Lakers fans expect a competitive NBA Finals against Boston Celtics
There's not a day that goes by for 24.4% of Lakers fans who continuously ponder the team's 2008 NBA Finals loss to the Boston Celtics. For 38.5% of fans, bitter feelings about that loss pop up from time to time, but the old wounds have reopened even more this week. And then there's 37.1% of fans who believe there's no use revisiting the past. The Lakers won the 2009 NBA championship, have won three of the last four regular-season meetings and have a chance to redeem their 2008 Finals loss with a 2010 title win over Boston.
Though results from a recent L.A. Times Lakers blog poll reveal a split among fans on how hard they've taken the Lakers' 2008 NBA Finals loss to Boston, they mostly remain confident with the Lakers' chances to redeem themselves with a championship victory over the Celtics. But there are plenty of reasons why Lakers fans believe the effort won't be easy, with 51.4% predicting L.A. in six games and 16.1% taking the Lakers in seven. There are 49% of fans who are equally impressed with the both the Lakers' and Celtics' playoff runs.
The Lakers have won all eight postseason games at home, went on a six-game winning streak and have apparently shed the complacency that dragged them for parts of the regular season. The Celtics prevented a Kobe-LeBron matchup, halted a NBA Finals rematch between the Lakers and Magic and suggested that their old age won't stop them from making another title run. Considering how good both teams look, it appears execution and game flow will ultimately determine each outcome, which serves as a possible explanation why 50% say the Lakers' home-court advantage gives them an edge. But for the very same reason, 38% argue that the Lakers can't solely depend on the friendly confines of Staples Center because they'll likely need to steal at least one road win at TD Garden in Boston.
Fans believe there's a lot of factors that play in the Lakers' favor. With guard Kobe Bryant scoring at least 30 points in 12 of 13 games, 72% of fans see no reason why he can't maintain that level, with 50% also believing that Bryant should defend Boston point guard Rajon Rondo. Nearly 62% are also confident that Lakers forward Ron Artest will shut down Paul Pierce, a welcome contrast to when Pierce earned the 2008 Finals MVP.But that doesn't mean Laker fans don't have any worries. With center Andrew Bynum playing with torn cartilage in his right knee, 67.6% expressed concern that the injury will negatively affect him. Nonetheless, 40.5% of those voters believe Bynum will still provide a complementary role to Pau Gasol and Lamar Odom, even if he's not at full strength. The other concern involves Gasol, who took lots of blame for the 2008 Finals loss and further fueled his reputation as a soft player. There's 47.5% of fans who believe his individual success will heavily determine the series outcome, while 35.7% who believe it's also important for him to have a good series so he can shed the "soft" label.
Despite the many challenges, Lakers fans remain confident the team is in strong position to repeat. And if that were happen, L.A. fans expect to be treated to an added bonus, with 60% believing that another championship would result in Phil Jackson returning to coach.
-- Mark Medina
Follow the L.A. Times Lakers blog on Twitter: twitter.com/latmedina. E-mail the Lakers blog at mgmedin@gmail.com
Photo: Lakers power forward Pau Gasol is fouled by Boston power forward Kevin Garnett in Game 1 of the 2008 NBA Finals. Garnett would lead the Celtics to a 98-88 victory at TD Banknorth Garden with 23 points and 13 rebounds. Credit: Wally Skalij / Los Angeles Times
Happened to catch Caron Butler's interview on Mychal and Andrew's radio show earlier.
His sense of disappointment, at the way his NBA season ended, was palpable. Remember that he was one of Kobe's closest friends on the team that brief time he was with the Purple & Gold.
Kobe Bryant's fierce will to win is unmatched, but Caron Butler became fast friends with The Black Mamba, because Kobe could see some of those same traits in young Caron.
Sure, his trade to Washington ultimately led to the acquisition of Pau, but not only does Lakers Nation miss him, one wonders how much Caron misses playing with his friends on the Lakers.
Later today, Trevor Ariza is scheduled to be on the radio. Wonder how he feels, and what he is thinking, now that his 'replacement' Ron Artest has truly become ONE of the Purple & Gold brotherhood (after what RA did the past 2 games against the Suns).
Does anyone else miss Rony Turiaf as well? Especially after the incredible life-saving medical procedures Rony endured (and Dr. Buss PAID for!) to treat him and enable him to not only LIVE, but eventually get back on the court!
Gone...but not forgotten. Once a Laker, always a Laker.
Dwayne Wade wants to debate the "loyalty" of players to a franchise, and vice-versa? With the exception of The Big Has-Been (who conducts his own scorched-earth policy everytime he leaves town), just look at the list of former Lakers Greats who are still associated with this great organization. And those who have moved on to jobs elsewhere have nothing but kind words for the Lakers. Goodwill begets goodwill.
THIS is one more reason to respect and honor the Los Angeles Lakers organization, from Dr. Jerry Buss, all the way down the line to the very newest employee.
