For better or worse, the status quo has returned for the Los Angeles Lakers
by C.A. Clark on May 3, 2010 10:06 AM PDT
in Game Recaps
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Remember the good old days when the Los Angeles Lakers took their opponents seriously? The team that couldn't score effectively, and so put all their efforts into making sure the other team couldn't either? The team that had to play all 48 minutes because a slip in focus would see their opponents make a run the Lakers couldn't combat?
What do you think this is, last week? Those days are gone now. The Lakers once again find themselves up against a clearly inferior foe, and this foe is even further weakened by a massive injury list. The Lakers once again believe that 2 quarters of complete basketball is probably enough to be victorious, and sadly they are right. The Lakers and Jazz have played each other so many times over the past few seasons that both teams know exactly what the other is capable of, which means the Lakers know they don't need to try the whole game in order to get a victory.
Last night's 104-99 victory was a carbon copy of so many Laker wins from earlier this season. The starters come out executing well on both ends of the ball. They build up a decent lead, and then the conservation of energy starts. Suddenly the offense isn't as crisp, the rotations aren't as sharp, the team doesn't move quite so quick. Instead of going for the knock out early on, this Lakers team is content to ride some early round success into a close decision. They start playing at 80% of what they're capable of. Eventually, the other team will stage a comeback of sorts, usually involving too many of our bench players on the court for too long. The lead dwindles (or in this case, is lost altogether), we all get nervous, and then some combination of strong defense and Kobe Bryant combine to make sure that the Lakers end up with the lead and the victory.
The strategy makes us nervous because every once in a while, it doesn't work. Of late, that every once in a while has turned into every single time, because the strategy relies on the infallibility of Kobe Bryant in crunch time, and for the past couple months, Kobe has been anything but infallible. The question is: Is this development a sign of progression or regression?
On the one hand, it seems clear the Lakers, and Kobe Bryant in particular, have regained that swagger. I don't know if it's because beating the Thunder made them feel good about themselves. I don't know if its because Kobe is getting a bit more rest and looks a lot more like a superhero again. Or perhaps it's because the Lakers are playing the Jazz, and they can't help but feel confident based on prior results. The why doesn't matter, because there's no hope of it going away any time soon. Besides, I don't think I'm alone in saying that if I was given the choice between the current, overly confident bunch, and the anemic group we saw over the regular season's last 15 games, this team is definitely the lesser of two evils.
On the other hand, is it really too much to ask for the Lakers to combine their re-found confidence with the same desparate energy they used to defeat the OKC Thunder? Is the inverse relationship between ability and focus really necessary? The Lakers were given a two month reminder of how fleeting success can be, but the lesson in humility has not accompanied their climb out of mediocrity. I know now that it's foolish to expect the Lakers to ever learn that lesson. If this season didn't teach them, nothing will. I picked this series to be over in 5 games, and that's still a very real possibility. But, after only one game, a game the Lakers won, I see far too much of a Houston Rockets without Yao vibe developing to ignore. I don't think there's a chance in hell Utah actually wins the series, but I could easily see the Lakers taking their sweet time to lock things down.
Everything in Lakerland seems to be getting back to normal. Kobe and Pau once again look like the best 1-2 punch in the league. The bench is back to giving up leads and giving us heart palpitations. The Lakers have re-established themselves as one of the toughest teams to beat in a close game, because of the ability to play great defense and execute (via the Mamba) down the stretch. They've also re-established that the other team is never out of a game, because the Lakers will absolutely relent when they get a decent size lead. We've just witnessed this team, playing in this exact style right up until the Finals, win an NBA championship. We know they are capable of it, and that's not something that could be said a few weeks back. We also know they've once again failed to learn the lesson that we so desparately want them to learn, that intensity works better when you apply it at all times.
The Lakers are back to being the Lakers, for better and for worse. The question is: Are you happy about it?
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yes i am….on a different note, i am worried about having bynum play with the injury. if they say recovery from surgery can take as little as 7 days—or 14 days at most—then i think drew should having arthroscopic surger, sit this series out, and be back and ready for the spurs or cavs. he says he will have surgery until he needs it. what if that happens to be a crucial game 6 of the western finals or some time during the nba finals (if we make it that far)? i say have it now, when we can get by utah without him, and be ready for tougher opponents.
"the man who created a legend; the legend who resurrected a franchise."
NO!!!!
There is nothing to be happy about. How can a working person who has to perform every day or risk losing their job, be happy about it? Or how about an average or below average athlete (like this writer) who busted his ass on every play in every high school, rec league or pick up game he ever played in, be happy about this seeming lack of intensity and commitment? We love the game, and we love the Lakers and all we really want in return is to see on the court proof that they are as devoted to the game as we are to them.
But to more crucial matters, the early knockout of Denver and Dallas seemingly gives the Lakers a clear road to the Finals. SEEMINGLY. But even if that happens, NO WAY they beat Cleveland with this level of play. And maybe even no way they beat them with this bench, which MUST be improved in the summer.
It's actually quite a reflection of the utah series last year as well.
i remember even last year, they led utah by big leads and gave it up in the end…
the lakers don’t change, i suppose. this “evil” is definitely better than the one a month ago. at least we know there IS a “switch”.
Lack of intensity and sound coaching
4 bench players + Bynum = fail. This is the playoffs, not the regular season. PJ needs to stop subbing at the 2 minute mark of each quarter and start subbing at about the 4-6 minute mark (aside from Odom). There should always be at least 2 starters on the the floor.
I saw this type of play coming a mile away.
This may not be bad thing barring any bad luck with injuries. The players were all in agreement about the short turnaround. Maybe the Lakers want to extend the series to stay sharp instead of having a long layoff with no real game action.
