By: Dustin Chapman

81 87

Random thoughts:

• In Games 1 and 2, Boston was the undisputed aggressor. In Game 3, the Lakers finally grew a pair and took the initiative that they so desperately needed to do. They got to the line for 34 free throw attempts (Kobe Bryant shooting 18 of them), and rightfully so. In Game 2, the Celtics were the attackers while Los Angeles settled. Tonight, it was the complete opposite.

• Adding to LA’s added toughness, the rebounding differential was nowhere near as large this time around. Throughout the first two games of the series, Boston was a combined +14 on the glass. Tonight, they were just +1 (45-44), as LA crashed more often than usual.

• The Celtics were completely out of place offensively, and that really was not as much attributed to the Laker defense as much as it was to their overall mindset. Simply put, the Celtics played soft in Game 3. They settled, they did not attack the basket as much as they could/should have, and the numbers prove it. The green shot just 34.9% from the floor, and did not do the things that got them here nor won them games in Boston last week. Ray Allen (25 points, 8-13 FG, 5-7 from beyond the arc) was virtually the only Celtic to get it going.

• Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce were the leaders of the “settle, don’t attack” notion, as the All-Star duo combined for an atrocious 8-35 (22.9%) clip.

• The Celtics were, for the most part, themselves on the defensive end. They held Los Angeles to just 43.5% from the field, which is usually a sign of victory for the green. Tonight, however, it was the offensive struggles that held them back.

• Kobe Bryant, as expected, broke out of his shell. The 2007-2008 NBA MVP went for 36 points and 7 rebounds on 12-20 shooting, and made 18 trips to the free throw line on account of his aggression off the dribble. Granted, he hit just 11 of those 18 free throw attempts, but buried a pair of pull-up jumpers late in the game to clinch the Laker victory. In addition, he lived up to his First Team All-Defense title in the fourth quarter with his efforts covering Paul Pierce.

• Bryant may have been the best player on the floor tonight, but the Laker bench is what put Phil Jackson’s club over the top. Sasha Vujacic was undoubtedly the game-changer, as the sharpshooting guard contributed 20 points off the bench and buried multiple momentum-changing/clinching shots throughout the game. Jordan Farmar brought a great deal of toughness and poise behind Derek Fisher, and may have been the catalyst to Los Angeles’ superb ball movement early on. Guys like Luke Walton and Trevor Ariza didn’t impress anybody statistically, but the energy that they brought through small stretches was crucial (especially defensively).

• On the other hand, the Celtic bench was relatively erratic. James Posey (9 points, 7 rebounds) brought a terrific level of energy and was an instrumental piece to Boston’s strong defensive efforts. Outside of that, the second unit struggled at times. Rotations were missed (I’m talking to you, P.J. Brown) and shots rimmed out like nobody’s business (Boston bench: 5-22 from the field).

• Rajon Rondo picked up a mild ankle sprain early in the third quarter, but did return to the floor after a long while on the pine. It’ll be interesting to see how he feels in the morning, post-adrenaline.

In a nutshell, neither side played quite as well as they would’ve liked. The Celtics may be disappointed with the outcome of the game, but many opportunities were available for them to take a 3-0 series lead. Fortunately for LA, they did not capitalize on them while the Lakers hit a string of game-clinching jumpers.

These two hungry teams will have one day to reflect before hitting the hardwood for Game 4 on Thursday night. Will the Celtics regain control, or will the Lakers split the series before Sunday’s Game 5 back at Staples? Stay tuned.

Box Score

Player of the Game

Kobe Bryant
36 PTS, 7 REBS, 1 AST, 2 STLS, 12-20 FG, 1-2 3FG, 11-18 FT

Finals Standings: Boston leads series 2-1.
Game 4: Thursday (6/12/08) at 9:00 pm ET.

By: Dustin Chapman

88 98

The Lakers put together a strong first half, despite a rough shooting display from Kobe Bryant. Their execution of the pick n’ roll was second to none, which broke down many of Boston’s defensive possessions. In addition, Los Angeles’ role players such as Derek Fisher, Lamar Odom, and Ronny Turiaf provided a huge lift to spell Bryant’s struggles. Kevin Garnett led the Celtics with 16 first half points, but Phil Jackson’s club maintained a five-point lead at intermission.

However, this game was not won in the first half. It was won in the second half, where the Celtics were absolutely exceptional on both ends of the floor. Right out of the gate in the third quarter, Boston obtained the momentum and killed the lead that the Lakers had built.

