Player Report Card: DJ Mbenga
by C.A. Clark on Jul 16, 2010 9:40 AM PDT
in Editorial
169 comments
This is the next piece in our series of Player Report Cards, in which we evaluate and assign a grade to the performance of each member of the 2009-10 Los Angeles Lakers. Next in line is Didier Ilunga-Mbenga, but you can call him DJ.
Didier Ilunga-Mbenga is a great man. His story is one of kindness, tragedy, perseverance, and philanthropy. Born in Zaire (now called the Democratic Republic of the Congo), Didier was taken prisoner along with his father and brothers. Their crime was that Didier's father worked for a government that was overthrown, and the new regime had a very strict interpretation of "cleaning house". Didier's father was executed, but not before negotiating/bribing the release of his son, who fled the country en route to Belgium.
DJ Mbenga is a rather marginal basketball player. He can be useful to have on your team, if for no other reason than the fact that he is 7 feet tall and not lacking in motor skills. Unfortunately, his size, athleticism, and the desire which, considering his history, is almost a given, are just about the only positive basketball attributes he has. Big men are generally the least skilled men in basketball, both because their size makes dexterity difficult, and because they don't have to be all that skilled to be successful, but the sad truth is that Mbenga is on the low end of the skill spectrum even for a big man.
That's not intended to be overly harsh, but a spade is a spade, and DJ Mbenga isn't a very good basketball player. He can't shoot very well (46% for a guy his size is terrible). His per 36 minute averages for points (10.6) and rebounds (8.8) do not impress, and he fouls too much (5.5 fouls per 36) though he is a great shot blocker (3.3). His shooting motion is best described as horrific, and watching him "execute" the triangle is equal parts amusing and depressing. He responded with a couple nice games (including 1 double-double) when both Andrew Bynum and Pau Gasol were out hurt early in the year, but the truth of the matter is that no player besides Adam Morrison had the coaches going more out of their way to make sure he didn't see the court. The Lakers were more likely to go small and have Josh Powell or Lamar Odom play the pivot than for DJ to get burn outside of garbage time. Mbenga is the very symbolism of the Taco Unit, and if we're keeping the talk strictly related to basketball, the Taco Unit blows. Or is that the Dacos unit?
Wow, that was vicious. I'm glad that's over. See, I wanted to get all the negatives out of the way in one go, so that we could get to the truth about DJ Mbenga. The truth is, we love DJ. We don't love him because of his unintentional comedy, or in a piteous way, such as what is reserved for Adam Morrison. We don't love him just because he wears that gold shirt with "Lakers" across the front. And we don't love him because he has trouble with making a hard "T" sound.
We love DJ because he tries, all the time. We love him because he is one of the few players in the league without a single ounce of pretentiousness. We love him because, despite getting paid literally the least amount of money he could earn for an NBA career of his length, he is one of the NBA's most visible philanthropic forces. He knows that he is blessed to be able to make a significant amount of money (and yes, even the veteran's minimum is very significant), and so he puts everything he has into sticking around, and a good portion of what he earns into giving back to a world that nearly sentenced him to death.
There's no word on whether Mbenga will get picked up, either by the Lakers or by someone else. Since he's played so many years in the league, he might be getting out-priced by his own experience, literally unable to take a contract that is small enough for some team to want him. The Lakers would surely bring him back if he could come at a lower price, and I'd be willing to bet DJ would to if he could, too. If he's played his last game as a Laker, we'll be sorry to see him go. Adam Morrison may have made us laugh, but DJ made us smile, and that smile didn't need any humor at all.
Player Grade: D+
Human Grade: A Mother-fucking Super Plus
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LOL, not sure if this was the way to go for this post.
but a spade is a spade
Just sayin’
But I’m gonna miss DJ.
"There are no "Kobe Lovers", just people who are right." - Gil Meriken
I agree, but i know there was no harm in that. I actually chuckled. Great post though.
Sonofa Bean Dip Motha-Frito!
by marcus_cere on Jul 16, 2010 10:56 AM PDT up reply actions
I laughed too, but it struck me as, um, an interesting choice of words.
"There are no "Kobe Lovers", just people who are right." - Gil Meriken
i say bring him back for the minimum
congo cash ftw!
by lakers are trouble on Jul 16, 2010 10:05 AM PDT reply actions
I live in Cincinnati. I'm a fan of the Cleveland Cavaliers and Cincinnati sports teams. Besides UC, I'm a Xavier fan for basketball. I also like the Ohio State Buckeyes for all sports.
