Caught in the Web: Lakers' preparation never ends for West Finals matchup with Phoenix
Lakers links
--The Times' Broderick Turner details the latest on Andrew Bynum's right knee.
--The Times' Bill Plaschke asks Kobe Bryant whether he tanked Game 7 of the 2006 playoffs against Phoenix.
--The Times' T.J. Simers argues that Lakers fans have a short attention span regarding Bryant's performance in the 2006 playoffs, given their negative reaction to LeBron James' play against Boston in the Eastern Conference semifinals.
--The Times' Ching-Ching Ni explains how Bryant's $25,000 donation has helped students at Richard Merkin Middle School in South Los Angeles learn martial arts.--The Times' Fabulous Forum blog lists Jerry Buss and Shaquille O'Neal as 10th and ninth, respectively on the Lakers' all-time greatest list.
--AOL Fanhouse's Sam Amick expresses concern on how Bynum's injury could have long-term implications.
--The Riverside Press Enterprise's Matt Calkins extrapolates on the Lakers' growth ever since their first-round playoff exits in 2006 and 2007 to Phoenix.
--The Orange County Register's Kevin Ding has more on Bynum's injury as well as on the success Phil Jackson and Bryant have experienced together in the postseason.
--NBA.com's Art Garcia highlights the Lakers' contention that they're far from satisfied with just playing in the Western Conference Finals.--The Orange County Register's Jeff Miller dissects Jackson's personality.
--NBA.com's Sekou Smith focuses on how the Lakers feel ready for the West Finals.
--The Daily News' Elliott Teaford looks at all the possible defensive matchups the Lakers-Suns series will feature.
--Lakers.com's Mike Trudell talks about the Lakers-Suns series with play-by-play announcer Spero Dedes.
Yahoo! Sports takes a look in the video below on Bryant's resurgent play.
--ESPN Los Angeles' Land O Lakers' blog paints a complete picture on the ups and downs that Jordan Farmar has experienced with the Lakers.
--Forum Blue and Gold's Darius argues that Lakers forward Lamar Odom will serve as the team's X-factor against Phoenix.
--Laker Noise's Roland Lazenby anticipates the Lakers and Celtics meeting up in the NBA Finals.--ProBasketballTalk's Kurt Helin gives his take on Bynum's injury.
--ProBasketballTalk's Matt Moore argues the NBA needs to stop allowing Jackson to criticize officials. Nonetheless, he acknowledged he's entertained with Jackson and Phoenix guard Steve Nash needling each other.
Suns links
--The Times' Lisa Dillman highlights the various contributions from Phoenix's bench.
--The Times' Baxter Holmes explains how Nash has remained on top of his game at age 36.
--NBA.com's Fran Blinebury argues Phoenix made the right decision in keeping Amare Stoudemire.
--The Arizona Republic's Paul Coro highlights Phoenix's desire to win the tempo battle against the Lakers.
--The Arizona Republic's Bob Young illustrates how Nash has taken Jackson's comments about him carrying the ball in stride. Or you can see for yourself in this video. It's fair to say Nash isn't all that concerned about it.--The Arizona Republic's Coro and Young highlight Alvin Gentry's want for Phoenix to focus on rebounding.
--NBA Fanhouse's Brett Pollakoff has more on the back-and-forth between Jackson and Nash.--Ball Don't Lie's Dan Devine outlines Robin Lopez's value to the Suns.
--Valley of the Suns' Tyler Lockman compares the dynamic duo between Nash and Stoudemire to other top duos in NBA history.Tweet of the Day: "I think @Lakers wins in 6 or 7, but frontcourt edge minimized with Bynum's knee" -- samickFanHouse (AOL Fanhouse NBA writer Sam Amick).
Reader Comment of the Day: Don't they realize if they respond to PJ, they have already lost...PJ's stuff is not usually for the Refs, but for the players. I don't know how it works, but it does. This is some powerful stuff he has. Look at what it did to Stern. He blew a gasket and wishes he never would have responded so foolishly. And Phil wasn't even going after him. Just watch. Nash will be thinking of PJ the next time he tries a cross over dribble, instead of focusing on his next move like he should. Just that little hesitation will lead to a mistake. Nash will kick himself for even letting PJ into his mind. Nash will then get mad. Nash will lose focus. Phil will see the whole thing. Phil will get that quirky little smile. Phil will turn to a coach and boast. "Ha, I told you so" Phil will have won. -- Fatty
-- Mark Medina
Follow the L.A. Times Lakers blog on Twitter: twitter.com/latmedina. E-mail the Lakers blog at mgmedin@gmail.com.
