Bleacher Report - Articles by travis proctor

Ervin Santana Returns to All-Star Form Against Oakland A's

travis proctor — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 12:15:38 -0400

The Los Angeles Angels finally got the pitching performance they have been waiting for this season. Ervin Santana who struggled mightily through the first half came out guns blazing Thursday night.

Last year Santana had an outstanding season for the Angels and even made his first career All-Star appearance. This year has been the complete opposite for Santana.

While their has been a lot of talk about the Angels trying to add another starter before the trade deadline, Santana's performance on Thursday could have given the Angels the extra starter they were looking for.

Santana went eight innings on Thursday giving up only one run on a solo home run in the seventh. Santana struck out four and only walked two.

While Santana was by no means overpowering on Thursday, he showed excellent command and used his defense very well. While he is still recovering from early season injuries, Santana hasn't yet retained his full velocity.

If his performance on Thursday is any sign of things to come in the second half the Angels have to be feeling good. With Santana pitching like that the Angels have four very strong starters with a fifth still to be determined.

Jared Weaver has had an excellent season, and while Joe Saunders has struggled lately, the Angels' staff is confident he will find his stride again. With Lackey pitching well in his last few starts, the Angels might be answering their own questions.

With the hopeful return of Kelvim Escobar to help solidify the bullpen the Angels could be in excellent shape for a big second half run.

Since Torii Hunter and Vlad Guerrero have been put on the DL the Angels are 4-0 which is a great sign. Many people thought once those two went on the DL the Angels would tank and give up ground to the Rangers. The Angels have done anything but that, putting up 35 runs in the four games without their stars.

A lot of pressure has been put on the Angels young stars this season and while they struggled at the start of the season they have come around nicely in the past few months.

With Kendry Morales and Mike Napoli providing much needed power for the Angels and Santana putting on a clinic Thursday, the Angels are looking like the team everyone thought they would be.

While there is still a lot of baseball left this season Angels fans have to be pleased with what they have seen over the past month. After all the Angels have gone through this season you have to give credit to their resiliency which is a direct reflection of their leader Mike Scioscia.

Angels' Young Stars Shine Bright before All-Star Break

travis proctor — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 12:32:37 -0400

It's no secret that the Los Angeles Angels have been riddled with more injuries this year than any other team in baseball.

With Vladimir Guerrero heading back to the DL and first-half MVP Torii Hunter also heading to the DL, the Angels are now depending on their young talent to keep them in the division race.

While the Angels have consistently handled the New York Yankees, last weekend they did it without their major bats in the lineup. In three games, the Angels posted twenty nine runs en-route to sweeping the Yankees.

Mike Napoli, Erick Aybar, Howie Kendrick, and even Brandon Wood gave the Yankees all they could handle.

With two key bats headed to the DL, the Angels will need to lean on players like Napoli and Kendry Morale, a player who is having a solid season in his first stint as the everyday first baseman.

For years we have been hearing about all this talent the Angels have down in their farm system, but have seen very little results. With the exception of the young pitching talent that has produced players like Wood, Kendrick, Aybar, and Morales, many have disappointed when called up.

While the young bats have shown moments of great potential, they have failed to remain consistent. With Kendrick being demoted earlier this season maybe this is the opportunity he needed to get back on track. While Napoli has shown improvement every season he is finally proving he is ready to take over the day-to-day catching responsibilities.

Aybar has had a very good season providing the speed and defense that the Angels have always needed from him. This season Aybar is hitting .292 with three triples and twelve doubles. Aybar has also managed to show a little bit of power with three home runs including a huge three-run bomb Friday night that put the Angels on top of the Yankees.

Brandon Wood also contributed with three hits over the weekend including a two-run shot Saturday to start the Angels seven run fifth inning. The Angels have been waiting for Wood to become the player he has shown the potential to be. Over the next two weeks he can prove he is ready to step into that major role.

The Angels entered the All-Star break with a one and a half game lead on the Texas Rangers. With Hunter and Vlad down for a few weeks, it's crucial that these young players find a way to not give up ground to a very talented Rangers' team.

This year's Rangers are not like Rangers' teams of the recent past and should be around until the end. Right now, it's up to the young rising stars in Anaheim to keep the division title in sight.

The Lakers Will Get the Absolute Most Out of Ron Artest

travis proctor — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 12:25:37 -0400

All the pieces are in the right place for the Lakers to get the best out of Ron Artest.

Ron Artest took a pay cut to come to L.A. for one reason—he knows this is his best chance to get a ring. In an interview with ESPN—after it was announced he would be signing with the Lakers—Artest was asked why he took the pay cut and Artest simply said, "I have already made money; I'm done playing for money, now I'm playing just to win."