P & G R
Posted by: Purple & Gold Reign | June 02, 2010 at 12:32 PM
PG&R,
Didn't hear the interview, but I'll say that whether loyalty is rewarding really depends on who you are loyal to. KG found that out, as did Pau.
Posted by: #4 | June 02, 2010 at 12:38 PM
Repost with a Plus: Look the awesome smile of the Black Mamba in Durant's tweet!!!
Ain't he glorious? Awww:)))
Enjoy the pic:
http://yfrog.com/bgnf6jj
and my repost:
>>>> repost
Good evening Laker Fam!
After an epically intense eating day, which will leave me allowed to eat just yoghurt and milkshakes for two days (ehi... You have no idea what my Grandma can cook) I write here a bit before relaxing in this National Holiday Time.
Before I forget, I wanna compliment Tom Daniels for that awesome insight on Sterner trashed love life and his attempt to cancel this Final in awe of his Bronnie (LOL): awesome writing. Really amusing.
Then I have to express my disappointment for not having been included in the niche of the Kobe Believer and utmost fanatics.
Wow! I thought I had GRADUATED there... apparently not? Well, tell me where do I have to apply, what kind of tricky fraternity/sorority tests do I have to pass, and whom I have to kill with a black mamba bite for being included in that niche, cos I DO BELONG there.
;)
About being at the Parade (which will be held), I hope to make it there, but if I will, it's gonna be 7 hours in LA and 16x2 hours of flight back and forth.
Pretty intense... but for Lakers this and more ;)
I wish I could be at one of the games like last year, but no way I can get the days of holidays I'd need for that this year.
SIGH.
Now let me say that I actually enjoy to have some Celtics fans writing here. Not those abusive, those thugs who show no respect for us; I'm talking about the equally passionate enemies that can talk basketball without being out of manners; those who can see this as the battle it is; those who are like us, those who like us love great bball, and that just happen to cheer the WRONG team (tease ;)..., well for us it is... but we are sunny and you are shady...).
It's funny that I love Green every way... but I hate Green in sport.
But even when I use the word "Hate", that is the peculiar sport hate. The one that is not like the hate the world shows way too often.
Sporty rivarly and hate is a specific and beautiful thing.
It's something that defines what we love by contrast. It's teh memory of a given pain, and the hope of causing one back in reward for our souls to heal.
It's yin and yang.
It's a perfect circle that needs to be exactly as it is to feel as good as it does.
We need Green Enemies to feel like the shining Purple and Gold better than in any other case.
And the same, no matter what they say values for them.
Rivarly in sport is beautiful.
It's a chess game played over firing tanks.
It's strategy, and disguise.
Sun Tsu would love Lakers VS Celtics.
I stand convinced we will win.
I loved this season when at certain points people were crying disgraces because I NEVER doubted we would have reached this Final. Never.
I surely do feel we will take this over. Suffering a lot. But I do sense we will.
Our team has matured a lot this year: you can read it in these days interviews. Pau feels he belongs to us finally. He reckons it (see the FIBA decision).
Lamar finally has learnt through pain he has to fight the "only playful" Lamar version and add some guts and some dedication always, even through pain; Drew has learnt to commit to us better, and Ron Ron is adorable and dangerous.
They are learning from Derek and Kobe what "don't stop believe" means.
No, I won't enter the Kobe chapter.
I just say I would love for just ONE hour in my life live into his life. What has to be to feel his driving will that overcomes injuries, trash talking, wishful thinking by his haters, and a plethora of bad eveniences to stay and renew himself, again, as THE GREATEST in this game.
Must be like having fire into veins. Cold flames made of magic.
Talking about Magic, today I saw him in NBA Fastbreak, mentioning "intangibles" as the X Factor in this series.
That is true.
In fact all the talks these days are just amusing fill ups that mean nothing.
Nothing, because when two champion teams face off (and none doubt or can take away the fact these two teams ARE full of champions, the best about it is that in any given moment something special and unexpected can happen.
It's intense because it's gonna be skilled AND forced.
And teh balance is thin.
That is exciting.
You can't predict. You can WISH. You can analyze while it happens, but nothing that has happened before has assurance to happen again.
It's about the motivation, the way the mix of the two teams will mash together, and the way the will is gonna be constantly pushed FURTHER than the one of your opponent.
And that's exactly why I am confident.
Our will MUST be more than theirs.
It's empathy that gives me a boost of confidence.
Because maybe, and I say just maybe, I have already been into Kobe's life for an hour, and then I have been Pau, Derek, Lamar, Ron, Drew and everyone wearing Purple and Gold (yes, I've been Ammo too... ;)) and I have FELT that they are ready.
Ready for that trophy.
Ready for our tears and smiles and screams and ready for our love and gratitude.
Ready to be again at Coliseum.
Ready.
They are.
I am.
Are you?
Later Laker Fam ;)
Posted by: ZairaAmaterasu | June 02, 2010 at 12:50 PM
"Gone...but not forgotten. Once a Laker, always a Laker."
