Sasha Vujacic: Exit Interview
First things first! Check out who's donning the green again! With a title in the books and a beatdown from Boston now a distant memory, Sasha Vujacic finally gets to bust out his ropa verde. Before the cameras rolled, The Machine also said a haircut will also commence, but more "trim" than "jar head." For the time being, the mane appears tracked to retain its flowing glory.
Unfortunately, sharing that info represented one of the few light points during Sasha's Q & A. Phil Jackson mentioned how certain meetings invoked less of a "pat on the back, have a great summer" tone than others. I'll go out on a limb and predict Sasha's was among them. For a dude that just won a title, he seemed pretty glum. While pleased with the outcome, he expressed a lot of unhappiness over his decreased role, especially down the playoff stretch. He was also unhappy that- by his own admission- his play wasn't up to snuff, but from Sasha's "cause and effect" perspective, one hand clearly washed the other. From the interview's outset, Sasha expressed mixed feelings over his championship season. The proverbial "right things" were said, but "sentiments" and "tone" were anything but a match.
"From a personal point of view, the season didn't go the way I planned or expected," nodded Vujacic. "I obviously have a different role. At times, it was different. Sometimes you have to give up something in order for a team to succeed. You gotta put individual goals to the side, and that's what I learned from this season."
BK and I have written on countless occasions about Sasha's career-long tendency to press in the face of decreased minutes, a desire to cram 25 minutes of production into ten minutes of floor time as a way to earn more run. The results were bad shots, bad fouls and (ironically, if predictably) more time sitting. To his credit, Sasha copped to the violation, but his comments make me wonder if he truly "gets" the situation. Or more importantly, accepts it.
"Whenever I would play the minutes that I played this year, I would try to do too much. That's the way I play basketball. I have a passion for the game and I just love to play. But trying to do too much, you think that you're going to get more minutes. In order to be loose and let the game come to you, you're pushing, you're pushing it. You try to do too much and bad things just start to happen."
More on this topic. First, BK noted how on a team with so much depth, minutes will have to be sacrificed by nearly everyone. Is that something Sasha is cool with? Honestly, I don't think so. He knows what he's supposed to say and is certainly trying to, but he's obviously quite chapped over a reduced role. Yes, he relayed an "if it's four minutes, it's four minutes" message to the coaching staff, but unfortunately, that's also what was said all season, and he struggled to reach peace with the situation. A "but we'll see" kicker gave the impression that he planned to solve the issue by somehow securing more PT, rather than making the necessary mental adjustment and then hoping to play more.
I'm not out to harp on the matter, but this is a potential problem should Sasha not get his head right. Trevor Ariza available for 82 games probably played the single biggest role in Sasha's PT dropping, and assuming TA is resigned, the odds heavily favor status quo. Call me crazy, but I don't see Sasha pushing Kobe Bryant off the floor. And the only person who seems to consider Sasha a viable candidate for more PG minutes is Sasha. Thus, without an injury or a quantum leap in improvement (well beyond what we saw in 2008), The Face's 2010 role forecasts to shake out pretty similarly to the 2009 version. If he can't learn to embrace this notion (or at the very least, wholeheartedly accept it), Groundhog Day II: Electric Bugaloo feels like a given.
In a revealing moment, Sasha expressed his desire not to come off like a dude fat and happy after inking his 3 year/15 mil deal. "I'm not going to be one of those people who signs a contract and doesn't care. I care a lot." Wanting to prove he was "here for a reason" and aware that NBA folk often judge achievement by stats, Vujacic hoped to double 2008's numbers. His heart may have been in the right place, but that's a very lofty goal under any circumstances. Factor in the reduced minutes, and organic success is more or less impossible. Ultimately, it's about recognition and tweaking approaches, which hasn't been easy for Sasha.
As I've said about Sasha for years, dude needs to relax more. A LOT more. Let me put it this way. When Kobe Bryant- whom I've always gotten the distinct impression considers hard work something of a "must"- wants you to become less of a gym rat, you're clearly putting too much pressure on yourself. I genuinely admire Sasha's dedication, but there's a difference between purposeful effort and obsession. As evidenced by zero baskets falling against Orlando, I think Sasha's extra shooting represented more of the latter.
Finally, Sasha expressed excitement at playing for the Slovenian National team this summer. His bracket includes Spain, and while he understands why Pau Gasol might opt to rest up, he's hoping El Spaniard will participate. Then, no excuses can be offered when Slovenia wins.
Previous Exit Interviews:
- Trevor Ariza
- Pau Gasol
- Jordan Farmar
- Derek Fisher
- Luke Walton
- Adam Morrison
- Shannon Brown
- DJ Mbenga
- Josh Powell
AK
If he produces, he will see a decent amount of time as Kobe's backup, because they will want to limit Kobe's time somewhat, and in some Kobe/Sasha/Trevor floor units. But he has to produce.
Posted by: exhelodrvr | June 22, 2009 at 11:56 AM
EX,
I agree that's a possibility, but Sasha still needs to be prepared for the possibility of a role like this season's, since that's quite likely. And more importantly, if he doesn't develop a mindset that prevents becoming his own worst enemy, he's guaranteed not to get what he wants.
AK
Posted by: Andrew and Brian Kamenetzky | June 22, 2009 at 12:08 PM
AK,
I enjoyed your analysis.
Sasha needs to just focus on his love for the game and make the game fun again... and make his shots.
Sasha is great, but he needs to recognize that he has a responsibility to the team to relax a bit and enjoy the game more (as counter-intuitive as that may seem).