Hearing those words from any NBA player is extremely refreshing. Artest brings an undeniable toughness to the Lakers. For the past two seasons we have heard nothing but how soft the Lakers are and how they need to be tougher on D.

I challenge anyone to call Artest soft.

While losing Trevor Ariza is disappointing for all Lakers fans, because he was popular and he was instrumental in winning that championship, Artest will be welcomed in with open arms.

A lot has been made of Artest's personality and how volatile it can be. Many people seem to forget you need personality to play for the Lakers. It's L.A., and Artest fits in perfectly with that persona.

Many people are skeptical about Artest and Kobe playing together and getting along. Personally, I think this is being overblown. Yes, they both have dominant personalities, but both share one common goal, the desire to win. Aside from Kevin Garnett, I think these two want to win more than anyone else in the NBA. Now that doesn't mean the other players don't want it really bad, I just think Kobe, Artest, and Garnett are in another class when it comes to determination.

If there is one player in the NBA Artest will listen to, it has to be Kobe.

We have seen the two feud before, but who doesn't feud when they are on opposite sides? During the 2009 Finals we even saw Kobe and Dwight Howard get into it and those two were great teammates on Team USA.

Artest has always wanted to be a Laker and he hasn't been shy about saying so. Phil Jackson is the perfect coach for Artest because he is completely opposite of him. Artest has never had a coach like Jackson—indeed, not many players have had a coach who has won 10 NBA Championships—but Artest respects Jackson and will listen to him. Artest respects winning, and Artest wants to win.

The one factor that is being overlooked here is Artest's relationship with Lamar Odom. The two grew up together in New York and have been friends for a long time. No, Odom hasn't been re-signed yet, but that will come soon.

Artest knows this is by far the best chance he has had at winning not one, but multiple championships. While a lot of other teams have got better this offseason, it is hard to say the Lakers still aren't the favorite next season with Artest in the starting lineup.

The big difference between Artest and Ariza is that while Artest can do everything Ariza can do, Ariza can't do everything Artest can do. Artest is bigger, stronger and by far more intimidating. Artest has just as good if not a better outside shot, and has the ability to let Kobe rest without the Lakers losing a step on the offensive end.

Ariza is more athletic and younger, but those factors won’t be come into play near as much this year because you will see him struggle in Houston.

While it is hard to just automatically say this move will for sure make the Lakers better, I think it's safe to say this will not make them worse.

This next NBA season will be one of the best years we have ever seen. Both conferences will be extremely competitive and it will be a lot of fun to watch. For now I think I speak for all Lakers fans when I say "WELCOME TO L.A. RON ARTEST, WE HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR YOU."

Three Reasons Why Torii Hunter Is the A.L. MVP of the First Half

travis proctor — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 16:55:02 -0400

No player has been more valuable to his team this year than Torii Hunter.

Hunter has always been a great player and a great leader; these are facts. This season, however, he has taken his game to the next level when his team desperately needed it.

No team has faced more adversity this season than the Los Angeles Angels. Things could have easily gone completely down the drain. The bullpen was imploding, the offense was struggling, and the starting pitching was dealing with an unbelievable amount of injuries and even the death of a young uprising star.

Hunter has stayed strong and has shown everyone that the Angels made a great decision in signing him last season. Hunter has shown three huge reasons why he is undoubtedly the MVP of the first half.

1. Swinging a Big Stick

Hunter is a career .273 hitter who usually hits around 24-30 home runs a year and has never driven in more than 107 runs in a season. This year, Hunter is batting .305 and is on pace to hit 37 home runs and drive in 130 runs.

The Angels have always struggled hitting home runs and driving in runs. The Angels are now starting to find a bit of an identity offensively, with the likes of Juan Rivera, Mike Napoli, and Kendry Morales starting to show signs of good power. While these players struggled at the beginning of the season, Hunter was the one consistent bat in the lineup.

With Vladimir Guerrero on the DL the Angels needed Hunter to produce more than ever, and he did not disappoint.

2. The Best Defensive Center Fielder in the League

Everyone has always known what an excellent fielder Hunter is. Hunter is a regular on ESPN's Top 10 Plays and Baseball Tonight’s Web Gems. With zero regard for his body, Hunter flies around the outfield making spectacular catch after spectacular catch.

Earlier this season, the Angels were at home and up by two in the top of the ninth with two outs and two men on base. A deep fly ball was hit to center field. While it looked like a go ahead home run, Hunter snagged it from over the wall and brought it back for the final out of the game. How many players have you ever seen win a game by robbing a home run?

Hunter is a perennial Gold Glover in center field and this year has been no different. Hunter continues to be the best defensive center fielder in the game. He has been everything the Angels need at the plate and in the field.