Let’s discuss the aforementioned emotion, which begins with the one and only Paul Pierce. At the 6:49 mark of the third quarter, the Celtics captain got tangled up with teammate Kendrick Perkins, and twisted his knee. Pierce fell to the ground in pain, was unable to get up, and was wheeled to the locker room. The initial reaction of many, including Pierce himself, was that #34 could potentially be done. Flashbacks of Tony Allen’s ACL injury of February 2007 were in effect.

After moments of anxiety and a motivational speech from Doc Rivers, Paul Pierce provided a Willis Reed-esque moment by skipping back out of the tunnel just minutes later. The crowd rallied for an epic uproar that began “the moment.” Pierce capitalized on that moment by nailing back-to-back three’s that officially put a stamp on the unforgettable roller coaster of emotions.

Pierce scored 15 of his 22 points in the third quarter, leading the Celtics to a 31-22 advantage throughout the frame.

The story of the fourth quarter was, in a word: defense. Boston held the Lakers to just 15 points and forced multiple turnovers in the final 12 minutes, helping the green come away with a 10-point Game 1 victory to begin the Finals with a bang.

Additional key notes:

• Kobe Bryant shot just 9-26 from the floor (34.6%). Some of it was simply the fact that Bryant failed to knock down some of the shots he is accustomed to making, but make no mistake about it - Boston’s defense was staggering. The Celtics threw multiple different defenders at the 2007-2008 NBA MVP (Ray Allen, Paul Pierce, James Posey), and contested the bulk of his attempts. Boston’s help defense also deserves a lot of credit for closing him off and keeping him out of the paint (Bryant shot just six free throws). It’s tough to imagine Bryant coming out with a similar shooting performance in Game 2, but as long as the C’s continue to defend him like they did tonight, he won’t get his points easily.

• Kevin Garnett struggled offensively in the second half, where he went through a stretch of missing nine straight attempts, but “The Big Ticket” made as big of an impact as anybody else in a white uniform. His 24-point, 13-rebound line doesn’t even tell the whole story. KG was [as usual] tremendous defensively, made multiple deflections, was a monster on the glass, provided freakish hustle plays (ala his backcourt save), and threw down a thunderous putback slam over the top of Pau Gasol (see the photo up top) to virtually seal the deal for the Celtics.

• Rajon Rondo’s performance may be overshadowed by that of Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett, but the second year guard put together an extremely productive outing. Looking at his stat line, the thing that jumps out at you is the 10 free throw attempts. Rondo made it a point to attack from the get-go, and as a result, he led all players in attempts from the charity stripe. Additionally, he managed to knock down three baseline jumpers to diversify is offensive attack. Defensively, Rondo was pesky. Granted, he lost sight of Derek Fisher (15 points) on a couple of occasions, but number nine joined Kevin Garnett in deflecting multiple passes down the stretch. Rondo finished with 15 points, seven assists, and five rebounds in his initial NBA Finals appearance.

• Led by P.J. Brown, the Celtic bench undeniably outplayed LA’s. The 38-year-old veteran left his heart out on the floor by making hustle plays, fighting for loose balls, boxing out, and grabbing boards (six total) in the midst of his +10 output. Sam Cassell was erratic as usual, but the two-time NBA champion certainly provided a lift through certain stretches with his mid-range shooting and the charge he took while defending Kobe Bryant. James Posey may have had one of his poorer outings of the postseason, but the three-point shot he buried down the stretch was crucial. Leon Powe… do I even have to tell you? We all know what “The Show” brings to the table each and every time he steps out on the floor - heart, hustle, and grit - and that’s exactly what he did in Game 1. Los Angeles’ supporting cast came up huge in the first half, but down the stretch, they were all but clutch.

• Rebounding: Celtics 46, Lakers 33.

• Paul Pierce was diagnosed with a sprained right knee, but told ESPN’s Rachel Nichols that he would likely ready to go for Game 2. Kendrick Perkins also sprained an ankle, and his Game 2 status is uncertain. These next two days of rest will be crucial.

Roughly 79% of the time, the winner of Game 1 of the NBA Finals goes on to raise a banner. While this series is far from over, that is a comforting figure. Stay tuned.

Box Score

Co-Players of the Game

Paul Pierce: 22 PTS, 4 REBS, 2 ASTS, 7-10 FG, 3-4 3FG

Kevin Garnett: 24 PTS, 13 REBS, 3 ASTS, 9-22 FG

Finals Standings: Boston leads series 1-0.

Game 2: Sunday (6/8/08) at 9:00 pm ET.

