Lakers sting Hornets: Links, video and NBA news
Just two seasons ago, the New Orleans Hornets were dangerous, a squad poised to push the Western Conference elites in a way that mirrored Chris Paul's pursuit of an MVP trophy that eventually landed in Kobe Bryant's hands. Just goes to show how unpredictable the NBA world can be. N'Awlins is now a shell of their 2008 version, offering nothing close to the challenge expected by Kobe and Phil Jackson. The Lakers' 104-88 win may have been decidedly one-sided, but it at least offered some highlights.
-Kobe Bryant made it immediately clear his "Abusing Dudes in the Post" Tour has a least a few more stops before the band breaks up.26 points in the first half, with the shots rarely coming from beyond mid-range. The latest victim to get backed down, then spun on as a turnaround J swished? Devin Brown, who learned that starting gigs ain't always what they're cracked up to be. But if it's any comfort to the journeyman guard, Mamba may have crushed him, but we're also talking one of the all-time greats possibly playing at his all-time greatest. So sayeth ESPN's J.A. Adande:
He's come out firing, a 25.3 shots-per-game average that's on pace to
put him over 2,000 field goal attempts for only the second time in his
career. He is connecting at a 49 percent rate, better than any other
season. And his 33.6 points per game rival the standard of 35.4 he set
in 2005-06. Yes, it's possible that Kobe at age 31 is doing work as
well as he's ever done it, rather than just quietly slipping into the
next phase of his career.
Not bad for someone just getting by like the Roto-Rooter Man.
"It's more mental than physical. That's what I've learned from my three, four years in the league. It's 80% mental, 20% physical. There's a lot of guys that don't have a lot of athletic ability, but they know how to go out there and play basketball."
"Mental" can also be described as the common sense to keep one's yap shut when the minutes don't come and instead just work. Brown, along with Luke Walton, has that set of smarts down pat.
-It was a great night for DJ Mbenga, who notched his first career double-double while filming up the middle in place of injured stars Andrew Bynum and Pau Gasol, despite playing hurt himself. A combination of improvement and increased opportunities have done Mbenga well since arriving in 2008 on a series of ten-day contracts. While praising Mbenga's hard work, Kobe also gives props to the coaching staff's use of Tacos.
"Here, our philosophy is, we find what you do well, and we maximize it. We're not asking him to play out of character and things he's not a natural at doing. We just want him to be himself."
OTHER LAKERS NOTES
-For reasons both medical and emotional, Gasol can't put a date on his return. As El Spaniard puts it, “Every time I put a timetable in my mind, I get disappointed, so I
can’t afford that anymore. It’s a matter of time before it
gets better." Expect the worst and be pleasantly surprised, as the saying goes.
-Speaking of events that will play out sans a definitive date set, we give you Kobe Bryant's contract extension.
-How dead set is Allen Iverson on being a starter? He may retire if that role isn't available to him. This would be a lousy way for a future HOF cat to call it a career.
-Ex-Capt. Jack's agent is cranking up the "force a trade" heat by tossing barbs at Nellie. There are rumors of a Jax-Boris Diaw swap, but Tobacco Road scribes are advising against the move.
-Antonio Daniels worked out with the Cavs, making talk of a union that much more believable. Not nearly as united, theoretically or otherwise? Agent Zero and Flip Saunders on the Wiz game scheme.
-Second year players are often inconsistent, which is exactly how Mario Chalmers and Michael Beasley are playing for Miami.
-He may be uber-gangly and kinda annoying, but Joakim Noah is turning into quite the useful player for the Bulls.
-Zeke Thomas is looking to regain some professional respect.
-Danny Granger is learning how to lead and taking specific "pure scorer to multifaceted" cues from Carmelo Anthony, who's playing some spectacularly well rounded ball at the moment.
AK
AI should retire with that attitude.
Posted by: Charles | November 09, 2009 at 11:16 AM
I still don't understand why I'm the only one panicking about Gasol. I mean can we at least get a report that Gasol should definately be back by christmas day and if not we can finaly push the panick button.
Everyone's saying day to day but Gasol himself seems to be implying there's something more serious going on. Everytime the team says oh we should have him back by say Friday, Gasol goes hey wait a minute it just still doesn't feel right, idk.
To me that just seems like Gasol thinks there's more to his injury, that the team doctors might not have the right diagnosis. Am I crazy for panicking?
Justanothermambafan, it'd better be paranoia on my part, it'd better be. I'll take a puff of some 420 and relax like u suggested, but rest assured I'm arresting you first if Gasol isn't healthy by the end of this month.
Posted by: segeboy fka taliq | November 09, 2009 at 11:39 AM
Allen Iverson and Stephen Jackson represent all that is worst in American society: The impulse of talented individuals to use their gifts in a narcissistic way that completely undermines their potential.
I wonder if they have any idea of how badly they come across as fools.
What do we play for? RINGS!!!!
Lakers Today... Lakers Tomorrow... Lakers Forever.
GO LAKERS!!!!
Posted by: Jon K. | November 09, 2009 at 11:50 AM
The Carmelo Anthony link seems to be broken
Posted by: Thomas | November 09, 2009 at 11:51 AM
Taliq,
The problem is there's no exact science when it comes to hamstrings. They're a very finicky, lingering injury that can be extremely stubborn to heal and easily flare up. They're like back spasms. I have a recurring hamstring issue that apparently will never entirely subside, and that's from activity not nearly at the level of a professional basketball player, much less one that's played non-stop for 2-3 years. I understand why you're getting concerned (Pau himself is admittedly frustrated), but I also don't consider the lack of a definitive return date particularly out of the ordinary.