3. Great Leadership

Aside from Mike Scioscia, Torii Hunter is the team leader. In the face of adversity this season Hunter has been the glue that held the Angels together. Many times people forget the value of veteran leadership. Hunter provides excellent play on the field and the off field persona to match.

The Angels, overall, are a very young team. Many of their best players are either too young to lead or just aren't outspoken enough. Hunter isn't afraid to say anything and knows when and where it should be said. He never shows up his teammates, but makes sure they know when they have made a mistake.

In their greatest time of need, Hunter has been the provider for the Angels. While the season started tough and the Angels were labeled as a disappointment, they now find themselves back in first place of the A.L. West.

Hunter is the biggest reason why. With players coming off the DL, the Angels will look to make a run at another division crown this year and hopefully a World Series Championship.

The Lakers Need Trevor Ariza, and Trevor Ariza Needs the Lakers

travis proctor — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:48:12 -0400

For the past two days, I have been hearing reports about Trevor Ariza leaving the Lakers. The reason he is about to leave is because the Lakers are refusing to give him more than the mid-level exception, which is $5.36 million. The new contract would give Ariza about a $2 million dollar raise.

While contract talks continue with the Lakers saying they won’t budge and Ariza feeling disrespected, the two sides need to realize something. They need each other.

No one had any clue who Ariza was before he came to L.A. last season. Ariza was coming off the bench in Orlando and not receiving much playing time. Once Ariza was traded to L.A. and paired up with Kobe Bryant and eventually Pau Gasol, he started to show real potential.

Before getting hurt during the 2007-08 season, Ariza had started a few games due to injuries and had filled in very nicely. Ariza started last season coming off the bench and proved to be an excellent bench player.

Eventually, Luke Walton realized he shouldn't be starting and that Ariza was better. Once Ariza entered the starting lineup, things came together for the Lakers.

Ariza's success in the playoffs and the NBA Finals has been well documented, and it is no question he was a key component in bringing a title back to L.A.

The big question now is, why is this not resolved already?.

If Ariza leaves for more money, he will face one of two scenarios. One, he will go somewhere that already has a starting small forward, and Ariza will have come off the bench. Two, he will go to a team that doesn't have the same talent as the Lakers, and he will see a huge drop in his production.

Ariza seems to forget playing with Kobe Bryant and Pau Gasol gives you a chance to get good open looks. Most of the times Ariza's defender was tasked with doubling Bryant or Gasol, allowing Ariza to shoot wide-open threes throughout the playoffs. Sometimes, players forget that they benefit greatly from their surroundings.

Now, on the Lakers' side, if they let Ariza go, who will start? Are the Lakers really going to start Luke Walton again? Will the Lakers bring in Adam Morrison off the bench? Can you expect to win a championship when your small forwards are Luke Walton and Adam Morrison?

With Ariza gone, a giant hole is left at the three spot. If the Lakers bring back Odom and not Ariza, they won’t be able to get a free agent to fill that void. If they bring back Ariza and not Odom, they still have a capable front court with Andrew Bynum, Pau Gasol, and Josh Powell. Granted, that is based on Bynum staying healthy and progressing.

Bringing back both Ariza and Odom is very possible. If they are going to bring back one, it has to be Ariza. If they don't bring back Ariza, they need to let both go and try to reel in a Ron Artest or maybe a Hedo Turkoglu, if that's at all possible.

The bottom line here is without Ariza the Lakers could be left with some big holes come the start of the 2009-2010 season. Without the Lakers, Ariza is not the same player. The two sides need to find a solution before animosity grows.

Los Angeles Angels Looking To Turn Things Around

travis proctor — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 15:49:54 -0400

The Los Angeles Angels have not been very fortunate through the first half of the MLB season. No team has had to deal with the same amount of key injuries or the tragic death of a young star on the rise. As bad as things were for a while in Anaheim, they are really starting to turn around.

Torii Hunter has proved to be the best pickup the Angels have made in years.

He is a career .274 hitter who has stayed above .300 all year and is showing no signs of slowing down. Hunter is on pace to hit over 30 home runs and over 100 RBI while playing his usual eye-popping defense in center field. Not to mention the man is a natural leader; his strength and leadership have without a doubt helped to keep things from falling apart in the clubhouse.

The Angels' biggest strength for the past decade has been pitching.

This year with injuries to Ervin Santana, John Lackey, Kelvim Escobar, Scott Shields and the tragic death of Nick Adenhart, the Angels have had to dig deep in their farm system to find capable pitching. Not to mention Jose Arredondo has disappeared from the face of the earth. The Angels have used 22 different pitchers this season, the biggest strength of the team became it's biggest weakness overnight.

What happened to Howie Kendrick?

