When Kobe Bryant is involved, life never seems to fit the script
by C.A. Clark on Feb 2, 2010 1:00 PM PST
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Print[Author's Note: Wondahbap and I both wanted to run similar stories about last night's game, so we've combined it into one piece. You can't have joint authors on SB Nation, but please consider this as coming from both of us.]
Last night, Kobe Bryant eclipsed Jerry West as the greatest scorer in the history of the Los Angeles Lakers. Take a step back and think about what that means. The Lakers are one of, if not the, premier franchises in all of professional sports. This event is akin to somebody breaking the all time hits record as a Yankee, the all time touchdowns record for the Steelers, the all time goals record for Manchester United. It's an extremely big deal, a record that we aren't likely to see broken again in our lifetime. And yet, as it seems to happen all too often with Kobe Bryant, the moment failed to live up to its storybook potential.
That Kobe broke the record on the road is a coincidence, a by-product of the fact that roughly 50% of all records are broken on the road. That the record came in a loss is unfortunate, certainly souring the moment a little bit, but you don't win all the games you play in, no matter how much you want it. But the record also came amidst the frustration of Kobe's second banana, Pau Gasol, and his coach Phil Jackson, who both felt strongly enough about the subject to voice their displeasure with the way the offense was run, as Kevin Ding wrote last night. On a night when Kobe passing the Logo should have had top billing, shot selection and a lack of "pounding the ball inside" are now the story.
This always seems to happen to Bryant. He scores 81 points in a game, and people call him selfish. Same with when he had a higher scoring average than anybody not named Jordan or Chamberlain. He wins the MVP, but he can't win the championship. He wins the Finals MVP, but "maybe Pau Gasol deserved it more". Far too few simply appreciate his contributions and status in the game. And, while their criticisms may be quite valid, I can't help but question the timing of PJ and Pau's comments.
Pau and Phil both wanted the offense to take the ball inside a lot more than it did in last night's game, and looking at the box score, it's hard to blame them. The two players who are the most efficient at putting the ball into the basket, Pau and Andrew Bynum, took 10 shots combined. There's no way that should happen in any game. One can understand their frustration with Kobe, who, between his 28 shots and 13 free throws, used nearly three times the posessions that the bigs used. But I take serious issue with the underlying sentiment behind their statements. Just below the surface is the idea that the Lakers lost last night because Kobe was gunning for the record.
Make no mistake, Kobe was gunning last night. One doesn't take more than 30% of a team's shots without the mentality that every posession is another opportunity to score. There were plenty of questionable shots from KB24, plenty of times when we could all scream "C'mon Kobe, you know better than that!" At no point was this clearer than on the final play of the game. The Lakers didn't need 3 points, and had plenty of time to work for whatever shot they wanted. Instead, Kobe dribbled out most of the clock, only to fling a pass to Ron Artest as Ron Ron threw up a quick 3 that didn't fall. To be honest, it wasn't a horrible decision to go for the win, nor was it a horrible decision to pass to Artest. The Lakers had been tired all night, and overtime might not have gone well for them. Artest had been shooting the ball well all night long. But, one can't help but wonder if Kobe were trying to set up another game winner, to have the storybook ending to his record setting night. You can credit him with not forcing a shot if you'd like to, but don't pretend like he wasn't looking for the opportunity.
However, Kobe was NOT gunning for the record, he was gunning for the win. How many times have we seen this? Kobe saw the team come out listless to start the game. It was the 8th game of an 8 game road trip, the second night of a back to back. He wasn't sure his team would be able to increase their energy level enough to pull out a victory. So he took over. He did the same thing last season, and scored 62 points in MSG to help the Lakers beat the Knicks, just as he's done it so many times before. It's one thing to not appreciate the mentality he takes on in these types of situations, but misrepresenting his intentions is a dangerous road to go down.
And besides, for all of Kobe's gunning, it's not like he's the reason they lost, or even the reason why the bigs didn't get enough shots. Fact of the matter is, Kobe converted 16 of 28 shots. He got to the free throw line A LOT (though his conversion of those free throws left a lot to be desired). Considering the circumstances, and the level of success he was having, I really don't have a problem with his game. It's all the other perimeter shooting that should be the subject of scorn. Lamar Odom went 2-9, with a ton of mid range jumpers. Derek Fisher was at his inopportune shooting worst, 1-6 on the night. Jordan Farmar chipped in with an ugly 2-7 clip, including 1-5 from 3 pt range.
And yet, as good as Kobe was last night, Pau and Phil do have a point. There is something wrong with the Lakers offense this season. It's fallen off quite a bit from last year's powerhouse. As Kelly Dwyer said the other day, there's simply no reason a team with this many weapons should be 9th in offense. This team's ball movement leaves a lot to be desired. Ron Artest's discomfort within the offense is only a portion of the problem. Kobe's shot selection is even less of the issue. But the fact remains, far too often the offense does not run from the inside out, as it should. Even more often, the ball goes inside, kicked out to the perimeter, and the bigs never see the ball again. There are entire games where the number of times the ball gets re-posted can be counted on one hand.
As this one game showed, Kobe's not the entire problem. Derek Fisher is the problem., Jordan Farmar and Shannon Brown are the problems. Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum not establishing good position is the problem. The entire team is the problem, and therein lies the rub. While Kobe may not be the actual problem, it is Kobe's problem to solve. If the entire team is failing to exhibit the proper behavior in running the offense, it's Kobe's job to show them how. That's the role he's chosen for himself, it's the role he wants. He is undoubtedly the team's leader, and he needs to lead them by showing them what it means to run the triangle properly. He needs to realize that Pau Gasol is absolutely abusing Hasheem Thabeet, and send it down to the Spaniard at every opportunity. Last season, the Lakers had one of the best offenses in the league, and Artest for Ariza isn't what's keeping L.A. from getting it back. Whatever is preventing the offense from firing on all cylinders, Kobe needs to be the one who gets it back in gear. And not by taking another shot.
It remains to be seen how this whole thing ends up. Kobe could take Pau's comments badly, could see them as further marring an occasion that clearly means a lot to Bryant. Or, he could realize that the comments came out of the frustration of losing a winnable game. He could realize that he's finally got a running mate who cares about winning as much ... almost as much as he does. More than at any other time, this is the first indication that there could be cracks in the foundation of the Lakers success. Those cracks could be only on the surface, easily fixed with a little spackle. Or they could be more significant, just waiting for the next big earthquake to come along and cause the whole thing to collapse. Only time will tell.
Under all the angles, the sad truth remains. Last night, Kobe became the greatest scorer in Lakers franchise history, and all he's got to show for it is a loss and team frustration.
