posted by: mrbarneydangles | December 05, 2008 at 12:11 PM
Anybody on the Lakers bench that wants some PT just has to learn how to defend opposing PGs and they'll get all the time they want! How hard is that? :)
Posted by: Mayor of Kobe Town | December 05, 2008 at 12:15 PM
Andrew has every reason to be upset. He is the only legitimate defensive presence in the middle, and the reason his rebound numbers were so low was that he was routinely forced out of position by having to rotate to cover for the guards. The real issue is why Derek Fisher, and especially Kobe Bryant, are permited to play such terrible perimeter defense.
Virtually every possession, Kobe chases his man and goes for steals, a la Trevor Ariza. The difference, however, is that Trevor is able to recover against his man MUCH better than Kobe when he doesn't get the steal (whether due to superior athleticism, or due to the slower players that Trevor guards, but that's neither here nor there), so Trevor's gambling does not hurt team defense.
If the guards are going to continue to gamble, they will continue to force defensive rotations that would otherwise not be necessary. It is those rotations that allow for open shots and more offensive rebounds. At this point, Phil Jackson (he of the "I guess we're just a good offensive team") seems to have given up on the idea of being better defensively. With this mindset, the Lakers would be better served playing a zone.
This problem is easily fixed, but it requires the guards (especially Kobe) to just stay in front of their man and give up the individual "glory" of a steal for the team glory of more consistent stops on the defensive end.
Posted by: Leo | December 05, 2008 at 12:18 PM
Why is Paul Pierce's terrible season being completely ignored? And it really has been terrible. Here's some insight:
http://lakerlogic.blogspot.com/
Posted by: Ryan | December 05, 2008 at 12:34 PM
Phil wake up!
We are never going to get to the mountain top without Bynum anyway. Give him the minutes in the fourth PJ!
Reminds me again of the Kwame and Smush history of playing Smush and letting Farmar rot on the bench. We all know Smush was never the guy but Phil gave him the minutes. Then his EGO thinks he can make Kwame into a player. We all know how that turned out. Listen Odom has had his 5 years to produce for the Lakers and as he is he is just a role player, not a franchise player like Andrew will be. Odom or Bynum---give me Bynum anyday of the week.
This is 1 diehard Laker Fan that if Phil insists on Fish and Rad in the starting lineup all year and never makes a change and then doesn't win it all again I hope to God Buss see's through his crap and fires his ass.
BD
Posted by: BD | December 05, 2008 at 12:38 PM
Bynum lult! Bynum needs to look at Odom and shut up! what do u mean if i stayed in the game longer you would've gotten more rebounds? You should get more rebounds so u can stay in the game. U want garbage rebounds to beef up ur stats??
Posted by: Guillermo | December 05, 2008 at 12:52 PM
Jeremiah,
"but would his trainer really agree with fried chicken as the choice of meal?"
I actually think that he is getting too skinny. I wouldn't mind him bulking up just a tid bit more.
Posted by: | December 05, 2008 at 01:11 PM
THE EMPEROR'S NEW CLOTHES!
What's so funny is how the L.A. Times article, The Daily News article and the O.C. Register article all talk about the lack of Lakers defense. All three Southern California papers.
The three have different views as to what part of the defense is at fault. Kobe says it's all mental.
The writers are saying it.
The players are saying it.
The coaches are saying it.
But the baby zen says...it's not true! It's not true! Awwwwwwwh!
LOL!
Everyone is basically saying there's a problem, while most of you on this blog as saying: Look! The Emperor's New Clothes!
You fool yourselves into believing that the Emperor is wearing royal garments, when, in fact, he's naked! LOL!
Here's a video I dedicate to you: Listen to Sinéad. Watch her performance in this video. The way she looks confused walking around the stage. That's you!
http://tinyurl.com/5e7guf
mike t.
Posted by: Michael C. Teniente | December 05, 2008 at 01:11 PM
One thing I have learned over the years in listening to Bynum is he is a very bright Kid. He has an IQ to deal with PJ. Let's just say he is not Benoit Benjamin. One thing Bynum does do is tell it like it is and very detailed.
Since Phil loves playing mind games with the players and media I think Bynum is ready for him. I loved his answers the other day about how the guards can't keep anybody out of the key and how they just quit playing after the lead in the 4th in Indiana. Talk about being honest.
