Bleacher Report - Articles by bob bob

Los Angeles Lakers: Pressure To Succeed Falls Heavily On Their Shoulders

bob bob — Sat, 29 Aug 2009 19:49:14 -0400

The pressure to be great.

Great expectations coming from both parties. Fans and foes.

One team Vs. twenty-nine others fighting for the same goal.

There are no allies.

The Los Angeles Lakers are alone in their quest to defend their title.

A great title, but a curse.

They are on the top with many trying everything in their power to make them fall from glory. Aiming and hoping for their leader to finally break down and pass down the torch.

Undeniable Pressure.

That is going to be the atmosphere starting next season for the Lakers. Other teams trying to permeate their defenses to exploit their weaknesses in their efforts to defeat them.

On the other hand, fans are going to expect nothing less than amazing. If they don't have the best record of the NBA next season and win another ring, next season will be viewed as a failure.

The bar is set to the highest level, but can the Lakers meet or even succeed their expectations for the people who believe in them and most importantly for themselves?

Their intentions are there.

The Lakers front office is trying their best to meet their needs. The gain of Ron Artest. The successful negotiations with Lamar Odom.

They have certainly improved on paper. How about on the court?

I cannot answer that question with a definitive tone, just yet. I have not seen how the Artest swap changed the Lakers chemistry. Better or worse.

What I can confidently answer is that they have to improve significantly if their goal is still the same from the previous season; a championship.

Their point guard situation is iffy.

Derek Fisher is a veteran. Meaning his body can't take the numerous offensive fouls he attracts every season. His body is going to crumble eventually.

Jordan Farmar has to fully embrace his role as a point guard next season. He needs to take his game to the next level in order to balance out the Lakers offensive and defensive game.

The same goes for Andrew Bynum, Sasha Vujacic, Adam Morrison, Shannon Brown, Josh Powell and D.J. Mbenga. The leaders of their team, Kobe Bryant, Lamar Odom, Pau Gasol, and Derek Fisher, can't play in their highest level each and every game and expect them to have energy left for the playoffs.

That's not practical.

An ideal season for the Lakers includes those players to increase their efficiency, not the other way around.

Since the team is built differently than the team that existed a few seasons ago. The Lakers are not as dependent on Kobe as they used to be. This means that Kobe's numbers and minutes on the court are expected to go down.

If that fate does happen, it would be a great opportunity for those players to improve and get some much needed experience. They need to do the best with that opening if that were to happen.

After all, Kobe is only human...okay, an above-average human being blessed with superior skills in the game of basketball. A human, nonetheless.

Kobe came into the NBA pressured to be great. He had some huge shoes to fill after Michael Jordan left.

He was always on the spotlight, good or bad. The dynasty years, the rape charges fiasco, and the rebuilding of the once formidable Lakers.

He was conditioned from day one to handle pressure. To carry a whole franchise.

In another light, maybe that's the reason why Kobe is great under pressure, but that's for another article.

His team needs to spread out the responsibility. Kobe was in a way, the perfect protection from the media. It used to be when something went wrong for the Lakers; a loss of any form, he was the main target of blame.

Now, the other limbs of the Lakers team needs to feel the burden he still feels. By doing that, the whole Lakers organization can finally handle the pressure of greatness and make that a fuel to their purple and gold fire. A flame strong enough to have the potential to take them to their wanted destination.

The NBA Finals.

Los Angeles Lakers: Possible Disappointments for Next Season

bob bob — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 18:31:45 -0400

In every sport, there are teams that can not stay away from winning championships. It seems as if they always manage to get over the obstacle that stands on their path to victory. That sentence might've sounded a little cheesy (cheesy to me anyway), but that is the perfect description of the Los Angeles Lakers.

The Lakers are probably magnetic because they always seem to attract the Larry O'Brien Trophy. Okay, I admit that sentence was lame, but you get my drift. The Lakers are at it again, possibly reaching their long awaited sweet sixteen.

Their organization better hope these possible misfortunes don't happen to them next season.

Kobe Bryant Getting Injured

The Lakers dealt with Andrew Bynum and Jordan Farmar getting injured last season. Pau Gasol is currently out for a few weeks because of a minor finger injury.

If Kobe Bryant was to get injured next season for an extended amount of time, then the Lakers could say bye-bye to the best regular season record and hello to becoming second, third, or fourth in the Western Conference. Yeah, he's that important.

I can't think of anyone who is skilled enough on the Lakers team to completely fill in the role of a leader and a superstar.

Ron Artest is a possibility, but his crazy-eyed antics and leadership on and off the court is beyond questionable.

Pau is the nearest thing to a superstar player in the Lakers team, but he hasn't shouldered the burden that Kobe has in making the whole franchise of one of the most successful teams in sport history.

