Blogging with the enemy: 5 Questions with CelticsBlog
by C.A. Clark on Jun 1, 2010 1:30 PM PDT
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Print[Editor's Note: We here at Silver Screen and Roll always enjoy a little interaction with the enemy, and CelticsBlog was happy to help us continue our cross-blog endeavours. Jeff Clark manages CelticsBlog, and has volunteered to pony up some inside information about his beloved men in green. And before you ask, while it would be the definition of fantastic for Jeff and I to be two brothers on opposite sides of the battle line, like some storyline out of the Civil War, sadly, we're both just cursed with a last name slightly less common than Smith. Carry on.]
SS&R: During the regular season, I'm pretty sure that Boston fans considered Rasheed Wallace to be the worst human being in the history of the world. In the playoffs, he's had some positive impact. What is the general consensus regarding Wallace at this point?
Jeff: You'd be hard pressed to find any kind of consensus on Rasheed Wallace anymore. We've seen two different players now. One from the regular season that just didn't care 9 games out of 10 and one in the playoffs that has shown up for most of the games and contributed something (even if it is just a veteran defensive move - like "pulling the chair" on Dwight forcing him into a travel) in most of the games. I think we're just holding our breath with him. He's already been forgiven (for the most part) for his regular season but I think we do need him to keep producing in order to match up with the L.A. bigs. Counting on someone like him is never a comforting feeling, but I'm sure on some level you can relate with Ron-Ron.
SS&R: Injury report time: ESPN is mentioning that Rajon Rondo and Rasheed Wallace were limited in practice this week. I've heard talk about Kendrick Perkins' knee, and Marquis Daniels and Glen Davis both just had concussions. How much of a problem is health for the C's right now? Of those contributors, only Rondo is necessary. How much do you think he will be limited?
Jeff: Rondo will play with one arm if he has to, but he's not as effective if he doesn't have his burst. With that said, it looked like his fall just gave him a sore back and we're all hoping against hope that a little rest will heal that up enough for him to get back to being our MVP. Davis played well in game 6, so as long as he doesn't take a Bynum 'bow to the noggin, he should be full speed. As mentioned above, we'll need Sheed's back to be back to full strength, especially if any refs decide to make an example out of Kendrick Perkins. Perk's knee hasn't limited him lately, so hopefully that is fine for now. Daniels effectively played himself out of the rotation anyway, but he's out regardless.
SS&R: Looking at minutes played, the C's basically have only 4 guys (starters + Tony Allen) playing the bulk of the minutes at three positions. How have the Celtics not been punished for a rotation that thin? What is Boston's response if they run into perimeter foul trouble?
Jeff: Somehow Rondo has managed to play almost wire to wire for much of the playoffs (ahh to be young and talented). On the other end of the age spectrum, Ray Allen is just insanely conditioned. Rondo is the MVP and if you look up the team's numbers with Ray on the floor, you'll see just how important he is to our success. So you roll with your best and rest in the summer.
As for the subs: Doc didn't trust Nate until game 5, where he earned some respect from Doc for playing good defense. That might have set the table for his game 6 explosion. Will he be trusted going forward? We'll see, but I'd imagine that Doc's leash on him will be very short. Finley could come in if absolutely necessary, but I believe he's only being trusted for short spurts at a time.
SS&R: In 2008, the Celtics were able to shade their entire defense towards stopping Kobe Bryant, and it was effective because the other Lakers did not step up as much as was needed. Looking at the Lakers current roster, do you expect the Celtics to attempt to do the same thing, and if so, how successful do you see that strategy being?
Jeff: As the cliche goes, nobody is going to stop Kobe. You have to make him work and you can do some things that take away some of his options, but he's just going to find other ways to hurt you. The Celtics play team defense on anyone and customize the defense for each opponent. I'd imagine they'll try to keep Kobe out of the paint and play physical with the Laker bigs, but all that will change game to game and maybe even quarter to quarter. I know Doc mentioned that they started adding a zone to the defensive playbook, but I doubt it will be of the plain vanilla variety.
SS&R: Probably the easiest difference to identify between 2008 and 2010 is that the Lakers are in possession of Home Court Advantage. LA hasn't been beaten on their home floor, but the Celtics have played their best basketball on the road all season, including the playoffs. How big of a factor do you think the HCA will be?
Jeff: It will be huge as usual. If the C's can grab a game in L.A. it gives us a great edge. In the 2-3-2 format, you almost have to count on the Lakers taking one of the Boston games because it is so hard to win 3 consecutive games in the Finals. It will be a storyline all along.
One thing I'll mention is that the C's are a great road team because they have tremendous focus and they even thrive on the negative energy from the opposing crowds. In the regular season they kind of eased up at home, maybe due to overconfidence, but that hasn't been the case in the playoffs. Clearly the Lakers are a great team (home and away) as well, so somethings got to give. May the best team win.
SS&R: Thanks, Jeff. I think we can all agree that this should be an awesome match-up.
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Enemy minds
go lakers
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.
Artest is a G.
That is all.
Only 7 different teams have won a title since David Stern has been the commissioner
On defending Kobe....
Isnt ray allen equally as good at defending kobe as posey was? i mean look at kobes game winner against the C’s this season, that is an extremely tough shot, which he isn’t going to make often…
"I don't mind being the goat. I don't mind being the villain, hated. I've been that my whole career, so it's not like that's anything new. I don't mind people jumping on the bandwagon or jumping off. I just focus on playing the game." -Ron Artest
I disagree
neither one was effective, Celtics do a good job of team defense, 1 on 1 Kobe tears both man apart and which will be the difference now is Kobe’s teammates being able to come through when Celtics try to limit Kobe as they did in 08, Kobe’s teammates make Celtics pay then look for more 1 on 1 opportunities for Kobe which Allen can not stop alone.