My name is Tyler. So I guess now you know about me.
i dont get the tacos while still with mavs?
lakers had the taco unit b4 mbenga if im not mistaken
Czheck Productions
My Instrumentals
This shameful display of selfishness and betrayal by one of our very own has shifted our "motivation" to previously unknown and previously never experienced levels.
actually, I think he can shoot just fine
What he can’t do is play offense inside. It just doesn’t happen. His array of post moves is the empty set. I think I can count on the fingers of no hands the number of times I’ve seen him boom-boom-dunk. All his jams are on putbacks or wide open setups. I think given the percentage of his shots that are from midrange, that 46 percent rate is actually quite all right.
Yeah, his shooting stroke is painful on the eyes
But he hits those shots at a fairly consistent rate.
To secure ourselves against defeat lies in our own hands, but the opportunity of defeating the enemy is provided by the enemy himself.
He's also...
A very good shot blocker. His rate was way up there. Near the end of the playoffs Phil mentioned basically not playing him because he wasn’t ready, giving Josh Powell minutes first. I trust the Lakers to properly evaluate his usefulness.
I saw him sort of lost out there at times, but when he had some decent players around him, he seemed to fill his role quite adequately.
by USA!USA!USA! on Jul 16, 2010 12:20 PM PDT up reply actions
Josh Powell too seems to be a nice dude
but completely useless as a basketball player
completely useless is probably a stretch
He first struck me as a sort of Turiaf 2.0, but that turned out to be untrue. He has better range than Turiaf (though that could be just a small sample size) and seems to me to play with less energy, and that’s even putting aside Turiaf’s incomprehensible but strangely inspiring courtside contortions. I also think Turiaf understands the triangle better than Powell does.
He filled his role.
And had a great attitude.
"What are you, stupid? It doesn't take a rocket doctor to figure that one out!" -Frank Caliendo as George Bush
Mark Cuban's fault. Couldn't say Didier so he started calling him DJ.
Dumbass.
"There are no "Kobe Lovers", just people who are right." - Gil Meriken
lol
Kobe:I got one MORE THAN Shaq. You can take that to the bank.
by Brownnel2000 on Jul 16, 2010 11:39 AM PDT up reply actions
Cuban is an arrogant jackass
if the whole world has no problem pronouncing Didier Drogba of Ivory Coast/ Chelsea’s name why can’t he practice the name a few time. He seems to be smart guy, he should get the hang of it after a while
"Didier" when spoken by a French speaker sounds almost exactly like "DeeJay"
Not hard to understand why people call him DJ.
by The Dude Abides on Jul 17, 2010 2:12 AM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
I want him back, seriously.
Good karma is good karma; and DJ brings us dump trucks full of it.
yea me too
i like dj. he has a great attitude and doesn’t bitch and whine about anything. he can easily soak up 10-15 mins with his 6 fouls and he’s a great energy guy. he’s almost guaranteed to get a block everytime he steps on the court
by lakers are trouble on Jul 16, 2010 10:56 AM PDT up reply actions
ahaha, word
Sonofa Bean Dip Motha-Frito!
by marcus_cere on Jul 16, 2010 10:57 AM PDT up reply actions
Energy is always a good thing
And honestly, you can do worse with your fifth big, but given that you have options like Kurt Thomas and Rasho Nesterovic available, it’s about time to let Mbenga walk.
To secure ourselves against defeat lies in our own hands, but the opportunity of defeating the enemy is provided by the enemy himself.
+10
Czheck Productions
My Instrumentals
This shameful display of selfishness and betrayal by one of our very own has shifted our "motivation" to previously unknown and previously never experienced levels.
I somehow agree
With the age and energy of DJ, I want him to have better opportunities with other teams. Seriously Drew better be prepared.
DJ is a hero to us all
I really want him back
If you wrong us, shall we not revenge? - William Shakespeare
nice
"What are you, stupid? It doesn't take a rocket doctor to figure that one out!" -Frank Caliendo as George Bush
by broncodude793 on Jul 16, 2010 6:55 PM PDT up reply actions
i give dj 2 F's
for double fail,i cant wait till his replacement puts on his jersey. ammo>dj
Czheck Productions
My Instrumentals
This shameful display of selfishness and betrayal by one of our very own has shifted our "motivation" to previously unknown and previously never experienced levels.