Hopefully, they stay healthy and the bench finds their groove again.
Since the bench is going to suck and the Lakers are going to toy with the Jazz...
I say throw Artest out their on a prolonged run with the bench mob and let him see if he can find his shot.
I think when people are being funny, they are actually being serious and when people are being serious, it's actually really funny.
sound like a good plan
is they are gonna suck anyway , at lease we could let Ron-Ron launch his wild shots in “sucking time” rather than in “serious play time”
KB
should play around 38-42 mins IMHO.Ride him when he’s hot.
Laker concerns
Bynum very hobbled.
Odom bored, aloof, disinterested.
Unable to get any production from Artest.
Vujacic out.
Can’t deal with Ronnie Price (same thing last year).
Bryant and Gasol played perfectly, yet they trailed late in game.
Kobe misses a few of those ridiculous jumpers, Jazz win.
Weakest #1 seed in years.
Lakers in 7
followed by feuding and finger-pointing.
by Bouncy Phillips on May 3, 2010 1:28 PM PDT up reply actions
Watch as the trolls venture from their lair since their team has been eliminated
(Nuggets)
‘bouncy phillips’
….
…
:(
Sorry your team is out of the playoffs, but our blog is not in need of your clearly well-informed insight.
wrong.
feel free to debate my observations however.
by Bouncy Phillips on May 3, 2010 1:38 PM PDT up reply actions
Fueding and finger pointing?
Lol…..No doubt the Lakers are vulnerable but seriously there is nobody in the West who will beat them nor will there be problems in the locker room.
Everyone dismissed the Lakers last year after being taken to 7 games by Houston and 6 games by Denver. The playoffs isn’t a beauty contest….if you win it doesn’t matter if you win by 2 or 20. A win is a win.
The Lakers will be considered underdogs against the Cavs and Magic but its not like when the Lakers played the Nets in the finals.
I think the Lakers will advance
But they’re expected to dominate. If they don’t correct some problems, and allow the Jazz to win 3 games, I expect some friction. Eventually someone will call out Odom if he continues to yawn through games.
by Bouncy Phillips on May 3, 2010 1:49 PM PDT up reply actions
Domination isn't everything
The Jazz just don’t have the match up advantages or the healthy players that OKC had against the Lakers to take more than 1 game.
We expected the big 3 Celtics in 08 to dominate but were taken to 7 games multiple times and were underdogs to the Lakers but still won.
There is measured concern because we know that only a focused Laker team will beat whomever we face in the finals.
The Suns are a team who likes to run and has been playing better defense as of late but that series I see going 6 games due to superior Laker size, skill and most importantly defense.
point taken
why are you debating with a troll, anyway?
by Bouncy Phillips on May 3, 2010 2:11 PM PDT up reply actions
The Jazz also didn’t “have the match up advantages or the healthy players” against Denver, who by all accounts were the more talented team. Just a word of caution.
by Bouncy Phillips on May 3, 2010 2:13 PM PDT up reply actions
Unlike Denver
….the Lakers are more disciplined in all aspects, have a very skilled PF in Pau and Kobe. As good as Melo is…Denver goes away from him as an offensive option at the wrong times and now Boozer and Millsap will actually have to play D against the Lakers bigs. As much as the Laker bench inconsistencies can give games away, they can also make close games into double digit wins. We are fortunate to have Kobe when the bench fails.
It almost seems as if Denver always kills themselves at the wrong time by taking an ill advised shot or giving away a turnover followed by a defensive breakdown. Yet we see flashes of greatness when they beat the Cavs and Lakers in the regular season.
Think about what you just said...
If the Lakers go 7 games you expect some friction? lol Making it to the WCF and you expect friction from the winning team? This isn’t Denver who implodes at the 1st sign of pressure..There wast any implosion after going 7 games with the Rockets last year, so what makes you think this year will be any different? You hoping for an implosion is is one thing but it actually happening from a team WINNING and advancing in the playoffs..That usually is reserved for the losing team…Appreciate your outsider insight tho
You can tell the true greatness of a team by how they respond to adversity........
I think he's saying that the Lakers are held to such a high standard
That anything short of domination in this series could lead to questioning.
It’s true to some extent. If the Jazz were to go the WCF in 7, the story would be about how they were the underdogs, and how their great coach and scrappy role players and “best point guard in the NBA” willed them there.
If the Lakers were to take 7 to go the WCF, people would wonder why they couldn’t get it done sooner against a team they so obviously have an advantage against. In fact…this scenario actually occurred last year after the Rockets series. I remember a lot of media folk who had proclaimed the Nuggets to be the better team after Houston took LA to 7.
Quitter's People United: Member 12
by Uh on May 3, 2010 7:12 PM PDT up reply actions
He was talking about friction among the Laker players
after winning and advancing which makes absolutely no sense. A troll can only mask their true intentions for so long before they something that is completely ridiculous and reveal their true identity….As far as the team goes the media doesnt matter at all. I think the players know the media’s job is to take anything they can and blow it out of proportion to try and “create” Friction publicly.
You can tell the true greatness of a team by how they respond to adversity........
before they Say* something
You can tell the true greatness of a team by how they respond to adversity........
so anyone that states an opinion
that doesn’t align with yours is a “troll?”
OK. Lesson: “In Internet slang, a troll is someone who posts inflammatory, extraneous, or off-topic messages in an online community.”
Where did I do that? What a bankrupt community this must be if I can’t even write a post with a few Laker concerns. It’s not like I said Lakers player suck. I didn’t make fun of Gasol because he’s beautiful. I didn’t hijack anyone’s thread. I didn’t tell anyone to fuck off.