If he isn't able to get that concept straight in his head, then we'll need to train him.
Everyone has to understand their role and we can't have any dead weight on this team. It's that simple.
What do we play for? RINGS!!!!
Lakers Today... Lakers Tomorrow... Lakers Forever.
GO LAKERS!!!!
Posted by: Jon K. | June 22, 2009 at 12:10 PM
AK/BK:
Can we trade him and a first round pick for nothing in return? Just to get his salary off the books? If not Sasha, can we do the trade with Luke Walton involved? What would it take for another team to take on either contracts?
If we're able to move one of the contracts, can we possibly sign Lamar, Trevor and Shannon Brown?
Posted by: WillinSeattle | June 22, 2009 at 12:12 PM
WillinSeattle,
"Can we trade him and a first round pick for nothing in return? Just to get his salary off the books? If not Sasha, can we do the trade with Luke Walton involved? What would it take for another team to take on either contracts."
No, that's not a possibility. Salaries need to match, and Sasha makes five mil. If you want to trade Sasha, you'd have to take on another contract. Thus, by extension, if you add Walton, you need to take on more salary. The only exception would be a transaction with a team that's under the cap, but I don't anticipate too many lining up to take on Sasha after this season.
For what it's worth, though, I wouldn't be shocked at all to see Jordan Farmar (still on his rookie deal) moved for a future late first round pick purely for the purposes of freeing up room. That's a much more feasible plan.
AK
Posted by: Andrew and Brian Kamenetzky | June 22, 2009 at 12:21 PM
Very well written. Dude has potential to be a clutch shooter but just cant seem to relax.
P.s.
I would love to hear Radmanovic's comments on the Laker title :)
Posted by: Amar kay | June 22, 2009 at 12:28 PM
his attitude seems off to me. farmar dealt with the same playing time issues, but managed to resolve it within himself for the betterment of the team. sasha says the same things farmar does, but his actions suggest otherwise.
another factor here is his contract, which makes him one of the lesser attractive price/performance players on the lakers roster. especially with the lakers trying to re-sign a few other key players, i get the feeling buss might be telling kupchak to shop sasha around.
i know mike d'antoni had expressed a real affinity for sasha before, so that's always a possibility. i don't know who we'd get back in return, especially since we don't want to take on awful contracts. but, regardless, i think there's at least a 25% chance that sasha isn't a laker by the end of next year.
Posted by: cs | June 22, 2009 at 12:46 PM
ex,
I actually see Sasha having a nice bounce back season next year. Obviously, the guy is a great shooter and all he really needs is to get his confidence back and be more discernable about his shot selection. No way would I give up on him after this year. Sasha is a player who would probably fare better than the other Laker throw-a-ways because he can shoot. Just look at how Eddie House has played for the Celtics after not really being a factor at all for the Suns. Guys who have great strokes (as shown by 90% free throw shooting) are still valuable players. Look for Sasha to rebound and get out of Phil’s and Faith’s doghouse.
As for his defense, it is almost embarrassing. Lots of effort and lots of fouls. Too hyper. Summer off will probably be most beneficial to Sasha rather than another 1,000 jumpers.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | June 22, 2009 at 12:51 PM
cs,
I plan on addressing that during the report cards, but didn't want to repeat myself on too many points. Without question, Farmar handled his situation considerably better than Sasha did. Jordan is headstrong and too cocky for his own good, but to his credit, got the coaching staff's message. Despite resisting initially, he emerged more humble (or able to fake it, at any rate) and willing to do what was asked. That helped Jordan not only reenter the rotation, but actually play better. Sasha didn't make any adjustments, which ultimately set himself up for failure.
AK
Posted by: Andrew and Brian Kamenetzky | June 22, 2009 at 12:59 PM
can we set some ground rules before the draft? It's not that bad on this board but others... hoofa...
1. if anybody says trade Bynum for ANY draft pick
or
2. if anybody says that Byron Scott should be the next coach for the Lakers
they should be BANNED FOREVER.
Thank you...
Posted by: Dallas Raines' Hair | June 22, 2009 at 01:00 PM
All of this pretty simple… Sasha, dedicated shooter, stopped making his shots, when Lakers need it most, in addition his defense produced so many fouls, PJ was forced to sit him. Trevor, not a pure “shooter” by any stretch of imagination, was able to shoot 47% of 3pts. Trevor not eating Sasha’s time, PJ for the reasons mentioned above, did not feel compel to give Sasha any meaningful playing time. Just would like to remind all of you, we use to have a one of the best benches in NBA. Of course swapping Trevor and Luke contributed to not very productive bench showing during the 2nd half of the season and playoffs (Except LO and occasionally Luke) but I think dismal play by Sasha and to some degree Jordan also contributed in very big way. In order to get playing time you need to earn it, like a Shannon Brown, who from through in from Vlade’s trade turned into very valuable contributor, especially in Western Conference finals.
Posted by: LAL_Fan | June 22, 2009 at 01:08 PM
About "All sitdown"... No single NBA player, unless of course your name is a Ron Artest, and you’re basically what we call a “headcase” will negotiate any contract without agent, neither Kobe, Trevor, LO or Shannon Brown. This is more questions of numbers, especially true about Trevor, when he is ready to cash in on arguably biggest contract of his life. It’s also about making business decision, will he play for looser for more money, or stay in LA and take less. Who knows, what if Detroit somehow will come up with trade to get rid of Prince and offer Ariza 6 years 48-52 M? One thing definitely working for Lakers, very few teams are in position to do it, but you know, it only takes one. We also need to remember, basketball is a business, and it’s going to be business decision for professional players.