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Kobe has created chemistry issues
with his comments about Pau’s injury. I think this in part led to Pau’s comments about Kobe’s selfishness. Kobe is my all-time favorite athlete in the world, but I think he needs to respect Pau’s right to nurse his injury. Just because he doesn’t play through the stormy weather like Kobe does doesn’t make Gasol any less of a competitor as he has PROVEN all over the world.
I don’t think that Kobe was gunning for the record last night. He obviously would have settled down if that was the only thing on his mind and not pushed that far past 20 shots. I agree he wanted to win.
But the fact remains that something was very out of sync with the Laker’s offense last night. Hopefully it was just some weird foul trouble and refereeing (game was terrible, imo). Right now I’m praying that we don’t get another Big man-Kobe feud.
The greatest trick the devil ever pulled was convincing the world he didn't exist.
It was not just last night
the Celtics and Raptors game before that also show it. Often, the offensive system is not just ran. It is a testament to how good this team is is that they manage to win inspite of it. However, had they just ran the triangle, those close games would not even be a nail biter, especially against teams like Mamphis and Sacramento
its terrible she has beautiful eyes and her hair smells like cinnamon!
YOU CAN PUT IT ON THE BOARD YES!
www.reverbnation.com/czheckproductions
at least you didnt ask what they trophy was for...
"People are going to judge you. They threw rocks at Jesus. So what do you think they’re going to do to me?" -Stephen Jackson
Good article.
The Grizzlies were plus 10 in the rebound category, with the Lakers only having five offensive rebounds. The Lakers shot 63% from the free throw line too. Yikes! The turnovers continue to plague the Lakers.
With the record out of the way, I expect Kobe to return to facilitator mode, much like his previous games.
As for Gasol, wrong timing on that comments, holmes. I hope doesn’t have one of those open-mouth-insert-foot moments during these next couple of games, especially with a couple of physical teams coming up in the form of the Bobcats, Blazers, and Nuggets.
One a good note, Artest is looking good, and starting to show much more comfort in triangle.
We better shut up the Nuggets fans with a Laker win on Friday
They have been thinking they are the team to beat in the West since the beginning of the season.
"People are going to judge you. They threw rocks at Jesus. So what do you think they’re going to do to me?" -Stephen Jackson
They've been thinking that since 08
They can either put up or shut up, otherwise they’re no different than any of our other so called “rivals” Just guys praying to beat the Lakers and not actually succeeding
I'd only consider one team in teh NBA our rivals, and that is the Celtics.
I know, duh, right? But all these other teams that we beat consider us their rivals (nuggets, kings, blazers, jazz). Its not a rivalry unless we lose to you as much as you lose to us, lol.
The only team that has gotten the better of us over history is the Celtics, and that is only cuz they have won the title more times than we have.
"People are going to judge you. They threw rocks at Jesus. So what do you think they’re going to do to me?" -Stephen Jackson
Not really
The only time the Spurs won in the last decade was when the Lakers stepped out of the way, lol. Even in 2004, when we had a badly put together team, we still made the finals by beating the Spurs in the WCF. In fact, i only remember 1 time over the last decade that the Spurs took us out of the playoffs, when we had championship aspirations.
lol I’m not sure what “stepping out of the way is.” Do you mean they didn’t want to win that year, and just decided to sit down and let the Spurs have a shot? Technically the Clippers can claim they’ve been politely stepping out of the way since the 80s.
The Spurs were a better team that year. And we were a very good team in 2004, as were they. People forget how much Malone’s injury had an impact in the Finals. Before Malone was injured that team began 18-3. But I agree with the general statement, we’ve been the better team in most years.
I'm tired of Pau complaining about not getting shots
Every game I see him get plenty of touches only to stand around with the ball and pass it back out. Point is if you want the damn ball deman it during the game and do something with it when you get the damn ball…stop actilng like a little biotch and play some ball.
by King J77 on Feb 2, 2010 3:06 PM PST reply actions 1 recs
Pau does have a point in asking the ball is pushed more down low but
I agree completely with you. I’ve seen Pau settle so many time for jumpers or pass the ball (although good passes) instead of being aggressive and taking it to the hole. Kobe gets so many shots because he doesn’t settle. As long as he can get a good look, he will be aggressive and take it (some shots might be outside the offense but not many). As a freaking 7 footers, Pau and Bynum should be in there crashing the boards, but they aren’t. I could at least understand if it was bynum complaining because he does get aggressive on the offensive end but again i think he should worry about his defense first.
by Madz on Feb 2, 2010 3:50 PM PST up reply actions 3 recs
+99999999999999999999999999999999999999999999999999999999999999999999999999
There are basic Fundamentals that are needed to move forward in this game. Always keep your guard up at all times to avoid being caught in a trap. Overcome the fouls that will be commited against you REBOUND AND PRESS ON. ADJUST to the LimeLight: ALL-STAR PLAYERS ARE ALWAYS THE CENTER OF ATTENTION. Know what your role is and play your position. Find a game plan and execute it. REMEMBER YOU ONLY GET OUT OF THE GAME WHAT YOU PUT INTO IT.
-1000
That passing thing is part of the game. Basketball, I mean.
...?
My comment had nothing to do with Pau’s comments, or his play. It was a response to a guy who called Pau a “biotch” because every time he gets the ball, he passes it back out. Which, quite frankly, I found borderline moronic. By that logic, I guess Magic was a biotch for giving up the ball so much.
…I didn’t say anything about the game last night…so I’m not entirely sure where that came from…
+9999999
"That's a giant sig " - Ben R.
by Saurav A. Das on Feb 3, 2010 1:33 AM PST up reply actions
Self-reflection is also warranted...
0 block and 5 offensive rebounds don’t give Gasol and Bynum much of a leg to criticize. I would actually understand the dissent in the Celts game where Bynum was efficient both offensively and defensively and on the boards against KG and Perk. But neither of the bigs played a lick of defense against Memphis and both were pretty much handled by Z-bo and Brother Marc all game. And when Kobe’s shooting 57% from the field he can gun all he wants to. He’s at least earned that right. If they bigs were fighting for rebounds and playing tough D, they would have gotten the shots. I firmly believe they would have.
by Mbanging with Mbenga on Feb 2, 2010 3:19 PM PST reply actions 1 recs
Nice screen name, btw I hate how Mbenga never backs his man down by body banging, never... I know he can atleast give it a try.
Hes all buff and all but never body bangs…
The RaiderLaker
Great screen name
Twitter feed: @dexterfishmore
by DexterFishmore on Feb 2, 2010 4:21 PM PST up reply actions
Paul Pierce could possibly be out with broken foot
I really want to play the Celtics in the Finals.. Kobe and Lebron are young enough to play in the future but the Celtics are hurting but I wanted revenge..
http://www.nba.com/2010/news/02/02/pierce.foot/index.html
"If you want to find the dumbest guy in the room just find the first guy to tell you how smart he is." - JG
by PURPLE AND GOLD FOR LIFE on Feb 2, 2010 3:27 PM PST reply actions
Yeah, their window is closing quickly
which really makes dropping the finals in ’08 sting that much more. It would have made this current dynasty that much sweeter with a finals win over the Celts…oh well, we will pass them soon.