As for your observations, great! Sounds like the Lakers have nothing to worry about.
And, congrats, I have tired of participating in discussions only to be called troll over and over and over. If you don’t want any outside viewpoints, fine. Live in a fucking echo chamber.
by Bouncy Phillips on May 4, 2010 8:34 AM PDT up reply actions
I honestly don't see anything that you said as being bad
but fans treat comments differently What I’m curious about is what team you root for?
"If you want to find the dumbest guy in the room just find the first guy to tell you how smart he is." - JG
"The fact that the Lakers have played to such a high level even through the injuries is a testament to their skill, abilities, and resiliency." - 99bc99
by PURPLE AND GOLD FOR LIFE on May 4, 2010 8:47 AM PDT up reply actions
For the record
I’m a Jazz fan. (Spare the Mormon jokes, as I am a hardcore atheist.) But I didn’t come over here to rub that in your face or to diss the Lakers. I honestly like to discuss the game with other fans, understand what they see, etc. I live in a small town in CO, with few other basketball fans around. So I have no real outlet for discussion. But I also don’t really have the time or patience to defend myself against a bunch of insulting d-bags that can’t tolerate the slightest critical statement about their sacred and infallible team. The Lakers win, win, and continue to win, so why so much anger from some fans? Aren’t you Happy fans? Defending champs, #1 seed, and you still can’t handle a post saying that the Lakers have concerns. I bet Phil Jackson thinks they have concerns. Or did the Lakers spend yesterday on a fishing yacht instead of practicing?
by Bouncy Phillips on May 4, 2010 9:05 AM PDT up reply actions
A Mormon and an Atheist walk into a bar.....
oh, nevermind.
Billy Mac: "Lamar, can you see yourself actually getting in the (boxing) ring"?
Lamar Odom: "No. My face is too pretty."
If the shoe fits wear it.....If not then disregard it
The only comment i had an issue with and cared to respond to was the one about the Lakers infighting and Finger pointing after Advancing to the WCF should they do so…You’re more than entitled to your opinion but imo that statement alone was ridiculous…BTW you called yourself a troll and i dont recall saying bouncy is a troll. i just used a blanket statement as to what i feel a troll will do….If that doesnt apply to you overlook it and keep it moving..If it does then you would rightfully be offended by it….Why did you decide to respond by seeing the word troll and not to what i actually disagreed with about your statement?
You can tell the true greatness of a team by how they respond to adversity........
maybe it was ridiculous
I’ll reconsider it.
by Bouncy Phillips on May 4, 2010 1:33 PM PDT up reply actions
It's cool man
Sorry if i was harsh..Laker fans tend to deal with more than our fair share of trolls and we attack 1st then ask questions later lol All is well no hard feelings!
You can tell the true greatness of a team by how they respond to adversity........
Let's interrupt the snowball, shall we?
Bouncy is a fan of another team who came and posted a mostly innocuous post. He’s made two initial statements that people didn’t like: “Finger pointing if the series goes 7 games” and “weakest 1 seed in years”, both of which he has since clarified and backed off.
People jumped on him, declaring him a troll when he wasn’t really. He got defensive. Now we’ve got people going back and forth in a self-perpetuating cycle and it’s all unneccesary.
Bouncy, stop being defensive. Everyone who thinks he’s a troll, re-calibrate your troll detection.
Let’s move on.
Done.
I feel straightened out. I think we were all too busy trying to draw fouls on each other. When it doesn’t work, it looks foolish and floppy.
Anyway. Here’s to Game 2! Let’s hope it’s memorable.
by Bouncy Phillips on May 4, 2010 3:20 PM PDT up reply actions
Odom continue to yawn through games?
he’s been doing this since he became an NBA player. I realize that you don’t follow the Lakers as we do. But what you see from Odom is what we have been getting from him since the day he got here.
by heinzketchup on May 4, 2010 12:19 AM PDT up reply actions
If a win is a win
then I guess there’s nothing to learn from last night’s game. But I read through comments on this blog, and the consensus is one of measured concern about a lack of urgency. And why wouldn’t the Suns be expected to challenge the Lakers should they meet?
by Bouncy Phillips on May 3, 2010 1:53 PM PDT up reply actions
and how is that trolling?
I’m new to this, and as dumb as a scarecrow, enlighten me. I was neither attacking you or the Lakers, nor was I stumping for the Jazz. I mistook this for a place where one could converse and share observations.
You would actually fit in well over at Denver Stiffs, since you can’t actually debate without resorting to name-calling.
Thanks for the warm welcome to your revolutionary blog! I’ve never seen anything like it.
by Bouncy Phillips on May 3, 2010 1:46 PM PDT up reply actions
“Weakest #1 seed in years.”
You must be mistaking this place for MavsMoneyball.
Billy Mac: "Lamar, can you see yourself actually getting in the (boxing) ring"?
Lamar Odom: "No. My face is too pretty."
57 wins is pretty low for a 1 seed though
by Bouncy Phillips on May 3, 2010 2:26 PM PDT up reply actions
had to look it up on urban dictionary...
Feeling sensitive today and can’t use words? Look, friend, the Lakers will definitely win the title, 100%. Surely you can withstand some lightweight critique. It’s not like I’m spouting off conspiracy theories, or disrespecting the players. So just try to hang in there. I’ll try to make only pro-pro-pro-Laker observations. Like how they went 82-0 this season. Awesome!
by Bouncy Phillips on May 3, 2010 3:01 PM PDT up reply actions
I'm glad you are a sensible nuggets fan.
though you’ll have to pardon us when we make “stiff” references…
wow an Urban Dictionary reference....