"Adam Morrison may have made us laugh, but DJ made us smile, and that smile didn't need any humor at all." "Player Grade: D+ Human Grade: A Mother-fucking Super Plus"
Sniff, sniff. Wipe tears. Those parts of the article got me.
Kobe:I got one MORE THAN Shaq. You can take that to the bank.
A bit off-topic
But this is a solid example of how free agents should act:
Major kudos to Amar’e. My respect for him just increased considerably, as versus a certain other free agent.
To secure ourselves against defeat lies in our own hands, but the opportunity of defeating the enemy is provided by the enemy himself.
by Ben R on Jul 16, 2010 11:40 AM PDT reply actions 1 recs
+1 that was refreshing
certain other free agents could learn from him
Czheck Productions
My Instrumentals
This shameful display of selfishness and betrayal by one of our very own has shifted our "motivation" to previously unknown and previously never experienced levels.
jordan farmar cough cough
holding a 1 hour show to stab us Laker fans in the heart on national television. That was classless and uncalled for. Now he is taking the easy way out by going to an action packed Nets squad with Johan Petro and the great Travis Outlaw. Shame on him.
Adam Morrison has more rings than Lebron, Bosh, and Wade combined?
took his talents to brooklyn
Czheck Productions
My Instrumentals
This shameful display of selfishness and betrayal by one of our very own has shifted our "motivation" to previously unknown and previously never experienced levels.
after all he spoils us with his play
Adam Morrison has more rings than Lebron, Bosh, and Wade combined?
by shaqfor3 on Jul 16, 2010 2:24 PM PDT up reply actions 2 recs
hhaa
Czheck Productions
My Instrumentals
This shameful display of selfishness and betrayal by one of our very own has shifted our "motivation" to previously unknown and previously never experienced levels.
yea let's do that!
but does anyone even have a farmar jersey?
by ch3wy on Jul 16, 2010 12:28 PM PDT up reply actions 2 recs
loool great mids think alike
see my comment right below
I have a...
Farmar tan, Does that count? Hmmm, prolly not nevermind.
I really don't blame Jordan.
He’s got two blings. He was never gonna be who we wanted him to be in purple and gold. It’s a good time he’d gone after some big money contracts.
Kobe:I got one MORE THAN Shaq. You can take that to the bank.
by Brownnel2000 on Jul 16, 2010 5:49 PM PDT up reply actions
Me too.
That’s a very classy move.
Don't let the name deceive you, I'm not just a Sharks fan but a Lakers, 49ers, Angels, Giants (and to a lesser extent) Capitals, and Titans fan.
by SharksFanEst.1994 on Jul 16, 2010 12:33 PM PDT up reply actions
Matt Barnes' Twitter @ 11:20am on 7/16
Couple new teams just jumped n2 the game, so I’m sorry 2 say ima have 2 get back 2 you. Ill let yall know something with in the nxt few days
"The Lakers are ninja negotiators. Straight. fuckin. ninjas." -rshinsec
"This isn't an apocalypse. It’s a motherf***ing war." -Hdg23
On pins and needles we wait, Matt, pins and needles.
"There are no "Kobe Lovers", just people who are right." - Gil Meriken
thats bogus
i have to cancel my entire life to wait on matt barnes now. our very dynasty could die if matt barnes doesnt sign…o whats that? we dont care? oh yea thats right
plz sign wit lakers
Czheck Productions
My Instrumentals
This shameful display of selfishness and betrayal by one of our very own has shifted our "motivation" to previously unknown and previously never experienced levels.
man, forget lebron
Matt Barnes’ Decision takes Days, totally trumping Lebron’s Hour.
If you wrong us, shall we not revenge? - William Shakespeare
by LOOOeee on Jul 16, 2010 4:40 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
So if we sign Matt Barnes, that means no Shannon Brown
We need a little bit of athleticism.
Sweet 16
Ronnie Brewer rejects Boston
Ronnie Brewer tells Y! Sports he turned down Boston offer to sign 3-year, $12.5 million deal with Bulls. Big pro for CHI was chance to start
"The Lakers are ninja negotiators. Straight. fuckin. ninjas." -rshinsec
"This isn't an apocalypse. It’s a motherf***ing war." -Hdg23
and that boston sucks
hhaha jus has to throw that out there
Czheck Productions
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This shameful display of selfishness and betrayal by one of our very own has shifted our "motivation" to previously unknown and previously never experienced levels.