I will never forget last year when Bynum took a 3 point shot and Phil took him out immediately and gave him the stare down walking to the bench. Then later in the post game interview states yea...Andrew will be fined for that and everyone laughed. I will never forget Bynums response the next day.
" Thats ok if Phil wants to fine me, I will just roll some pennies up and give it to him "
Bynum become the Beast you are and don't take any crap from Mr. HeadGame.
Go Lakers and kick some booty tonight.
BD
Posted by: BD | December 05, 2008 at 01:12 PM
---Bynum was conducting a pregame interview about an hour before tip-off when a clubhouse assistant delivered him a plate of fried chicken and fries.---
HORRIBLE HORRIBLE!!!!
I am disgusted and disappointed in Andrew for his diet! Wow, he really is imature, he doesn't get it yey that what you put in your body is JUST as important as working on your game!
Somebody needs to check The Kid!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: 46thst.baller | December 05, 2008 at 01:13 PM
Guillermo,
Exactly!
Posted by: Laker Kev | December 05, 2008 at 01:23 PM
Hobbit,
Man you just seem to keep up your Ariza homerism. Let's place some facts shall we?
Fact: Trevor is still not using his jumpshot and unlike what *you* think his jumper is not even on par with Lamar Odom's.
Philadelphia Game: 1 jumper beyond the key, 0 made.
Indiana Game: 1 jumper beyond the key, 0 made
Toronto Game: 4 jumpers beyond the key, 1 made
Dallas Game (2): 5 jumpers beyond the key: 2 made
New Jersey Game: 2 Jumpers beyond the key: 1 made
Sacramento Game: 3 jumpers beyond the key: 0 made
Denver Game(2): 4 jumpers beyond the key: 2 made
Phoenix Game: 5 jumpers beyond the key: 2 made
Chicago Game: 1 jumper beyond the key: 0 made
New Orleans Game: 2 jumpers beyond the key: 0 made
Dallas Game: 2 jumpers beyond the key: 0 made
Houston Game: 3 jumpers beyond the key: 1 made
LA Clippers Game (2): 2 jumpers beyond the key: 0 made
Denver Game: 1 jumper beyond the key: 1 made
LA Clippers Game: 4 jumpers beyond the key: 2 made
Portland Game: 3 jumpers beyond the key: 2 made.
Totals of Trevor Ariza Midrange/Long Distance shots:
14 made, 46 attempted so far and that is 30.4% on his jumpers. You call that a good jumper??
Maybe you just love to delude yourself and giggle so much you are ignoring REALITY and again just try to give Trevor credit for what is not true (his jump shot).
"His defensive ability"
No duh! As if no one except you knew that??
"- Thanks to Ariza's emergence as an athletic scorer and lockdown defender this season"
Defender? Yes. Lockdown? Not quite yet even though he did a good job on Granger (except that on that 3 that basically made Conseco Fieldhouse go up in cheers). Scorer? Only close to the basket and like I posted above: 30% from midrange/long range haha! When the Celtics clog the lane (they probably will) he will have to shoot more and while his hustle and energy is good for some points, cmon stop deluding that most of his points are mid range jumpers. His jumper is NOT what you think it is.
"The only weakness in his game was his ability to shoot the ball consistently, and he's improved in that."
Yeah maybe Mitch said that but come on, as if Mitch would say something that Trevor would need to work on. If you want to believe Mitch so be it BUT the facts and the numbers are working against you.
WHO IS GIGGLING NOW Mr. puntable hobbit who I love to use as my football when I kick field goals (I was actually a safety but I loved to kick with the kickers after practice and it ain't you is giggling that's for sure!)
-blitz who just laughed off Hobbit's pathetic attempt to sell again a false view of Trevor Ariza
and BD,
Jordan Farmar is STILL not yet ready to handle the keys? What on earth are you so angry about?
Posted by: kobeblitz | December 05, 2008 at 01:25 PM
BD,
"Phil wake up! "
No, no, no......Phil is a genius and can't be questioned.
And also I have been assured that in-game adjustments aren't really that important.
You MUST get your mind right!
Posted by: Eric M. | December 05, 2008 at 01:27 PM
I am NOT worried because we are 15-2
I am worried that the Clets 18-2 are better than us!
I am worried that the Cavs 15-3 are staying with us!
No worry up to 82 but then .... Do we want Home Advantage? then we'd better tighten up and be consistent.