True.
Brotherhood is brotherhood.
What do we play for? RINGS!!!
Lakers Today... Lakers Tomorrow... Lakers Forever.
GO LAKERS!!!
Posted by: Jon K. | June 02, 2010 at 12:59 PM
Okay, a quick check of ESPN's NBA page has 10 'experts' picks.
Lakers - 6
Celtics - 4
They all have it going 6-7 games. Either way, no one feels one team is way dominant over the other.
Why are these guys experts? Because ESPN says they are?
The only 'experts' I recognize are the ones on the LA Times Lakers Blog minus the 'Green weenies' trolls of course.
Fatty's prediction which history has shown is correct 100%, 90% of the time, says this:
Lakers in 5-6 IF, they win the first two or Lakers in 6-7 if we split the first two, unless we lose the first one, then its Lakers in 5. (see Lakers last win over 76's Iverson squad)
Fatty - Who says, "you can go to my Cayman Islands Bank on that prediction"
Posted by: Fatty | June 02, 2010 at 01:00 PM
There will be blood.
I wonder if anyone will be able to sleep tonight.
For the love of God, if you know someone who is going to Staples Center to see the game, I don't care what you have to do, convince them of the importance of making their presence known and LOUDLY supporting our team.
I am still ashamed at how the crowd didn't show up during the 2008 Finals.
It was pathetic.
Let's not make that mistake twice.
REAL FANS MAKE NOISE!!!! SO MAKE NOISE!!! EVEN IF YOU ARE A HIPSTER BANDWAGON FAN, MAKE NOISE!!!! IT'S COOL TO MAKE NOISE!!!!
SCREAM YOUR LUNGS OUT!!!!
THERE IS NO PRIDE IN COWARDICE!!!!
MAKE YOUR PRESENCE KNOWN!!!!
THIS IS HISTORY WE ARE MAKING!!!
MAKE IT!!!!
What do we play for? RINGS!!!!!
LAKERS TODAY!!!! LAKERS TOMORROW!!!!! LAKERS FOREVER!!!!
GO LAKERS!!!!!
Posted by: Jon K. | June 02, 2010 at 01:02 PM
Dennis,
In your dreams freckles!
The Strangler
Posted by: Andrew Toney | June 02, 2010 at 01:09 PM
I have to admit.
I love that you are served baked beans with your warm beer and runny eggs for breakfast in Boston.
But, I think that's just because I like to fart a lot,
and when in Boston...
Sonnybelfast
Posted by: sonnybelfast | June 02, 2010 at 01:09 PM
Oh no Jon,
Laker fans are much too cool to make a bunch of noise at a game.
Someone might see them.
Sonnybelfast
Posted by: sonnybelfast | June 02, 2010 at 01:11 PM
I don't want to rehash the '08 finals (particularly since I don't agree with some of the conventional media wisdom on display day after day), but this feels an awful lot like 1985. Anyone remember what was said about the Lakers following the '84 finals? Sound familiar?
Get ready, Boston, payback's a bitch.
Posted by: teamn | June 02, 2010 at 01:11 PM
I can't stress how important this first game is...
Posted by: troy | June 02, 2010 at 01:13 PM
HalosAnt,
"Kobe is TOO OLD and INJURED to slow down, let alone, even stop the ALMIGHTY RONDO! And he's a rapist."
Are you sure you're not a LeBroniac?
Posted by: Jon K. | June 02, 2010 at 11:39 AM
************************************************
Jon,
You did read the rest of my post, right??? I was being "sarcastical". (I know not a "real" word, but it should be, like Colbert's "truthiness".)
And calling ME a LeBroniac... them's fightin' words... LOL!!
I can't STAND Lebron "BOO- HOO I'M NEVER GONNA WIN A RING" JAMES!!!!!!!!!!!
If you've ever read any of my posts, you would KNOW that I'M A DIE HARD LAKER FAN!!!!!
Tell Him Mamba24.
Posted by: HalosAnt | June 02, 2010 at 12:44 PM
Posted by: HalosAnt | June 02, 2010 at 01:14 PM
Mamba24
U also have my prior approval to include me in any and all bandwagons... Havin a hard time at work keepin up with MMs rapid fire threads...
Damn I CAN'T TAKE THIS SUSPENSE.. That's all I think about all day and night.. I eat sh*t work and think lakers all day and everyday...
Its gonna be a brutal series.. The celtics won't go down without a fight.. I expect a lot of skirmishes and flagrant fouls... Every single laker better be ready to FIGHT WITHOUT MERCY!!
This is it.. KILL OR BE KILLED!!
Posted by: yellofever | June 02, 2010 at 01:16 PM
HalosAnt,
"I was being "sarcastical"."
I didn't note that the sarcastic font was on. My error.
Please accept my sincere apologies for the insult.
Many a time people have missed my attempts at what I viewed as overt sarcasm, and now I am guilty of the same bonehead error.
My apologies, sir.