By: Dustin Chapman

Dethroning the defending champion San Antonio Spurs, the Lakers closed out their Western Conference Finals series 4-1 at the Staples Center on Thursday night. The Lakers dominated the second half of the ballgame, as they had all series long, with a 58-44 advantage. League MVP Kobe Bryant led all scorers with 39 on an efficient 16-30 clip, and elevated his play down the stretch to put his team over the top. Pau Gasol struggled on both ends of the floor throughout the majority of the game, but managed to grab 19 rebounds, some big ones coming in the closing minutes.

Additionally, the LA supporting cast rose to the occasion as well. Lamar Odom led the charge with 13 points, eight rebounds, and a level of enthusiasm that he rarely puts on display. Sasha Vujacic and Jordan Farmar provided needed energy off the bench, and combined for 17 points and four steals on 6-13 shooting.

Phil Jackson’s club will anxiously await their NBA Finals opponent, as the Eastern Conference Finals series between Boston and Detroit is still undecided. Game 1 of the Finals will take place on June 5; all games will be aired on ABC.

ESPN reports that Lakers center Andrew Bynum will undergo arthroscopic surgery on his left knee.

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. — More than four months after Andrew Bynum injured his left knee, it’s been decided the Los Angeles Lakers center will undergo arthroscopic surgery.

The Lakers made the announcement Sunday, saying Dr. David Altchek will perform the procedure in New York on Wednesday — the same day Bynum’s team entertains San Antonio or New Orleans to begin the Western Conference finals.

An estimated timetable for Bynum’s return will be provided following the surgery.

“I just hope for the best for him,” teammate Luke Walton said following a light practice Sunday. “He was a huge part of our success early on and he’s going to be a huge part of our future.”

The Lakers said the procedure will entail a cleanup of some rough spots and fraying on the underside of Bynum’s kneecap.

It’s a shame that Bynum’s “breakout year” had to end this way, as the promising seven-footer was playing as well as any young center in the league not named Dwight Howard before his injury. Number 17’s double-double averages of 13.1 points and 10.2 rebounds are remarkable for a 20-year-old looking to make his mark in the NBA, but those don’t even necessarily tell you the rapid improvements he continued to make week-by-week.

Throughout his final six games of the season, all within the first two weeks of January, Bynum took his game to a whole ‘nother level. Holding averages of 17.3 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game throughout that stint, the young center was even receiving All-Star consideration.

It’s a shame that his Al Jefferson-esque progression had to come to a definitive halt just two and a half months into his third professional season. Here’s to hoping that Bynum undergoes a successful surgery, recovery process, and comeback to the court next season.

.

Posted By: Dustin Chapman

It has been reported on numerous sites, and has even been brought up by announcers on TV. So the question is, will Kobe be the NBA’s 2007-2008 Most Valuable Player?

And also, one particular statement - “Kobe Bryant is winning this as a lifetime achievement award” seems to pop up every now and then when discussing anything about MVP award.

Personally, I don’t disagree with that statement if it is referring to a possible influence as to why they are handing it to Kobe over Paul, but I don’t like it when it is used by people to discredit Kobe and say that is the only reason why he is winning the award.

Don’t make me say this folks, Kobe Bryant is as deserving as he will ever be for the MVP award. I do not know why people can’t get over the fact that Kobe actually changed into a team player and helped his team to the #1 seed in the West. Some people just love to hate. First he gets criticized for most of his career accusing him of being selfish. Now that he is a teamplayer because he has some decent talent around him, people are saying the Lakers are only winning because of Gasol.

I just think it’s ridiculous that people find the need to look for stupid reasons to go against Kobe.

He is the best player in the league.

I feel much better getting that out of the way. It’s been said a million times by a million people but some ignorant fans still have a hard time understanding.

So to all you Kobe-haters and Paul4MVP supporters, you can cry all you want because the fact of the matter is, Kobe WILL receive the MVP trophy.

SEE YA

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Not to long ago, more than a few months ago, actually. Kobe went on his tirade of rants all over the radio and on television. At the time, Derek Fisher was not yet a Laker, but knew Kobe wasn’t necessarily just ranting about bringing in the top talent. To Fisher, Bryant’s rant had a deeper meaning. That deeper meaning was that he just wanted to win. So plainly, he wanted winners. To Fisher, who has become a confidante to Bryant, the superstar hasn’t given up on his teammates. He just wanted some more “warriors.”
“I never thought it was ‘I’ve got to get Kevin Garnett’ or ‘I’ve got to get Jason Kidd’ or ‘I’ve got to get Jermaine O’Neal,’ ” said Fisher. “I just felt he said, and still is saying, ‘I need some winners. I want some winners.’ ”

“I hear him saying, ‘Give me guys that I like, that I see that put their shoes on every night to win,’ ” Fisher said. “My name isn’t Jason Kidd. But I guarantee you that Kobe is going to appreciate what he gets from me on a night-in and night-out basis, compared to what he’s had at that position.”