Baywood
Posted by: Baywood | December 05, 2008 at 01:29 PM
The biggest concern I have for the Lakers so far this season is Andrew's diet.
In the pre-season, there was a short 5 minute piece on Andrew and his trainer. Now if anybody else saw it, tell me if this appeared to be true:
-They started off the day at the park, doind track and stretching exercises with resistance bands.
-Then they went to Benihana's!
-Andrew then talked about how one needs to "touch weights" in order to compete with Shaq, Yao and the other bigs in the league. Followed by some footage of Andrew showing us how a 7 footer tugs pullups and gets down i the gym.
-Then they went back to Benihana's!
-They finish the segment with Andrew vowing that him and his trainer were heading to the court to work on some basketball drills. They then skirted out in his back convertible...
Maybe going back to Benihana's!
Now, I originally thought that it was just an editing error and that they had only gone once not twice.
Now, I'm not so sure!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: 1978 | December 05, 2008 at 01:33 PM
I second that Ex. From the start of the year, that's what he's been asked to do.
20, 10 isn't as important as say 10 boards, 5 blocks....and lots of changed shots.
Posted by: Faith | December 05, 2008 at 01:33 PM
I say bring Bynum off the bench with the 2nd unit. The 2nd unit is so exciting because of the great athletes we have coming in there but they also pass the ball around which always makes its way to the post position and they always look for Bynum. His rebounding and defense is great when he plays with them. It is when he is playing with Kobe and Gasol he just never sees the ball down low. I am surprised none of you ever see this. His energy level goes way up with the 2nd unit and the 1st unit he might as well sleep if he plays with that group.
Keep it up Bynum don't rebound till they pass you the ball a few times. We went through this whole thing with Shaq and his feed the Big Dog routine. Face it guys the kid needs the ball once in a while if you want him to be the enforcer we all want him to be.
Trade Odom and get us a real point guard or a bruiser if we hope to contend with Boston.
Odom has had his opportunities and has flunked! That is why he is on the bench rotting. And don't give me he is a great 6th man. He is not even that, Ariza is our 6th man!
BD
Posted by: BD | December 05, 2008 at 01:34 PM
I would agree that I like Bynum being honest and speaking his mind. I don't think phil is going to sulk and pout about it. I think it's perfectly clear that the message that Drew should get from this is that the reason he's not playing more in clutch time is because he needs to earn it. He has so much potential and room for improvement, and this is encouragement to work at it.
I'm glad that Drew wants to play more, to have the ball more. Every good player wants to establish themselves. I just hope he can recognize that the way to get star treatment is to work hard and become the player that we all know he can be.
Posted by: phred | December 05, 2008 at 01:41 PM
Ryan,
Just like with the Lakers, It's not how you start but how you finish. I wouldn't worry too much about Paul's shooting right now when his team is 18-2.
Just like the fact the Lakers aren't playing perfect basketball and they are 15-2.
Posted by: zen | December 05, 2008 at 01:43 PM
AK,
>>>>>This sums up why this conversation is both frustrating and silly.
>>>>>You keep viewing it as "Laker Tom taking up for the Lakers against
>>>>>AK the Clippers fan," which couldn't be further from the truth.
>>>>>I'm a Laker fan first and foremost, but mature enough to evaluate
>>>>>players as if they played for any team. For that matter, I can also see
>>>>>a team for what they are. You're incapable of making that separation.
>>>>>That you continue along this fabricated tack when I've repeatedly
>>>>>spelled out my actual stance is pretty annoying.
Come on, AK. Of course, I know you are a Lakers fan. I referred to “YOUR” Clippers mostly as a joke and way to pull on your tail in a friendly way but obviously you did not take it that way so I apologize. From the start, however, part of the “jousting,” if you will, has been my theory that you were seduced by familiarity and access to “like” the Clippers. Obviously, you took this entire situation in a different light. Anyway, I will try to keep my “immature” evaluations of the Clippers to myself in the future since they bother you.
>>>>> I never said the Clippers were a better franchise. I said they were a better team
>>>>>at the time, which they were. They did better in 2006. Even the next season, when
>>>>>the Clips missed the playoffs, they only finished two games behind a limping
>>>>>Lakers despite a boatload of injuries. Which helps back up what I was saying.