Coming into the season Kendrick had a career average over .300, granted it was in limited time but I still believe the sample was big enough. While he has been trying to figure things out in the minors, Maicer Izturis and Erick Aybar have done an excellent job in the middle infield proving they can be good everyday players. They have played very good defense and both are hitting around .270.

Vladimir Guerrero has shown heavy signs of aging while having to deal with injuries of his own.

Guerrero has only appeared in 37 of the Angels 73 games so far and is having by far his worst season in an Angel uniform. With only two home runs at this point, the Angels will need a much more Vlad-like second half to get them into the postseason.

The Angels are leading the American League in Batting Average at .273, which is no surprise. With Juan Rivera, Mike Napoli, and Kendry Morales combining for 34 home runs so far this season, the Angels could have found the power they have always needed to get over the hump.

Chone Figgins is back to doing what he does best.

After a slow start, Figgins is hitting .319 and has 23 stolen bases. Many people overlook how important Figgins is to this lineup. Figgins has that rare ability to turn a single or a walk into a double. Figgins sets the table for the Angels and when he goes well, so do the Angels.

After an unbelievably tough start to the season, the Angels they have found themselves back in first place.

The offense has found a groove and the pitchers are coming off the DL. There is no doubt that a healthy Angels team will win the A.L. West, but that's the key.

Can the Angels stay healthy for the rest of the season and make a run or will injuries take their toll and leave the Angels on the outside looking in?

Angels/Dodgers: What I Learned About The Freeway Series

travis proctor — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 15:01:44 -0400

This weekend I attended my first Dodgers and Angels game. It was a beautiful Sunday afternoon in Anaheim, and the stadium was sold out.

Before this series started last week, I read an article about how Dodger fans couldn't care less about the Freeway Series. At the same time, I also thought it really wasn't a big deal to Angel fans either. The teams have never been in a postseason battle, and there really wasn't much of a rivalry.

But after leaving the stadium, I can, without a doubt, say that Dodger fans and Angel fans both care about the Freeway Series.

Now, this isn't a traditional rivalry in the sense of the Red Sox and Yankees; it's more of a Clippers and Lakers rivalry. Granted, the Angels are much better when compared to the Clippers, and the Dodgers aren't the same powerhouse franchise that the Lakers are, but it's like a big brother and little brother rivalry.

The Angels are, no doubt, the little brother, and have just recently (over the past seven or eight years) started to enjoy consistent success. The Dodgers are the big brother who has been around the block, as they have a greater history and a storied franchise.

In recent interleague play, the Dodgers have struggled against the Angels (this year they broke even at 3-3).

For Dodger fans, it's like getting beat up by your little brother. Dodger fans don't want to see the Angels surpass them. The Dodger fans feel a little threatened by the Angels, and, while they probably wont ever admit it, I could sense it at the stadium.

These two teams are battling for Southern California. Personally, I don't believe this will ever become a true rivalry until the teams meet in a World Series. As of now, it's a case of little brother trying to out-do big brother. The Dodgers want to remain the main team in Southern California, but as the Angels' success grows, so does their fan base.

It remains mostly a friendly rivalry for now. There is not a lot of bitterness between fans, and you don't get the sense that one really hates the other. At this point they are still brothers.

One day these teams will meet in a World Series, and that is the day we will see the gloves come off, and a real rivalry will begin.

Hedo Turkoglu: Why the Magic Can Let Him Go

travis proctor — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 17:26:34 -0400

I know Magic fans are kind of worried about the fact that Hedo Turkoglu is going to opt out of his contract. I'm here to tell those fans it might not be such a bad thing.

The Magic have a lot of shooting. As good as Turkoglu can be, he might not be the long term solution for Orlando.

It is a huge advantage to have a couple of 6'10" forwards that can play like guards. However, Dwight Howard needs some help in the front court. I'm sorry, but Marcian Gortat and Tony Battie are not going to get it done.

As good as Howard is, and will be for a long time, he needs someone that can crash the boards with him. The Magic could really use a true power forward. With the money that will be freed up when Turkoglu opt's out they will be able to bring in someone like Lamar Odom or maybe a Carlos Boozer.

Rashard Lewis is a great player but he is going to struggle on the defensive end against a player like Pau Gasol. I think moving him down to his more natural position and bringing in someone who can play with Howard in the paint would take the Magic to a championship level.

The Magic have plenty of people that can shoot. When Jameer Nelson gets back to 100 percent, and Courtney Lee continues to develop, the Magic will have three knock down shooters in their starting lineup. Another good post player would free up Howard and allow him to average around 700 rebounds a game.

So Magic fans, there is a silver lining here. When one door closes another opens, followed by a few more cliche phrases.

Turkoglu is a great player, but I see this as an opportunity for the Magic to add the missing piece that can put them over the top.