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 committed 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.
Well... Maybe its those abc commentators...
All i hear is “great defense by allen on bryant” “Bryant shooting 40% from the field thanks to allan/pierce” etc…. Im just hoping i’m wrong…
"I don't mind being the goat. I don't mind being the villain, hated. I've been that my whole career, so it's not like that's anything new. I don't mind people jumping on the bandwagon or jumping off. I just focus on playing the game." -Ron Artest
love the logo
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.
Hahaha
Why thank you :)
"I don't mind being the goat. I don't mind being the villain, hated. I've been that my whole career, so it's not like that's anything new. I don't mind people jumping on the bandwagon or jumping off. I just focus on playing the game." -Ron Artest
I get you but all I saw
was Allen getting away with calls, Celtics got away with calls period vs. Lakers in 08, played more physical and just out right took it to the Lakers and got away with it, Lakers didn’t respond to the test, they wilted so I just don’t see that happening this time around, Boston will try but this time Lakers will be willing and ready to give it back to them. Let the battle begin but just ask yourself 1 on 1 forget teams, Kobe vs. Allen who you picking? Kobe all day
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 committed 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.
Answer here is no
Ray Allen is a good defender, but not as good as Posey. One shot doesn’t prove anything
The greatest trick the devil ever pulled was convincing the world he didn't exist.
Kobe is good at making bad shots. He's probably the best bad shot maker ever.
Personally, I don’t think Kobe’s scoring is as important in this series as it was in the previous series. I think Kobe will be more facilitator in the Finals. The Celtics aren’t going to allow to dominate. They’ll make somebody else beat them.
As for Ray Allen’s defense, he’s solid, but I don’t think he can handle Kobe in the post.
Hopefully making Ray Allen work on defense, even if he does a solid job
Will detract from his offensive efficiency
"This is not a game for boys. This is a game for men." - Phil Jackson
If Ray guards Kobe
Then Kobe will have to guard Ray. I think chasing Allen though all those screens may take away from Bryants offensive efficiency.
by Scal4theallstargame on Jun 1, 2010 5:57 PM PDT up reply actions
If Ray guards Kobe then Kobe will have to guard Ray?
Why?
Billy Mac: "Lamar, can you see yourself actually getting in the (boxing) ring"?
Lamar Odom: "No. My face is too pretty."
What I was supposed to say is
Kobe will have to guard Ray in transition. If Ray is guarding Kobe and the Lakers miss a shot a loose possession then he will have to guard Ray during the C’s possession because switching to Rondo (or Pierce) during transition is risky.
by Scal4theallstargame on Jun 1, 2010 7:15 PM PDT up reply actions
ah, ok
Billy Mac: "Lamar, can you see yourself actually getting in the (boxing) ring"?
Lamar Odom: "No. My face is too pretty."
Kobe has made a career of guarding the best players on opposing teams
that doesn’t bother me at all. Kobe is the only player who truly guards the best player on opposing teams and still produces offensively.
"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 Jun 1, 2010 6:12 PM PDT up reply actions
There are players like Pierce, Lebron and so on who are credited with being great
players but rarely do they take the challenge on D to guard a player on all 48 or at least most of a game. I guarantee you that the Celtics will not put Pierce on Kobe for most of the game. But I bet you that if the Lakers didn’t have Artest they would put Kobe on Pierce for most of the game.
"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 Jun 1, 2010 6:16 PM PDT up reply actions
It would take away from Kobe's offensive efficiency if he had to run through all those screens
But Fish usually gets to do the honors of running through the picks and chasing Ray Allen. So maybe Fish’s legs will be worn out, which will affect his three point shooting.
"This is not a game for boys. This is a game for men." - Phil Jackson
How switching on those screens like in the suns series
I doubt allen can shoot as well over Pau as Nash
You can't pick that ball up and run with it
-Phil Jackson
Fish on screens...
Fish also has a bit of a knack for making screens ‘pay’ for him having to run through ‘em. Guy’s like a running back, and you better believe that those knees hit the thighs hard.
The half-crazed ramblings of a Lakers fanatic living in Japan...
yep that's often overlooked
he bangs those guys hard!
lol...
"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure."
http://www.silverscreenandroll.com/ - Visit, and be loved. Troll, and die a painful death. =]]
by Saurav A. Das on Jun 3, 2010 3:07 AM PDT up reply actions
and often gets offensive fouls called.
"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
Considering
Allen’s defense is putting Kobe in a situation like he was in the reg season game (February game in boston) , I dont think kobe isnt going to make that shot often
"I don't mind being the goat. I don't mind being the villain, hated. I've been that my whole career, so it's not like that's anything new. I don't mind people jumping on the bandwagon or jumping off. I just focus on playing the game." -Ron Artest
I know what you meant
but Kobe has proved in his 14 years that he does make that shot often. What does February have to do with the shot?
http://twitter.com/wondahbap
Oh.
I don’t know…. I’m just really paranoid right now, because for some odd reason, a majority of the sports analysts are claiming that the celtics will dispose of the Lakers in 6, which really boggles my mind.
"I don't mind being the goat. I don't mind being the villain, hated. I've been that my whole career, so it's not like that's anything new. I don't mind people jumping on the bandwagon or jumping off. I just focus on playing the game." -Ron Artest
analysts are a joke lol
they picked lakers over celtics in 08, cavs over magic in 09, cavs over celtics this year. why should you even trust them? :P
Ugh i dont know....
This wait is driving me crazy i can’t wait to see what unfolds in game 1
"I don't mind being the goat. I don't mind being the villain, hated. I've been that my whole career, so it's not like that's anything new. I don't mind people jumping on the bandwagon or jumping off. I just focus on playing the game." -Ron Artest
Nice post by the way
I can’t wait, I want basketball now so we can put these if’s to rest.