- SirLaker aka Zo.

Derek Fisher is returning to Los Angeles to play for the Lakers for the second time in his 11-year career, as he has agreed to a three-year deal with the club worth around $13.96 million. He will not be able to officially sign the contract until Utah completes the paperwork in order to officially release him. Fisher spent his first eight seasons in the NBA in Los Angeles, where he was a fan favorite and a key component to three titles.

Fisher well respected in the L.A. area, is familiar with the area, and able to play for a long time coach (Phil Jackson) and teammate (Kobe Bryant), he is also able to get outstanding health care for his daughter(Most likely UCLA), who has been diagnosed with severe eye cancer. This is a win-win situation from both a family and a basketball standpoint.

- SirLaker AKA Zo

So here we stand. The NBA Playoffs have already taken off to the finals while the Lakers have landed back to the landing-strip with too many problems to count. In the recent days, so many things have occured. Kobe demanding a trade, somewhat taking it back, and then saying it isn’t completely out of the question. So I ask myself, what moves can we do? With Lamar and Kwame still injured, the possibilities aren’t as many. Kobe is growing impatient and wants to win now as apposed to waiting for Bynum to develop. I am a strong believer that Farmar is the point guard of the future. He showed so much poise in the playoffs, and I just love his game…ever since his UCLA days. So what is going to be done?

There have been trade rumors flying off the wall, so let me go over each. First one is for Jermaine O’Neal. The Best deal that I have read was Kwame, Lamar, Brian Cook, and our first round pick for Jermaine, Tinsley, and a future first rounder. But the reality is, they will want Bynum. Which leads me to the other trade package rumor, Lamar and Bynum for Jermaine and maybe a pick. If you think about it, we are getting jipped trading any potential we had for an injury prone big man. But the fact is, we need him now more than ever. Not only will he help us tremendously downlow, but he is our answer for a defensive presence to be reckoned with. Also, there’s Kobe think about. He wants to KNOW that we are building around him for now. A deal to get Jermaine O’Neal would definitely show this. If the deal is there, I say go for it.

There has also been speculation of the Lakers getting Ron Artest. While I wouldn’t count this out, I don’t see the proposed rumor going down. Which is Kwame and maybe a re-signed Walton for Artest straight up. Supposedly, he and Kobe have been friends since forever and he would love to play for the Lakers. If you are worried about problems, Phil Jackson would undoubtedly be the answer. Handling Dennis Rodman on the 90’s Bulls championship teams, is something PJ is known for.

The Other rumor floating around is Marcus Camby. Initially, the main deal is Kwame for Camby. The Nuggets’ front office has reportedly laughed at this idea, but the rumor still stands. And might I say, what a great deal this would be for the Lakers. Like Jermaine, he gives us that defensive presence downlow, and wouldn’t be afraid to knock the opponent to the floor, if need be. We could definitely use a guy like this. You might ask why in the world the Nuggets would do this. The Nuggets are reportedly trying to lower their payroll, and this deal would definitely help this cause.

All in all, everything talked about is speculation, but nowhere near out of the question. Keep your eyes and ears open. While the Lakers Drama roller-coster takes a dive.

- SirLaker AKA Zo

Time has not tempered the frustration felt by Kobe Bryant, who has watched two key teammates — Kwame Brown and Lamar Odom — face medical issues that have thrust their off-season into doubt, as well as many trade possibilities for the team.

The Lakers who were seen at the end of the season might look a lot like those that return for the start of 2007-08, with some minor additions here and there. It isn’t sitting well with Kobe Bryant.

“I want to see us get to a contending level,” he said Saturday with firmness in his voice. “I want to see us become a championship contender. It’s been a frustrating process for me and I’m sure it’s been a frustrating process for all Laker fans. I’m just hoping we can get to that level. I’m still frustrated. I’m waiting for them to make some changes.”
Bryant, though, didn’t want to elaborate on what changes he thought could be made.
- Realgm

• My Thoughts on this are simple, I am with Kobe on this. There are many that down Kobe for voicing his opinion and calling out management, but the fact of the matter is that Kobe is right. These injuries are definitely not helping the cause as the Lakers organization needs to make some key trades. He is also correct in saying “I’m sure it’s been a frustrating process for all Laker fans“ They had better make some moves, because the franchise with Kobe leading the way depends on it.

- SirLaker AKA Zo