Honestly, as long as the team keeps winning, Pau should absolutely keep allowing himself the time to get right. Coming back too early could mean him being unavailable or at half speed during the postseason. That's simply not worth it.
AK
Posted by: Andrew and Brian Kamenetzky | November 09, 2009 at 11:53 AM
Thomas,
Not sure what the issue is, but I relinked it again. See if it's working better now.
Thanks
AK
Posted by: Andrew and Brian Kamenetzky | November 09, 2009 at 11:55 AM
Lakers should be more concerned about signing Gasol to a long term deal. Kobe may need to play for another team as he still wants to lead NBA in scoring. Lakers are better if they shift to inside game based on Gasol and Bynum.
Still not feeling Kobe as a team mate.
After this championship or next Lakers may better without him. A 35 year old Kobe Bryant taking more shots than a 26 yr old Bynum is not something to look forward too.
Posted by: Todd | November 09, 2009 at 12:01 PM
Segeboy/Taliq,
"Am I crazy for panicking?"
No, man. That's what we do here at Laker Nation. We panic.
I'm also worried about Pau's injury. Something doesn't seem right.
What do we play for? RINGS!!!!
Lakers Today... Lakers Tomorrow... Lakers Forever.
GO LAKERS!!!!
Posted by: Jon K. | November 09, 2009 at 12:01 PM
AK,
[They're a very finicky, lingering injury that can be extremely stubborn to heal and easily flare up. They're like back spasms. I have a recurring hamstring issue that apparently will never entirely subside, and that's from activity not nearly at the level of a professional basketball player, much less one that's played non-stop for 2-3 years.]
Ok let me get this right, it is possible for a hamstring never to heal. If so why aren't we worried this could possibly nag Gasol for an entire season or more. I know we're winning now but we can't win it all without Gasol and I'd like to be able to rest easy knowing this ain't an injury we'll be talking about at all-star break. And if it is why am I the only one screaming the sky is falling.
Posted by: segeboy fka taliq | November 09, 2009 at 12:05 PM
Whoa , Sammy Sosa and Lebron look freakishly alike. Father son like.
Posted by: Magia32 | November 09, 2009 at 12:06 PM
Posted by: Todd | November 09, 2009 at 12:01 PM
????????????????????
Posted by: Charles | November 09, 2009 at 12:10 PM
Taliq,
I wouldn't use my hamstring issue as a direct example for Pau's at all. Apples and oranges when it comes to certain specifics. Namely, I haven't undergone the top of the line therapy and rehab that he's been blessed with. My point was simply that hamstring issues have a tendency to nag and can be quite stubborn. And if he's not ready, going out too early could lead to arriving back at square one. Pau's being very cautious. That he needs to be so cautious is a source of frustration for everyone (especially Pau), but it's the right thing to do. Particularly with this being a team geared around April and beyond, not the regular season.
I'm not saying it's wrong to be concerned. Everyone is. I just don't think the unspecific time line is anything out of the ordinary.
AK
Posted by: Andrew and Brian Kamenetzky | November 09, 2009 at 12:13 PM
Todd,
[After this championship or next Lakers may better without him. A 35 year old Kobe Bryant taking more shots than a 26 yr old Bynum is not something to look forward too.]
How about you wait until Bynum stays healthy for a full season before you throw Kobe under the bus. Like for real even if you're not a mamba faithful how can you argue that Kobe deserves any less. How can you argue against waiting until it's apparently clear that #24 is no longer the best laker on the floor before you start asking for his contract to not be the #1 priority.
This blog runs on mamba juice. Go gripe someplace else with that tacky opinion yo. And oh in no way does this post suggest Bynum can't be the future of the lakers, this post is simply smacking todd in the mouth for having the audacity to disrespect his finals mvp on a laker centric blog and actually thinking he'd get some love for that opinion.
Posted by: segeboy fka taliq | November 09, 2009 at 12:13 PM
Todd,
[After this championship or next Lakers may better without him. A 35 year old Kobe Bryant taking more shots than a 26 yr old Bynum is not something to look forward too.]
And oh I'd also suggest waiting till you see a 35yr old kobe trying to average the most shots on the team before popping off ... judge my man by what he's accomplished so far and what he's doing now ...
His resume currently reads 'best in the game leading the best team in the nba towards a repeat championship' ... what more could you possibly want?
Posted by: segeboy fka taliq | November 09, 2009 at 12:15 PM
AK
[I'm not saying it's wrong to be concerned. Everyone is. I just don't think the unspecific time line is anything out of the ordinary. ]
Guess I just have to live with my Gasol blues. Urgh.
Posted by: segeboy fka taliq | November 09, 2009 at 12:20 PM
Throw Todd down, Segeboy fka taliq, Throw him down!
Dude you smacked him up side the head so hard, I'm seeing stars! LOL!
Posted by: Fan of the Mamba | November 09, 2009 at 12:39 PM
Taliq:
It is ok, let him rest- it will all be good. Just inhale deeeeeeep!
Todd:
What are you talking about? You make the lease sense on this blog.
Jon K:
Don’t compare Stephen Jackson’s attitude with Iverson. It is not the same whatsoever, and I bet you were against Artest also. By the way, you can watch the Lakers on the internet for free on a few different sites. Try – atdhe.net or ilemi.com, or justintv.com
Posted by: NBA4ever | November 09, 2009 at 12:39 PM
Todd,
Thankfully, you're not the GM of Lakers!!