Posted by: LAL_Fan | June 22, 2009 at 01:11 PM
He's wearing green!!!!!!!
Posted by: Chad Ridgeway | June 22, 2009 at 01:12 PM
Part of Sasha's problem is that he's now Kobe's true back up rather than than the 6th man role he inherited so that means less open shots because usually Kobe is not around to command a double team. The only time I really saw Sasha shot good was kick outs from Pau Gasol and usually Pau when he played with the 2nd Unit didn't have the ball as much since Jordan was being so damn ball dominant.
Still Sasha bricked quite a ton of shots when open and even when Jordan managed to get him an open shot usually it would be a brick shot. Plus his "intense" defense was usually picked up quick fouls or blown defensive assignments that compromised the rest of the team's defense.
The only way I really see improvement from Sasha is either 1) He plays more with Kobe and Kobe plays SF more once again (which I doubt because of Trevor and Luke) or 2) Trade Jordan because I really think that his game doesn't mesh well his with his game.
That being said it is up to Sasha and his game really has suffered after getting that contract in the off-season and if it weren't for the $14 million contract that Bynum signed Sasha would be the most disappointing player this year.
And yes Bynum is overpaid. Accept it Bynum homers.
Posted by: KB Blitz | June 22, 2009 at 01:15 PM
AK,
"For what it's worth, though, I wouldn't be shocked at all to see Jordan Farmar (still on his rookie deal) moved for a future late first round pick purely for the purposes of freeing up room. "
Amen to that ... lol ... I'd hate for the lakers to pick s. brown over jordan farmar
As for sasha, I think he'll eventually rediscover his shooting form ... besides fish is getting up there, he can't play big shot rob for much longer ... ladies and gentlemen allow me to introduce you to big shot sasha
and oh congratz to all of us 1ce again ... shaq said it best to all d haters (and he'd know being a major hater) ... "HOW MY A## TASTE NOW"
24 + 16 + [1]7 = The Purple Tinted Golden Age
One last thing, if we can't keep Ariza+Odom ... y'all respect the equation and pick Odom ... it's a no brainer
Boston y'all got next? as in y'all gonna fill in for the magic next year? lol this is so much fun ... as for lebron, his puppet has already conceded the battle, that alone makes me pity d dude ... wat about the magic? lmao @ how we derailed their underdog express ... lakertom called it in 5 after being disgusted by the press we got after game 3, we all rallied around tom, and the rest is history
See y'all in july when both ariza and odom are signed early july, signaling to the rest of the league that we intend to do this dance 4 a while
24 + 16 + 1[7] = The Purple Tinted Golden Age
Posted by: Taliq | June 22, 2009 at 01:15 PM
AK,
>>> For what it's worth, though, I wouldn't be shocked at all to see Jordan Farmar
>>> (still on his rookie deal) moved for a future late first round pick purely for the
>>> purposes of freeing up room. That's a much more feasible plan.
I would be. Assuming that the Lakers are probably going to sell or use their 3 picks for players they can stock overseas for at least a year, it doesn’t make sense to trade our primary backup at point guard, especially if we want to keep Derek’s minutes down in the regular season. I also don’t buy that the Lakers have given up on Farmar. He played well against the Rockets when Derek was suspended and during the few minutes he got in the Finals. I also agreed with you that he responded well to his dilemma by apologizing for his selfish actions and embracing the team concept. I still believe Jordan will be a Laker.
Also, I don’t see how that trading Jordan for a draft pick frees up any room with respect to our salary situation since draft picks count $0 in a trade so we still have to take back a player or players who make the same as Sasha for next year. The only benefit would be if we traded for somebody who had fewer years left. Then we would save down the road. Anyway, I don’t see what you proposed as working or as likely. JMO, of course.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | June 22, 2009 at 01:17 PM
Just a thought.. Even during the previous year Sasha unable to put together at least 3 good games. He was always a streaky shooter at best, plus his defense went down, from hardnosed to plain stupid and foul prone. Who knows, maybe he neds a cnage of scenery.
Posted by: LAL_Fan | June 22, 2009 at 01:18 PM
Sasha + 1st round and second round draft pick this season for James Jones.
That's a reliable veteran shooter.
But Miami isn't gonna do it. So hopefully the Lakers can find a defensive minded PF as insurance in trade. Someone needs a guy like Sasha. Heck, someone took Vlad.
Posted by: Pig | June 22, 2009 at 01:19 PM
Farmar or Sasha would thrive in NY. Farmar as a starter and Sasha as a role player. I don't know if D'Antoni would give us anything for Sasha though. I would think Farmar would be of great interest to them though. The #8 pick? I seriously doubt it unless we gave them something else.
The draft:
Some of these guys look like total stiffs. Blake Griffin the #1 pick??? Come on...
Hasheem Thabeet has bust written all over him. Maybe he becomes a defensive presence in 2-3 years but it will take some serious conditioning work.
Rubio also looks like a serious risk. He will need at least 2 years to develop his body to take the pounding of an entire season, forget about the playoffs.
Why is Tyler Hansbrough being looked at as a 1st round pick and Luke Walton wasn't??? Seriously... Luke had a better all around game coming out than Hansbrough and now Hansbrough is going to be facing bigger, faster guys.
and on Byron Scott. Please... no more... please!!! Byron Scott coaching Kobe Bryant??? LOL! I'd give that about 5 games before they had a serious confrontation... you would be better off moving Derek Fisher directly to head coach, at least he would have Kobe's respect.