>>>>>I never said they were light years better, either. Just better. I don't understand
>>>>>why this is so touchy for you
Where did I say that you said the Clippers were a better franchise? With all due respect, just because you say the Clippers were a better team for that one season does not make it so. And frankly, ensuing events make that a very suspect stand in my opinion. I don’t think the Clippers were EVER a better team than the Lakers. The question is why is this so touchy for you and why are you so defensive about it. You took what started out as a lark and turned it into some form of personal insult even though you know the messenger is one of your biggest fans. It’s all in fun, Andy, just take it that way.
>>>>>Again, you ridiculously exaggerate. I've never in my life described Quinton
>>>>>Ross as a "star" or anything close. I said he's a solid defensive role player.
>>>>>Which he is. Livingston's inability to stay healthy played a big role in him not
>>>>>becoming a starter. And you continue to bring up Livingston's shooting to cut
>>>>>him down compared to Farmar- who, by the way, has actually started fewer
>>>>>games than Livingston-, but willfully ignore the fact that Livingston was the
>>>>>better playmaker and defender. Why, just out of curiosity?
Where did I say that you said the Ross would be a star. I just never thought he would turn out to be anything but a bust. Same with Livingston. Just my opinion. Maybe biased against the Clippers but still just my opinion. Unfortunately, Livingston’s injuries probably have ended any chance he had to show he was the type of player you thought. Too bad.
>>>>>And are you actually going to chastise someone for handing out unearned star
>>>>>status? This coming from the guy who declared Jordan Farmar the next Magic
>>>>>Johnson before he'd even played Summer League ball (I think it's safe to say he's
>>>>>not quite there yet), pleaded for the Lakers to trade for Thabo Shefolosha and have
>>>>>exalted Sun Yue as another next great thing, despite him not even being a star of
>>>>>the Chinese team? I said Livingston had star potential (which most people felt).
>>>>>You declared Farmar an absolute superstar in the making, just sit back and watch.
>>>>>If anyone has a habit of giving players more props than merited, it's you.
Wow, I may have said Farmar might be the next Tony Parker but never Magic Johnson. Anyway, now you are the one exaggerating what I may have said.
>>>>> Here's the thing. If you would stop distorting what I said about these players,
>>>>>I won't respond at all. If you want to trash them, trash them. I honestly couldn't
>>>>>care less. But you could save us both a lot of trouble by either leaving me out of it >>>>>or, at the very least, representing what I said accurately. It's gotten pretty tedious
>>>>>having to constantly clarify my statements over two years.
Well, you either take me, the subject, or yourself too seriously. You obviously have a problem taking a joke. None of this was ever meant to undermine your reputation or journalistic integrity. You should have known that from all of the times we have exchanged comments through the years. I am sorry you took all of it the wrong way. It was never meant that way. Obviously, there is a lack of mutual respect here so I am just going to check out. See you around.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | December 05, 2008 at 01:52 PM
Interesting Crap Department (don't kill the messenger)
Free throw percentages (oh the humanity):
Player this season this season attempts career
Kobe .856 111 .839
Pau .767 86 .734
Bynum .718 71 .660
Ariza .667 51 .647
Fisher .917 24 .812
Lamar .628 43 .707
Farmar ..649 37 .680
Rad .833 12 .756
Sasha .857 14 .867
Mihm .750 4 .704
Powell .833 6 .744
Walton N/A 0 .727
Mbenga N/A 0 .568
Sun N/A 0 ?
AS A TEAM THIS SEASON: .760 %
Free throw shooting percentage is something (I believe) that with practice every player can improve on---GREAT TEAMS SHOOT FREE THROWS PROFICIENTLY....
Interesting to see there is some improvement (so far---early in the season etc.) by some players and drop offs career averages by others....
also interesting to see the amount of free throws being shot by each player (and to think of why etc)--would be nice to see some of the guys shoot more (ie going more to the basket etc.)
would also be nice if our better shooters would get to the line more as well. (see above)...
This Laker team is poised to be one of the great all time Laker teams---better free throwing will help see that idea come to fruition...
PRACTICE , PRACTICE and ....wait for it.....PRACTICE !!!
"he went out tiger hunting with his elephant and gun"
"good thing I didn't complain about the dirty knife"
GO LAKERS !!!
Posted by: Floyd | December 05, 2008 at 02:14 PM
Regarding a panic trade that our resident tough guy has alluded to, I believe it is the Celtics who have panicked and will panic.