Woohoo, I get to look forward to another 7-6 season ("at best") in 2010! There's nothing like going to Idaho for a bowl game.
WTF.
I want the C’s to be healthy and make it to the Finals. We have their number and it’s nothing but injuries.
Screw the Cavs. I want Boston.
http://twitter.com/wondahbap
Screw Orlando too.
They have Vince though, so Finals don’t look too good. ATL. No.
http://twitter.com/wondahbap
Agree completely, PaGfL
We need vengeance for 2008 before the Celtics wither away. I’m not going to lie – they present a stiff, stiff challenge. But where’s the fun without being tested? I want the C’s this year.
However, Kobe was NOT gunning for the record, he was gunning for the win. How many times have we seen this? Kobe saw the team come out listless to start the game. It was the 8th game of an 8 game road trip, the second night of a back to back. He wasn’t sure his team would be able to increase their energy level enough to pull out a victory. So he took over. He did the same thing last season, and scored 62 points in MSG to help the Lakers beat the Knicks, just as he’s done it so many times before. It’s one thing to not appreciate the mentality he takes on in these types of situations, but misrepresenting his intentions is a dangerous road to go down.
I agree so much with this.
Pau complains about not getting enough shots when the Lakers lose, but he forgets to put the blame on himself sometimes when he deserves it when the Lakers are coming off a loss. In yesterdays afternoon game Pau consistently got blown by Marc or Zach. Marc Gasol outplayed him and was so pesky on defense. When Kobe or anyone else got the ball inside Pau settled for the jumpshot instead of working down under in the post to get a higher percentage shot. He almost uses the “not getting enough shots” excuse in order to ensure that writers don’t blame him for the loss, when sometimes he is partly to blame. Pau hasn’t been playing well in the last 2-3 games and yet he makes it sounds like he’s been playing so well and so efficiently and somehow, Kobe’s just neglected getting him the ball. That really doesn’t the case in this situation.
by intuitive on Feb 2, 2010 3:37 PM PST reply actions 11 recs
agreed
he’s played pretty soft during this road trip
in the big games vs the cavs and celtics he got outplayed and turned the ball over a lot. he also shied away from the basket and just kicked the ball out.
if he wants the ball so much, he needs to prove it on the court rather then blurting it out in an interview…
"Just by the aura of D.J. Mbenga being there, the shot missed."
Maybe it is frustration
People hate to place the blame on themselves. All people, except for truly strong characters. Kobe can place the blame on himself. But the average person just looks for excuses. Pau has been playing badly as of late. I don’t care, he looked like a little biatch against the Celtics while Bynum looked like a BEAST. It is not their actually games i’m talking about, but their attitude. KG was talking trash to Bynum, instead of acting tough, Bynum took the ball with KG on his back, turned to the hoop and jammed it in his face. KG while throwing the ball in, kept patting himself on the chest..saying, my fault. But i digress. It just seems that Pau has not been playing well lately. Instead of realizing that it is HIS own fault, he is looking to place the blame elsewhere.
Not getting enough touches, being hurt, whatever. People just hate putting the blame on themselves, even though putting some blame on themselves may be the best course of action to correct the problem.
+9460486950455920^999999
"That's a giant sig " - Ben R.
by Saurav A. Das on Feb 3, 2010 1:34 AM PST up reply actions
So ture
New here Great Read!!!!!! hopefully it all stays in memphis or Mamba doesn’t take it the wrong way…
by purplebloodgoldheart on Feb 2, 2010 3:57 PM PST reply actions
kobe's thick skinned enough in that regard.
i think…
i’m actually more worried about pau being dissent.
I didn't read Gasol's comment's, I'm not gonna back Kobe here but
the facts I always see, is Kobe teammates not being able to produce when they do get the ball, instead of sure 2 point DUNKS at the rim, LO, Bynum and Gasol try to take 2 point layups that either get blocked or roll in and out off the rim. Kobe can’t do it all, he can not put the ball in the hoop for these dudes, they have to want to and do it their-selves with consistency every game, too many times it’s been 1out of the 3 guys to get in going in each game or 2 out of the 3 guys, with that kind of effort how can anyone count their points but for some reason every game you can add Kobe’s points, Kobe’s production, can’t say the same for LO, Gasol and Bynum, how is this Kobe’s fault? I don’t know, there’s been games where he hand feeds these dudes the ball and they still fail to produce so I would like for the ball to go inside more but they gotta be trusted to come through every time and right now if I was Kobe, I wouldn’t trust them and that’s why I would do it myself because I know I could produce with the ball in my hands.
There are basic Fundamentals that are needed to move forward in this game. Always keep your guard up at all times to avoid being caught in a trap. Overcome the fouls that will be commited against you REBOUND AND PRESS ON. ADJUST to the LimeLight: ALL-STAR PLAYERS ARE ALWAYS THE CENTER OF ATTENTION. Know what your role is and play your position. Find a game plan and execute it. REMEMBER YOU ONLY GET OUT OF THE GAME WHAT YOU PUT INTO IT.
by BrittneyM on Feb 2, 2010 6:20 PM PST reply actions 1 recs
I'm glad you all like the post.
I must admit though, I was a bit more harsh in my original post.
I do think Kobe was gunning a bit. I’m fine with that. The positive side of that balance far outweighs the negative. Maybe it was for the record. Maybe not.
I do feel that the ball does need to go into the post more consistently. Many of you have points about Pau not being aggressive enough when he is getting the ball. He’s “pussy footing,” waiting for double teams, instead of quick decisive moves. BUT…we’re still not consistently working through the post as we should.
Drew was right when he said this: “”http://www.dailynews.com/lakers/ci_14308105" target="new">We got up by (13 points) and me and Pau were kicking (the Celtics’ rear ends) on the inside, so to go away from it is kind of crazy," Bynum said. “I don’t know why we go away from that sometimes.”
It starts with Kobe, because the team will follow his lead. Personally, I’d like to see concerted efforts to work the post, even if it doesn’t seem to work because our offense needs consistency. Kobe still shoots when he’s missing. He works the kinks out. Why not the Bigs? Their good play makes our perimeter play that much better.
What bothered me the most though was the last play. I felt Kobe was going for another buzzer beater instead of the right play. We needed two, not three, and there was 21.7 seconds when we got the ball. There was no reason we should have ended up with what we got. No reason that two points shouldn’t have been very likely. I thought it cheapened his achievement, and would have cheapened the previous game winners. Tired legs or no. We’ve seen 3-pt. attempts before in similar road trip situations, but not that much time left. I was disappointed in the decision by Kobe because he knows better.
http://twitter.com/wondahbap
by wondahbap on Feb 2, 2010 6:36 PM PST reply actions 2 recs
Great post, both of you.