Posted by: Dallas Raines' Hair | June 22, 2009 at 01:23 PM
KB Blitz,
Problem is, it's not as of now just Bynum overpaid, at least we still can use to some degree word "potential". In case of Luke or Sasha we can not use even "potential". By the way Morrison due next season also 5M, at least Lakers have some value, expiring contract.
Posted by: LAL_Fan | June 22, 2009 at 01:25 PM
Sasha's contract is not bad, 10M for 2 years, someone need a shooter and our 1sr round pick, I know last Lakers need is one more garanteed contract...
Posted by: LAL_Fan | June 22, 2009 at 01:30 PM
Dallas Raines' Hair,
>>> can we set some ground rules before the draft? It's not that
>>> bad on this board but others... hoofa...
>>> 1. if anybody says trade Bynum for ANY draft pick
>>> or
>>> 2. if anybody says that Byron Scott should be the next coach for the Lakers
>>> they should be BANNED FOREVER.
Sounds logical to me. Good suggestion. Thanks.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | June 22, 2009 at 01:32 PM
Taliq,
>>> lakertom called it in 5 after being disgusted by the press we got after game 3,
>>> we all rallied around tom, and the rest is history
Thanks for the props…and for leaving out my first two wrong predictions of Lakers in sweep and then Lakers in 6. Give me enough shots and I will always hit a game winner. LOL. Sort of like double or nothing until you win. Sasha-style.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | June 22, 2009 at 01:41 PM
blitz,
Thanks for your obligatory cheap shots on Farmar and Bynum. Can’t help yourself, huh? Farmar is far more valuable to this team than Sasha and only you would disregard the contribution to winning the Finals by an injured Andrew Bynum and then compare that performance against his salary for next year. Kobe Blitz, never wrong and always fair! LMAO.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | June 22, 2009 at 01:46 PM
Isn't Jamal Crawford in the Nelly doghouse? AM + Sasha for JC. AM's contract expires next year and Sasha in two. Shoot away in Nelly's system.
Posted by: Charles | June 22, 2009 at 02:01 PM
Here we go and i dont care...If you consider Farmar our Primary back up point guard then we are in strife..Big strife..
The 1 game he played well in was the Rockets game..The rest was junk..I gave him props for that game otherwise the guy turned into David Copperfield....Your either drunk or on some pretty strong medication if you think this guy is a back up....Please...If it was not for the speed of Brooks he would not have seen a minute of burn and you know it..He did jack in the Orlando series as well...The 36 year old guy came through..Stop dreaming.
Posted by: Thirty2 | June 22, 2009 at 02:12 PM
So begins the "Season Of Crazy Trade Scenarios" (85% of which somehow involving Luke Walton).
Urgh.
I hate this time of year.
AK, I know you have a lot of grades and exit interviews to put up, but is there any chance you or Brian will put forth a review of the upcoming draft anytime soon?
What do we play for? RINGS!!!!
Lakers Today... Lakers Tomorrow... Lakers Forever.
GO LAKERS!!!
Posted by: Jon K. | June 22, 2009 at 02:14 PM
Anybody hear about Bynum playing in the summer league? I believe that's great for him to do if so...
Posted by: Charles | June 22, 2009 at 02:14 PM
I feel bad for Chris Mihm.
I would have liked to see him get a ring. He labored through the bad years with us.
What do we play for? RINGS!!!!
Lakers Today... Lakers Tomorrow... Lakers Forever.
GO LAKERS!!!
Posted by: Jon K. | June 22, 2009 at 02:15 PM
Here's a question I've never thought about before: do the players the Lakers traded midseason - i.e. Radman and Chris Mihm - get rings? I assume the answer is no. Anyone know?
Posted by: Steve | June 22, 2009 at 02:16 PM
I would talk to the Clippers about trading Sasha, Farmar and the No. 1 pick for Baron Davis. That's about $7 million in contracts (matches up). The Clips get younger on a great young team and get rid of Davis' contract. Then like I mentioned in another thread, I resign Lamar, let Trevor Ariza go (as much as I like him) and sign Ron Artest for the mid-level if Ron Ron is willing, which he might. Then you would have a starting line-up of Davis, Bryant, Artest, Gasol and Bynum with Odom, Walton, Fisher and Powel off the bench. It's a steal for the Clippers too, enabling them to sign some of their cherished young players.
Posted by: FredJ | June 22, 2009 at 02:21 PM
Didn't Sasha move in with a model recently?
Sasha's Bio-Chrono reading is heavily love-orientated. If he's in a bad relationship it will throw his whole game off.
What do we play for? RINGS!!!
Lakers Today... Lakers Tomorrow... Lakers Forever.
GO LAKERS!!!
Posted by: Jon K. | June 22, 2009 at 02:23 PM
I still say Farmar is a keeper. Bynum we have to wait and see this year. I am a harsh critique of giving him the "Beast" moniker, however I am in full support of hoping for AB to get better.
Posted by: Charles | June 22, 2009 at 02:26 PM
FredJ,
BD is too injury prone and he makes $12,150,000. Ron*2.0 is still crazy and had mentioned he is will not take a pay cut from his current salary.
Looks great on paper though.
Posted by: Charles | June 22, 2009 at 02:34 PM
Just a reminder to all new and old bloggers that there are only two moderators in this blog i.e the K-Bros. They have already laid down the rules in form of a legal spiel. Read it before you post on Lakers Blog. Please do not add new "Ayatollah Rules" on what other can say and cannot say. This is a free country to say anything in favor or against public figures in form of inferences, opinions and public views. If you don't believe it, do some research on that statement. Therefore, a blogger or a poster in this blog is not a public figure, you cannot insult him by addressing him as coward, stupid or idiot, etc. he is like you protected by law and free flow of communication.