You dont find Kobe as a team-mate yet?? Then you're nothing but just one of those media guys kind who keep pooping the same cliché again and again (esp the ones you see on BSPN).
With Pau and AB down, Kobe is doing what is BEST for the team. A "leader" or "team mate" does not mean that he should just be the assist leader and not the scoring leader. One who supports, puts his best effort and gets the team to a Win is the best team mate. In the absence of its two offensive threats, Kobe is doing exactly what is expected of him, to pick up the slack and score!!
The next primary options on offense for Lakers yesterday were Ron and Odom. They were a combined 3 of 12 from the floor. So, if Kobe had given them the ball another 10 times, they could have been still only 7 off 20 or in the whereabouts. There could have been few LO airballs and missed layups. But Kobe took the shots and made 11 of 21!! If Kobe had not scored and we had lost, then you'd be wailing "Kobe should try to score" or "Kobe is old and his game is in decline". You are nothing but one of those pseudo-fans.
Did you see what is Kobe's record this season so far on FGs?? 86/177. For a guy who is consistently double/triple teamed or hacked, 49% of FG is INSANE!! He has also hit 85% of his FTs. (Unlike the "great" team mate James, as you like to sing, who misses FTs at crunch time!!)
You had mentioned you'd like a 35 yr old Kobe taking less shots than a 26 yr old Bynum. First, let AB play a healthy full-season before deciding is he going to be the #1 option on offense. Also, for Kobe to be 35 and Bynum to be 26, there's another five years for it. There is NO guarantee what will happen in five years. What if next year Bynum + X + Y get traded for Lebron??
If they stay together (AB and Kobe, which is what we all wish), Kobe is much more sensible and knows the game better - and he would do as the situation deems - taking less shots and being in a god-father like role.
Also, you may/may not know : Its mostly the lionesses which do the hunting. However, if the prey is too big or stronger - then the Lion himself enters the hunt, coz it knows its the better and efficient hunter. This is exactly what Kobe is doing. There is not much other options available, so he is taking the prey himself.
Kobe was, is and will be a phenomenon. Even Adande, who usually disagrees praises this season's Kobe. If you want to throw hate, please go elsewhere.
Posted by: Kobefan in Cupertino | November 09, 2009 at 12:54 PM
Talig said, "Ok let me get this right, it is possible for a hamstring never to heal. If so why aren't we worried this could possibly nag Gasol for an entire season or more. I know we're winning now but we can't win it all without Gasol and I'd like to be able to rest easy knowing this ain't an injury we'll be talking about at all-star break. And if it is why am I the only one screaming the sky is falling."
From a medical point of view, "strained" hamstring will always heal with rest - in 3 to 6 weeks - even without expert rehab treatment.
A "tear" in the hamstring muscle is entirely different. Depending on the severity of the "tear", it could take up to 20 weeks for the muscle to completely heal.
For professional athletes attended to by sports medicine expert, the recovery time can be shortened.
There are also "mental" issues. I am seen athletes completed recovered from a torn hamstring who were unable to get back to their pre-injured level of performance.
Let's hope Pau has speedy recovery. We need him!!!
Posted by: Dr.Jeff | November 09, 2009 at 12:54 PM
Importing the Lakers schedule into Outlook:
http://tinyurl.com/kmpz62
Once in Outlook, the schedule can synch into your iPhone, Blackberry, Windows phone, etc...
Posted by: The Snake | November 09, 2009 at 01:00 PM
Do you think Lakers are so deep that they don't need Kobe? Oh-oh, I don't think so they are not yet the Showtime 79-80 Lakers at this time. Life of the lakers today is dependent on the health of Kobe and precisely why they won the last 4 games because of Kobe.
I don't know if we watched the Showtime 1st championship last night at FoxWest, did you see Magic playing all positions and his eyes are like headlights, hands like wiper then dissed it or to the deep post or go to the hoop with authority. That's the Lakers standard of PG. Fans have been spoiled with that authority for more than a decade. Do we have any of our PG's today who can do Magic impersonation? None. If there is any close to it it would be Kobe. Therefore, don't interpret the recent W's as the start of brag of how deep we are. We may have posted a joke in one post or another, the truth is, Lakers will not have 6-1 record and aiming for repeat w/o Kobe. Kobe is the icing, Kobe is the bread and kobe's the candle too. What are the role of others? trimmings. lol!
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | November 09, 2009 at 01:16 PM
Floyd,
- - - - - - - - - - - - -
>>> “The number of NBA teams pettioning the League to disallow Kobe Bryant from playing
>>> in the post increased to a full 29 today. GM's from teams around the league now stand in
>>> complete solidarity over what they perceive is a vastly and unsurmountable unfair advantage
>>> held by the Los Angeles Lakers. "David Stern just can't let this continue", whined an
>>> unnamed GM, widely known for his whining, with the initials D.A. , sporting a fugly green
>>> jacket, "if Kobe is allowed to play in the post we have no chance to even compete anymore.
>>> The league will be reduced to 29 teams of Washington Generals and the Lakers.
>>> It's just not fair !" When asked about the situation Kobe responded "I have held back long
>>> enough for the sake of the League and parity and all that. I just got real tired of sandbagging.
>>> And hey, they have 5 guys out there to guard me with, it's just one more than the quadruble
>>> teaming like I normally get, so then I will just have to adjust." Commisioner David Stern made
>>> this unofficial comment to an unnamed source, " Hey I hate the Lakers and Kobe just as much
>>> as anyone, and believe me we are looking into the possiblity of some rule changes to
>>> compensate for this unfair domination in the post by Kobe."