It would be nice if we could make some lightweight Nuggets critique but…well….I guess you could say as Charles Barkley would “They gone Fishing.” Feel free to come back anytime and give your “expert” analysis on the Lakers and what’s wrong with the team. Im sure Laker Fans everywhere are appreciative of your efforts.
You can tell the true greatness of a team by how they respond to adversity........
Sorry guys
You are wrong. Not a Nuggets fan, but a basketball fan. As far as team loyalty goes, it’s not to the Nuggets.
by Bouncy Phillips on May 4, 2010 8:15 AM PDT up reply actions
Having Cavs record would be nice but...
when you play in the much stronger West…..things don’t always go as planned. And having a spectacular record doesn’t mean squat when it comes to winning. Just ask Lebron.
Ouch
“You would actually fit in well over at Denver Stiffs, since you can’t actually debate without resorting to name-calling.”
Come on now
Quitter's People United: Member 12
by Uh on May 3, 2010 6:10 PM PDT up reply actions
sadly, based on real experience, my friend
Not from you though. Go tell Ortolan to make a documentary.
by Bouncy Phillips on May 4, 2010 8:16 AM PDT up reply actions
Nuggets...
The PuertoRican Kid
by Kobe:The Legend on May 3, 2010 5:45 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
these concerns...
1-3) The first 3 seem to be a “in spite of [insert concern] the Lakers still won”.
4) And I am wondering why you think Vujacic out is a concern. Are you under the impression that he is somehwat decent?
5-6) The next two seem to be more of a Lakers bench issue, which is a real concern.
7) And Kobe’s ridiculous jumpers… that’s what he does. You wouldn’t say if Deron didn’t make some of those ridiculous passes, the Jazz lose, or if J.R. Smith didn’t make 4 3’s in a row, Denver loses, or if Lebron doesn’t get those ridiculous and1’s the Cavs lose. You get the point. And yes, sometimes he misses those jumpers and the Lakers lose.
8) And that last part is not really a concern, it seems like more of your opinion. The inverse is also true: strongest 2-8 seeds in years. And the Lakers have been the number 1 seed for 3 years so…
by heinzketchup on May 4, 2010 12:46 AM PDT up reply actions
Nice Defense
From a Jazz fan “trolling” the blog ;)
Personally, I’m just excited the game wasn’t over in the first quarter. In Bouncy’s defense, while he may come off confrontational, he does make valid points, and encourages thoughtful discussion. In other words, you better know your stuff. Anyway, carry on!
Basketball doesn't build character. It reveals it.
-Unknown
Good counterpoints
i guess my real point was that the margin of error for this Lakers team seems thinner than it has in the past. As you said re: Kobe, “sometimes he misses those jumpers and the Lakers lose.” True. But against the Jazz? At home? Relying on those jumpers to win the game is pretty sketchy, although Kobe threw down MVP-style for sure. There has been a lot of talk about their “lack of killer instinct,” etc., so I don’t feel like I’m introducing a controversy here.
As far as Vujacic, he does suck, but whenever he does shine, it’s exceptionally brutal for the other team. Very demoralizing to have Vujacic get hot on you.
“Weakest #1 seed in years”. I shouldn’t have said that. I wish I had written “Lakers seem less better-than-everyone than they usually do.”
by Bouncy Phillips on May 4, 2010 10:57 AM PDT up reply actions
People need to turn down their troll radar settings
Labeling you as a troll is like labeling a bird as a bogey.
what's a bogey?
His initial comment is what made the troll alarms go off…..he basically sounded like a typical Laker Hater with his Weakest 1 seed in years and Lakers win in 7 with infighting and finger pointing afterwards…There are ways to voice your opinions without blatantly saying something that will rile people up then get offended when he’s referred to as a troll.
You can tell the true greatness of a team by how they respond to adversity........
disregard this post i didnt see your response til it was too late lol
You can tell the true greatness of a team by how they respond to adversity........
Bogey is what they call an enemy plane (or more appropriately an unidentified one)
Radar detects aircraft, but there’s an old joke about some country having their radar turned up so high that they pick up a bird on their radar and then try and shoot it down.
i think its the playoffs
so their troll radars are going off at everything… is this when the trolls come out?
Your "concerns"are not indicative of all Laker Fans concerns
I for 1 dont care about domination on a game by game basis. It looks good and makes us feel better but in the end it doesnt matter….If we were to sweep the Jazz and not win any game by more than 5 points would that not be sweeter than going 7 games and having a cpl blowouts? As far as you Laker “concerns” i think it would b fair to say that the Jazz are in more trouble than the Lakers since they couldnt win in spite of those.
Regarding LO 9pts 12 boards is a pretty solid game from your 6th man. Combine that with Bynum who he replaces and you have 17 pts and 22 boards between the 2 which is very good. Sasha is a non-factor. Artest is Artest…Great on D but struggling on offense. This series i would rather have him breakout offensively but 1 game is too early to predict how the rest of the series will play out.
You can tell the true greatness of a team by how they respond to adversity........
The Jazz certainly have greater concerns than the Lakers.
I will not debate that. But, moving past the Jazz, the Lakers don’t have an invincible feeling. We can debate that. They’re the most dangerous team, no doubt, but not quite perfect.
by Bouncy Phillips on May 4, 2010 3:26 PM PDT up reply actions
i never assumed you were a troll
and trust us Vujacic’s sucking far outweighs his good. Its like a 4:1 sucking to good ratio. And winning at Utah will have to be a team effort. It could happen, but it technically doesn’t need to. But if he does make those “ridiculous” jumpers in Utah at some point, don’t say i didnt tell you so.
1-5 The Lakers have tbe best starting line up out of the main title contenders
now out of those title contenders and with the exception of Lamar the Lakers have the worst bench in terms of production and defense. That is my impression so far this season of the bench.