Now that we attained our coveted glory, it is best to bury those hatchets and flaming arrows, take the moral path in handling immature troll posts. It would be nice if we can all be gracious and humble as victors. We all know better than anybody because we are the CHAMPIONS IN 2009, many are below us but nobody above the Lakers in 2009. C-E-L-E-B-R-A-T-E and forget revenge.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | June 22, 2009 at 02:39 PM
"In case of Luke or Sasha we can not use even "potential"."
In both cases we know how each guy is as with Luke a passer and Sasha a streaky shooter. Both are overpaid especially Luke but at least we know what they are."
"..The 36 year old guy came through..Stop dreaming."
Derek Fisher is 34 atm turning 35 this year.
"Anybody hear about Bynum playing in the summer league? I believe that's great for him to do if so..."
I don't think he's eligible for the Summer league as he has been in the league for more than 3 years. He'll probably be playing more pick up games in at UCLA maybe with other NBA stars which is better for him.
"2. if anybody says that Byron Scott should be the next coach for the Lakers
they should be BANNED FOREVER."
Amen. I love Byron and he was the most underrated part of Magic's and Kareem's team but unless he's an assistant to the head coach I don't want him to coach the LA Lakers.
"Thanks for your obligatory cheap shots on Farmar and Bynum."
Actually I didn't diss Farmar much. Even Adande said he was prone to individual play and there were quite a few times Farmar passed it around the perimeter and not to Pau resulting in less open shots for perimeter players. If Sasha could somehow be traded or Shannon not retained then Farmar has a spot on the Lakers.
And I did that one about Bynum was a knock on the "Bynum took a pay cut" on your response to Hobbitmage. Again a guy who earns Pau Gasol type money without Pau Gasol type results or even whose impact wouldn't be missed as Pau (Boston and Cleveland games) is overpaid. Had Bynum made his agent accept the $10 million with incentives that would have been no problem and that would have been a bargain. LMAO that he was worth either $18 or $14 million. And that "injury" excuse is so funny nowadays. Injury? How about Odom having played with a bad back and yet producing great numbers (though maybe it was more changing to salad instead of games)? That injury excuse is so hollow. Bynum shot 36% in the Finals! That's even worst than Sasha in 2008 shooting 37%.
Best lineup that WON: Fisher-Bryant-Ariza-Odom-Gasol (note this is no the starting lineup since Bynum no doubt will start).
Ariza will earn 6-8 million less than Bynum next season assuming he is re-signed and he's worth more to the Lakers than Bynum is. That my friend is "being overpaid".
Posted by: KB Blitz | June 22, 2009 at 02:43 PM
If D'Antoni likes Sasha, I definitely think he and Farmar might be happier on the Knicks than in LA.
For Knicks, it could be a 2 for 1: get a shooter and fast paced point guard. They also have a high draft pick.
Who should the Lakers want? Duhon. I think the Knicks are paying him $5mil.
Low stats, low maintenance, high D character guy with good speed. Darn close to a younger version of Fisher.
Posted by: Dwight Nager | June 22, 2009 at 02:46 PM
I don't think Bynum is going to do anything for about a month or so, so he can allow his knee/tendons to heal. Then, it would probably take 2-3 weeks just to get his basic conditioning back so I wonder where he will be able to practice against anybody other than maybe UCLA or USC if they can even field a decent team...
I've said this many times. I like Farmar, he works hard, but... this is simply the wrong system for him. He wants to play more but Shannon Brown will definitely take more of his minutes next year so I am another one who would be surprised to see Farmar in camp with us next year, if so, he would be moved before the trade deadline and he could audition with somebody else as his contract is coming up.
Would be cool if the Lakers could move up a few spots and get a decent guard they could spend all next year sending down to the DLeague and learning the art of riding the pine, playing some spot minutes and then the next year be ready to make a push for heavy playing time. Fisher thinks he has 2 more years left so that 2nd year, you would think at least 30+ minutes would be available, whether they start or not.
I don't think anybody, including the Lakers know the answer to the Shannon Brown question. He was a first round pick, right before Farmar, could he become our starter or play the bulk of the minutes? Stay tuned!
Posted by: Dallas Raines' Hair | June 22, 2009 at 02:49 PM
Steve,
>>> Here's a question I've never thought about before: do the players the Lakers
>>> traded midseason - i.e. Radman and Chris Mihm - get rings? I assume the
>>> answer is no. Anyone know?
Trying to find the answer for you, I came across some interesting info about the NBA Playoff Pool from this article: http://tinyurl.com/de2rky
>>>
“The rest of the breakdown: Best record in the NBA ($317,263), Best record in Conference ($277,604 each), Second-best record in conference ($223,126 each), Third-best record in conference ($166,563), Fourth-best record in conference ($130,900), Fifth-best record in conference ($109,074), Sixth-best record in conference ($74,394).
Teams participating in first round ($164,168 each), Teams participating in conference semifinals ($195,337 each), Teams participating in conference finals ($322,792 each), Losing team NBA Finals ($1,290,821), Winning team NBA Finals ($1,948,042).
Should they go on to win the championship, the Cavaliers would claim more than $2.9 million from the NBA's playoff pool, but still only about $147,380 per player if you assume there are at least 20 shares to go around.”