What do we play for? RINGS!!!
Lakers Today... Lakers Tomorrow... Lakers Forever.
GO LAKERS!!!!
Posted by: Jon K. | June 02, 2010 at 01:17 PM
Sonnybelfast,
"Laker fans are much too cool to make a bunch of noise at a game."
We might surprise you this time.
We improved from 2008 to 2009 and we'll improve from 2009 to 2010.
What do we play for? RINGS!!!!
Lakers Today... Lakers Tomorrow... Lakers Forever.
GO LAKERS!!!!
Posted by: Jon K. | June 02, 2010 at 01:19 PM
troy,
"I can't stress how important this first game is..."
It's huge, but win or lose the first game, we build our own destiny this time.
What do we play for? RINGS!!!
Lakers Today... Lakers Tomorrow... Lakers Forever.
GO LAKERS!!!!
Posted by: Jon K. | June 02, 2010 at 01:20 PM
yellowfever,
"I eat sh*t" Maybe thats the cause of your fever.
Posted by: The Doctor | June 02, 2010 at 01:23 PM
yellowfever,
"Damn I CAN'T TAKE THIS SUSPENSE.. That's all I think about all day and night.."
You and me both.
Here's the thing THIS FINAL will be THE FINALS that will define Kobe Bryant, Derek Fisher and Thriller's legacies.
Even though I am confident we will return to the Finals after this year, THIS FINALS is THE FINALS of the Purple and Gold Decade which this has been.
HERE'S THE CLIMAX TO THE STORY THAT BEGAN WHEN PHIL JACKSON BECAME A LAKER!!!
HERE IT IS!!!!
THIS IS IT!!!!
THIS [super-bold underline font] IS WHAT WE ALL AS LAKERAHOLICS HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR!!!
JUST AS SHOWTIME WAS DEFINED BY BEATING THE CELTICS, KOBE AND DEREK (AND POSSIBLY THRILLER)'S LEGACIES WILL BE DEFINED BY THIS LONG, GOLDEN, SHINING MOMENT!!!
IT'S HERE!!! AT LONG LAST IT IS HERE!!!!
What do we play for? RINGS!!!!
Lakers Today... Lakers Tomorrow... Lakers Forever.
GO LAKERS!!!!
Posted by: Jon K. | June 02, 2010 at 01:24 PM
Jon K -
"There will be blood."
I feel this way as well.
How many skirmishes will break out? Maybe an all out fight? How many intimidation hits by the Celtics and appropriate Lakers reaction?
I feel when the Lakers start to take control of the series, and the Celtics players recognize that, they will start to play dirty and try to hurt the Lakers players.
How the Lakers react or not react will be very interesting to watch.
These are the Celtics that will lose it mentally and try to hurt people when the Celtics feel they are losing the series...
KG - Will elbow or punch any Lakers player, coach, Lakers Girls, reporters, and even Celtics team mates (see when he made Big Baby cry; Hey, how's that for a tough player?)
Rondo - Will hit or dive into Farmar or Sasha when they are not looking and tackle them to the ground. Maybe even clothesline Kobe as he beats him to the hole?
Perkins - Will push and punch AB and Pau
Allen - Won't hit anyone, but will say mean things from a distance.
Pierce - No worries. He will run away, hide in the locker room and later say he was looking for buddies from the hood to do his fighting
Fatty - Who will personally call the LAPD and have KG arrested if hits Kobe during the game
Posted by: Fatty | June 02, 2010 at 01:27 PM
What are you going to do about the tiny guy who scoots around like a hamster on crack, and drops those threes from a mile out like they're going out of style?
The ultimate irony. It's a tall man's game. You've got three 7-footers, and a midget be be your doom.
Oh yea, I know his name. But seriously, I'm wondering, do you?
Sonnybelfast
Posted by: sonnybelfast | June 02, 2010 at 01:28 PM
The only mismatch I'm not really feelin probably not in our favor has to be the COACHING
Phil vs doc/thibodeau...
Thibodeau will definitely have a few tricks up his sleeve.. He might catch phil offguard and phil might panic and adjust with his favorite son luke again..
WHAT A NIGHTMARE THAT WOULD BE!!
Posted by: yellofever | June 02, 2010 at 01:29 PM
@ Jon K,
Hey my friend, no apologies necessary. I figured that you may have not read the whole post. I was listing all the CRAP you usually hear from HATERS, and Kobe HATERS are by far the WORST (hence the rapist jab, it seems it's the ONLY thing they can cling to.. lol.. LOSERS!)
Anyway I'm completely with you about MAKIN' NOISE and REPRESENTIN' FOR OUR TEAM... THE ALMIGHTY LAKERS BABY!!!!!!!
P.S. I hate to admit this to you but I've used your Sign Off a couple of times in posts on my Facebook page. (Never claimed it was mine though, just never said where I got it from)...
What do we play for? .... YOU KNNNOOWWWW!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: HalosAnt | June 02, 2010 at 01:32 PM
Forget this "competitive series" garbage.