-
THAT was definitely worth repeating, Floyd. Pure genius. Thank you. LMAO.
- - - - - - - - - - - - -
The Snake,
- - - - - - - - - - - - -
>>> I guess KB's beautiful (can't think of a better adjective) post-up game has dashed
>>> Lakertom's dream of a Tiple Tower lineup.
-
Actually, I think the Big 5 lineup of Drew, Pau, Lamar, Ron, and Kobe would be the perfect lineup for Kobe to play in the post. It assures that the smallest guy on the other team will be guarding him. Imagine that lineup against the Hornets because it would leave CP3 trying to guard Kobe in the post. How sweet would that matchup be? LOL!
- - - - - - - - - - - - -
Kobefan in Cupertino,
- - - - - - - - - - - - -
>>> You know it is going to be Lakers' day when Farmar and LO make all their FTs and
>>> Luke hits THREE 3-ptrs.
-
LMAO. You are right. They are like an early warning system that the game is in the fridge.
- - - - - - - - - - - - -
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | November 09, 2009 at 01:17 PM
Kobe Bryant: Hardwood Paroxysm
Don’t get in his way. Any of you. Don’t cross him. While LeBron’s smiling for the cameras and watching Yankees parades, Kobe Bryant is somewhere shooting jumpers. Working his post game. Improving. Getting better. I have long thought that LeBron had surpassed him for the best player in the league title. I was wrong. Because as good as Kobe is, he works as hard as he can every day to get that much better. Get out of the way.
Posted by: Glenn | November 09, 2009 at 01:25 PM
NBA4Ever,
"By the way, you can watch the Lakers on the internet for free on a few different sites. Try – atdhe.net or ilemi.com, or justintv.com"
Thanks. I know. The problem is in this awful economy I've been forced to take a job working nights. So, unless the game is on ESPN or TNT, I am unable to watch the game at the urban, gritty, and often violent bar I am entrusted in keeping chaos from breaking out at any given moment.
Also, Stephen Jackson recently went off about how he's a better player than Kobe Bryant. That makes him a delusional narcissistic lunatic in my book.
What do we play for? RINGS!!!
Lakers Today... Lakers Tomorrow... Lakers Forever.
GO LAKERS!!!!
Posted by: Jon K. | November 09, 2009 at 01:26 PM
CP3 used to be sooooo slippery and fun to watch. I was disappointed with his effort. He's got to be holding back.
Posted by: poptop | November 09, 2009 at 01:28 PM
Big baby Bynum has not proven anything (yet). I hope his fans will not predict on what he can do, what he can achieve and how far he can carry this team?
All we wish for this Christmas that he will be healthy from December till June 2010 because a mosquito bite could put him on disability again. LMAO That is how far we can assess the future of Bynum.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | November 09, 2009 at 01:32 PM
Todd,
Are you wearing a LeBron James jersey as you typed your post?
Kobe is a winner and will do anything to win... and that includes evolving his game. I fully expect as Kobe ages that his game will increasingly be bent towards being a better distributor.
The guy is one of a kind. I have a profound level of respect for his commitment to success. The world would be a better place if we could all internalize that commitment to be our best.
What do we play for? RINGS!!!
Lakers Today... Lakers Tomorrow... Lakers Forever.
GO LAKERS!!!!
Posted by: Jon K. | November 09, 2009 at 01:33 PM
Laker Tom,
"Actually, I think the Big 5 lineup of Drew, Pau, Lamar, Ron, and Kobe would be the perfect lineup for Kobe to play in the post. It assures that the smallest guy on the other team will be guarding him. "
I like the idea, but don't you think the post would become a crowded clusterblank with so many big bodies?
What do we play for? RINGS!!!
Lakers Today... Lakers Tomorrow... Lakers Forever.
GO LAKERS!!!!
Posted by: Jon K. | November 09, 2009 at 01:37 PM
THE 81-1 BANDWAGON,
- - - - - - - - - - - - -
Hope last night’s game put an end to any idiots who still think Byron Scott is a viable candidate to ever be the Lakers head coach. Scott has shown the same tendencies in New Orleans that he cost him his job in New Jersey. Poor X’s and O’s and no ability to hold onto the team. The Hornets tuned the guy out last year and there is no way he is going to even last the season this year before getting fired. Just say NO when it comes to considering Byron Scott for any job with the Lakers. Sorry #4.
-
It is also becoming clear that Kobe Bryant is determined to up his game across the board to meet the challenge of the Lakers repeating as well as to bring some well-needed perspective to the national media about who really IS the greatest player on the planet. Kobe Bryant 2.0 is in full swing, once again leading the league in scoring while averaging close to 50% from the field – a full 5 points better than his career average. And if you think Drew and Pau returning are going to kick Kobe out of the post, then you don’t really know KB24 that well. As Phil said, there are two sides on which to post.
-
Excellent game by Shannon Brown. I was especially impressed that dished out 2 dimes versus zero turnovers as well as hitting his shots. Also good to see Luke hit his shots. And how hilarious to hear Phil make the comment that he is Luke’s Daddy. LMAO. Nice assists by Jordan but what the hell is the deal with your shooting, especially that hurried 3. Use your head man or you will end up playing ball in Israel or Europe. Excellent effort by Mbenga, who continues to show great hustle and effort. Let’s see if the Bench Mob can do the same kind of work this Thursday.