>>>
This means that the Lakers added $2.9M to their profits for winning the championship. That should help to pay for Lamar and Trevor. And from this article: http://tinyurl.com/m53n8t
>>>
“Players of teams vote full or partial shares of pool money and give it to team personnel as they see fit.”
>>>
Sorry but I could not find anything on the web about how any NBA championship team voted to share their playoff money. Lakers pool money should be Anybody help? Thanks.
>>>
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | June 22, 2009 at 02:51 PM
An open letter to Kobe Bryant:
I see that you are smiling again,
But is the job really done?
This seasons mission is complete, but are you still hungry?
Are you AS hungry as you were this same time last year?
Will you still remember that 39 point beatdown that Boston gave us that we never really got back?
Will we ever see the same "scowl" again?
How driven will you guys be after a huge win?
We all know how driven you are after a loss.
If I were you, I'd take some time and enjoy myself right now and bask in the glory.
But come mid-July, I'd try and act like I'm coming off of a bitter loss and come into the season with another chip on my shoulder!
>-<
Posted by: aka >-< | June 22, 2009 at 02:54 PM
SHANNON BROWN CAN BE NEXT YEAR'S VERSION OF ARIZA.
If Shannon is retained, he has the potential to be next year's version of Ariza. They are both young, athletic, long, hard-working, can run the fast-break and play solid defense. Both were bench players unable to get minutes elsewhere, and seem genuinely grateful to be with the Lakers. Unlike other bad contracts on this team (i.e. Sasha and Luke), Brown and Ariza will improve their game every year, and just like Ariza, Brown has the potential to be a consistent 3 point threat. Because Brown is a PG that lacks traditional PG skills (like DFish), the triangle is the perfect system for his skill set.
This was the FIRST season Shannon got any real NBA minutes, and he made some key contributions in the reg. season, but more importantly, in the playoffs.
Just like Ariza this year, imagine how good Brown will be next year with more minutes, and with a full season of playing in the triangle under his belt. Imagine how good Shannon Brown would be now, if he had the same years of experience as Farmar playing in one system. I highly doubt Farmar versus Brown would even be up for debate.
Posted by: LAKER TRUTH | June 22, 2009 at 02:57 PM
Sign LO and let Trevor go? Sorry idea just sounds a little bit crazy, to me at least. Trevor only 24 this year, this what I'm talking when someone said - Potential. He is improved on his shot, thanks to him we had Denver serie wrap up, remember those 2 steals? And just let him walk? Thank, but no thanks... As far as I concerned, we possibly have another ALL Star in making, if he diligently works on his game..
Posted by: LAL_Fan | June 22, 2009 at 03:11 PM
I think there's a point where analyzing Sasha's current words and attitude isn't indicative of anything in the future. He had a horrible season and he knows it. He's still too close to it, still caught up in it all. Playing for the national team will be the best way to clear his head. Right now, he's something of a crap shoot. He could regain his form, he could be traded, he could come back and never ever be the player that showed such promise. There is absolutely no way of predicting with this guy. He is the prototypical euro wild card.
My hope is that he'll have a good summer, that he'll play ball and hang out with old friends overseas and that he'll come back and be a good shooter again... for somebody. If it's for us, great. If he's part of a trade package and we get value, then that's great too.
When Sasha's on his game, he's a lot of fun to watch. Let's hope he finds his way back to doing what he loves.
Posted by: dave m | June 22, 2009 at 03:14 PM
I hope they don't trade Sasha and become a Kobe stopper and dump 30 points on the Lakers every time he plays against us. I also believe this guy will have a better year next year.
What is going to happen to Sun Yue?
Posted by: Laker Phil | June 22, 2009 at 03:25 PM
pressing an envelope against his forehead, Carnac predicts, "he'll ride the pine, ask for a trade and then get no playing time with his new team"... "Brian Cook will mock him"...
Oh ho ho ho!
Opening the envelope...
and... the question was, "What is going to happen with Sun Yue next year"?
Posted by: Dallas Raines' Hair | June 22, 2009 at 03:46 PM
What is going to happen to Sun Yue?
Posted by: Laker Phil
Hopefully outta here.
Posted by: Charles | June 22, 2009 at 03:51 PM
Two sayings that Sasha needs to take in, courtesy of Coach Wooden:
Don't mistake activity for achievement.
Be quick but don't hurry.
Sasha might be the only NBA player who would be better on downers.
Posted by: Tom Daniels | June 22, 2009 at 04:16 PM
I'm for giving Sasha a bus ticket outa here. If Mitch Kupchak can put lipstick on Kwame Brown and Brian Cook, there's a taker out there somewhere.
Posted by: Rick Friedman | June 22, 2009 at 04:28 PM
What do you guys think of AM + SV for Jamal Crawford?
Posted by: Charles | June 22, 2009 at 04:42 PM
Rick Friedman...Please allow me to pay for the ticket.
Posted by: Thirty2 | June 22, 2009 at 04:45 PM
Charles,
>>> What do you guys think of AM + SV for Jamal Crawford?
Not much, unfortunately. You’re trading a guy with a $5M expiring contract and a guy with 2 years for $10M to get a guy with 2 years for $20M. So bottom line, you are adding $5M salary plus $5M luxury tax at the same time that we are trying to hold payroll down. Additionally, you are giving up an expiring contract that would save us $10M to allow to expire or could be used in another trade. Finally, Crawford is a selfish player with poor attitude and shot selection who has never played a lick of defense in his life. He was basically kicked out of New York and the Warriors would LOVE to get rid of him.