You could've just said "And Boston is... well, Boston."
The half-crazed ramblings of a Lakers fanatic living in Japan...
There goes Shannon's potential next club
- Bulls got Brewer
- Jazz got Bell
Chances of him going back to us got higher.
i gets around
lmfao
Czheck Productions
My Instrumentals
This shameful display of selfishness and betrayal by one of our very own has shifted our "motivation" to previously unknown and previously never experienced levels.
i don't know if you guy's voted
but i’m voting for shannon brown, just so we see another mv with him
haha
it says to text who you want monica to be with and check on her website to see the winning video.
Wow. Lame idea for a video.
Stick with the guy with a job, or the ex-convict… hmm?
Penny Hardaway wants to come out of retirement to join the Heat:
Adam Morrison has more rings than Lebron, Bosh, and Wade combined?
Overrated when he played with Shaq, now overrated playing with the heat.
by rickfox on Jul 16, 2010 1:44 PM PDT up reply actions
he wasn't overrated
he just wasn’t the next Jordan and he was dubbed it before he could prove it. Asides from injuries completely taking away his prime, he was a good player, he just happened to go the Grant Hill route with injuries except he couldn’t overcome them.
Unfortunately the legend of MJ has long surpassed the reality of MJ. -Jevon O
Sad that he thinks he can still play
They need a center too and obviously Mourning is too young. Walton to Miami! (Bill Walton that is).
"The Lakers are ninja negotiators. Straight. fuckin. ninjas." -rshinsec
"This isn't an apocalypse. It’s a motherf***ing war." -Hdg23
if not for injuries he would still be playing
anyway, I heard Barkley is trying to join the Heat too. He was last seen walking to the gym but got lost and ended up at a donut shop.
Adam Morrison has more rings than Lebron, Bosh, and Wade combined?
by shaqfor3 on Jul 16, 2010 2:32 PM PDT up reply actions 2 recs
From Round Mound of Rebound
To Round Confection with Rainbow Sprinkles
"The Lakers are ninja negotiators. Straight. fuckin. ninjas." -rshinsec
"This isn't an apocalypse. It’s a motherf***ing war." -Hdg23
The donuts were surprisingly not turrible.
Don't let the name deceive you, I'm not just a Sharks fan but a Lakers, 49ers, Angels, Giants (and to a lesser extent) Capitals, and Titans fan.
by SharksFanEst.1994 on Jul 16, 2010 3:43 PM PDT up reply actions
Can you get me some Lay-monayd? ~ Chuck and Dwight commercial
Kobe:I got one MORE THAN Shaq. You can take that to the bank.
by Brownnel2000 on Jul 16, 2010 5:56 PM PDT up reply actions
obviously wants a ring to solidify his legacy
toooooo bad.
He's 39, and has injury history.
THIRTY-NINE.
/thread.
Before Kobe won the title, the line we would all hear was 'Kobe isn't as good as LeBron'. This is far from new. Laker and Kobe fans have heard it before. The names change, the premise remains the same. At different times in history, Tracy McGrady was considered to be better than Kobe. Allen Iverson was once considered his equal. Even the likes of Vince Carter, Grant Hill and Jerry Stackhouse were given the 'next Jordan' title.
Kobe has beaten all comers. They have retreated into the shadows as pretenders, whilst Kobe outlasted them all to stand alone in the League today, with his 5 rings and innumerable accolades.
Now? All the haters have left to say is ’Kobe’s no Jordan.’
You know what? They’re right. He’s not Michael Jordan. He’s Kobe Bean Bryant. And I wouldn’t have it any other way.
by Saurav A. Das on Jul 16, 2010 5:28 PM PDT up reply actions
Team of the undead
So the Nazgul are going to play with zombie teammates?
You see? You see? Your stupid minds! Stupid! Stupid!
what?! they r starting a museum down in Miami?
by ajfarsi on Jul 16, 2010 1:37 PM PDT reply actions 2 recs
Miami would be really dangerous if they had a time machine
Adam Morrison has more rings than Lebron, Bosh, and Wade combined?
by shaqfor3 on Jul 16, 2010 1:46 PM PDT reply actions 4 recs
All they need is a hot tub.
Then they can make their own.