That Bynum quote, wondahbap, that they were “kicking the celtics’ [rear ends]” really resonates for me.
The ball needs to go inside more often. The triangle is meant for dominant post teams, not take weird floaters in the lane (farmar/brown) teams. We get killed whenever our opponent runs for easy buckets, further emphasizing this point.
This brings me back to the main idea of the article: Kobe, the leader of the team, must find a way for the offense to consistently operate inside-out, but keep the perimeter players involved as well.
I also agree that Kobe was scoring to win, not to break the record. I didn’t have a huge problem with his game last night, since everyone else played terribly, but even an 0-fer Fish can make that game-tying three (as we saw in the finals).
by Lamar Odom For Three on Feb 2, 2010 7:45 PM PST up reply actions
We think alike, wondah
Part of the reason the offense looks so smooth when Luke comes back from injury is that – despite his other weaknesses and relative lack of skill – he gets the ball inside.
+99999999999999999999999999999
"People are going to judge you. They threw rocks at Jesus. So what do you think they’re going to do to me?" -Stephen Jackson
What??!?!
I am new to SB nation as a subscriber but I am not new to SS&R because I follow your comments every chance I get. I totally respect what you guys have done here and everything else that you’ve said about OUR team and OUR Kobe but are you seriously questioning his intentions on why he used up the clock and should’ve tried to score a 2? C’mon now! You should know better. I say Kobe made a bold but great move to use up the time and go for the kill. He was aware of the team’s shortcomings on offense and wanted to get one shot to end it. He also knew that they will defend him to the last man and will try to deny him the shot so he used himself as a decoy. The end result is freeing up artest for that dagger three. We all know what happened after that but you should know better to question the intentions of who could well be the greatest WINNER we have NOW.
I’m from the Philippines by the way. Just rep’n my guys here. We love the lakers and we love Kobe. Repeat or bust!
by loudandproudlaker on Feb 3, 2010 3:57 AM PST up reply actions
I agree. Welcome also.
There is an old axiom in sports that says “go for the win one the road and the tie at home”. In other words “take the three on the road, take the two at home”. I don’t know if that was Kobe’s intention or not, but to question him about the last play seems silly. Especially since Kobe and RonRon (the two players involved in the last play) were the only two players that did shit during the game. Like someone else above said, why doesn’t Pau talk about being out-rebounded by his younger brother?
If Ron makes that last shot all you would have heard for the last two days would have been….
a) Ariza who?
b) 44 points and the game winning assist…..Kobe is the man!!!
c) What’s wrong with Pau?
Billy Mac: "Lamar, can you see yourself actually getting in the (boxing) ring"?
Lamar Odom: "No. My face is too pretty."
cant blame them
there is just too much talent for equal distribution of the ball. cant blame pau. cant blame kobe. cant even blame other guys. they just have to have the need to control the ball because of their playing levels.
Not only can water float a boat, it can sink it also.
2nd re-post for this today because I'm alittle tired of the Kobe trashing
After finally reading Gasol’s thoughtful comments, here is what I have to say….
Kobe, Kobe, Kobe, that’s all I read people blame NO PEOPLE, TRY GASOL, BYNUM AND LO
Yes I’m yelling because it is freaking ridiculous, KOBE SHOWS UP READY TO PLAY EVERY FREAKING DAMN GAME, READY TO PUT IN HIS WORK FOR A WIN, it may not be pretty, it may not be efficient but you know what Kobe give’s it his ALL and doesn’t STOP
Ohh how about Gasol, Ohh how about Bynum, Ohh how about LO???
Maybe I should freaking put together all of Gasol touches of the ball in one wrap up of video’s because this dude play’s SOFT, I don’t care anymore, there is no excuse for a 7 footers to not get good positions, to not dominate every time he touches the ball, to get punked by every center or power forward he plays against. Just imagine Kobe with Pau Gasol height do you think, DO YOU REALLY THINK KOBE would have a hard time dominating the ball and scoring every chance he got the ball around the rim but NO freaking Gasol play’s like a freaking shrimp short girl, it’s embarrassing how he gets man handled, its embarrassing how he doesn’t DUNK the ball, it’s embarrassing that is doesn’t fight back and yet this is all Kobe’s fault……GET THE F OUTTA HERE, I’ll believe that hype when I see it , the ball can’t go through the POST if they ain’t gonna do jack diggity with it on a consistent basis, not every other game.
There are basic Fundamentals that are needed to move forward in this game. Always keep your guard up at all times to avoid being caught in a trap. Overcome the fouls that will be commited against you REBOUND AND PRESS ON. ADJUST to the LimeLight: ALL-STAR PLAYERS ARE ALWAYS THE CENTER OF ATTENTION. Know what your role is and play your position. Find a game plan and execute it. REMEMBER YOU ONLY GET OUT OF THE GAME WHAT YOU PUT INTO IT.
by BrittneyM on Feb 2, 2010 7:49 PM PST reply actions 2 recs
I think that's a bad way of thinking about things
what does Kobe do when he’s in a slump? He shoots his way out of it. What does the rest of the team do when they’re in a slump? Well usually Kobe takes them out of the game entirely and never looks back.
Gasol was averaging 19 and 11 and made the all-star team. Why the hell are you so angry?
The greatest trick the devil ever pulled was convincing the world he didn't exist.
reasons of anger are above but everyone finds fault with Kobe, Kobe gets everyone's anger
time for his teammates to take some lumps and I disagree with you Justin, how is it a bad way of thinking but it’s a good way to just say Kobe you fix the teams problems, Kobe you help Gasol be dominate, Kobe you make Gasol score that DUNK, Kobe, Kobe, Kobe, I’m sorry Justin, some of the anger is because I’m having a bad day but you can’t place all the blame on Kobe, yes he keeps shooting but you know what, what’s he supposed to do when no one else has anything going for them then when he stops shooting and then the Lakers get down in points, here comes the criticism of Kobe is giving up on his team and teammates, trying to prove points that the team needs him and Kobe should of taking more shots. It’s always something when you mention Kobe, he never can do right but I will never doubt Kobe for trying and never stopping. Unlike his teammates who rely on him to bail their asses out when they pick up their dribble, when the double team comes or when the shot clock is running down. This happens often and it ain’t gonna be solved by Kobe taking less shots, it starts when everyone starts pointing the finger at their-selves and create for Kobe rather Kobe create for them all the time.