We are better off keeping both guys for now. At worst, they represent a way to cut our payroll by $5M next year and the year after by allowing the contracts to expire. That means a total of $20M in salary and luxury tax avoided. In the meantime, we see if Sasha can get his mojo back and if Adam can find one. That is a better plan. Not as exciting as a trade but a hell of lot smarter. These guys may represent how we pay for Ariza the next 2 years.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | June 22, 2009 at 04:57 PM
Finally, Crawford is a selfish player with poor attitude and shot selection who has never played a lick of defense in his life.
You're right Tommy Boy!
Posted by: Charles | June 22, 2009 at 04:59 PM
Dallas Raines' Hair -
Why would you doubt Blake Griffin? Have you looked at his stats?
"He was far and away the best player in the NCAA last season, averaging 14.4 rebounds and 22.7 points per game on 65.4% (!) shooting. Basically, the last guy to put up those kinds of numbers was a Wake Forest senior named Tim Duncan (14.7/20.8/60.8%)" --via Ball Don't Lie. (http://tinyurl.com/l5bdpf)
Not that I'm saying Blake's going to be one of the best players ever, but last time I checked, Tim Duncan has led his team to four titles.
As for Tyler Hansborough, he apparently impressed in his Atlanta workout with his skills and effort, so there's something.
I think we're taking Taj Gibson...what about you AK/BK?
Posted by: Cactus Berry | June 22, 2009 at 06:14 PM
Rick Friedman,
I think I saw Mitch at the Neiman Marcus make-up counter today as I walked past. It looked like he was buying lipstick, hummmm. Not sure who it was for, but I look for him to put it on someone this summer and Sasha is a good candidate.
Posted by: Laker Larry | June 22, 2009 at 06:56 PM
LAL_Fan,
I saw your post on the other thread. You
bring up some interesting points. I
was aware of the luxury tax issue. That
only brings us back to my main point.
Dr. Buss will pay Kobe whatever it takes
for Kobe to come back. Ariza & Odom's
contracts are not the issue. Subtract 3
from odom and give it to Ariza and we
still have the same total, but both players
are closer to what they should be making.
The real issue is: Will Dr. Buss pay
the tax to keep the team together?
Robbing Kobe to pay Lamar is not a
smart idea. Asking Kobe to rob
himself to pay Lamar is worse.
Posted by: hobbitmage | June 22, 2009 at 09:13 PM
Here's a question I've never thought about before: do the players the Lakers traded midseason - i.e. Radman and Chris Mihm - get rings? I assume the answer is no. Anyone know?
Posted by: Steve | June 22, 2009 at 02:16 PM
=================
The answer is no but the team can vote to give them partial share of playof money earned.
Posted by: JustaLakerFan | June 22, 2009 at 09:26 PM
can we set some ground rules before the draft? It's not that bad on this board but others... hoofa...
1. if anybody says trade Bynum for ANY draft pick
or
2. if anybody says that Byron Scott should be the next coach for the Lakers
they should be BANNED FOREVER.
Thank you...
Posted by: Dallas Raines' Hair | June 22, 2009 at 01:00 PM
===============
No, but definitely ban any one who wants to bottle up anyone's opinion you don't agree with.
Posted by: JustaLakerFan | June 22, 2009 at 09:28 PM
I would talk to the Clippers about trading Sasha, Farmar and the No. 1 pick for Baron Davis. That's about $7 million in contracts (matches up). The Clips get younger on a great young team and get rid of Davis' contract. Then like I mentioned in another thread, I resign Lamar, let Trevor Ariza go (as much as I like him) and sign Ron Artest for the mid-level if Ron Ron is willing, which he might. Then you would have a starting line-up of Davis, Bryant, Artest, Gasol and Bynum with Odom, Walton, Fisher and Powel off the bench. It's a steal for the Clippers too, enabling them to sign some of their cherished young players.
Posted by: FredJ | June 22, 2009 at 02:21 PM
============
Heck no!!! We would be getting much older and trading future away. Artest over Trevor....pulease! Older and metally unstable and not as good defensively as reputation has him. Giving away our youth is ludicrous.
Posted by: JustaLakerFan | June 22, 2009 at 09:33 PM
The only real question this off-season is how the Buss family will deal with the luxury tax. Between 2000-2003, the Lakers kept all their key pieces, and just tried to fill a hole left by veteran retirements (Harper, Shaw, Green, Grant).
If you think about it, the only Laker mistake caused by trying to avoid the luxury tax was giving up on Horry after the 2003 season. He would have been the difference in the 2004 Finals against the Pistons when Malone got hurt. instead, Jackson had to play Medvedenko who was even completely worhtless on defense and under the boards.
Once Phil get a lineup that understands his system and is capable of winning a championship, he won't want to get rid of anyone who can contribute. And he won't let someone come in and play meaningful minutes (Brown being the one exception to this rule in all the years Jackson has coached the Lakers).
Regardless of how much fans get down on Luke, Sasha and Farmar, they know the triangle, work hard and fill very specific roles. When Ariza developed into such a great player, it meant that Radmanovich became expendable. Phil hated Vlade's mental inconsistency, so he was actually motivated to get rid of him.
Given Jackson's shortened coaching timeline (does anyone really think he'll be around three years from now?), I would bet that the Lakers won't move anyone who has played a role for the team this year.
Posted by: DaTruthSetsUFree | June 23, 2009 at 12:21 AM
To: Dallas Raines' Hair,
Whether he'd be an ideal coach for the Lakers or not, the most trusted player relationship Byron Scott would have is with Kobe Bryant. He has Kobe's respect. They've reportedly had a strong bond ever since Scott mentored Kobe during KB's rookie season - which happened to coincide with BS's last. They both mention this repeatedly.