Congratulations To The 2009 World Champion Los Angeles Lakers

travis proctor — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 17:16:39 -0400

Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers haven't silenced their critics, but they sure have made them look pretty stupid.

Even after Kobe won the title no one said he would get people are still looking for ways to put him down. The first article I saw when I came on this site today was talking about how Kobe is overrated.

All I can say is wow. No matter what this guy does he is going to be criticized.

After winning his fourth title and his first without Shaq there really is no question that this man is one of the best players we have ever seen. He got his first Finals MVP and could have possibly started a new dynasty.

Phil Jackson became without a doubt the greatest coach in NBA history. I can't wait to see the picture of him with a different championship ring on every finger.

Pau Gasol proved he isn't the soft European Seven footer that everyone said he was. Gasol proved to be the perfect compliment to Bryant and showed that he can play with any big man in the NBA.

Derek Fisher had a lot of tough moments in the 2009 playoffs but made the two biggest shots of the season. While Fisher may be getting old and probably won’t be starting much longer you can't say enough for how he has come through in so many clutch situations.

Trevor Ariza assured himself a nice payday this summer. You really can't say enough for how hard Ariza played.

Ariza hit open three after open three when it seemed like no one else on the Lakers could hit water if they fell out of a boat. His quickness allowed him to get into passing lanes and make huge steals.

Lamar Odom was the player the Lakers need him to be. While he struggled at the beginning of the playoffs he was great against Denver and Orlando. Odom showed a much improved jump shot that makes him almost impossible to defend.

Andrew Bynum....well he has a long way to go, we will just leave it at that.

Luke Walton finally showed some worth and proved he can be a solid bench player.

Jordan Farmar and Shannon Brown will hopefully be wearing Lakers uniforms for a long time. While neither one had a big impact on the finals they both had moments that showed they will soon be ready to take the reigns from D-Fish.

Sasha Vujacic proved the Lakers should not have resigned him. Thanks for not even being able to hit one shot in the finals. Good contribution.

Adam Morrison gets to wave his ring in J.J. Reddick's face even though he didn't dress once. Personally I think they should have let Morrison and Reddick go one-on-one for a quarter of every game. I'm pretty sure everyone in the country would have been glued to the T.V.

The Lakers did not play perfect by any stretch. Those struggles however are the reason I believe the Lakers ended on top.

In my opinion you can never become a great team until you fight through adversity. Overcoming is the true mark of every champion. You never know what your really made out of until someone hits you back (ie: LeBron and the Cavs).

Say whatever you want about Kobe, about the Lakers or their fans. No matter what you say the Lakers are the 2009 NBA Champions.

Try to deny Kobe as one of the greatest of all time. Make whatever excuse you want but know your still wrong.

Four NBA championships don't lie. It's not a coincidence and it's not all due to Shaq.

Kobe Bryant earned all those rings. This is the first time he got a ring as the best player on a team and I doubt it will be the last.

For now the Lakers will celebrate and enjoy the franchise's 15th title. They will have the victory parade and of course someone will guarantee a title again next year.

Coming up they will have to make a few big decisions regarding Odom and Ariza. For now though let the confetti fly, let the Champagne bottles pop and hold that trophy high!

Congratulations to the 2009 NBA Champion Los Angeles Lakers. What can you say now!

Lakers-Magic: The NBA Finals, Where Kryptonite Happens

travis proctor — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 15:07:47 -0400

Well, it's safe to say the Lakers stole another game from the Magic.

Superman Dwight Howard had some kryptonite thrown his way in the form of free-throws with 10.6 seconds left.

Kobe Bryant didn't play great, but again made a few really good passes down the stretch to give his teammates some great looks. That pass to Pau Gasol for the quick dunk with around 30 seconds left in regulation was incredible.

Derek Fisher might be the the most cold-blooded man in the NBA. Only Derek Fisher could be shooting that badly and then come through with the two biggest shots in the series. Fisher is a guy taking more heat than anyone in this series for his poor shooting. He was 0-5 from behind the arc and then TOTALLY REDEEMS HIMSELF!

The Magic have to be kicking themselves so hard right now. This series could have easily been 3-1 in favor of Orlando. Then again, the same argument could be made that the series could be a 4-0 sweep for the Lakers.

Orlando is a very young and inexperienced team, and it has shown. Keeping Rafer Alston on the bench for Jameer Nelson, missing open shots down the stretch that could have sealed the game, and of course the brick party that Orlando hosted at the free-throw line.

I'm sure Orlando is very disappointed at where they are right now as a team. In my opinion, they should keep their heads up. They have over-achieved this season and got to a place very few outside their locker room thought they would.