There are basic Fundamentals that are needed to move forward in this game. Always keep your guard up at all times to avoid being caught in a trap. Overcome the fouls that will be commited against you REBOUND AND PRESS ON. ADJUST to the LimeLight: ALL-STAR PLAYERS ARE ALWAYS THE CENTER OF ATTENTION. Know what your role is and play your position. Find a game plan and execute it. REMEMBER YOU ONLY GET OUT OF THE GAME WHAT YOU PUT INTO IT.
by BrittneyM on Feb 2, 2010 8:53 PM PST up reply actions 2 recs
I agree with Brittany M.
No way am I going to point the finger at a guy who drops 44 on 57% shooting for a loss. I’m tired of all the Kobe bashing myself. The guy gets trahed enough around the rest of the country, the least some of us “fans” can do is support the guy and everyone else who wears the purple and gold.
I'm sorry thsat you're having a bad day
but you provide the answer to your own question (re: why is it kobe being dogged with this issue). There is only one ball in the court. When Kobe keeps taking the majority of the shots, how can his teammates prove themselves? The only thing that I find that PAu and Drew needs to do is for them to ask for the ball with confidence. But really, since the offense goes through Kobe a lot, he already knows that giving them touches facilitates the offense better.
These guys touch the ball on pratically every possesion
They need to man up and take the ball hard to the rim(especially Pau). Every time he touches the ball he either" A) does that weak little jab step that no one falls anymore and then passes it back out after the double comes when he should be looking to attack as soon as he gets the ball. Or B) catches the ball takes and the takes two ar three dribbles in a half hearted attempt to back his man down and then throw up some weak little hookshot. Thats Pau’s game here lately folks. If I was playing pickup ball with him in the streets, you’d bst believe he wouldnt see the ball until h comes up with something better than that, because right now, he’s not playong well enough to be bitching to anybody about touches
by wavenstein on Feb 2, 2010 10:50 PM PST up reply actions 2 recs
are you kidding me?
Pau has had a string of bad games, but you are drawing WAY WAY WAY too much from that. When Kobe shoots poorly for a few games, we accept it, but when Pau does, we trash him? Give me a FREAKING BREAK. Notice how Pau averaged 19-11 this year and made the all-star team, DESPITE missing nearly a third of the season? Notice how much better the Lakers have been with him in the lineup than without him? Notice the Lakers haven’t lost 3 games in a row since he came to this team? Notice their record is something like 141-42 with him in the lineup?
I’m sorry Britney, but I’m tired of everyone jumping all over Gasol and calling him soft when he has PROVEN TIME AND TIME AGAIN that he is a championship caliber 4/5 and about as good as it gets in this league. The dude is a warrior who has played non-stop basketball for over 3 years straight now at the HIGHEST level of competition. THREE BAD GAMES DO NOT CHANGE THIS. If anything, Pau needs to be force fed the ball to help him out of his slump. He’s not going to get his rhythm back by taking SEVEN shots a game. Of course Pau is not going to get it done everytime he gets the ball, but in case you haven’t noticed, NEITHER DOES KOBE.
and wavenstein, are you really that stupid to believe that Pau would do anything other than dunk all over your face time and time again if you played street ball with him?
This is about what’s best for the Lakers as a TEAM. Gasol is almost every bit as key to winning a title as Kobe is. If you don’t realize that, then I don’t know what you’ve been watching the past 2 years.
The greatest trick the devil ever pulled was convincing the world he didn't exist.
LOL
I would have toned it down a bit, but that would be my same reply.
In addition, as I replied to brittney in another post, basketball is also a game of matchups. True, he is a 7 footer, but a slender 7 footer. You can’t fault him for his physical sttributes. the more that you admire it because he is still able to give good games and have double digit scoring. Now, to expect him to dominate against the likes of shaq (even in his age), howard or perkins is unrealistic.
True, its that same saying
You are what you are, so no matter what, Pau is not never gonna get that dominate presence vs. those bigs but I feel that some times hurt the Lakers when he can’t make moves in the Post but it’s that same problem if Kobe doesn’t shoot then he is trying to prove a point, Kobe shoot’s too much then he is single-handedly taking the team out of their offense, he can’t win, every thing he does for the team is cutinized but one thing you can’t question is his desire to get the win.
There are basic Fundamentals that are needed to move forward in this game. Always keep your guard up at all times to avoid being caught in a trap. Overcome the fouls that will be commited against you REBOUND AND PRESS ON. ADJUST to the LimeLight: ALL-STAR PLAYERS ARE ALWAYS THE CENTER OF ATTENTION. Know what your role is and play your position. Find a game plan and execute it. REMEMBER YOU ONLY GET OUT OF THE GAME WHAT YOU PUT INTO IT.
Hey I didnt call anybody any names here so don't do it to me
If you could read has the last few games. I wasn’t talkng about him as a player overall. My point is if you’ve been playing like crap lately you have no room to complain about somebody giving it there all out there. Calm down Kobe hater.
Justin I agree and disagree with your latest Gasol protection comment
Things I agree with:
“He’s not going to get his rhythm back by taking SEVEN shots a game.”
That right there is definitely true, he needs the ball to prove he can do it but I’m not talking about Gasol not having the ball, I’m talking about when Gasol has the ball and what he does with the ball. As I said before even when they get the ball they do jack diggity with it and I might as well put together a video for you(or have someone put it together for me) of what Gasol does with the ball when he does have the ball so you see what I am talking about. Gasol is talented, I know that but he doesn’t fully play to his talent, just place Kobe’s attitude in Gasol’s body, this would be a whole different story then, Gasol’s basketball attitude, effort and consistency is what I question, not the dude’s skill cause if he had half Kobe’s aggression the Lakers would be unstoppable, again how does this problem fall on Kobe’s lap? I don’t know because Kobe can’t make Gasol be tougher, Gasol has to do it. The only person who really should complain is Bynum because dude has been playing fairly beautiful basketball lately. I’ll get to what I disagree with in my next post gotta run my mom to the store right now so I’ll be back.
There are basic Fundamentals that are needed to move forward in this game. Always keep your guard up at all times to avoid being caught in a trap. Overcome the fouls that will be commited against you REBOUND AND PRESS ON. ADJUST to the LimeLight: ALL-STAR PLAYERS ARE ALWAYS THE CENTER OF ATTENTION. Know what your role is and play your position. Find a game plan and execute it. REMEMBER YOU ONLY GET OUT OF THE GAME WHAT YOU PUT INTO IT.
If Gasol had Kobe’s scorer mindset, he’d take 30 shots a game, and the other 3 Lakers would sit on the sidelines next to Jack and watch.
Tex Winter would cringe at these comments. The triangle offense is a system based off passing. Ball movement and cuts and reversals. There’s a reason Phil, Mitch, Tex, and Kobe have called Pau the ideal big man for the triangle. Because of his unparalled passing ability for a big man.
It’s the reason Luke Walton is still in this league, despite any relative lack of skill. Because he understands the triangle and how to run it. Pau’s passing is something we need more of, not less. We don’t need another Black Hole down in the paint.