They are playing their starters more minutes to maintain their win-loss percentage. We have added Bynum, Ariza, Powell, and Mihm (the last 2 will be more important than you think). We had absolutely no defensive system last year, and now we do. The Celtics subtracted James Posey and PJ Brown. We know how they operate, giving us a known target. We know how they D. They have looked into getting McDyess, to whom we have said "thanks, but no thanks." Panic? Surely you jest.
A quarter of the season, and the resident tough guy wannabe wants to give up. Soft. What a quitter.
All for the scarlet letter of his undying love for Kwame Brown.
Posted by: | December 05, 2008 at 02:18 PM
Hey Socks... relax. you're young. you have plenty of minutes to accrue during the course of your career. shut your mouth and know your role. that's get out there and grab every fricken rebound and swat every effin shot within your vicinity....then talk.
as for other news.... Corey Blunt. out.
GO LAKES!!!
Posted by: sixonezero | December 05, 2008 at 02:28 PM
I kinda like it. He bitched after a loss because he didn't like losing. And he shouldn't. And also I agree with him that the team doesn't lose that game if he stays in.
That said, I think Phil uses situations to teach and this is one of them.
I wouldn't be surprised to see Drew closing out more games later in the season as his consistency of intensity improves, and this is a large part of what I think Phil is trying to instill in him. After all, he seems to respond to harsh prods (see Bryant, Kobe and videotape).
Nor would I be surprised to see the three bigs lineup in the fourth against some teams as the year progresses. It's all about the matchups.
Posted by: Jesterguru | December 05, 2008 at 02:28 PM
Leo ( The Mouse)
Have you actually ever played basketball in your life!!!
I recommend you actually open your eyes and watch a game.
Here is the definition of a steal:
In basketball, a steal occurs when a defensive player legally gains control of the ball from an offensive player. This can be done by deflecting and controlling, catching, or batting (to a teammate) a pass or dribble of an offensive player. The defender must not touch the offensive player's hands or otherwise a foul is called.
Stealing the ball requires good anticipation, speed and fast reflexes, all common traits of a good defender. However, like blocked shots, steals aren't always a perfect gauge of a player's defensive abilities. An unsuccessful steal can result in the defender being out of position and unable to recover in time. Therefore, a steal is a gamble. Steals can pay off greatly, because they often trigger a fast break for the defensive team
Now that you understand what a steal is, Leo (The Mouse) please can you re-write you post to reflect this!!!
Q.E.D
Angry_Laker
Posted by: Angry_Laker | December 05, 2008 at 02:28 PM
Hog: "Couple that with the fact the we ALMOST BEAT BOSTON IN THE FINALS LAST YEAR WITH A LESSER TEAM, and I don't see why EVERY Lakers fan doesn't wake up every morning stoked and thanking their lucky stars that they aren't a Warriors fan!"
You know, I could swear I've heard this before. Oh yeah, it was from Lakers management after the 2006 season when they almost beat PHX. I guess they learned their lesson that having that attitude is what led to the debacle that was 2007, being thoroughly humiliated in the playoffs and Kobe making his trade demands.
Hey, Dallas "almost" won against Miami that year, came back the next year boasting the league's best record by 6 full games, had the mvp and lost in the first round of the playoffs to an 8 seed.
The point is that we're not saying this team sucks. And the addition of Bynum and Ariza alone isn't going to put them over the top. They openly admitted they needed a rededication to D to win a Championship and have taken the steps to put that in place. So why wouldn't we, as Laker fans, get alarmed when the D looks horrible - considering that's supposed to be the key to winning it all this year?
I sit about 5 sections away from the banners hanging up at Staples. I know exactly how special the franchise is but I also know what they play for - Championships. Tiger Woods, as dominant as he is, has repeatedly said he only has one goal when he goes out there every day - get better. If you are content with how good you are in professional sports, you're just inviting everyone else to pass you by.
Posted by: lakers_sth | December 05, 2008 at 02:30 PM
AK/BK,
Long time since I've posted, but I read everyday, and laugh at some of the ppl on here who really are lakers fans but love to torment themselves.
I guess I've been watching the LAkers play a lil longer than most on here, because a 15-2 record for this team usually means WCF or better. Nothing makes me happier than knowing my team is always in the hunt for a title. If these so called Lakers fans really look at it, how many NBA teams would love to be in our shoes on a yearly basis. Only two seasons in my entire lifetime have the Lakers not made the playoffs. 2 seasons! 2!