Top photo: Lakers guard Derek Fisher, left, goes head-to-head with teammate Jordan Farmar during a team practice session at the Toyota Sports Center in El Segundo on Wednesday. Credit: Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times
Bottom photo: Veteran shooting guard Jason Richardson has provided a spark during the playoffs by averaging six points more a game than his regular-season average. He'll play a critical role against the Lakers as he goes against Kobe Bryant on both ends of the floor. Credit: Mark J. Rebilas / US Presswire
humanomaly (29 minutes) |
Well I knew it wasn't a banned (anabolic) steroid, so I was clear on the legality aspect of the shot. That's why I was unclear as to the reluctance to give Drew the shot. However you pretty much cleared that up with your first post. Ty though for all the information. :)
Posted by: Mark G | May 16, 2010 at 10:45 AM
Posted by: Mark G | May 16, 2010 at 10:46 AM
MM
the picture: what a treat. the image of a great defensive player against one of the most SOUNF PG in the NBA. to bad is not a video. 2 fakes, a cross-over and a fade away jump shot. nothing but net. but, no wait, Farmy is recovering in the last moment and makes Fisher to miss the layup.
any combination of the above moves is for your imagination. the possibilities are endless.
Posted by: ouchhhhhhhh | May 16, 2010 at 10:52 AM
This extra week of rest comes right at the perfect time for the SUNS. Robin Lopez is working into shape right when he'll be most needed.
Posted by: BUTLER | May 16, 2010 at 10:54 AM
Haha, Fatty is back less than 24 hours and scores RCOD. In case you didn't know, newbies, Fatty is one of the original blog elders. We love him, we've missed him, and couldn't be happier that he's back. Congratulations, Fatty!
Posted by: Rick Friedman | May 16, 2010 at 11:00 AM
Congratulations my friend, Fatty. I'm happy that you are back and in good health. I look forward of more posts from you, don't be surprised if Mamba24 will again put up a special bandwagon in your honor.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | May 16, 2010 at 11:05 AM
Rick - Thanks for alerting me about Fatty's history with the blog. I was not aware of that so my apologies. Fatty, congrats on the reader comment and I'm glad to have you aboard
MM
Posted by: Mark Medina | May 16, 2010 at 11:06 AM
Edwin
i'm not sure if u really read the response to your questions. not only mine, see other thread, but also others.
i supported Artest from the first moment. i always said that Ariza was a scrub and defensively was weak. pick-pocketing is not defense.
what i said: i don't think the Cavs would have beat the C's with Artest on.
i have no complains against Artest.
i believe that the mentality he is bringing every game is more important for this FINESSE team than the 3 pt. shots he is missing.
and he proved it.
Posted by: ouchhhhhhhh | May 16, 2010 at 11:16 AM
MM
Thanks for the info on the 3 shot limit for cortisone. Was that out there on the web, or did you just pull that out of your vast warehouse of knowledge?
Posted by: Mark G | May 16, 2010 at 11:20 AM
ouchhhhh,
you wrote: i wanted to ask them: how bout them Lakers?
at the same time i wanted to make it home alive.
my response: Dude! Stay alive. Stay alive.
Game day is tomorrow. You've got to be here for the finals! [GRIN]
you also wrote: we r saying the same thing (referring to the long post), except maybe you r more gray zone (even if LakerTom does not agree with it).
my response: *chuckle*
you wrote: Howard is one of the most incompetent big men out there. he has NO SKILLS and no offensive game.
my response: don't mince words. what do you really think? *chuckle*
you also wrote: the defensive game plan was brilliant. remember, PJ had Shaq before so they knew exactly how to defend against a powerful big man. the C's are different. scrappy, dirty, pushy. also Garnett and even Perkins have a much better offensive game than Howard. and they fight for every inch of court, ball, REB. they r really relentless. at least in 2008. and Howard after being intimidated, kinda chickened out.
my response: I agree that the defensive game plan was brilliant. that was
part of my statement to Mike T. Kobe, Phil & Pau are going to find a way to
get it done! Last year, the Lakers *NEEDED* it. This year, Kobe *WANTS*
it. Artest is here.
What is best in life?
To drive the enemy before you.
To hear the breaking of his bones,
and the lamentation of his women
Go Kobe!
Go Lakers!!!
Posted by: hobbitmage | May 16, 2010 at 11:28 AM
Kobe Bryant will plant J Rich's ass to the bench after a few minutes in the first quarter of the Game 1 with 2 fouls. and he will be out and OFF of the series.
you heard it here first.
(in 2 very important games against the Cavs in Phoenix, especially the one last year when a win would give them the 8th spot in the playoffs, J Rich was running alone for a dunk and he missed the dunk just thinking that LBJ is after him - same this year)
and Artest will show G Hill that he indeed he is 37 years old and he will be banged up and purple by the end of the Game 1. nothing left for Gold.
and after that Kobe will welcome Draghici to the NBA.
and Artest will do the same to that 3 pt. shooter with the head band. sorry i do not know his name. scrubs r not very high on my memory list.
who's left?
----------------------------------
BUTLER. the players get in shape during games and not before. Lopez never had a playoff game. he was a woos last year. what makes u think he will dominate this year?
this is not San Antonio with broken noses and broken shoulder, with Hill chocking as the series goes higher and with Timmy borrowing Artest's concrete shoes.
the great 3 from San Antonio did not deliver.
and the advertised 3 shooters, Mason Jr. and Bonner where shooting blanks. as commentators mentioned, Blair's height disadvantage in the NBA vs. his college game became evident in the playoffs.