"If you want to find the dumbest guy in the room just find the first guy to tell you how smart he is." - JG
"The fact that the Lakers have played to such a high level even through the injuries is a testament to their skill, abilities, and resiliency." - 99bc99
by PURPLE AND GOLD FOR LIFE on May 3, 2010 4:30 PM PDT reply actions
ok for some reason most of us are giving way too much credit to Cavs
and apparently some of us think Lakers are considered underdogs to cavs… have you seen them play recently… as soon as they are meet with a strong defensive team their shooters go cold and end up getting double digits behind… their defense is not good at all other then Varjeao with alot of hustle and offensive rebounds and Lbj with some flashy blocks.. their offense is completely based off Lbj dribble and pass to outside shooters…
if it does come down to a Lakers-Cavs series, the result will be based on a few things
1. How “hot” Cleveland’s shooters are
2. To what extent will be size of Shaq & Big-Z bother our big men (and whether sideshow bob out-hustles lamar)
3. How much will Mo Williams harass Fisher.
The difference between us and chicago/boston is:
1. we rely heavily on our inside presence…which is what cleveland is good at countering with their size.
2. we can actually be exploited at the PG position.
if a guy like Noah can prettty much shut Shaq down in game 3
i think we got a little better chance… artest is doing decent D so he would make LBJ work for points… its not about how many he gets as long as artest makes him use up alot of possessions… secondly LBJ doesnt shot well against lakers… Mo William is a horrible defender but a good outside shooter when he gets going… Parker is a streaky shooter but better than artest… Shaq can become a liability with his slow speed… and Cle also have trouble with fast guards becaue of Shaq clogging the inside
but the problem isn't about limiting shaq on offense or exploiting mo william's defense.
shaq isn’t a big part of cleveland’s offense anyways. he’s more important in bother our bigs in the post than scoring points for the cavs. and even though williams isn’t a great defender…are we really going to exploit that matchup with “speedy” Fisher?
I would say LBJ & Kobe will be pretty much a swap. artest had better defense than parker, but parker is a more consistent scorer (shooter). so it all comes down to the difference between the advantage we have in our bigs vs. their advantage with their PGs. If our advantage inside is neutralized (as has been during the regular season) but we cannot limit mo williams…then we are screwed. but if our big’s regular season play was only a result of a fluke or uninspired play and we can get mo williams to miss shots…then we’ll come out victors.
The Cavs arent gonna make it past the Celtics
If/When we make it to the Finals we will be playing the Magic or Celtics
You can tell the true greatness of a team by how they respond to adversity........
Exactly!
"If you want to find the dumbest guy in the room just find the first guy to tell you how smart he is." - JG
"The fact that the Lakers have played to such a high level even through the injuries is a testament to their skill, abilities, and resiliency." - 99bc99
by PURPLE AND GOLD FOR LIFE on May 3, 2010 10:12 PM PDT up reply actions
If Noah can do a great job on Shaq Kendrick Perkins will be even more effective.
"If you want to find the dumbest guy in the room just find the first guy to tell you how smart he is." - JG
"The fact that the Lakers have played to such a high level even through the injuries is a testament to their skill, abilities, and resiliency." - 99bc99
by PURPLE AND GOLD FOR LIFE on May 3, 2010 10:12 PM PDT up reply actions
yea but the Cavs with 9pt quarter?
that’s crazy … time to call my friend and rub it in his face , i remember how he was rubbing that laker loss to OKC in game 5
THANK YOU!
I have been saying this before the playoffs started. If the Lebron was such an amazing defender why haven’t they put him on Rondo? Hopefully we can stop giving this Cavs team too much credit because many Laker fans felt that the Cavs were going to win it all.
"If you want to find the dumbest guy in the room just find the first guy to tell you how smart he is." - JG
"The fact that the Lakers have played to such a high level even through the injuries is a testament to their skill, abilities, and resiliency." - 99bc99
by PURPLE AND GOLD FOR LIFE on May 3, 2010 10:11 PM PDT up reply actions
Cavs vs Lakers in Imagination Land
The bus to the Imagination Land Finals match-up between the Cavs and Lakers now boarding for Yahoo Sports…
The Cavs aren’t reaching the Finals this year, Orlando wants our Lakers head on a platter and LeBron James aren’t going to stop them. So far I’m just not seeing anything new with Cleveland. They are the best regular season team in the NBA, but so were the Mavs and Phoenix. That’s what the Cavs are for the East: Best record, MVP and nothing to show for it in the post season.
i could see the cavs taking one in boston though...
boston’s not a good home team.
plus, the cavs were “constructed” to counter orlando, so boston could just be a bad matchup for them
I'd love to see the Cavs go down to Boston, but I'm not real confident in that one...
That being said Boston has fared far better than anyone thought they would. The power of Metamucil I guess.
I could see Boston winning again in Cleveland
By all means they should be up 2-0 and are gonna be pumped going home with the series tied 1-1..They’ve been there before and i was telling people you cant count those guys out..The Cavs haven’t had playoff success so the Celtics have a big advantage going home
You can tell the true greatness of a team by how they respond to adversity........
The Playoff Cavs dont scare me at all
Once teams get a chance to prepare for them it’s a wrap. They dont get it done
You can tell the true greatness of a team by how they respond to adversity........
wow.
theres a game on but im not going to talk about it right now…
"Just by the aura of D.J. Mbenga being there, the shot missed."
by shaqfor3 on May 3, 2010 7:04 PM PDT via mobile reply actions
Winner by Jamie Foxx
Kobe: "I'll do whatever it takes to win games, whether it's sitting on a bench waving a towel, handing a cup of water to a teammate, or hitting the game-winning shot."