-
I noticed that Darren Collison got a no play from Byron. If the Lakers wanted to add a young point guard prospect who was fast enough to keep up defensively with any point guard in the league much like a shut down NFL defensive back, then Darren would be my pick. The guy is also a 90% free throw shooter with 3-point range. He would still struggle against the Deron Williams in the league but would be a great weapon shutting down the Tony Parkers and other speedsters. Just a thought since New Orleans is committed more to not losing money than winning games.
-
It will take more than Drew and Pau out to slow down the 81-1 bandwagon. And I seriously doubt that the Phoenix Suns are any more for real than the New Orleans Hornets. The Lakers can still go into the Christmas Day game against the Cavs with a 26-1 record and finish the year 81-1.
- - - - - - - - - - - - -
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | November 09, 2009 at 01:44 PM
Edwin Guerco,
"Big baby Bynum has not proven anything (yet)."
Dude, why you got to be like that?
Bynum's a Laker and his continued success translates into the continuing success for the team we love.
What do we play for? RINGS!!!
Lakers Today... Lakers Tomorrow... Lakers Forever.
GO LAKERS!!!!
Posted by: Jon K. | November 09, 2009 at 01:45 PM
Regarding AI...
Years ago I would have said that Kobe would turn out like AI, but I belive Kobe's developed into a good leader. Case in point is Artest joining the Lakers.
Shame for AI. The guy should not go out being remembered as a quitter.
Posted by: KL (fka KL_Beast) | November 09, 2009 at 01:45 PM
Be calm blogsters... deep breaths, listen to the whale sounds. Pau will be just fine. If this was more serious, I think there would be increased signs of activity in Laker HQ - scouts would be donning their stealth gear and jetting out to worldwide hinterlands, the media panic-blitz would be in overdrive, rumors of big men coming from far and wide would be hijacking every blog thread.
We have the mighty Mbanger, Drew will be back soon and my gut is that Pau will be as well.
re: Iverson, I know he's ripe for target practice right now but lets not rip on him just because his career's about done. He's the same guy he's always been, saying more than he should and feeling wronged. Still, he's AI, gave us all a lot of good years of entertainment, never met a wall of defenders that he didn't like, dished off some of the craziest assists that I've ever seen.
Posted by: dave m | November 09, 2009 at 01:48 PM
People who complain about Kobe are just looking for excuses the same goes for those who constantly look for flaws [ like Gasol not playing ] the team is 6 & 1 w/o Pau. Some Idiot on another Blog said he would rather the Lakers be 2 & 4 with a healthy Gasol. Makes you wonder do these people do drugs before they post or are they just lonely & looking for love. Beats me.
Posted by: parker | November 09, 2009 at 01:49 PM
Jon K.
I believe Edwin Gueco had his Sarcasm font on.
Posted by: Charles | November 09, 2009 at 01:56 PM
Jon K,
"Big baby Bynum has not proven anything (yet)."
Dude, why you got to be like that?
Bynum's a Laker and his continued success translates into the continuing success for the team we love.
~~Of course, I love Bynum to succeed at this early stage. Every time, I say something wrong with AB, my arm pit is aching in typing it. however got to respond on this Kobe @ 35 and Bynum @ 28 not getting his points because of the oldie aiming for MVP at that age.
United we stand and divided we fall. You can't mention one without including the other, if we haven't learned that (fan)demonium then, it is about time to preach it all over again and again.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | November 09, 2009 at 02:07 PM
Love the way this is developing.
Pau can lay back till a game or 2 before the first Celtic game and come back with a cape on.
The bench can play and develop without looking over their shoulder every second.
DJ is becoming not just serviceable but a force.
KobeRonLO are mind-melding.
All is good... until we lose a game.
Posted by: VMan | November 09, 2009 at 02:13 PM
has Byron Scott been fired yet? Oh, that's right, he's going to be the next coach of the Lakers... pfft!
- I predict... Scott gets fired after the Hornets lose their next 8 games in a row with a road loss to Miami on 11/22. Then they have only one game, which will be at home in the next week, enough time to transition to whoever will be taking over the coaching duties...
Posted by: Porky Pig | November 09, 2009 at 02:14 PM
Jon K. (and others who responded to Todd),
Todd is rather wearing a Jordan Farmar jersey which isn't as bad as first but then he made the quote "I would take Farmar over any point guard in the NBA except maybe Chris Paul". Shows how delusional that dude is when he ranks Farmar as the #1 or #2 point guard in the NBA.
And putting Kobe as the 3rd option?? That is why he isn't the GM of the Lakers.
Keep up the smack down on him Sheriff.
Posted by: KB Blitz | November 09, 2009 at 02:35 PM
This is for the Kobe doubters.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RyKgaeAoa-g
Might be the best Kobe highlight video I've seen.
Posted by: Daniel L. | November 09, 2009 at 02:36 PM
DJ Mbenga might be getting away with a few because he has not been as heavily scouted as our other big guys. If he continues to play starter minutes, the other teams might eventually figure out his tendencies and possibly exploit them.
Posted by: The Snake | November 09, 2009 at 02:50 PM
Thanks Mamba24 and Laker Tom...
GO LAKERS !!!
Posted by: Floyd | November 09, 2009 at 02:54 PM
Vman!
We should bring Pau and Drew of the bench. Gasol 6th man of the year!
Sarcasm font off now.
Posted by: Charles | November 09, 2009 at 02:58 PM
Porky Pig,
Loved Byron Scott as a Laker. Hate him as a coach.
Look at his history. Every team he has impresses and then burns itself out as the players begin doubting the system.
I don't want him anywhere near the Lakers with the exception of congratulating our players at ring ceremonies.