So your guess was a miss.
Posted by: Microbio | June 23, 2009 at 02:00 AM
Thirty2,
>>>The 1 game he played well in was the Rockets game..
Okay, well at least you gave me a jumping off place for my
discussion on this. You admit that Farmar played well... as
a starter. In a critical playoff game (if they lost it, they would
have gone down 2-1). This wasn't some pre-season game
(where he was the best player on the team last fall), but a hard
fought game against a quality opponent, and Farmar was up
to the task.
>>>The rest was junk.. The 36 year old guy came
>>> through..Stop dreaming.
I assume you mean Fisher, who's only 34, and yes he did
come through. But there's a difference.
If Farmar takes and bricks a couple of threes in a row, he's
usually back on the bench pretty quickly. Fisher, because of
his experience is allowed more leeway. If he bricks FIVE three
pointers in a row, he's still in there to take the final shot, and in
this case, he came through. Note that there was also a last
second shot by Fish against Denver that wasn't successful.
Even the mighty .04 man himself misses sometimes.
Your mental state can make a huge difference in how you
play on the floor. If know the coach is going to leave you
in, even if you seem to be struglling a bit, then it gives you
confidence to keep your head in the game. If you know the
coach is going to give you a quick hook if you screw up once,
then you play tentatively. You're playing not to be taken out,
rather than attacking aggressively.
Shannon Brown's mind set when he first came to the team
was a totally different thing. He was just excited to get an
opportunity to get ANY playing time with a winning team, so
he went out there and just played loose and carefree, and he
had a lot of success. But when his shot started to fail him, when
he had a string of 0-3, 1-3, 1-4, 1-3, 1-4 games, then Phil's leash
on him became even shorter than Farmar's. Because Phil had
more experience with Farmar and more confidence in him.
That's what it came down to in the finals. Fisher (34%), Farmar (37%),
and Brown (34%) had all shot pretty poorly vs Denver, but Phil
had more confidence in Fisher and Farmar to come through
in the finals, and they both did.
I have full confidence in Farmar as a backup, and what's more,
I think they'd do fine with him as a starter as well. His numbers
are at least as good as Fisher's were back when Fisher took
over the reins. I don't think Farmar will ever be an all-star, and
like Fisher I think he'll struggle against taller stronger PGs. But
given the chances, I'm sure he'll hit his share of game winners
in helping the Lakers to their next 3 titles in the next 5 seasons.
Go Lakers.
Posted by: Long Time Laker Fan | June 23, 2009 at 08:53 AM
Eddie House. Steve Kerr. John Paxson. Rick Fox. Brian Shaw.
What do these players have in common? They know/knew their roles: limited minutes, steady shooting, play scrappy. They didn't need time to "warm up". That's for the starters. Valuable second-stringers come off the bench and either maintain a lead or give a shot in the arm to shift momentum. Cold streaks? Of course--that's fine, and part of the game. But don't expect starter's minutes if you're a 7th or 8th man, ad don't look to that as an excuse for your shooting slumps.
One possibly justifiable reason for a role player to complain about minutes is when he's in a contract year--that's reality, and players need to look out for themselves financially. But last year Sasha got his 3 year/15 mil deal! No excuses, dude. No excuses. Perform better this year, or "ship his a** out", just like we did Rad-man.
Posted by: Joseph | June 23, 2009 at 10:10 AM
LTLF: In each playoff series, Jackson's understanding of matchups meant playing time for different players.
Against Utah, Shannon Brown got huge minutes because Deron Williams was too strong for Farmar; Sasha got lots of minutes chasing Kyle Korver, and Luke filled in with varied success against Miles.
Against Houston, Farmar took minutes away from Brown because of Brooks' speed, Sasha covered Von Wafer, and Walton helped get the offense flowing because he was strong enough to post up and then guard Atest.
Against Denver, Farmar rode the bench because he couldn't guard Billups, Sasha stayed on the floor to chase JR Smith, and Walton was up and down trying to guard Carmelo Anthony (but who else could do it besides Ariza and Kobe?).
Finally, against Orlando, Farmar got lost of minutes because the Magic had two small fast point guards. Sasha hardly played because he couldn't guard Orlando's forwards or his most natural match-up, Pietrus, while Kobe would rest guarding guys like Courtney Lee and JJ Reddick. And Walton's minutes were cut because he wasn't effective against Turkoglu.
While I think he will contribute to the Lakers title drives for the next two years, I don't share your confidence in Farmar as a potential starter after Fisher retires. Farmar has gotten shredded by EVERY elite NBA guard, regardless of size or speed. He only plays well against reserve opposing PGs when he can go for steals. He just doesn't seem to have the desire and determination to fight through screens or take charges.
I think the Lakers will keep their team together while Fisher and Jackson are still with the team (hopefully a Laker Three-Peat). Now that the Lakers are champs, no one is going to want to trade them anyone. The only way the Lakers are going to get a great point guard is by Kupchak finding another diamond in the rough, a la Ariza.
Posted by: DaTruthSetsUFree | June 23, 2009 at 12:47 PM
Keep Josh Powell
Keep Jordan Farmar
It we have to let someone go...
Let Sasha go!
Posted by: bg | June 25, 2009 at 04:08 PM
if he does well this summer in slovenia and just relaxes a little bit...he will be magic next season=)
Posted by: karlie | July 02, 2009 at 11:48 AM