LET’S GO LAKERS
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 committed 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.
Lakers *have* to win this series
They have home court and they have the better team. The only real question marks are about the “toughness” of the frontline. Gasol, Bynum, Lamar, and Artest should be able to at the very least compete with Garnett, Perkins, Pierce, and Big Baby. As long as they find the balance between smart and passionate, determined play they will.
2008 was the Celtics series to lose and now 2010 its the Lakers. Lets go boys. Bring us home.
The greatest trick the devil ever pulled was convincing the world he didn't exist.
by Justin N. on Jun 1, 2010 3:48 PM PDT reply actions 2 recs
Kobe has only lost one playoff series when his team had homecourt advantage
The year and opponent in that series shall not be mentioned, I’m sure you know it.
I hope it never happens again.
"This is not a game for boys. This is a game for men." - Phil Jackson
still makes me tear up :(
Faith.... a fan's biggest downfall
horrible..
"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 Jun 1, 2010 4:03 PM PDT up reply actions
agreed Justin
REC
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 committed 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.
I completely understand breaking down matchups but when it comes down to it there is
one aspect of the Lakers game that absolutely must change and that is their mental toughness. I was begining to wonder if they were there until I saw the post game presentation of the WC trophy. I am glad that it wasn’t at the Staples center because the team just seemed in a zone. The best part about it was when Michael Cooper, before handing the trophy over to the Lakers said something like, “Boston, you want us you got us” DAM! got chills on my skin. The team wasn’t celebrating one bit. I think this year this team will destroy the Celtics more than anyone anticipates. I really think they can even win in game 5 at Boston. I just believe in them that much.
"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 Jun 1, 2010 3:52 PM PDT reply actions
I like the confidence, I have the Lakers in 6 or 7. Depending on the first two home games.
by rickfox on Jun 1, 2010 4:00 PM PDT up reply actions
If not in 5 in 6 but I doubt it will go to game 7.
I cannot wait for Thursday.
"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 Jun 1, 2010 4:02 PM PDT up reply actions
you think Rondo will be Kobe? If so, he'll go in the post a lot.
by rickfox on Jun 1, 2010 4:05 PM PDT up reply actions
nope
I think Ray Allen and Tony Allen will guard Kobe and at the end of the game they will put Paul Pierce on him. In my opinion Rondo and Ray Allen will be the Lakers toughest cover on D.
"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 Jun 1, 2010 4:36 PM PDT up reply actions
agreed
my way is Kobe guard Rondo, make him score only, like the Lakers did Nash, limit his ability to get everyone involved in the game then don’t let Ray get hot. Lakers will be fine if they can do those things.
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 committed 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.
Do you smell what the Lakers will be cooking?
yeah it’s the Celtics…LOL, I feel you PAGFL
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 committed 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.
I dont think its going to be that close of a series.
Celtic fans are measuring this series based on what happened in 08. Not happening.
"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 Jun 1, 2010 4:37 PM PDT up reply actions
Besides Personnel being different, what tells you it's not going to be close?
by rickfox on Jun 1, 2010 4:44 PM PDT up reply actions
the Lakers lost in 08 not because they weren't the better team but because the
the Celtics had a mental toughness that was combined by 3 players who had never made it to the Finals and were hungry. This time around the Lakers have a different mentality approaching this point. The fact that its the Celtics makes gives this Finals even more of an edge. Their demeanor is just different this time around.
"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 Jun 1, 2010 4:59 PM PDT up reply actions
No question
the team is tougher and has a championship mentality. As long as they play to their potential they will win. I question their desire sometimes, but against the Celtics it will be there and the Lakers will win in 6.
Go Lakers!!!
You all occupy a world dominated by Kobe Bryant, consider yourself fortunate.
agreed.
plus i think the lakers are the hungrier team this time(especially artest) it’s quite obvious that they still have that bad taste in their mouth and want revenge. honestly. have you guys seen any other team so unemotional and unexcited about winning the conference title? like kobe once said we got bigger fish to fry
by lakers are trouble on Jun 2, 2010 12:18 AM PDT up reply actions
That's part of it
But the other primary reasons were two: Boston’s best offensive creator (Pierce) was guarded by LA’s two worst defenders (Vlad, Luke); and PJ made the tactical mistake of having Fish guard Rondo in Games 1 and 2.
The Lakers were 0-2 in that regular season and 0-2 in the Finals with Fish guarding Rondo, and 2-2 in the Finals with Kobe on him (and 3-0 in the two seasons since). And as for Vlad and Luke on Pierce, remember how tough Boston’s road was to the Finals? Everyone was criticizing their offense. Well, Pierce was guarded by Marvin Williams and Josh Childress in the 7-game Atlanta series, Lebron in the 7-game Cleveland series, and Prince in the extremely close 6-game Detroit series. I’m going out on a limb and saying those defenders are better than both Vlad and Luke.
by The Dude Abides on Jun 2, 2010 12:22 AM PDT up reply actions
Rondo really wasn't all that special in game one, but in game two he had sixteen assists. Yikes.
The greatest trick the devil ever pulled was convincing the world he didn't exist.
As a Celtics fan
This is my first time posting here. I thought the conversational exchange between the two Clarks was terrific, and you obviously have a good blog going with good, knowledgeable fans. From my perspective, the Celtics have shown their mental toughness, after a very hard year of rehabbing from injuries to key players and fitting pieces back together, by (with a couple of exceptions) dominating the teams with the best records in the league in the playoffs. The Celtics have finals experience through the top eight spots on the roster, youth with Rondo, Perkins, Glen Davis and Tony Allen to go along with at least four potential Hall of Fame players (KG, RA, PP and RR). The Lakers also have a very good team AND the Lakers have home court advantage. That could play a very large part, or not, as the Celtics are known to be a great road team. The Lakers have Kobe and it is very difficult for anyone to stop Kobe.