Seriously I really do not want to hear any complaining about the refs. Any argument saying the finals are fixed in favor of the Lakers is absurd! The Lakers did not shoot one free throw in the fourth quarter. That elbow Nelson ate was unintentional and just as much his own fault as Kobe's.

I have heard people saying that Kobe's elbow to Nelson was the no-call that cost Orlando the game. No, it did not cost you the game. You have to help yourself by making free throws and that's the bottom line.

The technical on Pau at the end of the game was a bit absurd. I understand the refs trying to keep things under control or what not, but I defy anyone to take a hit like that and not want turn around swinging. It was a total cheap-shot.

Orlando may have finally stacked the odds too high to overcome. They did not take advantage of the opportunities that could have won them the game. Orlando had every chance to tie the serie,s and when you give a team like the Lakers extra shots they will make you pay.

If Orlando and its fans should take anything away from this series, it's that they will be back. They have a lot going for them and I think that these finals have been a good learning experience.

Congratulations on a great season Orlando, but this just doesn't look to be your year.

Lakers-Magic: What Los Angeles Must Do in Game Four

travis proctor — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 17:18:19 -0400

Game Three was exactly what Orlando wanted. Yes the Lakers shot the ball well, but I think it's pretty clear the Lakers don’t want to get into a shoot-out with the Magic.

In Game Four, someone from the Lakers might want to consider guarding Rafer Alston. I know the guy was M.I.A in Game One and Two, but you had to anticipate he would play much better at home.

Many of the things that were expected of the Magic happened in Game Three. The role players made shots and Dwight Howard was able to get some big dunks. The Magic were able to get in transition and get those open looks they need.

After three games it looks pretty obvious what each team needs to do to win.

The Lakers must keep the game in a half court set tonight. The Lakers are a very good offensive team, but they must stay patient and not fall in love with the three.

If the Lakers shoot 20 threes tonight they will not win.

The Lakers need to live in the paint. During Game One and Two, the Lakers successfully slowed down the game. Although the Lakers are capable of playing an up-tempo game, that would play directly into the hands of the Magic.

The biggest reason the Lakers have such a huge advantage in the half court is because of Kobe Bryant and Pau Gasol. The Lakers have two great players who can get their own shot at any time and can create good looks for other players. They draw a double-team every time they touch the ball.

Tonight it would greatly benefit the Lakers to run their offense through Gasol more often. Odom and Gasol have played very well in these Finals and they should be a bigger focus of the game plan.

Kobe will be Kobe. Although he made some crucial mistakes at the end of Game Three, including a huge turnover, I would expect him to play smarter tonight.

The Lakers are at their best when Kobe facilitates and doesn't try to go one-on-five. As great as Kobe can be, he is still a streaky shooter. He can be far more effective against the Magic in the post and on the pick-and-roll with Gasol or Odom.

By the way, can the Lakers please get Greg Oden out of Andrew Bynum's uniform and put Bynum back in the game? I understand he is in a tough matchup and hasn’t been getting the benefit of many calls, but damn stop fouling son! You’ve got to be smarter after three games, don't you?

Finally, the Lakers cannot let themselves get frustrated if things aren't going their way. They have to keep a cool head. And Kobe, that goes for you, too. I know you want to win so bad you would probably play by yourself if you had to. But you don't. You have a lot of good players around you and if you start to lose your head your teammates will too.

Tonight I think the Magic will come out hot and hit a lot of shots early. The Lakers should be able to weather the storm and slow the game down to where they want it to be. As long as they can get a hand in the shooter’s face, they will be fine.

If the Magic get the same kind of shots they did in game three, we will have a tied series. If the Lakers can play a half court game we will see a 3-1 series.

With these contrasting styles, both teams have to fight to get the other to play to their strengths.

With the Lakers sporting a 6-0 record after losses in this post season, I think they will come out with a win tonight and really put the pressure on Orlando in Game Five.

Taking Another Look at the NBA Finals From an Orlando Perspective

travis proctor — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 16:36:20 -0400

Tonight is Orlando's last chance to get into this series. They had their chance Sunday night, but could not capitalize. By the way, no one should blame Courtney Lee. That was an extremely tough shot and to hit it would have been incredible.

Real quick I would like to say that I know Kobe says that it's not about winning a title without Shaq, but I mean come on man. As a Lakers fan and a Kobe fan I am so tired of people talking about those other titles being "Shaq's Titles" and if I'm sick of hearing it there is no way Kobe isn't tired of hearing that absurd banter.

So here we are. Game Three of the finals with the Lakers up 2-0 and everyone has pretty much given them the championship already. To be honest, I find this somewhat odd because of what Orlando has already overcome so far in the playoffs to be where they are. Also, so many people were picking them to win the series and now those people have all thrown in the towel.