WOW
Cleveland laying a stink bomb at home…83-60 Boston leads heading into the 4th
Kobe: "I'll do whatever it takes to win games, whether it's sitting on a bench waving a towel, handing a cup of water to a teammate, or hitting the game-winning shot."
that MVP trophy is cursed man
Lebron having a terrible night and I mean terrible … had like 3 consecutive TOs and he received the trophy tonight lol
is it just me
or has boston been playing better than the cavs overall the past two games? hopefully celtics don’t choke today. __
that would be along the lines
of a 24 point comeback in the finals….at home…when your about to tie the series
Kobe: "I'll do whatever it takes to win games, whether it's sitting on a bench waving a towel, handing a cup of water to a teammate, or hitting the game-winning shot."
that's true
he’s been quite impressive today, picking apart the cavs. it’s quite sad to see how lame the cavs have been playing today. is that elbow really hurting bron that much?
i wont say he is the best celtic
but he is the most consistent one
Kobe: "I'll do whatever it takes to win games, whether it's sitting on a bench waving a towel, handing a cup of water to a teammate, or hitting the game-winning shot."
He more or less is at this point
Pierce has fallen off quite a bit.
To secure ourselves against defeat lies in our own hands, but the opportunity of defeating the enemy is provided by the enemy himself.
but then again
i think i can get that many assists if i had Ray Allen, Pierce, and Garnett to pass too
Kobe: "I'll do whatever it takes to win games, whether it's sitting on a bench waving a towel, handing a cup of water to a teammate, or hitting the game-winning shot."
how good would we be with Rondo..
damn cant even comprehend
although
the point guard in the triangle should be more of a good shooter than a great passer. i mean, i think we have some pretty good facilitators on our team.
Rondo's tear drop is a killer
and his bank shots have improved tremendously.. so i think he will fit well in triangle
somebody like Darren Collison would be perfect
If you have a debate with a scholar, you can win. If you have a debate with an ignorant person, you will definitely lose.
Boston 22 fouls, Cavs 13
lol even the refs couldn’t cleveland tonight
If you have a debate with a scholar, you can win. If you have a debate with an ignorant person, you will definitely lose.
couldn't save cleveland*
If you have a debate with a scholar, you can win. If you have a debate with an ignorant person, you will definitely lose.
foam hands are much more dangerous
If you have a debate with a scholar, you can win. If you have a debate with an ignorant person, you will definitely lose.
Lebron needs to ice it up and just go in and play
instead of trying to hold back and make people think he is in some pain… when kobe broke his finger he tried even harder to the point people said he needs to shoot less but he put it on him to take the team to victory…
Good side: Cavs lose @ home
Bad side: We get to listen to elbowgate on high volume for a week
The greatest trick the devil ever pulled was convincing the world he didn't exist.
yea ...
so every game lebron is in such pain in the first 3 qts and then just feels healthier in the 4th ?
i mean he should have gotten used to the pain already … he’s already driving to the hoop more here
and how the Cavs need to make "adjustments"
Faith.... a fan's biggest downfall
i still think cleveland will win this series
but I think if Orlando can steal one at home they can win it
Faith.... a fan's biggest downfall
lol there goes Boston with their gamely choke job
Faith.... a fan's biggest downfall
stfu up Miller
Faith.... a fan's biggest downfall
lol at the cleveland fans
they actually think they still have a chance.
If you have a debate with a scholar, you can win. If you have a debate with an ignorant person, you will definitely lose.
its only a 12 point game
Faith.... a fan's biggest downfall
this is why Boston wont win this series
they’ll choke a game or two away at home
Faith.... a fan's biggest downfall
they might right here too
Faith.... a fan's biggest downfall
holy shit
things JUST GOT INTERESTING
Kobe: "I'll do whatever it takes to win games, whether it's sitting on a bench waving a towel, handing a cup of water to a teammate, or hitting the game-winning shot."
ok im not into stern messing with games
but damn these refs look one sided
if the celtics let another game get away
they might as well start making plans for the fishing trip.
"Just by the aura of D.J. Mbenga being there, the shot missed."
by shaqfor3 on May 3, 2010 7:41 PM PDT via mobile reply actions
you can tell the blowing leads thing is totally in their heads
Faith.... a fan's biggest downfall
BALL GAME!!!
Kobe: "I'll do whatever it takes to win games, whether it's sitting on a bench waving a towel, handing a cup of water to a teammate, or hitting the game-winning shot."
see ya cavs!
and so lakers fans are excited about a celtics win. lol
more like excited about a Cavs loss
If you have a debate with a scholar, you can win. If you have a debate with an ignorant person, you will definitely lose.
ROFL are we really cheering for the fucking Celtics????
or just rooting for the Cavs to lose?
Faith.... a fan's biggest downfall
Cavs to lose
If you have a debate with a scholar, you can win. If you have a debate with an ignorant person, you will definitely lose.
alright
Faith.... a fan's biggest downfall
the latter
Kobe: "I'll do whatever it takes to win games, whether it's sitting on a bench waving a towel, handing a cup of water to a teammate, or hitting the game-winning shot."
According to Wave
this means the Lakers lose tomorrow bc Cavs lost today
Kobe: "I'll do whatever it takes to win games, whether it's sitting on a bench waving a towel, handing a cup of water to a teammate, or hitting the game-winning shot."
no bc when we lost to thunder in game 3
the cavs lost to bulls the day before
Kobe: "I'll do whatever it takes to win games, whether it's sitting on a bench waving a towel, handing a cup of water to a teammate, or hitting the game-winning shot."
actually it has to be on the same day i think
and on the same network
If you have a debate with a scholar, you can win. If you have a debate with an ignorant person, you will definitely lose.