I hope this series is one for the history books. I have picked the Celtics in 6, but really it should go 7 and the winner is a toss up. Actually, I am just hoping to see top effort from both sides so we can all be proud of our teams regardless of the outcome. Go Celts! (I just had to say that, lol)
by thirstyboots18 on Jun 2, 2010 6:19 AM PDT up reply actions
replying to my own post...lame
I realize that I am premature in predicting Rajon Rondo for the Hall of Fame, but I am just so Proud of this kid and what he has been able to do….
by thirstyboots18 on Jun 2, 2010 6:32 AM PDT up reply actions
Hear, hear
I’m with you on the Rondo prediction. It’s hard not to be super proud of that kid and the player he’s growing into.
Aussie Girl, Celtics Fan.
btw..whats up man!
"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 Jun 2, 2010 7:36 PM PDT up reply actions
man?
Billy Mac: "Lamar, can you see yourself actually getting in the (boxing) ring"?
Lamar Odom: "No. My face is too pretty."
As a Celtic fan how could you not be proud of how he's played
its surprising to everyone that he is the MVP of a team with Pierce, KG and Allen on it.
"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 Jun 2, 2010 7:34 PM PDT up reply actions
Not here to troll
But in all fairness, I don’t think most Celtics fans are measuring this series based on what happened in 08, at least not any realistic fans. Both teams are entirely different than they were 2 years ago. You can argue that each team have their reasons for winning, but when it comes down to it, I don’t think the 08 series will be very relateable. All that said, I’m looking forward to a great series.
by faithfulcelticfan34 on Jun 2, 2010 8:19 AM PDT up reply actions
Agreed
I can only speak personally, but I know I’m not measuring this series based on what happened in ’08. Too much has changed, too many faces are different. I too am looking forward to what is no doubt going to be a rollercoaster series.
Aussie Girl, Celtics Fan.
Welcome
defenitely agree. I think as Laker fans we are tired of hearing about it. But I dont think what happened in 08 will mean much starting tommorow.
"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 Jun 2, 2010 7:35 PM PDT up reply actions
Had to share this one... latest from Doc Funk
The half-crazed ramblings of a Lakers fanatic living in Japan...
by With Malice on Jun 1, 2010 4:34 PM PDT reply actions 3 recs
I hope Sasha can be the guy that contributes
he needs redemption also, I remember all so well, Ray Allens 1 on 1 drive right pass Sasha so Sasha, I need something positive vs. Boston this time around
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 committed 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.
I really think he will have at least one big game.
Honestly, I think it will be in Boston.
"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 Jun 1, 2010 5:38 PM PDT up reply actions
I'll take something as long as it is positive
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 committed 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.
I think he will bring something positive.
"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 Jun 1, 2010 7:02 PM PDT up reply actions
he's already worked his way back
into the rotation; I’m also feeling (hoping) one, out of nowhere, big game. Some open 3’s, in succession, maybe?
His threes will win us one or more series.
"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 Jun 1, 2010 6:33 PM PDT up reply actions
at the very least..
he can go chase ray allen around and pester him to death
by lakers are trouble on Jun 2, 2010 12:20 AM PDT up reply actions
Nice discussion from a Celtics fan in Cali.
Nice web site here. I have to admit I am relieved after reading this site to see some reasonable discourse on basketball rather than a spectrum of childish insults and outlandish assertions. I realize every team has nutty fans beyond control. But the Lakers and Cleveland seem to frequently bring out the worst in net behavior on general net blog postings. Perhaps this is due to both teams being very popular team with a good records, and a dominant player each (Kobe Bryant and Lebron James) who are popular and marketed very heavily.
My worries were mostly confirmed when reading Cleveland’s site during the Celtics-Cavs series. This Lakers blog is way way better than Cleveland’s. Props to you guys.
It should be a good series. I agree that matchups and home court should favor the Lakers a little. One thing in the Celtics favor though is they play much better defence (playoffs not regular season) than the Lakers have experienced to this point out west and pressure defense does change the game.
I like Boston’s chances if they can:
1) Force Kobe to try and take over (meaning games need to be tight or playing from behind) and shoot a low percentage as he is at times prone to do. The guy is bordering on superhuman with high difficulty shots. But when he tries this regularly your team becomes vulnerable since he is alas human and sometimes tries to do more than he should.
2) The Lakers do not find an answer for Rondo. This series is very different that 2 years ago. Rondo is now really good on offense and defense and he can take over games with the pressure on both ends. I really doubt Fisher can guard him and Bryant will suffer too trying to guard him if you take that path. Yes, I know Bryant is a good defender but it will drain him over a series.
The wild cards in this are Perkins coming unglued too much (what is it with all the double techs — I know he can be a jerk popping off but some were ridiculous). Plus the health of KG and Bynum. KG by the way is still up and down since the injury. When he is on he looks like the KG of 2 years ago and you guys will likely have major trouble if he sustains that. But he also is not fully recovered and has a lot more bad games after tweaking things (he will never admit anything is wrong though much like Kobe but you can see it).
I am expecting an entertaining series. Both the Celtics and Lakers (with Bynum and Artest) play physical but not dirty. The last Celtics-Magic series unfortunately became a little dirty with Howards rash of take-downs (ironically the bad ones to me were not called). Now unfortunately the Celtics are banged up and a big concern is whether the layoff will be enough for them given age and accumulated injuries.
May the best team win.
by Celtics_fan_in_cali on Jun 1, 2010 5:46 PM PDT reply actions
First off Welcome..glad you stopped by. I think we are tired of hearing each other blab..
Not sure why you are surprised that Lakers fans and their ability to discuss basketball with some sort of knowledge of the game.