Lakers are going to SWEEP!!!
Posted by: rdlee | June 02, 2010 at 01:34 PM
BScully-
I've posted this stat a few times all over these pages, and just to be sure ALL the Laker fans have a chance to see it here you go...
In the 2010 playoffs, Lakers defense has given up 101ppg. The Celtics have only allowed 91ppg.
Boston's defense is just plain better.
Yes, Kobe's motivated. Yes, Kobe's great. Yes, both he and Artest are top-notch defenders, but they're the only two on the team. How do you think Bynum's gonna do with the rotations? You think Odom's gonna slide to the help at the exact moment he's supposed to? Every time? How about Fisher - how comfortable are you with his D? Celtic's play TEAM DEFENSE! Crisp rotations, perfectly timed help, clean switches... The Lakers, throughout these playoffs, have given up huge chunks to defensive breakdowns, and worse than that, they have been virtually stopped for long stretches when their opponents played decent D. None of you want to admit it, but your Lakers have a problem. 101ppg to 91ppg. I really like our chances.
Posted by: bcsully | June 02, 2010 at 12:38 PM
____________________________________________________________
Typical Boston Fan. PPG has nothing to do with defense..Pace and style affect PPG more than defensive prowess. More importantly is Opponents FG and 3pt FG pctg...BTW we are better in both categories in the playoffs than the Celtics..so stop with your trolling, cause your stats are inane and your logic is insane and your team is on the way out on the 405 fast lane (making myself laugh)..Lameness..bring your moronic friends for more ridiculous posts that only serve to further emphasize the average Celtic fan's lack of logic.
BWAHAHAHAHAHAHA
Posted by: Kobesbad | June 02, 2010 at 01:35 PM
Let's keep something in mind...
This is going to be Kobe and Derek's (our team captains) SEVENTH trip to the Finals.
Seven times each.
They've won.
They've lost.
Multiple times each.
And have gained the experience, knowledge and wisdom that comes with repetition.
The captains of the Celtics have been to the Finals once. And have the shallow wisdom that comes from never losing.
They remain new money bullies and nothing more than that.
Phil, Kobe and Derek have something that Doc Rivers, Kevin Garnett, and Paul Pierce will never have. And what they have they will use to their fullest extent in this series.
There will be blood. And it will be a green, slimey Septic blood all over the floors at Staples and Boston Gardens.
History is now.
What do we play for? RINGS!!!!
Lakers Today... Lakers Tomorrow... Lakers Forever.
GO LAKERS!!!!
Posted by: Jon K. | June 02, 2010 at 01:35 PM
Damn, nothing against the rest of you, but Zaira can write. She makes me want to do the modern equivalent of sticking my pen back in the goose, or perhaps some other less weird sounding metaphor for having admiration for great writing.
Now, I liked Zaira’s point about Sun Tsu, but I was little more confused by the later comment by someone using the name ‘Sun Tsu.’
Oddly, or perhaps not oddly, I have been reading ‘The Art of War’ (Sun Tsu), over the last couple of days, trying to find a few good passages to cite. Now, maybe it’s just my translation, but I didn’t get the part where Sun Tsu talked like Tonto. Also I think he’s dead. I think perhaps that might have been somebody else posting under his name.
Come to think of it, I’m not sure that’s the real Sonny Belfast either, but frankly I guess he could have had some kind of injury or something where his brain was prevented from getting enough oxygen or something for a while. The beans and beer thing was just weird.
pHRED USES THE SARCASM FONT SELECTIVELY
BUT THE LOVE IS SERIOUS
IT IS ALL ABOUT THE LOVE
GO LAKERS!
Posted by: phred | June 02, 2010 at 01:36 PM
Fatty,
This is one of those rare contests that approaches the "good versus evil" theatrics of Pro Wrestling.
The Septics are clearly the Thugs.
We're clearly the good guys.
It's the bullies versus the wise.
We've got to win this on so many levels.
What do we play for? RINGS!!!
Lakers Today... Lakers Tomorrow... Lakers Forever.
GO LAKERS!!!!
Posted by: Jon K. | June 02, 2010 at 01:38 PM
Ok, this isn’t a song yet, cause I’ve been a bit under the weather and the muse hasn’t struck, but this is a post that has been building for a while;
A short history of Pau Gasol’s recent basketball career.
2008- comes to LA in trade for Kwame Brown in February. Lakers win three playoff series and lose to one of the best teams in basketball in the last 10 years. 39.8 PMG in playoffs. SOFT!
Summer 2008 –plays on Spanish National team, wins silver medal in Olympics SOFT!
2008-2009 – Plays 81 games in regular season for Lakers. Plays in four playoff series, 21 games, 40.5 mpg in playoffs, wins NBA Title SOFT!
Summer 2009 – Plays on Spanish National team, wins FIBA European Championship – SOFT!
2009-2010 – Plays 65 regular season games, wins 3+ playoff series, 18 + games, 38.8 mpg in playoffs SOFT!