Stan Van Gundy, why oh why did you decide to destroy your team’s chemistry? I understand Jameer Nelson is a huge key to your team’s success, but why would you ruin something that was working so well.

I really feel for Rafer Alston. The guy does a great job coming in and helping Orlando get to the finals and then is forgotten so quickly.

That brings me to JJ Redick. Wow please someone, anyone tell me why was he playing in the fourth quarter or at all for that matter. This guy didn't see the floor against Cleveland and now he is a fourth quarter go to guy in the finals, wow.

There is a good chance I am off base here, but the lack of championship experience on the Magic and their coaching staff is really standing out. Van Gundy and the Magic have earned the tag of extremely resilient throughout these playoffs. Now they have to dig deeper than they have at any time during these playoffs and find a way to win.

Tonight with Orlando back at home I would expect more of those threes to fall and more of the calls to go their way. The key for Orlando tonight is to get into transition. It is well known that the Lakers are a much better half court team and if Orlando wants to win they need to run the floor and get those open threes in transition.

Once the Magic can find that shooting touch that we started to see in game two it will open things up for Dwight Howard a little more. A lot of people are kind of dogging him for his performance so far and that’s somewhat unfair.

People need to understand he is one great front-court player against an All-Star center in Pau Gasol, an extremely versatile player in Lamar Odom, and a young but talented center in Andrew Bynum. Howard hasn't seen any front court even close to this talented in the playoffs and they have done a good job against him.

Howard is basically in a three on one match-up. With the crowd behind him tonight, I think we might see superman deliver some of the high flying antics we are used to, but he can't do it if the Magic don't run and stretch the floor. If the Lakers are allowed to clog the lane Howard will continue to struggle.

Tonight we will get to see how resilient the Magic really can be after back-to-back really tough losses. Maybe things have just piled up too much for Orlando and it's finally become too much for them to overcome. Either way they have had a season that far exceeded expectations and they should feel good about where they are and where they are going.

The Great Debate Still Inconclusive

travis proctor — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 18:00:16 -0400

According to the Association's front office, the NBA playoffs are where amazing happens.

Since the start of the playoffs, we've had images of Kobe and LeBron burned into our eye balls. The Vitamin Water campaign and the Nike puppets were all based on the idea of LeBron and Kobe meeting in the Finals. Well, that's out the door and while Kobe held up his end of the bargain Lebron fell short.

A few weeks ago many people were positive this would be the other way around and Kobe would be watching Lebron in the Finals. Well here we are and the stage is set for a Magic-Lakers Finals. Yeah, the Magic—who would have thought that they would be in the Finals - with a healthy Jameer Nelson no less?

So we did not get the dream match-up in the Finals that a lot of people were hoping for. Now people are back pedaling like I have never seen before. A few weeks ago the Cavs were unstoppable, I can't even count the number of times I heard someone say "I don't see anyone stopping the Cavs." Now that they have been stopped very abruptly none of it seems to be LeBron's fault.

There is no arguing that LeBron is as physically dominant as any player there has ever been. LeBron is basically the size of Dwight Howard with the speed of Randy Moss.

The argument that LeBron has no help is such a cop-out. This team finished the regular season with the best record in the NBA and now that they fell short, that means LeBron has no help.

I didn't hear this argument once until the Cavs were eliminated. If they had come from a six, seven, or eight seed I could see that argument, but they were the number one seed overall.

I think people have heavily underestimated the mentality of a champion and a leader. This is what I believe separates Kobe being in the Finals and LeBron watching the Finals.

Anyone who wants to be considered as one of the greatest of all time needs to hit free throws at a higher rate than 74 percent in the Conference Finals.

Kobe Bryant is not a better player than LeBron. Kobe Bryant is mentally stronger than LeBron. Kobe has been there before and won. He has been there before and lost.

It appears to me that Kobe has a better feeling for the game. Yes, I do agree the Lakers have more all-around talent, but until the Conference Finals started, that was hardly anyone's feelings.

One glaring piece of evidence that LeBron is not mentally ready is the way he acted after the Game Six loss Saturday. Try to defend it if you want, but the fact is that LeBron acted like a spoiled teenager.

It seems that this has been a season-long party for LeBron and the Cavs, now his party ended before he wanted it to and it's time to pout in the corner.

Don't give me an excuse like "I'm a competitor and I don't like to lose." If the Cavs win LeBron is the first one on the mic and the camera and if they lose, it should be no different.

You can't just be the leader when it's convenient. If roles were reversed and Kobe did that people would not make any excuses for him—they would just bash him ruthlessly.

Next season, LeBron might want to take a more business-like approach to the game instead of a fun approach. Taking fake pictures before every game makes for decent TV but clearly it doesn't help you win rings.