The Celtics play more aggressive D but I don’t think they are that much better than the Lakers.
Those days of Kobe taking over are done with. That does not work anymore and that is a myth that died in 2008. I only hope the Celtics team still believes that. I actually dont think I have heard any comment of that at all this post season.
Rondo will not tire Kobe down. But since you brought up two years ago, your team doesn’t have Posey and Powe anymore coming off the bench. Rondo is your best player but on all other postitions the Celtics are weaker than they were in 08.
Here is where I disagree with you the most and possibly where the title will be won. KG. I think that Celtic fans are building a HUGE misconception on KG’s game based on him being guarded by Rashard Lewis and Jamison who are versions of our Lamar Odom. Too undersized to guard KG. No matter if Pau or Bynum guard KG he will face the type of D that he has not seen all post season. Mainly because KG relies on a fade away jump shot that Jamison or Rashard Lewis couldn’t guard.
May the best team win and I think you know who I think that is and I know who you think that is.
"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 Jun 1, 2010 6:31 PM PDT up reply actions
Not so sure on all of this ...
In my limited viewings Kobe does sometimes regress to his try to do all mode. That is when you guys sometimes have problems unless he is on fire (which happens). I thought that did happen in a loss against the Thunder too (1/3 of a large number of shots hit) so I would not be fully confident for no more repeats of such.
On Rondo … he did pretty well against the Lakers to date. I expect more of the same or worse for you guys unless Howard sufficiently injured him. He is better than a many give credit because he plays with Pierce, Allen, and KG. He has a very good all around game and a lot of stamina. Kobe does have trouble with super fast point guards too and if he is dinged up and Rondo is not, you may not like the result.
On KG. Well, if Bynum goes outside to guard KG at the top of the key (his favorite) guess what that does for Rondo getting into the lane. I really doubt Gasol has the quickness or is physical enough (Bynum) to give Rondo much trouble.
Yes, you guys are better defensively than in 08 …no doubt. But I don’t think you are better defensively than Cleveland or Orlando this year. Howard gave Rondo problems in the lane but you would be a champion homer to think Bynum (possibly injured at that) is in the same category as Howard with lane intimidation.
We will see what happens when the games start. I would not be so confident if I were you. Yes I would give you guys an edge as I said but not big. One thing I left out in your favor is that the Celtics are a horrible front running team so I think there is little possibility of the Celtics delivering a beat down. Conversely, if they are not healthy (you can thank Howards frustration mostly if so) they are not so strong so I would give you guys more probability of a beat down on the Celtics this time than vice-versa. But healthy the Celtics beat teams that gave you guys some trouble this year in the playoffs already. We will soon see how matchups are exploited or failed in this case.
by Celtics_fan_in_cali on Jun 2, 2010 12:19 AM PDT up reply actions
Welcome... but:
Yes, you guys are better defensively than in 08 …no doubt. But I don’t think you are better defensively than Cleveland or Orlando this year.
And you left out that defensively AND offensively Boston aren’t what they were in ’08.
I have no idea why you think that Bynum would be out guarding KG… unless you’re talking of the obligatory game that Perk’s going to have to sit when he gets his 7th tech.
If healthy? An interesting proviso – KG’s still not quite at full stretch, is he… and Rondo’s experienced back ‘issues’ – as has Wallace. Davis/Daniels are returning from concussions…
All in all, some nice thoughts there – but a helluva lot of “ifs”.
The half-crazed ramblings of a Lakers fanatic living in Japan...
I have seen every single playoff game of the Lakers and I can tell you that if Kobe did try and take over games like he used to this team wouldn’t be here. But we will agree to disagree. : )
I think that at this point Rondo gets plenty of credit. He is at this poing up there with Gasol and Kobe in terms of MVP discussions. By the way, I’m not sure what you mean that Kobe has trouble with fast PG’s. Every point guard has one thing that Rondo doesn’t and thats a jump shot. That makes guarding him so much easier.
KG will have a harder time shooting over Bynum or Gasol. You can believe that. At the same time the Lakers have done a great defensive job as a team on every point guard they have faced and even though those PG’s did well against the Lakers that is because they have taken away their other options.
There is no way Bynum is better than Howard defensively. But as a team the Lakers are better defensively than both those teams.
I cannot help but be overly confident. I felt this team was going to win the title since the playoffs started and I know they will. And I applaud you for seeing that both teams do have a ligitimate chance because they really do. Both teams are banged up because I will tell you this much if Bynum was not injured at all I would be even more confident especially Kobe’s finger was injured either. But what are you going to do? All you can do is hope the best for your team when they step on the court.
"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 Jun 2, 2010 6:20 AM PDT up reply actions
Nice post
The Lakers just got done with some of the premier point guards in the league with Westbrook, Williams and Nash. We have an answer for Rondo. I’m not saying that Rondo isn’t a great player, but hopefully we’ve learned how to deal with quick guards.
Lakers haven’t played a defensive team like the Celtics? I say the Thunder are pretty close. I’d also say Ditto, we’ve got a great defensive team too (when we bring it).
Your front line is not as good as our front line. Perkins/Big Baby do not match up at all against Pau. KG will get his, but it’s not 2008. Pau is a better player now, although this year they basically played each other even (Pau slightly ahead on scoring/rebounding).
Your team does not rebound as well as our team, especially on the offensive glass.
The Celtics are banged up, yes. So are the Lakers.
Heh, I know I won’t convince you with a post. Good luck, thanks for your input.