You keep using this word “Soft” I think maybe it doesn’t mean what you think it means!
Posted by: phred | June 02, 2010 at 01:38 PM
HalosAnt,
You still have my apology. I'm sorry.
Regarding my sign off, no one owns it. It belongs to all of us.
It's what we do.
What do we play for? RINGS!!!
Lakers Today... Lakers Tomorrow... Lakers Forever.
GO LAKERS!!!
Posted by: Jon K. | June 02, 2010 at 01:39 PM
the PMG in the first point should be 'mpg.' Typo, sorry.
Posted by: phred | June 02, 2010 at 01:39 PM
Jon K,
"Well, you're just looking forward to the challenge of it," Bryant said. "The last time we played them, it was a great learning experience for us. It taught us what it takes to be a champion. The defensive intensity that they played with, the tenacity that they played with, we learned a great deal in that series."
Posted by: Get A Clue | June 02, 2010 at 01:42 PM
Jon K,
I have to admit. Your energy as a fan is fantastic! You are one of the best reasons for having competing sports teams. (And your grasp of the general immigration situ is both impressive and enlightening)
Uh hum...but seriously, when are you going to get out of that hell-hole. I mean really, Cleveland? That's got to be almost as bad as Boston, or one of those other crap-holes back east, or even L.A.!!!
I wouldn't recommend moving to Sacramento, (never lived there myself) but NoCal has some wonderful places to live, the most storied NFL team on the planet, and an extraordinary NBA basketball franchise called the Kings.
Heard of them?
Sonnybelfast
Posted by: sonnybelfast | June 02, 2010 at 01:42 PM
Sonny, are you referring to a leprechaun or Nate Robinson? Serious question.
Posted by: #4 | June 02, 2010 at 01:47 PM
Phred -
I find it to be "inconceivable" that people think Gasol is soft...
Inigo Montoyo Fatty
Posted by: Fatty | June 02, 2010 at 01:47 PM
"Celtics, my name is Inigo Montoyo Kobe, you beat me in 2008, prepare to die"
Posted by: Fatty | June 02, 2010 at 01:49 PM
Dear Laker fans of Machine,
Machine offer sincere apology to all Laker fans of Machine for going crazy on fellow countryman and fellow flopper Dragic. Machine almost cost best friend Kobe the game. Machine has 3 words for fans - Machine will not lose cool again. Cool is Machine middle name. Machine kill Thibodeau girly defense with outside daggers. Machine also give Perkins 7th technical foul. Machine like to thank all Laker fans of Machine for patience, and Machine repay fans in finals.
Sincerely,
Sasha
Posted by: SASHA V. | June 02, 2010 at 01:50 PM
Awwrayt!
Ass-whuppin countdown. Put me in the Gasol will kick some Gaynett ass bandwagon. We need Odom to be the trash-talkin Queens guy! And let the first two games be shock and awe atmosphere! Everybody bring on the offensive firepower--everybody in dominate mode in from tee-time till the sound of the bell. Rapid dominance.
Shock and awe. This will take the Rondo factor out big-time from the equation and the schmucking schmeltick will never recover.
Then let the Mamba do the killing in Game 5. Cold-blooded murder to finish them off.
Can't wait.
Posted by: rrg101 | June 02, 2010 at 01:52 PM
and an extraordinary NBA basketball franchise called the Kings.
Heard of them?
Sonnybelfast
Posted by: sonnybelfast | June 02, 2010 at 01:42 PM
**************************************************
Extraordinary?!? the Kings?!?! Are you SERIOUS?!??!!?!?!!
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!
I KNEW IT!! You've just been effing with all of us this WHOLE time... You have DEFINITELY been using type font Sarcastica... You sure had me goin' there for a while.
... Kings... HAHAHAHA ... Extraordinary... Classic...
Posted by: HalosAnt | June 02, 2010 at 01:53 PM
Dear Laker fans of Machine,
Sorry fans of Machine, Machine promises to touch Ray Allen before he goes right by me!
Sincerely,
Sasha
Posted by: SASHA V. | June 02, 2010 at 01:56 PM
Light vs Darkness
-
We are Light. They are Darkness.
-
This gonna be ugly. Almost to ugly for me to watch...let alone bring forth the wrath of the haters, trolls and holy-rollers by submitting a Game Day Prayer.
Posted by: utzworld - the ONCE AND FUTURE BANNER HOLDER | June 02, 2010 at 01:56 PM
The Lakers start off with a must-win game in game 1. If they lose, the doubts creep in, the Celtics take game two and this puppy goes to Boston and never gets back to Tutti Frutti Land. In their hearts, the Celtics know they've already beaten the best team they'll face this year in the Magic. They've already punked this Lakers team before and the addition of one unstable east coast whackadoo like Artest doesn't change the fact that the Lakers are as tough as a basket of kittens.
Jackson has already conceded that the Lakers can't out tough the Celtics. Sadly, they can't outplay the Celtics either. This series will not be close.