Yeah, it's like two games on abc on Sunday.
"These young guys are playing checkers. I'm out there playing chess." -Kobe
Not going to happen
For me its the consistent inconsistency that concerns me - PAGFL
It's always AMMO Time, in spirit- DexterFishmore
nah send in Scalibini to take a shot at lebron
lol…just kidding
Kobe: "I'll do whatever it takes to win games, whether it's sitting on a bench waving a towel, handing a cup of water to a teammate, or hitting the game-winning shot."
mo-williams as always in playoffs
no factor… and how come Lbj doesnt feel pain when he is trying to do his fastbreak blocks
and
5 TO
0-4 from 3
Kobe: "I'll do whatever it takes to win games, whether it's sitting on a bench waving a towel, handing a cup of water to a teammate, or hitting the game-winning shot."
anyways i am pretty sure everyone has seen
Kobe’s photo shootout… and all i have to say is Kobe should never try that again
? what you talking about willis?
For me its the consistent inconsistency that concerns me - PAGFL
It's always AMMO Time, in spirit- DexterFishmore
If you have a debate with a scholar, you can win. If you have a debate with an ignorant person, you will definitely lose.
include the numbers after the comma at the end
If you have a debate with a scholar, you can win. If you have a debate with an ignorant person, you will definitely lose.
even kobe admited it was kinda weird
If you have a debate with a scholar, you can win. If you have a debate with an ignorant person, you will definitely lose.
Love your signature
Very apt for this forum.
by Bouncy Phillips on May 4, 2010 9:07 AM PDT up reply actions
now that's trolling.....
at least given your definition above.
Unless you think this comment “isn’t” inflammatory. Or unless you consider yourself the ignorant person. (which I assume you don’t)
Billy Mac: "Lamar, can you see yourself actually getting in the (boxing) ring"?
Lamar Odom: "No. My face is too pretty."
Wow... heh
Mamba! WTF? haha
For me its the consistent inconsistency that concerns me - PAGFL
It's always AMMO Time, in spirit- DexterFishmore
lol sum1 edited pictures and put a caption underneath
and the one in which kobe is wearing a scarf from the side pose was labeled “uncircumcised mamba”
http://docfunk.blogspot.com/2010/05/kobe-bryant-white-hot.html
this guy does captions for every game in the playoffs. i spent like an hour going through them all
If you have a debate with a scholar, you can win. If you have a debate with an ignorant person, you will definitely lose.
It's not looking good at all. He should never do that again.
"These young guys are playing checkers. I'm out there playing chess." -Kobe
Kobe must reeaally love Vanessa to subject himself to this!
Top left photo has a Michael Jackson vibe to it in a weird sort of way.
I think those pics are cool.
Its something different, something that I haven’t seen. Works for me. The tons of makeup almost make him look unrecognizable.
i don't exactly like the pics
but I think they served their purposes. Everyone is talking about them. What more could the photographer ask for
This team is a bunch of strippers and hackers out there
-Phil Jackson
i agree that it was pretty weird
but it he didn’t choose what to wear. the photographers and whoever’s in charge do.
Rick Owens long-sleeve T-shirt: $322
I’m gonna get me one of those, the Mamba wore it!
For me its the consistent inconsistency that concerns me - PAGFL
It's always AMMO Time, in spirit- DexterFishmore
I totally agree. Those are terrible and very feminine and go against his personality even though I don't know his personality exactly.
"These young guys are playing checkers. I'm out there playing chess." -Kobe
Rasheed actually had a good game
Amazing.
For me its the consistent inconsistency that concerns me - PAGFL
It's always AMMO Time, in spirit- DexterFishmore
Stern on Lebron during the MVP award
"I don’t know how he shoots the ball so far so easily," Stern said. "You get the sense if you wanted to play H-O-R-S-E with him and it was a halfcourt line, he’d shoot 50 percent."
Yeah, and half-court basketball sure translates into good shooting for Lebron, too, right? Oh, wrong. Go PERs, go assists!
For me its the consistent inconsistency that concerns me - PAGFL
It's always AMMO Time, in spirit- DexterFishmore
Yeah... sad huh?
http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news;ylt=Au1LRUNlBkeEOKMbrbrKvI5nYcB?slug=txsternfreeagency
For me its the consistent inconsistency that concerns me - PAGFL
It's always AMMO Time, in spirit- DexterFishmore
so lebron accepted the mvp in front of the crowd today
and then the cavs fall flat on their face. what a let down.
its always AMMO Time somewhere
What did the cavs do to brian shaw i mean reallllllly
www.reverbnation.com/czheckproductions
www.mybeatshop.com/czheckproductions
Great men are never without flaws, but neither are they without magnificent traits that caused them to rise to such heights.
all i want to see is steve nash go in the 4th row just once
www.reverbnation.com/czheckproductions
www.mybeatshop.com/czheckproductions
Great men are never without flaws, but neither are they without magnificent traits that caused them to rise to such heights.
how? being swatted there by Blair? xD
i’d like t see stoudamire kick ginobilli into the stands!
So who should we be going for in the Spurs Suns series?
Kobe: "I'll do whatever it takes to win games, whether it's sitting on a bench waving a towel, handing a cup of water to a teammate, or hitting the game-winning shot."
someone should make a fan post
like Nostance did for the cavs celtics
Kobe: "I'll do whatever it takes to win games, whether it's sitting on a bench waving a towel, handing a cup of water to a teammate, or hitting the game-winning shot."
Phoenix
San Antonio has a variety of players that cause us problems (Parker, Hill, Blair, Ginobili). We have the book on Phoenix more or less and Lopez probably won’t be back or at the very least, won’t be 100%.