For me its the consistent inconsistency that concerns me - PAGFL
It's always AMMO Time, in spirit- DexterFishmore
Counter Points
Nash and Williams do not defend (Nash on defense … ha!) or rebound like Rondo. Westbrook I have not seen enough to comment intelligently on his all around game. Rondo really has a lot more of an all around game. If healthy he has a good record already against you guys and he is not shy about high pressure games. Other than Kobe he is probably the only player in this series that it would not be shocking if he pulled a triple double or two. If he is not slowed by all the take downs in the last series you may be in for a bad surprise. My only worries with him (Kobe guarded or not) is health due to the last series (he does not play as well after being too dinged up since his game is quickness) and that he might be tempted to ignore Fisher too much and Fisher can still shoot.
The Celtics did not rebound well in the regular series to put it mildly — but they appear to have gone back to their old form (08) in the playoffs. I would not count on a big advantage there now. The Lakers will certainly get some offensive boards though given the length and players but you guys will suffer from Rondo if you crash the glass much and fail.
A funny side point. The Celtics change in the playoffs with respect to rebounding problems and such shocked me. I thought the Celtics were cooked due to age/injury/apathy even in the first round. Usually in the NBA you are what your record is in the regular season. There are usually very few surprises. This is the first time I can recall a team being alarmingly bad relative to expectations than beating pretty well 3 teams with better records to date (I include the 1st round Heat in this since they may have had the best run going into the playoffs and were only a game or so worse than the limping Celtics). This one has me perplexed and I have a hard time believing that Rivers coached this on purpose (I did not notice such limited minutes on anyone but KG). You probably do not want to look at the regular season now unless you want to feel good and predict Laker blow out wins in all games ;)
by Celtics_fan_in_cali on Jun 2, 2010 12:37 AM PDT up reply actions
Rondo is definitely a better defender than Nash
So we won’t have stretches where Fish is carrying the offense in the first quarter to the tune of 7-10 points.
Then again, we won’t need to score 37 in a quarter just to stay with Boston’s “high octane” offense like we did in the Phoenix series. This team can live without Fisher penetrating and scoring in transition like he did multiple times in the Phoenix series, so Rondo’s improved defense over Nash is something that won’t hurt us as much as it could other teams. If Rondo guards Kobe, he will get abused in the post. Westbrook’s game is quite similar to Rondo’s. I think he actually has a better ceiling than Rondo because he can score more diversely.
The main threat Rondo will pose the Lakers is on the offensive end. Fisher can’t guard him and to be honest in order for Kobe to effectively to he is going to give him room to shoot. Rondo will get many open shots in this series and if he can convert them at a decent rate he’ll hurt the Lakers. Also, if you glance at stat sheets you can see that Nash had an amazzzinggg series against the Lakers (he didn’t even play big minutes) and Westbrook played like an all-star. The Lakers are able to ready the storm of effective point-guard play (hell they’ve shown if they can hold an all-star pg in check they merely sweep).
Despite all the Rondo talk this series still rests on the front line. If Odom, Bynum, Gasol, and Artest cannot outplay Pierce, Garnett, Perkins, and Big Baby then the Lakers will have problems to deal with. If they do outplay them, I don’t see this series going more than five or six games. The Lakers can survive and win even if their frontline plays badly, but it’s going to require a monumental performance from Kobe and some key Farmar/Brown stuff.
The greatest trick the devil ever pulled was convincing the world he didn't exist.
able to weather the storm *
wow im tired and can’t write
The greatest trick the devil ever pulled was convincing the world he didn't exist.
Rondo is no Westbrook or Deron
He’s awesome, but he needs another year or two to reach that plateau. A triple double or two? Maybe. Doubt it though. I think him pulling 18 rebounds is more a freak of luck than anything else. Rondo has only ever got 10 or more rebounds 23 times in his career (playoffs and regular season). That’s roughly 7% of his games he grabs 10 or more boards. Which leads me to my next point.
Your team is rebounding better, but it’s no where near where our team is at this point in the playoffs. Also, how does Rondo even get 18 boards? I can see him grabbing some, but an effective front court would never have allowed that.
Looking at playoff rebounding, it goes to the Lakers. We’re getting more of our offensive rebounds, with 3 of our players at 10% or higher (not counting subs or non-players on Lakers or Celtics). None of your players has a ORB% higher than 8%. Total rebounding also goes to the Lakers.
Anyway, let’s see what the game brings. I’m looking forward to this as well. Regular season is a good indicator. But I’m talking playoffs, and we’re still looking much better.
Ciao!
For me its the consistent inconsistency that concerns me - PAGFL
It's always AMMO Time, in spirit- DexterFishmore
Partially agree ...
Rondos 18 boards were more a statement of the lack of energy of the Cavs combined with his freakish closing speed. But that is not normal or expected to repeat against any team giving max effort. I agree that he will have a hard time getting triple doubles against the Lakers and I do not expect such nor do I expect them from Bryant either. But I would not be surprised if Rondo averages 5-7 a game from the point guard spot which really helps. Yes, his outside shooting is poor compared to Nash, Williams, and Westbrook but it is not as bad as you think and sagging off him a lot does allow him passing angles to Garnett, Allen, and Pierce … which is why most teams have retreated from this strategy. Hey, NBA coaches are not dumb and this has been tried a lot so Rondo does deserve credit for performing in spite of his shortcomings. He does take open outside shots and his average is generally decent (even from 3pt range if you subtract end of period heaves). Most of his lower percentage games are against inside defenders like Howard who altered a lot of his inside shots with extreme length and agility. I’m not so sure Gasol or Bynum can do that but we will soon see.
I’m also not sure how much faith I put in stats in playoff rebounding at this point to compare teams. The Lakers were definitely better in the regular season but the Celtcs have been far improved from their poor regular season level in the playoffs. Remember, in the small number of playoff games you have to take into account the opposition. Both the Cavs and the Magic have been really good teams rebounding and the Celtics were not that far behind the Lakers stats wise. The Lakers I belive are a better all around team than the Magic or the Cavs, but I don’t think they are stronger defense or rebound wise. Conversely, the Celtics are not up to the Lakers offensively so they probably cannot hope to regularly win high scoring games against the Lakers.
by Celtics_fan_in_cali on Jun 2, 2010 3:35 PM PDT up reply actions
this is great news....
ughhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh
"Just by the aura of D.J. Mbenga being there, the shot missed."
he's always been "Big Gravy"
extra sauce, not what you an count on for daily nutritional value. Anything we get from "drew is bonus points, found money.