Posted by: TMizer | June 02, 2010 at 01:59 PM
Dear non Laker fan of Machine, Mark Medina,
Some silly man impersonating Machine at 1:56 PM. Only one Machine around here. People jealous of sexiness of Machine and copy Machine. Please stop.
Sincerely,
Real Sasha
Posted by: SASHA V. | June 02, 2010 at 02:00 PM
Watch out Boston, Dunknasty is comin for you!
Posted by: Bynum Dunknasty | June 02, 2010 at 02:00 PM
Phred,
I concur, Zaira can write.
Her prose has a sort of animated, yet meditative flow, linear magic if you will.
Too bad her wagon is hooked to such a plastic organization.
(Nice work Zaira. Got to get you aboard up in King's country)
It's quite possible that I am not getting enough oxygen. And weird, yes.
But just the thought of baked beans, warm beer, and runny eggs makes me want to do one of my favorite things.
Sonnybelfast
Posted by: sonnybelfast | June 02, 2010 at 02:08 PM
as a general rule, I don't go for people commenting under player's names, you get multiple people using the same one or just trying to be clever. But the real SASHA V. is funny.
Machine, do you post comments under another name? Either way, keep it up.
Posted by: phred | June 02, 2010 at 02:08 PM
Dear Laker fans,
Everyone who says the Beast will be a huge factor is 100% correct. I will savor and use up my 6 fouls with a ferocity that is rarely seen in Lakerland. My job will be to put fear in the hearts of KG and Perkins.
I will not let my team get intimidated by Boston's false bravado.
I made a video in the hopes that it will intimidate the Celtics big men.
I hope it works, and I hope you like it.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T1rZBxn3Zx8
Sincerely,
DJ
The Beast
Posted by: MBENGA | June 02, 2010 at 02:09 PM
Gotta go for a couple of days.
Good luck.
Don't get swept!
Sonnybelfast
Posted by: sonnybelfast | June 02, 2010 at 02:09 PM
#4,
Sorry, just read your post. Yes, Nate. Don't underestimate this guys abilities or potential impact on this series.
Back in a couple of days. Good luck.
Sonnybelfast
Posted by: sonnybelfast | June 02, 2010 at 02:15 PM
Thanks Sonny, good stuff as always. You can see how I can get tripped up there, right?
Always commend you for your steadfast commitment to the Kings. Stay safe out there.
Posted by: #4 | June 02, 2010 at 02:24 PM
One more thing:
Halos aunt,
How many more times are you going to keep posting the words 'rape, or rapist' when referring to Kobe Bryant???
Don't you know that your fellow fans don't want to hear it?
And oh yes...duhhhhh...I'm a King's fan.
(Hint: Don't assume that because this board belongs to an L.A. newspaper
that all contributors are Laker fans...know what I mean? Of course you do. You're a sharp one)
Sonnybelfast
Sonnybelfast
Posted by: sonnybelfast | June 02, 2010 at 02:24 PM
Jon my Brother HalosAnt is a DIE HARD LAKER FAN. One of the best we got.
Now please you two make nice. Pleassssse
Mamba24
Posted by: Mamba24 | June 02, 2010 at 02:47 PM
The Lakers will win this series, and it will be competitive like every game of last year's finals against Orlando, but it won't be close in the end. I call this series in 5 games, 6 at them most.
People wax poetically about the Celtics throwing the Lakers around in 2008, but the key difference between the Lakers and the Celtics that year was one JAMES POSEY. That was the REAL difference, folks. You put Posey on the Lakers and they would have won, no doubt about it! Just consider the many dagger 3's Posey hit in the series, specially in game 4, when the Celtics made their 24-point comeback and won the series there and then.
Moreover, this year, the Celtics will also NOT have Eddie House, who hit some monster 3's against the Lakers in 2008, and they also won't have the physical Leon Powe, and the very physical PJ Brown, who gave them some very nice minutes in the Finals that year.
Who do they have instead? An aging headcase in Rasheed Wallace, who's a time-bomb waiting to go off, the showboating "Eliminate," the mercurial Marquis Daniels and the old man Michael Finely. Just think, the Celtics of 2008 had the extremely clutch Posey, House, Powe and PJ Brown. This year, all those guys are gone.
Lakers in 5... 6 at the most!
Posted by: Ludwig | June 02, 2010 at 03:17 PM
AAAWWWW sonny THANKS!!! I am pretty sharp, so nice of you to point it out buddy!
Oh and uh, don't worrry about my FELLOW LAKER COMPATRIOTS and what they may or may not be thinking about my Kobe posts, because they know in which context it's in... You can try to twist it any way you want, if it makes you feel better though, I don't mind.
Posted by: HalosAnt | June 02, 2010 at 03:28 PM
I’d like to see just a few of KG’s illegal screens called.
Posted by: Magic Phil | June 02, 2010 at 03:53 PM
Sonnybelfast,
"That's got to be almost as bad as Boston, or one of those other crap-holes back east, or even L.A.!!!