It is fairly obvious to me that when you watch the these two, Kobe is all business and LeBron is all fun and that is why one is still playing while the other watches.

San Diego Chargers Looking for Better Execution in 2009

travis proctor — Tue, 26 May 2009 19:04:13 -0400

The struggles the Chargers had in 2008 were well publicized throughout the NFL. In 2009, the Chargers come out with mostly the same strategy, while hoping for better execution.

The offense for the Chargers in '08 was clearly not the problem, and with all key starters returning, they look to do a lot of scoring in '09. While traditionally the Chargers have been a run first team, I think we can expect to see Phillip Rivers throw the ball a little more this season.

Ladainian Tomlinson has been the key to the Chargers success in the past, but this season should see more of the offense revolving around Rivers. With the emergence of Darren Sproles and a talented receiving core, Rivers should have a Pro Bowl season in '09.

Chris Chambers, Vincent Jackson, and Antonio Gates need to have a good season for this offense to succeed. Rivers is still a young quarterback, but as his experience grows, so should his playbook.

All the pieces are in place for this offense to explode every play. Norv Turner is known for being a great offensive coach, and with these kind of weapons, it should be a lot easier.

The 2008 Chargers were very weak in pass defense. It is no question that the loss of Shawne Merriman and Stephen Cooper hurt the defense, and having Antonio Cromartie playing part of the year with a fractured hip didn't help, either.

The only notable loss to free agency was Igor Olshansky, heading to Dallas.

The '09 Chargers will probably not make many changes to the defensive playbook. Last year, they struggled to get off the field on third down and gave quarterbacks all day to throw. The defensive problems the Chargers faced last year were more thought to be personnel issues, and not so much scheme-related.

This might be the do-or-die season for Norv Turner and his coaching staff. While the playbook should not receive drastic changes, slight adjustments will always be made. If the Chargers experience the same defensive woes in '09, we should see the end of the Norv Turner era in San Diego.

2009 Chargers Look To Take Advantage of Weak AFC West

travis proctor — Tue, 26 May 2009 13:41:30 -0400

The AFC West was one of the two worst divisions in football last year. The San Diego Chargers were able to recover from a dismal 4-8 start to win the division with an 8-8 record.

The Denver Broncos, on the other hand, had a three-game lead on the Chargers with four games to play only to lose their last four, including a Sunday night beat down by the Chargers in week 17.

The outlook for 2009 is more of the same. With Jay Cutler heading to Chicago, the Raiders making traditionally bad decisions, and the Chiefs having only Matt Cassell to hang their hat on, San Diego looks to be the class of the division.

The Chargers are returning most of their starters and are looking to add a healthy Shawne Merriman to a defense that struggled in '08. The offense should be more potent than it was last season with the return of a healthy Ladainian Tomlinson.

Darren Sproles should also provide a strong second option that will keep defenses on their toes.

Three of the four teams in the division seem to be in a rebuilding mode this season, leaving the Chargers to be the only competitive team coming out of the AFC West.

With an 8-8 record being good enough to win the division last year, it shouldn't take much more to win the division again this year.

The 2009 season should see the Chargers run away with the division. For the past three years, there has been a lot of Super Bowl talk in San Diego, but not much Super Bowl walk.

This year seems like the "put up or shut up" season for the Chargers. With the AFC West appearing as weak as it has ever been, it seems there is very little to stand in the Chargers' way.

San Diego Chargers Look to 2009 for Much Needed Defensive Improvement.

travis proctor — Fri, 22 May 2009 13:58:09 -0400

After the 2008 season the biggest question facing the San Diego Chargers is: Can they create a successful pass rush? The Chargers had an extremely up-and-down season in 2008. The offense remained fairly consistent in its ability to move the ball and also strike quickly, while the defense struggled game-in and game-out in their attempts to put pressure on the quarterback.

While it is no question that the loss of Shawn Merriman created a huge hole in their defense, it will still take more than him alone to ensure success in 2009. The first round pick of Larry English will hopefully provide an added lift for the defense. Many people saw the pick as possibly a future replacement for the all-pro Merriman, but why not use both?

After finishing 2008 dead last in pass defense it appears the Chargers could use all the help they can get and English could provide a very strong presence opposite Merriman. It is fair to say that the struggles the Chargers had in 2008 were a surprise to most, but their inability to get off the field on 3rd-and-long ended up being their Achilles Heel.

The 2008 season started with great optimism and hope for the San Diego Chargers and while they did finish strong it was very evident that they weren't ready to win a championship. As 2009 has been set in motion, the Chargers return with greater optimism and hope for the new year. With most the key starters returning and hopefully a healthy LaDainian Tomlinson also returning to the lineup the Chargers look to finally live up to the hype and bring home the first championship in franchise history.