What do we play for? RINGS!!!!
Lakers Today... Lakers Tomorrow... Lakers Forever.
GO LAKERS!!!!
Posted by: Jon K. | November 09, 2009 at 02:59 PM
also Jon K.....to put the right spelling to the nth time, there is no "r" in Gueco.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | November 09, 2009 at 02:59 PM
Laker Tom,
"The Lakers can still go into the Christmas Day game against the Cavs with a 26-1 record and finish the year 81-1."
That's the spirit.
What do we play for? RINGS!!!
Lakers Today... Lakers Tomorrow... Lakers Forever.
GO LAKERS!!!!
Posted by: Jon K. | November 09, 2009 at 03:01 PM
LOL Sherrif - I'm going into full hiding mode from you, because I do not think Pau will be back before the end of November.
That being said, I'm still not worried. Let him rest, do his shooting drills in the gym and get hungrier to play and contribute. I will worry when... naw - never mind - I ain't worried and not gonna start now. He'll be fine.
Deep, cleansing breath in.... A little nip on the bottle...
It's all good.
Posted by: justanothermambafan | November 09, 2009 at 03:01 PM
Playing Devil's advocate:
Would you swap Stephen Jackson for Farmar/Sasha or Farma/Amo?
Charlie out...
Posted by: Charles | November 09, 2009 at 03:02 PM
LakerTom -
"Hope last night’s game put an end to any idiots who still think Byron Scott is a viable candidate to ever be the Lakers head coach."
_________________________
THANK YOU LakerTom!!! Good god - that's the LAST thing we need.
Posted by: justanothermambafan | November 09, 2009 at 03:03 PM
Final reason lakers should not sign AI:
It would take ONE, "we talkin' 'bout practice," before Artest and Bryant rip him a new one!!!
Posted by: Giant Green Bald-Headed Lunatic | November 09, 2009 at 03:10 PM
Gasol needs rest. Watching him on Fox Sports West talking about having no rest after the finals- two years in a row, terrified me. Hamstring injuries often crop up when a player does not have a chance to rest.
As long as he is good to go next year, I am fine with him taking some time off. Besides, I am having fun watching MBenga (Dacos) out there, he is having the time of his life!
Posted by: Dr. Funkbot | November 09, 2009 at 03:18 PM
"a three-year extension worth $86 million to $91 million more to 2014."
~~Will you blame Kobe for not signing a three year extension? A franchise player good only for three years, hmnn I find that disrespect or gamesmanship on the part of Lakers F/O. if lakers had extended a Magic contract for 25 years even after his playing days are over at least show some respect to Kobe Bryant. How can you expect him to lower his annual contract to 20 M if you are willing to give him 3 years.
Mitch should show some respect to the guy who gave us 4 rings. Sweeten the offer and make it 5 years at $100M with some perks of possible conversion of $$$'s into Laker stocks. That's how to motivate a Superstar, don't treat him like Bynum, Gasol or LO or perhaps another Walton. A three year contract is a trial baloon that Lakers may be opting for Lebron or Wade so their bet is a calculated bet. It is like a poker player not too sure of his cards. As such, Kobe makes a counter offer....wants to see how NY and Chicago plays their cards in 2010 season. I also see Mitch as the right person talking to Kobe, in the final analysis it will all be settled by the old Buss and Kobe.
Supposing Kobe becomes AI or Shaq @ age 35, Kobe could have a role in the front office as a consultant or as a playing asst. coach or as a foreign scout or as a Laker ambassador at large, in any parlance you can get a lot of mileage from Kobe, therefore protect that interest in post Kobe years. He could speak several languages and easily could get the best Euro players in 2015. If you want to come to NBA, will you not listen to Kobespeak in 2015?
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | November 09, 2009 at 03:32 PM
Edwin,
I'm pretty sure by CBA rules, three years is the max length extension the Lakers can offer for a player of Kobe's age. Remember, he'll be 33 by the time the extension kicks in, which makes him 36 when it ends. There are restrictions in place for contract lengths with players on the tail end of their careers.
As a rule of thumb, it's extremely safe to assume that Kobe's contract/extension demands will not be denied. That he hasn't signed his deal is almost certainly a matter of him weighing options and trying to figure out the max he can make under the impending CBA, as opposed to being dissatisfied by what the Lakers are offering. It's purely a business decision. Pros and cons are debated. Risks are assessed as worth taking or not.
AK
Posted by: Andrew and Brian Kamenetzky | November 09, 2009 at 03:42 PM
Jon,
- - - - - - - - - -
>>> I like the idea, but don't you think the post would become a crowded clusterblank with
>>> so many big bodies?
-
The beauty of the Triangle Offense is that it easily allows ANY player to post up and gives them a pick of which side of the key they want. That is why you constantly see different Lakers in the paint looking to post up their smaller man. It is truly an equal opportunity offense, although Kobe sways it in his favor with his will and demands for the ball.
- - - - - - - - - -
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | November 09, 2009 at 03:50 PM
These are big IFs, but if A.I. becomes available, is willing to play for the minimum, and is also willing to come off the bench for the Lakers, I say sign him. His game will not mesh well with Kobe's game (or most of the other starters), but he would be absolutely lethal in leading the bench mob. I can picture his game meshing well with Mbenga, Powell, Luke, Brown and Lamar. If Marbury can be a team player for the Celts, I don't see why AI couldn't be one for the Lakers. AI is one of the top 50 all time NBA players. Wouldn't you be offended if you were coming off the bench (behind Conley, or Duhon) for arguably the worst team in the league? The Lakers would be a completely different situation for AI. High maintenance players like AI have a tendency to lose their attitude when they are joining a team that just won the championship, and I wouldn't be surprised if AI would be willing to do whatever it takes for a chance at a ring before he retires.