Thats not the point I was trying to make
Gasol aggressiveness needs to be Kobe-like thats all I’m saying and if ya’ll really feel Kobe’s the black hole and the problem then I don’t see where we ever can agree on the Lakers offense. I want the ball to be pounded inside all day because Lakers can be very very dynasty-like if the post was more dominate with their moves and around the rim, instead of the finesse-like play they play like now.
There are basic Fundamentals that are needed to move forward in this game. Always keep your guard up at all times to avoid being caught in a trap. Overcome the fouls that will be commited against you REBOUND AND PRESS ON. ADJUST to the LimeLight: ALL-STAR PLAYERS ARE ALWAYS THE CENTER OF ATTENTION. Know what your role is and play your position. Find a game plan and execute it. REMEMBER YOU ONLY GET OUT OF THE GAME WHAT YOU PUT INTO IT.
The Black Hole is a tongue-in-cheek nickname given to Drew back when he absolutely could not or would not pass. Just a joke.
You can’t change a player’s style. Shaq scored with power. Gasol scores with finesse. It’s who he is. Ask a physical “presence” like Kendrick Perkins to develop the smooth offensive moves that Pau has. Ask Dwight Howard to learn the Dream Shake. It won’t happen.
I definitely agree with you, Brittney. This is a potential dynasty if we play the right way. And I get the frustration when Pau sometimes shies away from tough play. But I think we should also appreciate that Pau does things no one else can do, and without him this team would likely not be a serious title threat.
True I'm gonna drop it and not even get into what I disagree with in
Justin’s comment, Lakers just better repeat, they are too talented to not get it done
There are basic Fundamentals that are needed to move forward in this game. Always keep your guard up at all times to avoid being caught in a trap. Overcome the fouls that will be commited against you REBOUND AND PRESS ON. ADJUST to the LimeLight: ALL-STAR PLAYERS ARE ALWAYS THE CENTER OF ATTENTION. Know what your role is and play your position. Find a game plan and execute it. REMEMBER YOU ONLY GET OUT OF THE GAME WHAT YOU PUT INTO IT.
Wow
Nice..
"That's a giant sig " - Ben R.
by Saurav A. Das on Feb 3, 2010 1:36 AM PST up reply actions
well, that's the price to pay for being the star of the team, i suppose
when your team wins, you get to take home the glory & the MVP trophies.
but when your team loses, you shoulder the responsibility (regardless of what is really to blame. ie. one can say it’s kobe’s fault in leadership that he’s not helping pau to be at full potential.)
unfortunately, that’s just how things fall these days. with great power comes great responsibility :)
Another overblown Pierce injury
Therefore, I post this photo.
Twitter feed: @dexterfishmore
by DexterFishmore on Feb 2, 2010 8:05 PM PST reply actions 4 recs
that is brilliant
I want one of those so fuckn bad right now….
lol thats my chatngo lmage
haha
YOU CAN PUT IT ON THE BOARD YES!
www.reverbnation.com/czheckproductions
nice!
Woohoo, I get to look forward to another 7-6 season ("at best") in 2010! There's nothing like going to Idaho for a bowl game.
kobe is a great player.
Sometimes I watch him and think he may even be in the nod for greatest of all time…but people ride his nuts to hard. The Lakers have a great TEAM, period. but the more they stray from the triangle and the obvious interior presence advantage they have, the worse the team does. I’m no stat guy but I’d be interested to see Kobe’s personal scoring in the games when we smash teams since we got Gasol— not win or lose by one point . I’d gather to say in a lot of those games it’s down from his average and the bigs are doing more and sometimes even most the scoring. You have the greatest closer in all of basketball surrounded by all the talent. These guys need to be gone to consistently so the mamba can be in position to do his thing or not ever even have to at all.
" Defense wins games! "
I sure hope
Kobe and Gasol go back to running the pick and roll together that was so effective especially in fourth quarter games. That combo was seemingly unstoppable. Now what I see out there too much reminds me of Cleveland: One guy with the ball and four guys standing around… c’mon team— were better than that! I just look forward to seeing us fire on all cylinders again and take advantage of the things that make this team so unique and show so much potential to be a dynasty ( two finals visits in a row is incredible! )
" Defense wins games! "
Del Harris jumped ship
The Nets are so awful that even the assistant coaches are running for the hills.
Great write-up, guys. I like the balance, showing both sides of the story. Bottom line is that, with a high-volume perimeter shooter like Kobe, it seems there will always be some small tension with the post players because of shot distribution. Pau is as mild-mannered as they come.
That said, how many other teams in the league would kill to have this problem? Hmmm, do we give the ball to the 2nd best 2-guard of all-time, arguably the most polished low-post player in the league, or an upcoming potential 20-10 guy? We are The Spoiled, and I love it.
by Snoopy2006 on Feb 2, 2010 9:02 PM PST reply actions 1 recs
The Harris decision was very surprising
Guy was always more or less a class act, and the situation is so bad that he’s getting out.
To secure ourselves against defeat lies in our own hands, but the opportunity of defeating the enemy is provided by the enemy himself.
But
tha Yahoo report quoted him as being high on the team based on the last four games, and that it’s all good, so maybe he left in good terms. He even said the players are good, so I’m assuming its not a locker room problem. Are you talking about the FO?
Eh, Harris' written report reeks of "I want out" vibes
It’s hard not to be skeptical. I don’t think he burned bridges on his way out, but this isn’t exactly Hubie getting out because of age.
To secure ourselves against defeat lies in our own hands, but the opportunity of defeating the enemy is provided by the enemy himself.
hmmmm
You think he’ll still be able to land a job as an asst in the NBA? Even during his Laker time as head coach, his resume seems to be average at best.
I think he's a great assistant coach
And an average head coach, yeah. He’s pretty old at this point — I’m certain he could get a gig somewhere but it’s more on his own motivation at this point.
To secure ourselves against defeat lies in our own hands, but the opportunity of defeating the enemy is provided by the enemy himself.
After this road trip im thinking about the Bosh trade rumors
Instead of Bynum can we swap Pau in his place? He’s skilled but plays like he’s in the WNBA instead of the NBA alot of nights and i dont think it would be that much of a drop off….I’d rather see them pound the ball in to Bynum rather than Gasol right now…At least bynum has started to show up against physical teams….Pau not so much and notice how opposing teams PF’s are driving right at Pau abusing him on D? btw Bosh just got 35-15 tonight…Make it happen Mitch lol
pau's
pump fake always looks slow and funny he should just drive to the hoop
Not only can water float a boat, it can sink it also.
not against everybody
Marc is a very good defender, and Z bo is no patsy either. Besides, they were in a back-to-back against the Celtics, where he just had a lot of chest thumping with ‘Sheed. He’s probably tired after that. Let’s catch him Wednesday night, and see if his fake is still slow and funny
Hahaha
Well, if you look at it, Bosh-Bynum fits much better than Gasol-Bynum, at least on the offensive end and especially on the defensive end. To be perfectly honest, Gasol is probably the best possible fit a big could be for the triangle, but Bosh is really more or less a talent that transcends systems, similar to how Kobe, LeBron, Wade, and so on would be great in essentially any system.