"There are no "Kobe Lovers", just people who are right." - Gil Meriken
the problem is that if they took the time machine all the way back to the time Penny was relavent..
they ‘ll have to go back to when LBJ & D Wade were still in grade school. I’m not sure how useful that would be
If Miami had a time machine
the Lakers would manage to find/make one too. Just imagine the Showtime Lakers playing again and with a young Kobe with the athleticism of #8 Kobe and the brains/skills of #24 Kobe plus Gasol. Heck we can even de-age Jerry West. Lol. You realize…that no team that Miami puts together even with their time machine will ever beat the Lakers.
Lakers All Time Team (full 15-man roster)
PG: Magic, Scott, Van Exel
SG: Bryant, West, Goodrich
SF: Baylor, Worthy
PF: Gasol, Mikkelsen, Lovellette
C: Kareem, Shaq, Wilt, Mikan
Any franchise in NBA history able to beat that?
(disclaimer: if I missed somebody, let me know. There’s so many all time greats in Laker history it’s impossible to remember them all off the top of my head)
Before Kobe won the title, the line we would all hear was 'Kobe isn't as good as LeBron'. This is far from new. Laker and Kobe fans have heard it before. The names change, the premise remains the same. At different times in history, Tracy McGrady was considered to be better than Kobe. Allen Iverson was once considered his equal. Even the likes of Vince Carter, Grant Hill and Jerry Stackhouse were given the 'next Jordan' title.
Kobe has beaten all comers. They have retreated into the shadows as pretenders, whilst Kobe outlasted them all to stand alone in the League today, with his 5 rings and innumerable accolades.
Now? All the haters have left to say is ’Kobe’s no Jordan.’
You know what? They’re right. He’s not Michael Jordan. He’s Kobe Bean Bryant. And I wouldn’t have it any other way.
by Saurav A. Das on Jul 17, 2010 12:01 AM PDT up reply actions
Don't forget Silk
In basically chronological order:
PG: Goodrich, Magic, Van Exel
SG: West, Scott, Bryant
SF: Baylor, Jamaal (Keith) Wilkes, Worthy
PF: Mikkelsen, Lovellette, Gasol
C: Mikan, Wilt, Kareem, Shaq
You see? You see? Your stupid minds! Stupid! Stupid!
Van Exel?
If we’re filling top 15 spots I’d go for the 15 best regardless of position. Hell, even if we’re going by position, I’d put McAdoo at PG over Van Exel.
"The Lakers are ninja negotiators. Straight. fuckin. ninjas." -rshinsec
"This isn't an apocalypse. It’s a motherf***ing war." -Hdg23
You forgot the greatest Laker of them all
and I can’t believe you would anger him this way.
The all-powerful AMMO will get his revenge.
Unfortunately the legend of MJ has long surpassed the reality of MJ. -Jevon O
Brian Shaw's gonna put you in his dog house. Where's he on your list!? Lol!
Kobe:I got one MORE THAN Shaq. You can take that to the bank.
by Brownnel2000 on Jul 17, 2010 4:17 PM PDT up reply actions
I think you missed Bob McAdoo, one of the most significant contributors of Showtime
Era
by rickfox on Jul 17, 2010 5:44 PM PDT up reply actions
Agreed.
Though, the point isn’t as much about ranking Lakers but wondering if any franchise could put together a better All-Time team than LA. Obviously, Boston is the only other contender.
Before Kobe won the title, the line we would all hear was 'Kobe isn't as good as LeBron'. This is far from new. Laker and Kobe fans have heard it before. The names change, the premise remains the same. At different times in history, Tracy McGrady was considered to be better than Kobe. Allen Iverson was once considered his equal. Even the likes of Vince Carter, Grant Hill and Jerry Stackhouse were given the 'next Jordan' title.
Kobe has beaten all comers. They have retreated into the shadows as pretenders, whilst Kobe outlasted them all to stand alone in the League today, with his 5 rings and innumerable accolades.
Now? All the haters have left to say is ’Kobe’s no Jordan.’
You know what? They’re right. He’s not Michael Jordan. He’s Kobe Bean Bryant. And I wouldn’t have it any other way.
by Saurav A. Das on Jul 18, 2010 1:18 AM PDT up reply actions
But are they better?
Before Kobe won the title, the line we would all hear was 'Kobe isn't as good as LeBron'. This is far from new. Laker and Kobe fans have heard it before. The names change, the premise remains the same. At different times in history, Tracy McGrady was considered to be better than Kobe. Allen Iverson was once considered his equal. Even the likes of Vince Carter, Grant Hill and Jerry Stackhouse were given the 'next Jordan' title.