Great Question and Answer here
Real good talk here… Cant go as far as saying it gives away too much of the enemies moves or motives, but real classy by the Celtics blog (and of course this blog) to have a nice civilized QnA time…. Also the Yahoo sports team has come out with predictions and the general feeling/prediction, is Lakers in 7…. Only Kenny Smith hasn’t posted his prediction yet and he has been freakishly correct these playoffs from the second round onwards…
This is going to be an epic finals.
But what I can’t really understand is that in an effort to not write off the Celtics, these “experts” are essentially writing off the Lakers. This isn’t 2008 anymore. The Lakers are the defending Champs and they should be given the benefit of the doubt on that alone. With that said the match up I’m looking forward to is Artest against Pierce. If Ron does a number on Pierce and holds him to low percentage shooting nights and minimal points, the only Celtic I worry about then is Ray Allen. I just hope he goes cold this series.
Ball don't lie.
by East.Coast.Laker.Fan on Jun 1, 2010 7:46 PM PDT reply actions
Uh, I don't think anyone's writing off the Lakers
Twitter feed: @dexterfishmore
by DexterFishmore on Jun 1, 2010 8:15 PM PDT up reply actions
Must find a better way to play the disrespect card
This was a good try though!
"This is not a game for boys. This is a game for men." - Phil Jackson
apparently you haven't been listening to Tim Legler.
When he said that the Celtics had the better starting 5, I though, eh…. maybe.
When he said they also have the better bench, I thought, eh……..maybe.
When he said they had the edge in coaching, I thought, eh…………………what the fuck did he just say?
Billy Mac: "Lamar, can you see yourself actually getting in the (boxing) ring"?
Lamar Odom: "No. My face is too pretty."
There you go
You are now allowed to play one disrespect card on this turn.
"This is not a game for boys. This is a game for men." - Phil Jackson
Actually I think I have a pair of cuckoo's in the hole on that one.
Billy Mac: "Lamar, can you see yourself actually getting in the (boxing) ring"?
Lamar Odom: "No. My face is too pretty."
Yeah, he's crazy there.
Doc Rivers is good and championship coach. But still has a way to go to catch up with Phil.
I think Doc's gotten better...
But no way on earth would I rate him a great coach. He’s good now… but in 2008, he was average. He just had a phenomenal team.
The half-crazed ramblings of a Lakers fanatic living in Japan...
Yes, but...
in the pivotal 4th game of that series, Doc’s tactical moves > Phil’s tactical moves. Boston went small for much of the comeback, going with a shooter’s lineup of KG at C, Posey at PF, Pierce at SF, Allen at SG, and House at PG. Phil countered by taking Fish out at the three-minute mark of the 3rd quarter (Lakers up 11), and not putting him back in until two minutes were left in the 4th (Lakers down 5). Phil wanted to pressure House with Farmar, but Jordy had a terrible game (1-7 FG), while Fish was shooting lights out (4-6 FG).
Also, don’t forget Phil’s tactical mistake of having Fish guard Rondo in Games 1 and 2, after the Lakers had gone 0-2 in the regular season that way. A lot of people were saying at the time that Kobe should “guard” Rondo so he could help double Pierce and Garnett, not lose energy chasing Allen through a series of hard picks, and let Fish draw offensive fouls on those picks. The Lakers are 5-2 against the Celtics with Kobe guarding Rondo, starting with Game 3 of the Finals.
by The Dude Abides on Jun 2, 2010 12:37 AM PDT up reply actions
Fair 'nuff... but:
You’re ignoring the match-up mismatches that LA drew the short straw on from the get-go.
Radmanovic? No Bynum, and an underdone Ariza.
Simply put, Phil had no-where near the options available to him that Doc did, or that Phil has this season.
Phil’s always been ‘hands-off’, and at times that could be pointed to as his short-coming.
Whatever tho’ – on the pepsi challenge, Phil’s going to win every day vs Doc.
The half-crazed ramblings of a Lakers fanatic living in Japan...
Not exactly ignoring those
Kobe guarding Rondo meant that he could help Vlad and Luke on Pierce for more possessions. That was one of my main points. Also, I’ve been commenting on the specific Vlad/Pierce matchup for two years now. That’s why Boston’s offense was better against the Lakers than it was in the EC playoffs. Their best initiator was matched up against our two worst defenders. With Kobe laying off Rondo, he could have played center field wherever he was needed on D and conserved his energy by not having to chase Ray through picks.
by The Dude Abides on Jun 2, 2010 12:59 AM PDT up reply actions
ESPN = standup comedy
When the word “entertainment” preceded “sports,” we should have immediately known that objectivity, reason. logic, fairness, honesty, and (feel free to add to the list) _______ were out the window.
I care nothing about what ESPN says, pro or con. Worthless drivel.
by LakersForDeuce on Jun 1, 2010 11:31 PM PDT up reply actions
Statistical analysis of Legler's Lakers comments since 2004
I coded all of Tim Legler’s analyses on the Lakers and Kobe for the past 5 years. I then ran a multiple regression analysis on the data and determined, with a statistically significant result, that he is a hater. And wrong 77% of the time on his predictions. So there.
thank you
i thought i was the only one that thought legler was a laker and kobe hater
by lakers are trouble on Jun 3, 2010 1:04 AM PDT up reply actions
Rondo's assists must be controlled
If he is getting a high number of assists, that means the rest of the Celtics are getting somewhat decent looks at the basket and capitalizing. If he wants to be a jump shooter then so be it. I would rather have him shooting from the outside and perhaps in a couple of games making a decent percentage but….he is not going to be dropping fade away jumpers over our guys like Nash.