Jefferson was MIA.
and Dicy man is an old shadow of himself.
the only reason they beat Dallas was the Dallas chocking.
especially Erica and Haywood Girl.
and let's not forget the famous ex-Phoenix Marion who in playoffs is the little bunny rabbit.
maybe you know about him more from live experience in previous years. the typical 20 points player during the season and 6-8 points in the playoffs.
the magical disappearing act.
Posted by: ouchhhhhhhh | May 16, 2010 at 11:36 AM
MM
i know u r busy, but at the same time i know you will watch the Magic-C series so you will be informed in case of finals
may i suggest ( with lots of humility) to have LIVE CHAT FOR ALL THE GAMES REGARDLESS IF IS ECF OR WCF?
i know moist of us will watch the games and it's fun to make FUN of the other teams. some will make fun of the C's and others of the SUPERMAN. what a treat.
maybe you don't have the time to implement that today, sorry i did not write the suggestion earlier, but tuesday night it will be great. i'm taking as granted the Lakers games r Live Chat.
what a h. forget modesty. MM, please hurry up and start the Live Chat today.
you have one hour to get ready. i'm sure this time most of the bloggers will be on My side.
thank you with anticipation
cordially,
hhhhhhhhhhhhhh
Posted by: ouchhhhhhhh | May 16, 2010 at 11:43 AM
Mark G- Since you asked, I only know that because I covered the Syracuse lacrosse team in college and there was a player that had lingering back problems. He revealed he got three cortisone shots and after confirming, it is indeed the legal limit
ouchhhhhhhh - It sounds like a good idea, but it's not going to work today. The Lakers are practicing today and I need to get interviews from that.
MM
Posted by: Mark Medina | May 16, 2010 at 12:06 PM
"MM
Thanks for the info on the 3 shot limit for cortisone. Was that out there on the web, or did you just pull that out of your vast warehouse of knowledge?
Posted by: Mark G | May 16, 2010 at 11:20 AM"
That is a good general limit. But ask again, in that specific area or over your whole damn body?, 2-3 in a specific area is a good guideline. Often you will see physicians writing orders for things that are outside the guidelines as established by the FDA (the Food and Drug Administration.....like the ATF, but no guns).
Posted by: humanomaly (29 minutes) | May 16, 2010 at 12:09 PM
MM
what else can they say in an interview? it's not like u r asking some question that they have to …………………… duck?
:-)
please remind Kobe that Barf-ley said that he CAN't score 40+ anymore!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: ouchhhhhhhh | May 16, 2010 at 12:21 PM
HOOP FICTIONS !!!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
While the Lakers peak in their quest to repeat as NBA champions and MM transforms the Lakers Blog into a 24/7 thread factory and automatic posting machine, a small group of rude and raucous contributors continue their campaign to propagate mass hoop fictions with their indefensible opinions and unsupportable positions while redefining what constitutes a troll and what passes for courtesy and respect in our virtual community.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
HOOP FICTION #1 – Mike T would have you believe that the Lakers are not a tough or physical enough team to beat the Celtics in the NBA Finals. This is despite the fact that this Lakers team has added over a 100 lbs of muscle and toughness to their starting lineup with Andrew Bynum and Ron Artest while the Celtics Big 3 have gotten two years older, won’t have home court advantage this time, and may not make it past the Magic.
~
Aside from publicly wishing for Drew to get injured, this is the “expert” who spent months documenting Phil Jackson’s coaching mistakes in his ridiculous self-serving Jackson Journals, the “pundit” who proclaimed the inept Kwame Brown to be the key to the Lakers future, and the iconoclast who has said that the Lakers will never win until they get rid of Phil Jackson and Kobe Bryant. Remember, he’s Mike T. Who are you? LOL!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
HOOP FICTION #2 – Ouchhhhhhhh would have you believe that Pau Gasol is a worthless fraud, a soft 7-footer who folds whenever the game gets physical. He would have you believe that Pau is fool’s gold, a player whose stats come only because he is taller than everybody he plays against. This belies the fact that Pau has been the second best player on this team during the last two years, including the NBA Finals triumph against Orlando.
~
Aside from his lame “everybody is fair game” approach to dispensing his wry insults and back-handed insults, this is a guy who suddenly thinks he is ready to graduate from his delivering his daily short doses of pain and angst to pontificating as if he truly had anything intelligent or meaningful to say about the game of basketball.
One you get past the hurt and anguish he so casually dispenses, you realize the guy really has nothing to say.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
TOM
Posted by: LakerTom | May 16, 2010 at 12:21 PM
Hey guys we got a new post up
MM
Posted by: Mark Medina | May 16, 2010 at 12:37 PM
ouchhhhhhhh - well it's also in case news come out of practice. it never hurts to collect material
MM
Posted by: Mark Medina | May 16, 2010 at 03:34 PM