Kobe has beaten all comers. They have retreated into the shadows as pretenders, whilst Kobe outlasted them all to stand alone in the League today, with his 5 rings and innumerable accolades.
Now? All the haters have left to say is ’Kobe’s no Jordan.’
You know what? They’re right. He’s not Michael Jordan. He’s Kobe Bean Bryant. And I wouldn’t have it any other way.
by Saurav A. Das on Jul 18, 2010 1:18 AM PDT up reply actions
MBENGA:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b5gRJoF39Ew&feature=related
Adam Morrison has more rings than Lebron, Bosh, and Wade combined?
by shaqfor3 on Jul 16, 2010 2:40 PM PDT reply actions 2 recs
Didier
looks very impressive in that highlight video
by mildclubsauce on Jul 16, 2010 2:52 PM PDT up reply actions
Max Contract.....
He should be making what Joe Johnson makes in Atl.
I thought it was this one
http://twitter.com/LeBronJamesEgo
Sweet 16
by bluexfalcon on Jul 16, 2010 3:01 PM PDT up reply actions 2 recs
lol
CMON NOW I DIDN’T QUIT IN THE PLAYOFFS. I’D CALL IT MORE OF A TEMPORARY PERIOD OF LESS TRYIN, NOT QUTTIN YALL CRAZY.
by madmaxx350 on Jul 16, 2010 3:26 PM PDT up reply actions 2 recs
more
CHRIS BOSH ASKED ME TO PUT SUN BLOCK ON HIS BACK AND AT FIRST I WAS LIKE NAH MAN, BUT THEN I THOUGHT I’M LEBRON THE SUN BLOCK KING SO
I DID.
Czheck Productions
My Instrumentals
This shameful display of selfishness and betrayal by one of our very own has shifted our "motivation" to previously unknown and previously never experienced levels.
nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo
the Lebron is not worthy to be part of the Kobe convo post got deleted!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
GODAMMIT PAT RAILLY!!!!!!!!!
Adam Morrison has more rings than Lebron, Bosh, and Wade combined?
I came in here Just to type that!
NOoooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!!!!
Damn.what happened?
Someone posted something really rude so they took it down, right?
"There are no "Kobe Lovers", just people who are right." - Gil Meriken
The last comment I read was the author saying the appreciated everyone's comment
I think he took it down himself.
Sweet 16
I thought that was the "real reason people are mad at LeBron" thread
"There are no "Kobe Lovers", just people who are right." - Gil Meriken
It's still possible he took it down himself.
"There are no "Kobe Lovers", just people who are right." - Gil Meriken
damn, that's sad.
I hope we didn’t lose him/her for good. I’ve personally never seen him/her here before.
If he/she’s reading this: come on we were just messing with u. Trust me I was on the receiving end of some razzing when i started posting here too. Then u realize it’s a big part of the fun here. Mine wasn’t as bad, i must admit
Only LEWIS MONROE's post was on that level.
But the dude was a good sport, even coming in to post himself. LEWIS MONROE never came back. Wonder what happened.
"There are no "Kobe Lovers", just people who are right." - Gil Meriken
that Monroe dude's post is addictive
u have no idea how many times i left whatever i was doing… read the post & comments… laughed like crazy..,then got on with whatever i was doing
lol
Czheck Productions
My Instrumentals
This shameful display of selfishness and betrayal by one of our very own has shifted our "motivation" to previously unknown and previously never experienced levels.
DJ Mbenga is cool man.
I think he supported and carried Pau and Andrew when they weren’t there or simple couldn’t find the rhythm.
DJ has been great for LA Lakers in this past two seasons and while he’s not a headliner on the court, I’m sure this guy is very useful in the lockeroom and a great teammate in practices and overall.
If you needed any more indication that LeBron is a self-indulgent idiot
Enjoy Woj’s latest and very extensive article:
http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news;_ylt=Asisw0B7dxxElRE6rxc2p.C8vLYF?slug=aw-heatfreeagency071610
Two things to take: 1) the Team USA officials nearly left him off the ‘08 team because he was an arrogant ass and had Kidd chaperone him throughout the entire process 2) he apparently has a short attention span, which means that he never had extensive film study in Cleveland (somewhere, Kobe snorts loudly), and he didn’t like the Knicks’ and Nets’ presentations to him because they were too long and covered too many things for him to process.