Won't work like that
Rondo doesn’t take the open jumpers anymore. He’ll still attack the basket. Just have to hope his runners and free throws aren’t falling – which is always very possible.
Try to make Rondo shoot the jump shots he doesn't want
Can Fish stop Rondo’s penetration by taking a step off him, encouraging to shoot the jumpers he’s not necessarily great at? If that extra space can give him enough to stop the drive, it means the Lakers don’t have to rotate and give him an assist opportunity. With Allen and Pierce out there, wouldn’t you want Rondo taking the jumpers? I know that playing the odds backfired for the Suns in Game 6, but it helped them in have a shot at the W in game 5.
Also, if Artest guards Pierce and the Celtics want Pierce on Kobe, this creates interesting transition opportunities for both teams. Hopefully, PJ is preparing the guys for this situation.
by celticandlakerfanreally on Jun 1, 2010 9:49 PM PDT up reply actions
wow
I love the screen pic.
I would rather see Kobe on Allen rather on Rondo. Fisher can dare Rondo to shoot and Kobe’s length can bother Allen a lot more than fisher could.
"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 Jun 1, 2010 11:00 PM PDT up reply actions
Fish can dare Rondo to miss layups...
much, much love for DFish, but he was never quick enough to keep Rondo in front of him, much less now. But I can’t wait to see him do his NFL-thing on all those (usually legal) screens: Ray will pull up, Fish will barge into his chest, Ray will go “how did YOU get here?” Just wish Dfish went about 6’5"…..
I wish i was Lebron James
He doesn’t have to worry about FINALS!!!
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."
by hrghori on Jun 1, 2010 11:04 PM PDT reply actions 5 recs
You figure he's not watching now, and wishing he was on the Lakers or the Celtics?
The half-crazed ramblings of a Lakers fanatic living in Japan...
it was a joke
like Finals in school
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."
I got that...
I was just being facetious…
The half-crazed ramblings of a Lakers fanatic living in Japan...
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA
Rec
"Just by the aura of D.J. Mbenga being there, the shot missed."
This was interesting
http://sports.espn.go.com/los-angeles/nba/news/story?id=5241219
Artest, of course, with the money quote:
The charge-taking competition, however, has yet to involve Ron Artest, who said he learned from growing up on the New York playgrounds, that when you take a charge, fall and then call an offensive foul, well, bad things — like serious bodily harm — can happen.
“I don’t even know how to take a charge,” he said. “To get the charge you have to fall. I’d rather not fall. You call an offensive foul, possibly be a fight. That’s just how we grew up playing basketball.”
To secure ourselves against defeat lies in our own hands, but the opportunity of defeating the enemy is provided by the enemy himself.
Reporting from behind enemy lines
if Celtics fans are doing it, then so am i. this is there top 5 reasons why Celtics will beat the lakers (copied and pasted):
5. Perk is overall better than 2008-Can you really say that about
the ever injured Bynum.
4. Our Bench is Better Than 2008 and better than the Lakers bench. I’ll take Sheed, Allen and Baby over Brown, Posey and House.(Match up wise. Baby and Sheed are key bigs and more valuable against the Lakers bigs.
3. Ray Allen and Paul Pierce are playing better and working better in the system than 2008. They compliment each other more.
2. Lakers are really not that much better than 2008. I give them credit for being better only because they are the defending champions and might put up a better fight. They are still all about Kobe and when Bryant starts alienating his team mates via being a ball hog or yelling at them, they will quit on him(Just like 2008).
1. Rondo is a freak of nature compared to 2008. You can argue that KG has lost a little, but Rondo has improved exponentially.
Barring injury, who the heck is going to cover Rondo.
The Celtics are playing better in the 2010 playoffs than 2008 play offs. Are the Lakers?
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."
5. Not having Bynum in 08 and having him now is a huge difference.
4. This is one is just them trying to convince themselves that Powe, Posey and House are not that good.
3. Haven’t seen them play enough to know this but if the two previous ones are bullshit this one must be to.
2. The Lakers are more talented, better defensively than 08.
1. Rondo is playing like an MVP while KG is no way near the 08 KG. Barring Injury who the heck is going to cover Kobe?
"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 Jun 2, 2010 7:32 AM PDT up reply actions
'08 vs '10
The Lakers are playing better, and are a bit more of a complete team than they were in ‘08. However I think the media is blowing the 2010 celtics age out of proportion. The fact is that the Celtics needed less games in 2010 to beat a better Cavaliers team than the one they faced in ’08. It’s going to be a very interesting series.
Excellent blog here, kudos to Clark& co...
I have limited my time online this year after a couple years of frustrating (lack of intelligent) dialogue on these blogs… Other than Celtic’sblog, which definitely has a fair share of shallow and relentlessly homer postings, I have found only the Orlando blog to be worth the attention. Orlando, like this and the cblog has, amongst the dross, many very insightful and basketball-deep comments about the whole of the game, from coaching to the all-out-competition’s tragic/triumphant nature.
Glad to see this Finals I’ll have a chance to enjoy some excellent basketball conversation…
See ya gametime…
Mbenga Mbenga Mbenga
The Secret Weapon. Send DJ in to go all Congo on Kendrick Perkins.
Then watch the double technicals fly, getting Perkins suspended for a game.
Then waive bye bye to Big Ugly.
Round 1 Lakers
but this series is just starting…..Celtics are still very much alive! Our bad game came first…now that is out of the way. We know you also have a bad game in you….Can’t wait for Sunday!
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