When I wrote on Gasol’s and Bosh’s offensive games complementing each other, Bynum’s and Bosh’s do as well, except the two are great fits on the defensive end whereas both Gasol and Bynum are a slight disadvantage on that end. Bosh is a superb pick-and-roll defender while Bynum works best defending the rim or in straight post defense, so the two complement each other very well, as versus Gasol often having trouble with the pick-and-roll and guarding faster fours. Granted, Bosh would still have to play some center, so the overall gains could be marginal, but I’d wager they might actually be fairly positive.
That said, I’m partially convinced that Gasol’s overall funk has to be due to injury — he simply doesn’t have the same touch on his shots that I’m used to seeing (especially the near-automatic baby hook with his left hand — he never, ever missed that last year and now he can’t get it to go) and part of that can be due to injury. Mind you, it’s not that he’s playing hurt, but rather that getting injured throws off things like muscle memory, as to some degree, you don’t trust your body while doing certain things and tend to overthink as versus not thinking about it and just doing it. I’d wager he gets better closer to the playoffs, and honestly, we’d be best off seeing whether Gasol and Bynum truly can coexist with the playoffs as the big determinant before we really consider shipping either out of town. Lots of games between now and then.
To secure ourselves against defeat lies in our own hands, but the opportunity of defeating the enemy is provided by the enemy himself.
If true
then I’d expect Gasol to be back in his old self after, say, 2 to 3 three games. Good one pointing that out. I was attributing his last game to solely to fatigue.
You don't recover from a hamstring injury
in 2 or 3 games. He probably still feels it pulling and doesn’t want to reinjure it
Then you shouldn't whine about touches
or blame the guy who scores at a 57% clip and repeatedly got to the line.
I still don’t see the rationale for diverting the blame away from players who played terribly towards someone who played really well. And yeah…late by a couple of days
You also have to remember....
that he played bball over the summer. He sis not take a break. He went and played for Spain in the Euro Basketball Championships, and went onto the finals to win it.
Im not trying to make excuses for him, but maybe he is just a little tired. I really wish he hadn’t made the All-Star team cuz I think he needs some rest. I also hope that Kobe asks not to play so many minutes in the All-Star game as well, cuz he could use some rest on that finger, elbow, back, ankle as well.
"People are going to judge you. They threw rocks at Jesus. So what do you think they’re going to do to me?" -Stephen Jackson
***did
"People are going to judge you. They threw rocks at Jesus. So what do you think they’re going to do to me?" -Stephen Jackson
I wouldn't be that harsh.
But I do believe that Bosh is probably the best PF in the league now, him or Duncan; and I actually would trade Pau for him if there was a way of being sure is wouldn’t mess up the chemistry too bad.
"That's a giant sig " - Ben R.
by Saurav A. Das on Feb 3, 2010 1:41 AM PST up reply actions
What about this possibility.......
Pau Gasol, Jordan Farmar & Adam Morrison for Chris Bosh, Jarret Jack & Antoine Wright
I think thats a push at PF, a big upgrade at PG & a decent bench player that replacing the expiring contract of Ammo. Plus, we actually cut a million in pay roll. However, Bosh would need to be signed to a new contract before this trade (sign & trade). He would probably make about the same amount of money.
Jack is the typical big pg (6’3") that Phil likes. He is currently shooting 40% from 3 pt range on the season. With the contract they gave Calderon, I dont see why they need to hang onto Jack anyways.
……..Just a thought………
"People are going to judge you. They threw rocks at Jesus. So what do you think they’re going to do to me?" -Stephen Jackson
Throw in Bellinelli
And even a Pau-lover like me would be tempted. Jack could reasonably be the Fish heir we seek, and I covet Bellinelli as that shooter off the bench that we hoped Sasha would be. That’s a tempting deal.
But why would the Raptors want Pau? He’s elite, but he’s not nearly as young as Bynum, and he’s maximized his potential. If I’m Colangelo, as much as I love Pau’s game, he’s older, and not as good in a freewheeling system as he is in the triangle. I can’t see Toronto wanting Pau over Bosh.
Well, some say Drew in underachieving and is valued just cuz of his potential.
With Pau, he would get a proven player, who is one of the best PF’s in the game (along with Bosh). Basically, you know what you are getting with Pau, where you arent so sure with Drew.
And,you can switch out Bellinelli with Wright. The numers still work.
"People are going to judge you. They threw rocks at Jesus. So what do you think they’re going to do to me?" -Stephen Jackson
I think it's less of whether Colangelo thinks of Pau versus Bosh
And more what he could get in sign-and-trade scenarios. Gasol and Bargnani? That’s a solid frontcourt for the next three or four years, and Gasol gets to play with fellow countryman Calderon. With Boston experiencing a big drop-off next year and Cleveland dropping off either marginally or hugely (as Illgauskas and Shaq are gone regardless of whether LeBron leaves or at the very least, losing much more to age), the East would be much more open to new contenders — you essentially would have Orlando and maybe Atlanta, depending on how the Johnson situation resolves itself. I’d think it would be in Colangelo’s interest to explicitly not send Bosh in a sign-and-trade to somewhere in the East.
If we hypothetically were interested in doing this in the off-season, then I can’t really see Colangelo turning down an offer like that. Other possible offers aren’t as compelling. Dallas can only offer Dampier’s huge non-guaranteed deal, Josh Howard, and maybe Beaubois; they already traded their 2010 pick in the Kidd deal. Houston loses a lot of trading leverage with McGrady coming off the books, and you end up with a similar problem to San Antonio — lots of small contracts but none big enough to fit into a deal like this. I can’t really think of another possible trading partner that Bosh would have an incentive to do a sign-and-trade to get to otherwise — I’d wager he just goes to Miami in that case.
To secure ourselves against defeat lies in our own hands, but the opportunity of defeating the enemy is provided by the enemy himself.
I dont see how he stays if they dont trade him
He wants to be on a contender now, and Toronto is still building. They are getting there but losing Bosh will not help at all. Wade and Bosh on the same team will be ridiculous, if that happens.
"I work my ass off every day in practice. How many other guys can say the same thing? Not many. I'm fighting against becoming soft. That's the worse thing you can say to a basketball player." - Dennis Rodman
No one knows where anyone is heading, but I'm leaning towards Wade-Bosh
It just seems to fit to me. I actually think Miami has a few solid role players, who’ll look better with a legit #2. But they’ll still have a ways to go, I think. They’ll need more size. Picking up Jeff Foster would be a great fit for them.