To secure ourselves against defeat lies in our own hands, but the opportunity of defeating the enemy is provided by the enemy himself.
by Ben R on Jul 16, 2010 3:27 PM PDT reply actions 7 recs
Good for Derrick Rose, not calling James, although I think that has more to do with
Joakim Noah absolutely despising James and everything he stands for.
To the point, I knew all this was ridiculous, but the short attention span, negativity over image and success is plain souring for an NBA fan and any young player[s] who use James as an influence.
by rickfox on Jul 16, 2010 3:45 PM PDT up reply actions
my thoughts exactly
i bet noah told the organization that he would probably strangle Lebron if her ever came to the Bulls
by lakerdynasty on Jul 17, 2010 1:45 AM PDT up reply actions
lol!
Kobe:I got one MORE THAN Shaq. You can take that to the bank.
by Brownnel2000 on Jul 17, 2010 4:19 PM PDT up reply actions
DUDE.
Seriously, this is pissing me off…. who the fuck is LeBron James?
Before Kobe won the title, the line we would all hear was 'Kobe isn't as good as LeBron'. This is far from new. Laker and Kobe fans have heard it before. The names change, the premise remains the same. At different times in history, Tracy McGrady was considered to be better than Kobe. Allen Iverson was once considered his equal. Even the likes of Vince Carter, Grant Hill and Jerry Stackhouse were given the 'next Jordan' title.
Kobe has beaten all comers. They have retreated into the shadows as pretenders, whilst Kobe outlasted them all to stand alone in the League today, with his 5 rings and innumerable accolades.
Now? All the haters have left to say is ’Kobe’s no Jordan.’
You know what? They’re right. He’s not Michael Jordan. He’s Kobe Bean Bryant. And I wouldn’t have it any other way.
by Saurav A. Das on Jul 16, 2010 6:09 PM PDT up reply actions
Lebron James is...
an overhyped persona that just happens to play basketball that believes his persona is the same thing as his person.
by USA!USA!USA! on Jul 17, 2010 11:50 PM PDT up reply actions
Is he any relation to LeBron James?
"There are no "Kobe Lovers", just people who are right." - Gil Meriken
Woj is the Michael Jordan of NBA journalism.
Before Kobe won the title, the line we would all hear was 'Kobe isn't as good as LeBron'. This is far from new. Laker and Kobe fans have heard it before. The names change, the premise remains the same. At different times in history, Tracy McGrady was considered to be better than Kobe. Allen Iverson was once considered his equal. Even the likes of Vince Carter, Grant Hill and Jerry Stackhouse were given the 'next Jordan' title.
Kobe has beaten all comers. They have retreated into the shadows as pretenders, whilst Kobe outlasted them all to stand alone in the League today, with his 5 rings and innumerable accolades.
Now? All the haters have left to say is ’Kobe’s no Jordan.’
You know what? They’re right. He’s not Michael Jordan. He’s Kobe Bean Bryant. And I wouldn’t have it any other way.
by Saurav A. Das on Jul 16, 2010 6:27 PM PDT up reply actions
My man DJ
I’m Belgian, and as the first ‘Belgian’ (he does play for our national team, I know sounds easy, but we almost knocked France out in a playoff for the World Championship…), I’m damn proud of this guy. It’s true, he’s not gifted, actually only in BB skills, the man is a gift to humanity, the world should be filled with great competitors, great team players like him. He got a D, and that’s normal, he didn’t perform to his task (he couldn’t be relied on this year, but don’t forget that injuries were an issue)… A D for Defence, that’s how he got his place in the team for his second NBA ring. First Belgian player with two rings and plays for my favourite team… You know what I want him back, even if it is to be the 15th man. They sell basketballs with his name and Lakers colour here, that shouldn’t stop!
Merci Didier!
by Belgian Chocolate Lake on Jul 16, 2010 3:52 PM PDT reply actions 1 recs
So if this is going from least productive to most productive
I’m guessing Josh Powell is next? lol
I wish Mbenga will no matter what he decides. He’s my favorite bench player, including any sport, not just basketball. He sort of sucks, but he’s tall, he tries, and he’s a character. I’d definitely like him to be brought back (for the minimum), cuz he was nice to have around. I love DJ.
"I'm looking at 600 as first base. I want to run right through it and use it as a platform and a spring board for more to come"- Alex Rodriguez
You'd be right, there.