To secure ourselves against defeat lies in our own hands, but the opportunity of defeating the enemy is provided by the enemy himself.
yep...phoenix would be a MUCH better matchup for us
But playing the spurs in the finals would be kinda cool. It’s a like a rivalry renewed.
Plus, having an easy WCF might make us fall asleep again like we did in ’08
Sheed was a big difference maker today for Boston
He was more or less a net positive than the staggeringly bad presence he was in the previous game. He’s still incredibly slow on his rotations on the defensive end, but that can be forgiven if he’s punishing Jamison or Hickson on the block.
Also, who saw LeBron’s laughably blatant travel when he jumped from one spot to another? Hilarious.
To secure ourselves against defeat lies in our own hands, but the opportunity of defeating the enemy is provided by the enemy himself.
Also, who saw LeBron’s laughably blatant travel when he jumped from one spot to another? Hilarious.
That’s an understatement.
yeah, there were multiple obvious wrong calls during that game.
it was like, seriously….seriously?? even reggie miller called it a clear travel/crab dribble.
seriously he looks like an amish farmboy
heres some doc funk pics
funny stuff:
"Just by the aura of D.J. Mbenga being there, the shot missed."
by shaqfor3 on May 3, 2010 9:54 PM PDT up reply actions 7 recs
sooooo good!
" Get out of my way Saturn! "
by Captain $hugg on May 3, 2010 10:00 PM PDT up reply actions
If this is not green by morning, I'll be sorely disappointed
To secure ourselves against defeat lies in our own hands, but the opportunity of defeating the enemy is provided by the enemy himself.
At this point, it's pretty safe to say that Phoenix has the best bench in the league
It actually reminds me a lot of our ‘07-’08 bench mob with a lot more speed and shooting.
To secure ourselves against defeat lies in our own hands, but the opportunity of defeating the enemy is provided by the enemy himself.
On second thought, Dudley would solve a veritable ton of our bench woes
Shooting, wing depth, solid defense. A pity Phoenix took him away early in the year.
To secure ourselves against defeat lies in our own hands, but the opportunity of defeating the enemy is provided by the enemy himself.
Careful!
You used the phrase “bench woes” in reference to the Lakers. That is considered trolling here. Go away!
by Bouncy Phillips on May 4, 2010 8:38 AM PDT up reply actions
your phony martyrdom is waning quickly.
Billy Mac: "Lamar, can you see yourself actually getting in the (boxing) ring"?
Lamar Odom: "No. My face is too pretty."
As is your lame attempts at it
Take a hike.
To secure ourselves against defeat lies in our own hands, but the opportunity of defeating the enemy is provided by the enemy himself.
I was still smarting
from my first attempt to have a discussion here. I apologize.
by Bouncy Phillips on May 4, 2010 10:40 AM PDT up reply actions
What's the general opinion about Derek Fisher over here?
How to reconcile this man. He plays on winning teams. Seems to make team play better. And yet, is clearly one of the least productive players ever. On one hand, it’s great to have winners around. On the other hand, why settle for the league’s worst point guard? Are there plans to replace Fisher? Is he an essential part of the team? Why does he start? Could he succeed on a team which did not have Kobe? Would he be just as effective as an assistant coach? Would they Lakers be unbeatable if they had ANYONE else playing PG?
All questions I have pondered since watching Fisher for that one season in Utah. What do you guys think? Is he an asset or a liabilty? Personally, I think he is just awful, and I am exhausted by his cosmetic diplomacy, and his “I’m-a-better-sportsman-than-you” attitude. Thinks he’s a Roman statesman. But, regardless of my irrational opinion, he seems to contribute to victories. How does he do it? How can a player who does so little win so much?
read this: http://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2010/3/28/1393690/an-evening-with-derek-fisher
C.A. Clark wrote this a while back. It pretty much sums up our overall opinion of fisher and it sorta explains how he helps us win even though he appears to be hurting us defensively.
If you have a debate with a scholar, you can win. If you have a debate with an ignorant person, you will definitely lose.
Some things are hard to explain. Mainly as far as his shooting.
His age, I don’t think, should effect his shooting. I think thats a myth and an excuse. My only idea is that its more mental. Also, one side, just like Fisher couldn’t succeed on other teams not because of Kobe but because of the structure of the offense. He is perfect for the triangle. At the same time, there are much better players and I would say that most NBA pgs can’t handle the triangle. Example..garry Payton.
The Lakers would be unbeatable if they had a PG who could defend and shoot wide open shots. But there is still the fact that the triangle offense is hard to learn and the pg position might be the hardest to learn. Ultimately, he is an assett but also a lot the blame needs to put on Phil and the front court. Fisher should not start. Also LO, Pau and Bynum should guard the paint to make up for Fishers lack of speed much like Shaq did in the past. Shaq was such a force on defense that no one ever complained about fisher being burned. Fisher is also fortunate to win so much with the Lakers because the talent around him has been so superior.
"If you want to find the dumbest guy in the room just find the first guy to tell you how smart he is." - JG
"The fact that the Lakers have played to such a high level even through the injuries is a testament to their skill, abilities, and resiliency." - 99bc99
by PURPLE AND GOLD FOR LIFE on May 4, 2010 9:28 AM PDT up reply actions
Fisher is bad, we like him as a person, and he starts because Phil likes him and the alternatives aren't much better
To secure ourselves against defeat lies in our own hands, but the opportunity of defeating the enemy is provided by the enemy himself.
Terse, informative
Thanks for the info.
by Bouncy Phillips on May 4, 2010 10:42 AM PDT up reply actions
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