The Celts and Cavs look like legitimate NBA Championship quality teams. I root for the LAkers to win it all, and I believe they will cause I am a major fan. But if one of those two teams wins it over us, then the best team won. I am just extremely grateful that our Lakers are right in the mix for a championship. The ppl on here that breakdown everything and harp on the small details are overlooking the big picture, and that is that we are not the wizards, or the raptors, or even the blazers or heaven forbid the sune, we are always, even in our mediocre seasons a possible pick to make the WCF or better.
Gotta love the P&G
BLF3408
Posted by: biglakerfan3408 | December 05, 2008 at 02:45 PM
Portland v Boston should be interesting tonight b/c Portland is one of only 2 teams more efficient than the Lakers on offense (Cleveland is #1). Unlike the Lakers though, they are the slowest team in the NBA playing at a pace of 85.9 possessions per game. Boston's strength is in defending the half-court and executing in the half-court is Portland's strength. Plus, you could argue that the general make-up of the team is similar to what the Lakers have only younger (and skill-wise). Even though Portland is on a 6 game winning streak their defensive efficiency is horrible (17th) so, even if they have a lead late in the game, the question remains if they can stop a team down the stretch.
I'm hoping for the Blazers to pull it out though b/c I only root for 2 teams. The Lakers and whoever is playing Boston.
Posted by: lakers_sth | December 05, 2008 at 02:46 PM
Jon K,
That Tractor Trailor joke was funny, but even though Big Rob isn't our answer to our "muscle" problem, I do think that I may have found a way to give us some size.
Check it out:
We trade Luke, Powell and Mihm to Miami for Blount.
Now the center pieces of the trade are clearly Luke and Mark. I didn't realize how fat of a contract he had (7 mil this year and next), did I realize that we would have to sacrifice Chris and Josh. I would hate to see it done but t would be done for good.
Luke would thrive in Spoelstra's offense and get more NBA playing time. And the Lakers would get a veteran big to go inside to thug down and give some hard fouls to the Celtics!!!!!
Plus we'd get under Luke's monsterous contract!
Now think about it first before judgement. After all, this all started a a joke that went array. Never in a million years would I have thought that I would have signed off on a trade like this when I originally thought of it, but it makes sense.
Posted by: 46thst.baller | December 05, 2008 at 03:11 PM
justanothermambafan,
You're from Northern Ontario? Really? Where?
My father is from Thunder Bay.
Lakers Today... Lakers Tomorrow... Lakers Forever.
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: Jon K. | December 05, 2008 at 03:11 PM
It seems a lot of people are really amped and looking way ahead to the Celtics game. It seems to me a no win situation to get that up for the game. If we lose, it is huge let down. If we win, what does it prove? We are all about June, right?
Don't get me wrong, I absolutely despise the Celtics. If they lost 82 games in a season, I would be totally bummed because the season wasn't longer, so they could lose more games.
But I am only looking forward to the Xmas day game as I am games against the Cavaliers, Spurs, Magic, etc. to see how LA stacks up against the better teams in the league. And maybe less so to the Xmas game because of all the hype for a game that means nothing in the big picture.
Am I alone in this?
Posted by: VoR | December 05, 2008 at 03:13 PM
I just read this article on fox sports and i realized that the celtics somehow shoot more free throws than anyone by huge advantages just like in the finals when they had a 38-10 advantage over us in game 2. read this article:
CELTICS LISTEN TO HEINSOHN TOO MUCH, END UP LEADING THE LEAGUE IN TECHNICAL FOULS
Dec 04, 2008 | 5:18PM | report this
The Boston Celtics lead the league in more than just their 18-2 record - they also have racked up 39 technical fouls in just 20 games, almost 2 per game, and 14 more than the 2nd-place team, the Suns.
This is clearly due to the Celtics players believing ex-Celtic player and current loudmouthed color commenter Tom Heinsohn, who wears Celtics-green beer goggles to all games. When it comes to officiating, practically any call against the Celtics is incorrect, and merits more than one mention.