Before Kobe won the title, the line we would all hear was 'Kobe isn't as good as LeBron'. This is far from new. Laker and Kobe fans have heard it before. The names change, the premise remains the same. At different times in history, Tracy McGrady was considered to be better than Kobe. Allen Iverson was once considered his equal. Even the likes of Vince Carter, Grant Hill and Jerry Stackhouse were given the 'next Jordan' title.
Kobe has beaten all comers. They have retreated into the shadows as pretenders, whilst Kobe outlasted them all to stand alone in the League today, with his 5 rings and innumerable accolades.
Now? All the haters have left to say is ’Kobe’s no Jordan.’
You know what? They’re right. He’s not Michael Jordan. He’s Kobe Bean Bryant. And I wouldn’t have it any other way.
by Saurav A. Das on Jul 16, 2010 6:10 PM PDT up reply actions
the lakers must defeat this man
Czheck Productions
My Instrumentals
This shameful display of selfishness and betrayal by one of our very own has shifted our "motivation" to previously unknown and previously never experienced levels.
2009 finals
Czheck Productions
My Instrumentals
This shameful display of selfishness and betrayal by one of our very own has shifted our "motivation" to previously unknown and previously never experienced levels.
Funniest clip of SVG
What is the nature of your thoughts, gentlemen, when you say "fuddle duddle" or something like that?
:)
http://kissmyasslebron.bigcartel.com/product/you-can-head-south-but-your-mom-rides-west
Czheck Productions
My Instrumentals
This shameful display of selfishness and betrayal by one of our very own has shifted our "motivation" to previously unknown and previously never experienced levels.
nice post :)
maybe you can also mention his value as a decent practice 7 footer for Drew to go up agaisnt and hone his skills too. i think that point was touched upon by some OCR articles last year? not sure how significant it is though.
DJ is a class act though. he just seems so… unassuming and down-to-earth for a millionaire :)
Aha! So that was what "Dacos" is...
Haha! Props to DJ, might not know how to say tacos but I’m still appreciative of his contribution to the team. Watched River Monsters Season 2 Episode 7 which was about the Goliath Tiger fish in Congo w/c is known locally as “Mbenga”, coincidence? I think not. ;D
by Danish78 on Jul 17, 2010 9:10 AM PDT reply actions 1 recs
The Lakers Could Use DJ to Play Mind Games on the HEAT
The Lakers could use DJ as part of psychological warfare against the hypersensitive Divas known as the Miami HEAT. When the HEAT come to LA (presumably on 12/25). The Lakers should run out a starting line up of DJ Mbenga, Josh Powell, Luke Walton, Adam Morrison, and Sasha The Machine. (I don’t care if some of those guys aren’t even on the team. They would have to be signed to ten-day contract just for this game!)
Then after the Miami players are introduced the announcer introduces our special starting line up and before each of the players name’s he adds the phrase “Two-time NBA Champion”. So it would sound like “At Center Two-Time NBA Champion -DJ Mbengaaaaaa!”… The expression on the face of the 3 DIVAS would be priceless.
by DreamShake34 on Jul 19, 2010 2:11 AM PDT reply actions 2 recs
LOL.
I like it, I like it a LOT.
Before Kobe won the title, the line we would all hear was 'Kobe isn't as good as LeBron'. This is far from new. Laker and Kobe fans have heard it before. The names change, the premise remains the same. At different times in history, Tracy McGrady was considered to be better than Kobe. Allen Iverson was once considered his equal. Even the likes of Vince Carter, Grant Hill and Jerry Stackhouse were given the 'next Jordan' title.
Kobe has beaten all comers. They have retreated into the shadows as pretenders, whilst Kobe outlasted them all to stand alone in the League today, with his 5 rings and innumerable accolades.
Now? All the haters have left to say is ’Kobe’s no Jordan.’
You know what? They’re right. He’s not Michael Jordan. He’s Kobe Bean Bryant. And I wouldn’t have it any other way.
by Saurav A. Das on Jul 19, 2010 4:28 AM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
More on anti-HEAT Mind Games
We’ve got to make this happen!
http://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2010/7/19/1576432/playing-mind-games-with-our-newest
by DreamShake34 on Jul 19, 2010 7:06 AM PDT up reply actions
More on HEAT Mind Games
We’ve got to make this happen!
http://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2010/7/19/1576432/playing-mind-games-with-our-newest
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