I wouldn't recommend moving to Sacramento, (never lived there myself) but NoCal has some wonderful places to live"
Actually I shot a documentary in Boston and I far prefer Boston to the Cleveland-Akron area for a variety of reasons... including:
The food is better
The ocean is nearby
The mountains of New Hampshire are nearby
The weather is better
The people are smarter
They like to fight
However, the people of Boston are far uglier drunks than the people of Cleveland, which is saying something. It's not that they drink more--they don't!--it's just that a large section of the population has a Jeckyl/Hyde relationship to alcohol, which is somewhat unsettling.
Regarding Sacramento, I think it's a great city. I love the river, the access to the Sierras and the Bay on a day trip.
Regarding coming back home... I'm literally waiting on an email.
We'll see.
What do we play for? RINGS!!!
Lakers Today... Lakers Tomorrow... Lakers Forever.
GO LAKERS!!!
Posted by: Jon K. | June 02, 2010 at 03:57 PM
Mamba24,
"Jon my Brother HalosAnt is a DIE HARD LAKER FAN."
I know. My bad. I was being stupid.
What do we play for? RINGS!!!
Lakers Today... Lakers Tomorrow... Lakers Forever.
GO LAKERS!!!
Posted by: Jon K. | June 02, 2010 at 03:58 PM
Laker Fans . . . calm yourselves. All this talk of war and blood and such.
In a sense, Kendrick Perkins is right. Be who you are. If I were a C's fan I'd mock the "Charge Rewards" mercilessly. As if Bird, McHale, Ainge, Russell, Cousy, KG, et al. needed chump change to go all out. In a so-called "revenge" title series, you shouldn't HAVE to offer any incentives.
LA is methodical. Determined. Disciplined. Versatile. And overall, Driven. They're a squad motivated on achieving a goal. They're good enough to win without knocking people around. And it's worked for them -- 3 Finals and 1 O'Brien in 3 years.
The C's, on the other hand, are not as versatile, not as prolific, but they thrive on confidence and determination. The confidence is in their franchise pedigree, their experience, and their togetherness. They've all suffered failures and setbacks and slights. And they're better together than they would ever be apart. That's what drives them to be physical and bullying. KG, for example, always played with passion, but come on, who was really INTIMIDATED when his T-Wolves came to town? Who ever took Doc Rivers seriously as a coach? Orlando sure didn't. Pierce was a scorer destined to be on the outside looking in in June. Allen was an all-star who couldn't go anywhere in the postseason. Rondo and Big Baby weren't well-regarded coming out. Perkins was a project and labored on some bad teams. But when they came together, all those failures and disappointments motivated them and they proceeded on a great run. What they do works for them.
LA is not that. They've been motivated by failures, and by a leader with history and legacy ALWAYS on his mind. They've honed their game, and have proven they can meet challenges these last two seasons. They have more firepower and pick teams apart. All they have to do is execute and respond to the C's physical play. If they play their game they'll be fine. If they get caught up in trying to out=C the C's they've started from behind.
I want LA to win this one badly. But they're not the Magic-Riley Lakers. They're the Zen-Kobe Lakers. This ain't 1984, 1985 or 1987. Nor is it 2008. Getback motivates. Execution wins. A fan like me wants no less than payback and another great chapter added to Laker lore. But the Lakers have to play l*their* game to win.
No one's going to out-Boston Boston. But the Lakers can outplay Boston.
Rest easy, all. Tomorrow will come soon enough.
Posted by: Peace | June 02, 2010 at 05:50 PM
Here are my comments to the NBA at, http://www.nba.com/email_us/contact_us.html. I have been a fan since 1960. Please be aware that in my opinion the league is poised for a class action suit if you continue to make rules and not enforce them at all , then not enforce the equally. PLEASE , PLEASE SAVE THE LEAGUE. How can you ignore the recent official corruption record and go on with business as usual. For years the NBA has lost many fans because the officiating make the games look totally FIXED. It gets worst every year. The Officials pick the winners in every game in the first two quarters with their choice of who they decide to call fouls on, thus we are not entertained. The Celtic and Garnett thing really pisses me off. If you look at the video, he throws TWO punches right in front of the referee. And all he got was an offensive foul! When you apply the rules so haphazardly and unfairly, you diminish the entire NBA product BRAND. I think all fans agree - we just want the games to be called fairly, equally. If they're going to let them play rough, then both sides need to be allowed to elbow and hack away. Can't let one side get away with everything and call touch fouls on the other team.
Kevin Garnett is a dirty player. The video of him punching Howard in the arms, TWICE, during game 6th last week is unbelievable! How could the officials miss that call? Offensive foul, It’s a terrible call and the NBA should review the tape and take appropriate actions otherwise the NBA would be viewed as bias. He should be suspense of his action.
The league must clean up its act
Posted by: fisheye | June 02, 2010 at 07:31 PM