One of the reasons Phil usually plays a starter or two along with the bench mob is because nobody on the bench can create their own shot. With AI in the mix, Phil will have the luxury of reducing the minutes for all the starters.
The bench for Boston (Wallace, Eddie House, Glen Davis, Marquis Daniels, Sheldon Williams) and Orlando (Pietris, Barnes, Reddick, Anderson, Bass, Gortat) are scary good and scary deep. Even with Lamar joining the bench mob, the Lakers bench will still be at a disadvantage. AI would be a low cost, medium risk and high reward type player that could make our bench mob absolutely lethal.
Posted by: LAKER TRUTH | November 09, 2009 at 03:57 PM
I shouldn't dignify Todd's comments with a substantive reply but:
"Lakers should be more concerned about signing Gasol to a long term deal."
This is an either/or proposition? Can't do both?
"Kobe may need to play for another team as he still wants to lead NBA in scoring."
How do you know Kobe wants to be the scoring champion? Except for Kobe, and perhaps Bynum, the Lakers have been a little flat offensively to start the season (though that is changing). As a result, Kobe took charge and created offense because he had to. Last night for instance, the reserves stepped up, and Kobe's shot totals and points dropped dramatically. Kobe has proven that he will be whatever the Lakers need him to be on any given night to have the chance to win. You must have been in the same crew who thought Lakers should have kept Shaq and given up Kobe. I bet at the time you "knew" the Lakers made a mistake.
"Lakers are better if they shift to inside game based on Gasol and Bynum."
Lakers are best if they have a solid inside out game to use at the right time, but Bynum hasn't shown yet that he can handle his end of the deal. I don't think anyone has a problem with letting Gasol get a lot of touches inside.
"Still not feeling Kobe as a team mate."
No problem. He is not "your" teammate.
"After this championship or next Lakers may better without him."
How do you know that? Why, suddenly after two years is he going to be terrible. Is he going to all of a sudden be a middling, low-end starter with a broken jump shot and no elevation? Kobe might very well still be dominant at 38-40 yo. You just don't know, because he is such a unique case. Saying his useful basketball life will basically be over in two years is absurd at this point.
"A 35 year old Kobe Bryant taking more shots than a 26 yr old Bynum is not something to look forward too."
Basically same point as above but again---why not?, Kobe's shooting is better now than it was last year or the year before. The Lakers have a once-in-a generation player (if not "the greatest"). Given how mature/developed his game has become, I look forward to him taking more shots than Bynum. Bynum's game is still a work in progress. He is still not making his lay-ups and short range bunnies at the rate he should. Will that for sure be different in three years?
Posted by: dwntwn atty | November 09, 2009 at 03:59 PM
AK,
How is that possible on Kareem Abdul Jabbar who played up to his early 40's if I'm not mistaken up to age 42 (1989)? Therefore, they offered him 3 year contract at age 39 and another 3 year when he was age 36 and another three year when he was 33. how About Shaq getting a 5 year contract from Miami Heat five seasons ago? How was the CBA rules applied?
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | November 09, 2009 at 04:06 PM
Todd,
- If you remember last year, we were the ONLY team to beat the real Cavaliers on their home court during the regular season (Cavs lost to 76ers also, but that was a depleted Cavs line-up resting their top players, most notably James). Saw the game?? Kobe was sick and down, and had an IV thrust up during half-time. Still came for the 2nd half, and hit some super shots, which helped us create/maintain the lead. Saw the high-arching J he made that day?? It looked like the Gateway Arch of St. Louis!! (Check http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K7z67RNMkKo)
- The Cavs visit the Lakers. Within two minutes of the game, Kobe dislocates his finger. Entire Staples Center crowd is silent and apprehensive. What happens - dude just pops the finger back in, gets into the game and burns the opponent...
Now, that is what an ideal team mate is - one who is ready to sacrifice himself for his team's good, and the one who leads by example. Dishing out assists or doing Hi-fives during time-outs does not mean he is a best team mate.
Kobe took a line-up with Smush Parker, Chris Mihm, Luke Walton as starters to the playoffs!! Check if your model ideal team-mates (Wade, James et al) can do that.
Posted by: Kobefan in Cupertino | November 09, 2009 at 04:09 PM
Is it me... or is Andrew Bynum fastly becoming the NBA's biggest baby and injury prone player in the entire NBA? I mean come on... you TOUCH the guy and he's out for the count. Not only that, when he gets hurt, he is like some 5 yr old kid screaming on the play ground looking for his Mommy. Toughen up Andrew!
Posted by: Is it me | November 09, 2009 at 04:14 PM
here is what I got from NBA CBA rules
B. Length of Contracts
The maximum length of a player contract has been decreased from 7 years for Bird players and 6 years for other players to 6 years for Bird players and 5 years for other players.
*******************************************************
D. Maximum Player Salaries
As under the prior CBA, in the first year of a new contract a player may receive the greater of 105% of the player’s prior salary, or:
0-6 years of service: 25% of Salary Cap ($12 million this year).
7-9 years of service: 30% of Salary Cap ($14.4 million this year).
10 or more years of service: 35% of Salary Cap ($16.8 million this year).
The maximum player salaries will continue to be based on a 48.04% of BRI Salary Cap (not on the new, higher Salary Cap).