For example, at 3:06 remaining in the first quarter of last night's game against the Pacers, Paul Pierce was called for charging into Roy Hibbert in what was (to an unbiased observer) a clear-cut, obvious call. Heinsohn offered the following in his classic Bahstun accent:
"Aaah that's terrible call! That is a terrible call. The man spotted up and Pierce was going laterally! Watch this-" (Replay) "It's going laterally, the man stepped right up, up into him".
In reality, Hibbert had stepped into position just outside the restricted area while Pierce was still above the ft line, and Pierce initiated the contact directly, not laterally.
From 1:47 in the 2nd quarter to just 9 seconds remaining in the third quarter, the Celtics had one of their customary periods of "favorable" officiating, and the play-by-play guy brought it to Heinsohn's attention.
"You know, the Celtics haven't committed a foul in 13 minutes of this game".
(Heinsohn) "I know that. I've seen that. I find it miraculous".
Note to readers - during this same time period, TWELVE fouls were called against the Pacers, and, unsurprisingly, the Celtics' lead went from 6 points to 19 points. Through 3 quarters, the Celtics had shot 28 free throws, to just SIX for the Pacers. WOW, over 4.6 times as many...
SO, DESPITE THE FACT THAT THE CELTICS HAVE PUT THE GAME OUT OF REACH WITH THE HELP OF THE REFS, HEINSOHN IS STILL HOLDING A GRUDGE.
With 10:05 remaining in the 4th, Rondo is defending on a break with TJ Ford leading and there's contact, foul called on Rondo.
Heinsohn (chuckling) "Now let's watch this". (Replay) "Ahh that's a chaage." "Ahh wow, remembah da Pierce one? This guy was going straight at Rondo. They're gonna give him 2 shots! THEY'RE GONNA GIVE HIM 2 SHOTS! Ah ha ha ha ha ha ha, no, they're not gonna, it's side out. Well, he's holding up 2 fingahs for 2 shots"...
This really exemplifies the Celtics' attitude of entitlement, they get most all of the calls, but focus on (and complain about) the few that go against them. No wonder they lead the league in technicals! This is the 3rd ref-assisted Celtics home win I've watched this season (the other two were the Raptors and the Hawks), and I've grown to love Tommy more and more. What style, what class, what an inspiration...
I wonder if the Lakers can learn the Celtics way to get some similar assistance from the stripes!
This is some B.S. there is no such think as amazing celtics defense. what makes them so great is that they play extremely aggressive basketball without getting called for fouls. Im sick of David stern with his bullhsit we need a new comissioner ASAP. stupid rigged league
Posted by: ben | December 05, 2008 at 03:22 PM
Interesting tidbit from espn's daily dime today:
"The only teams with a winning mark against opponents above .500 are the Lakers (9-1), Celtics (6-1), Hornets (6-4), Cavaliers (5-3), Trail Blazers (7-5) and Nets (5-4)."
A lot of information there I didn't know. First of all, the Lakers have played more teams above .500 than the Celtics and Cavs so far. All 3 of the Cavs losses have come against teams with records above .500 which also means the last time they played a team above .500 was 11 games ago. Also, Portland has played a very tough early sched against 12 teams above .500 and 13 games on the road.
Posted by: lakers_sth | December 05, 2008 at 03:28 PM
What interesting is that Bynum's quote was transcribed differently by quite a few sources.
After he talked about "the fat lady" singing, various source wrote that he said "He sings for me a lot", and others wrote "She sings for me a lot".
Posted by: Amazing_Happens | December 05, 2008 at 03:42 PM
46th baller,
On your trade to the Heat, how about w/ Memphis?
Trade Walton + Mihm = Javaris Crittenton + 1st draft pick on 2010 + 2nd draft pick 2009.
Don't forget to watch tomorrow's fight
Golden Boy vs. Pacman*
*Being my compatriot, I will go with Paquiao altho' he is a Celtic fan but trains here in Hollywood, LA. Got to convert this dude into Laker fan.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | December 05, 2008 at 03:53 PM
if does not play bynum in the last minutes, bynum should ask for a trade. now all of u saying bynum to shut up, what say u now? huh? what? scared of loosing bynum? bynum is the force in lakers!
Posted by: Staples 24 | December 05, 2008 at 04:05 PM
Blitz,
It's how they lost in Indiana that isn't sitting well with me.
I promise I will tone it down once I see some defense again and a nice winning streak with it.
Purple and Gold!
BD
Posted by: BD | December 05, 2008 at 04:48 PM