The only way I think he stays
Is that Toronto makes an improbable run deep into the playoffs (i.e. to the ECF), indicating that the team is on the upswing. That said, I simply can’t see any other possibility other than them getting annihilated in the first round. They have so many matchup problems against the top four teams, and that super-soft defense is going to get really exposed in the crucible of the playoffs.
To secure ourselves against defeat lies in our own hands, but the opportunity of defeating the enemy is provided by the enemy himself.
Sorry, I mistyped
I meant to say, “I can’t see Toronto wanting Pau over Bynum.” That’s what happens when I try to post between classes.
I actually think Bynum-Bargs make a better complement. Bynum is pure low-post, and Bargs is an outside player. As we’ve seen when Pau is out, Drew’s a 25-10 guy waiting to happen. And he’s still so young. Add in the fact that his defense skyrockets when he gets offensive touches, and he seems like a better fit in Toronto, where he could be the #1 option.
Ah, I see
I would still think that the Lakers have a lot of leverage in that situation though — they don’t have to go through with the sign-and-trade and can stay pat. Gasol and parts would still be better than any offer on the market; it’s not like Colangelo has a lot of maneuvering room. Sure, he can haggle, but Bosh just leaves in the case of a deadlock.
Yeah, Bynum-Bargnani is a better combination, but Gasol-Bargnani is way better than Scola-Bargnani, Lee-Bargnani, or similar. Add in Colangelo’s love of European players and Calderon’s presence on the team, and I don’t think Gasol is a bad consolation prize.
To secure ourselves against defeat lies in our own hands, but the opportunity of defeating the enemy is provided by the enemy himself.
I think most everyone's crazy
and peoples perceptions are to quick to change, every game seems to cause a new rash of opinions towards a certain player or trade ideas for this team…it’s kind of out of control. Lets trade Bynum!, let’s trade Pau! next it will be: Lets trade Kobe! JK but you see what I mean? This is one of the best teams ever assembled really. gaining Artest and being able to keep Odom was just ridiculous. I was against getting Artest from the start only because it meant shipping off Odom probably the most undervalued Laker. Losing Ariza was a bummer but not at the expense of keeping Odom and gaining Artest. Anyhow, I digress. Can we just stop and look again at the Lakers record since they acquired Pau? ok thanks. now we can stop wanting to trade someone for their performance in a game or two. Trading ANY of the pieces of this team except waaay down that bench is really NOT a good idea based on how someone did in the game the night before…there’s half a season and the playoffs ahead and it’s likely this current squad has a chance to get to the finals 3 years in a row or even longer if they can stay together.
" Defense wins games! "
+100
"People are going to judge you. They threw rocks at Jesus. So what do you think they’re going to do to me?" -Stephen Jackson
This game
wasn’t lost because of being out of rhythm on offense. We’ve had plenty games where Kobe makes shots like he was and Pau and Bynum get their shots and WE LOST. For example, the one loss we’ve had to Phx this year LO, B, and Pau combined to shoot 13 of 33. Kobe had 26 shots in that game shooting about the same percentage. with even less fts. In fact we lost that game by 15. Adam Morrison even had 7 points in that game. It wasn’t cuz the bench didn’t pull its weight cuz they did fine too. You could say it was because of no Artest, but we were getting everyone involved and somehow still lost.
Just putting it out there that getting it into them doesn’t necessarily mean we win if anything it slows the game down more where the Grizzlies can go back and forth with us in the post and sorry to say, but randolph was killing just like he does against us every time. And baby Gasol isn’t a punk either in fact he punked his brother this game. The odds of us losing in the post against this team is higher than if we shoot against this team. Statistically speaking. We have better guards and defenders for their shooters. Whereas they are pretty much even down low and with the number of games we’ve seen it is slightly in their favor against our bigs. We haven’t stopped Randolph ever, and MGasol has shown he can handle his brother just as much as his brother can handle him. A balanced attack is better than both, but if one side doesn’t pull its weight we still lose. Basically to say, that even if we had pounded into them more the game still would’ve been close. They haven’t exactly dominated the Grizzlies every game. In fact, if Mayo and company on the outside ever actually get good enough to overcome our guard defense we lose every time. The Grizz are good down low, they may not be able to handle Bynum but Bynum can’t handle Randolph either, at least not without fouling. So this whole whose fault is it thing is ridiculous. They’re a good matchup for us no matter how we play them. Why did Cleveland destroy them? Cuz they have freaking Shaq down low who can play defense on their bigs and doesn’t play soft. It wasn’t only cuz Lebron was distributing perfectly, although that helped, it was because their bigs are gritty enough to take on their bigs and win. They have the bigs who can go back and forth with them and dominate. I have yet to see our bigs take it to Memphis on the defensive end well enough to say that our post offense will completely outdo the damage they can do down low as well.
I have a hard time believing
how many people just said “+ some huge number” to an above post that called our 2nd best player a “biotch” for passing. For passing. That is, setting up other people to score. Running the offense. You know…basketball?
I’m really not sure what else to say about that. If you’d like to go back to the days of Kwame, be my guest. I kinda like going to 2 Finals in a row.
hahahaha
You didnt have to bring up bad memories mentioning Kwame Brown!! I had a cold chill run up my spine when I read his name…whew
haha
I know the feeling. I nearly fumbled my laptop just thinking about him.
its not about his passing
its about his lack of aggressiveness to the basket. Sometimes its good, but other times he has position and he passes out. Why fight for position and just pass it back out? It sometimes happens to late in the shot clock to even reset around it. Not saying he’s a bad player, but the guy was responding to Pau’s play at times where he is overly passive with the ball. Its not a bad thing, but its not always a good thing either.
Heeey
Gasol is a great player and his post game is superb, but im just tired of seeing him get pushed around…..They’re basically the same size but i havent seen Bosh get pushed around like Gasol plus he attacks the basket more and gets to the free throw line thus gets opposing bigs in more foul trouble……It’s just my personal preference,Being that im a Big Bosh fan…..
Let Kobe channel his inner Col. Jessep (A Few Good Men) You want the TRUTH!!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TFNeBRc7W7s&NR=1
by oNy on Feb 3, 2010 11:39 AM PST reply actions 5 recs
nice, rec.
Billy Mac: "Lamar, can you see yourself actually getting in the (boxing) ring"?
Lamar Odom: "No. My face is too pretty."
I never said it was Kobe's fault that the Lakers lost.
Kobe was the best player on the floor two nights ago, how could I say he’s the reason we lost?! All I meant was that I agree that Kobe, the leader of the Lakers, needs to figure out a way to get this offense running smoothly again.
by Lamar Odom For Three on Feb 3, 2010 2:27 PM PST reply actions
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