If we relate this to the offer of the Lakers to Kobe's extension, have they maximized the deal. I'm a little bit confused on the maximum salary of 17M??? Granted it was 16.8M is the right number, therefore they could offer him 6 years which 106.8M in total.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | November 09, 2009 at 04:20 PM
Edwin - those days are over. THE max contract the guy can get is what they offered. It could be 11 rings, wouldn't matter. NO personal services contract, either. No gamesmanship - it is what it is- and, he should sign. If he doesn't, it's on HIM, not the FO.......
Posted by: Giant Green Bald Headed Lunatic | November 09, 2009 at 04:29 PM
Edwin,
For players of a certain age, I'm pretty sure there are specific restrictions in place different than the ones you're listing when it comes to length of contract. In any event, I'm extremely confident that Kobe's reticence to sign has nothing to do with the years being offered. I've never heard or read anything of the sort.
AK
Posted by: Andrew and Brian Kamenetzky | November 09, 2009 at 04:31 PM
Someone needs to go to Cajasol, Spain to take a look at Mo Ager, Shannon's teammate at Mich State. I think Mo had 24 points vs. No. Carolina in the NCAA finals 4 years ago. Then with the Mavericks, he was high scorer vs. GoldenState in the season finale , when Don Nelson rested all his starters prior to the playoffs. Again 24 or more. Mavs got trashed the next week.
And he can dunk too. Co-starred with Shannon in that double overtime game in Hawaii vs. Gonzaga four years ago as well.
Posted by: hopalong | November 09, 2009 at 04:34 PM
Edwin,
Kareem played in a completely different era with completely different contract rules, so disregard him entirely. With Shaq, I'm not positive, but bear in mind, he was in the final year of his deal when he got extended, whereas Kobe still has this and next season remaining. That could make a difference, because the rules, as I understand, deal as much with the player's age when the deal ends as when it begins. And Kobe would also be making more money per year than Shaq did.
The CBA is complicated and often difficult to understand, so I'll look to verify this. In any event, I'm not entirely sure (although fairly) that Kobe can't be offered any additional years beyond the three year deal. Which was my original point. And I don't think this is an issue of Kobe getting lowballed. Believe me, the Lakers would much rather lock him up than haggle.
AK
Posted by: Andrew and Brian Kamenetzky | November 09, 2009 at 04:42 PM
". . a mosquito bite could put him on disability again." : Edwin Gueco
Dang, that's funny. Good one Mr. Dondi
Posted by: p ang | November 09, 2009 at 05:02 PM
Edwin-
The rules that apply in this case are pretty arcane, but deal with extensions for players who reach a certain age. Basically, it's not cost effective for Kobe to extend beyond three years, and serves as a sort of de-facto max contract cap. If the number was four years, the Lakers would offer four. And so on. The issue isn't with what the Lakers are offering, it's simply a matter of Kobe's camp figuring out what timing works best for them, and trying to determine if perhaps he can get a better deal with a new CBA.
As for Shaq's deal, I don't know the specifics. But there's nothing lowball about the Lakers offer.
BK
Posted by: Brian Kamenetzky | November 09, 2009 at 08:06 PM
For Real Neither Captain Jack or Iverson are "wrong". Like somone said before how would u feel getting put behind Conley on a Losing team when you KNEW you could still average 25 and 8???cuz I KNOW iverson could still do it. Iverson is a real man in a leauge with people scared to speak the truth. Now I agree u gotta pick your spots to say things but, he is an ALL-Time great. Caould you imagine Kobe gettin treated like this,T-Mac(and He always injured) Paul Pierce.Ray Allen,Vince Carter?? It's more because Iverson is a real person instead of a media darling. He doesn't care about media love just wins and I respect that. if You can't respect that drown yourself and take extra long to do it. You guys are like vultures hovering around a dying animal only this animal ain't dying. This Blo g is a classy blog don't disrespect it by disrespecting a great player. I'd like to see another player not named Kobe take the team he did to the Finals. Kobe is my fav player Lakers my fav team but it hurts me as a basketball fan to see how they are treating him. I wish he could be a Laker because he DESERVES a ring. More than Ray Allen,Paul Pierce or KG and not because they Celtics(ok partly cuz they are lol)
Posted by: Mamba0824 | November 11, 2009 at 04:07 AM
The starters may be excused for their pathetic performance against Denver but not the bench. They average less than 10 minutes a game! So how can back to back games be an excuse for them. They could not make wide open 6, 15, 20 or 3-point open shots. Compare them with Celtics, Denver, Portland & Spur benches. They did not play energetic or smart defense...Walton, Farmar, Sasha show up once in five games. Perhaps Farmar & Sasha prefer a Golden State, Phoenix, New York or Hornets type offense. An even trade for a point guard and a shooting guard that can shoot 60% on wide open shots and play defense is urgently needed! For long range strategy keep the door open for Chris Paul as a Laker point guard for half the Laker bench and $20-30 million cash (which Chris would pay back in a year from added gate and TV revenue & at least four more championships playing beside Kobe & current starters)! Chris Paul can take over from Derek Fisher as starter next year with Byron Scott as assistant coach until Phil Jackson retires. That would be a smart transition plan.
By the way Todd's suggestion: "After this championship or next Lakers may better without him. A 35 year old Kobe Bryant taking more shots than a 26 yr old Bynum is not something to look forward too", is foolish at best and ridiculous when all Kobe's bench teamates cannot shoot wide open shots at all ranges and are mentally and physically tired after averaging 10 minutes a game???
Posted by: Ross | November 15, 2009 at 03:50 PM