No one can truly fill in the void that is left. The second-best shooting guard on the Lakers' roster is Shannon Brown. Brown is a player with a shooting guard mentality, but who has the body of a point guard.

I am not saying Brown is a bad player. He's just not Kobe, plain and simple.

Ron Artest Being Ron Artest

This player is entertaining. I admire his toughness. Ron's and Kobe's defensive battles in both the regular season and playoffs was one of the highlights of last season.

With Artest joining the Lakers club, I expect him to behave, and only get ejected three times next season, including the payoffs.

Three times!

Is that too much to ask?

Personally, if anyone cares, I would like to see Artest get on his defensive assignment's nerves. That would be funny.

I don't want Ron Artest causing another brawl that would cause him to be useless for a whole season, ultimately making the Lakers organization and fans regret picking him up.

I'm optimistic that Ron-Ron will behave, especially when Kobe and Phil has the power to tell him to shut up and sit down when they see fit.

Don't forget, this is Hollywood, not Houston (no disrespect to Houston). There are bigger egos than Artest.

Not Winning the Championship

No-brainer here.

I've been planning emergency actions inside my head when the unfortunate day comes and the Lakers do not accomplish their goal.

Right now, my plans of action are preliminary. It's either make a sappy, yet heart felt Lakers love song or throw something really hard--preferably a huge rock-- aiming for my parents' plasma T.V. It's still an ongoing process.

I remember last season when the Lakers lost a game. It ruined my day completely. I could not focus on anything. I just kept asking myself what went wrong for the Lakers to be defeated.

It was severe enough that I couldn't even go to ESPN or SportsCenter every time they lost a game because I didn't want to be reminded of their loss. Pretty sad, I know.

Putting my dramatic side away, I'm not saying that the Lakers don't have the opportunity next season to win a championship. Far from it.

I'm saying—or rather, typing—that the Lakers have a chance to lose it all, too.

If that day comes, it would be the biggest, and most unexpected, of disappointments. Key word here is if.

The State Of The Los Angeles Lakers: 2009-2010 Season

bob bob — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 20:26:51 -0400

The 2008-2009 NBA season is part of the past now. The crowning of a new champion was the end result of that season.

The Los Angeles Lakers set themselves apart from the rest of the league by winning the coveted Larry O'Brien trophy last NBA season.

The Lakers are once again on the hunt, cementing themselves as one of the main championship contenders. But being championship contenders doesn't necessarily mean that the Lakers will automatically accomplish the rare feat of a repeat.

During this offseason, I have come up with certainties and uncertainties of the Lakers coming into next season.

The Lakers' strengths and weaknesses. Their positives and negatives.

Ron Artest

The Lakers front office acquired Ron Artest from the Houston Rockets this offseason for a five-year deal that is worth around $33 million.

Artest provides the Lakers elite perimeter defense that won him his lone Defensive Player of the Year award in 2004.

For the Lakers, this means that Kobe Bryant does not have to focus part of his energy guarding the opponents best shooting guard or small forward. Kobe can now spend his time roaming defensively and leading the Lakers complicated offense while having enough energy to take over in the fourth quarter if he is needed.

With Artest's intimidating personality in the defensive end and Kobe's hope-killing shooting and demeanor, the Lakers truly got the better end of this deal.

Trevor Ariza will be missed, but Artest will be welcomed with open-arms.

Ron-Ron is a positive.

Lamar Odom

Re-signing Lamar Odom was the best move the Lakers has done during this offseason.

Though he can sometimes disappear during games last season and the season before, Odom is best suited to play for the Lakers.

He took a blow to his pride during last season when he came off playing for the bench, taking the role of the Lakers' Sixth Man.

During that season, Odom became Andrew Bynum's insurance. Odom started for the Lakers half way through the '08-'09 season after Bynum suffered another injury.

He thrived as a starter, but was also understanding when Bynum took over his spot as a starter once again during that season's post season.

Lamar was once again needed when Bynum became a foul magnet during the post season. Odom acknowledged his supporting role and flat out produced for the Lakers in the offensive and defensive end. He ended the '08-'09 post season averaging 12.3 points and 9.1 rebounds per game.

Expect Odom to give the Lakers Sixth Man worthy numbers once again during next season's play.

Odom is a positive.

Phil Jackson

The Lakers recently lost a key member to their championship team, Kurt Rambis, Phil Jackson's successor. But, the Lakers still have the most successful coach in NBA history, Phil Jackson.

Jackson is truely a coach of champions; coaching both Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant. Phil has a total of ten championship and has mastered the art of the complicated, yet effective triangle offense.

Phil has the chance to be the first coach in NBA history to wear a toe ring.

Phil is certainly a positive.

Kobe Bryant and Pau Gasol

The on court chemistry between Kobe and Pau is second to none in this league. This duo is making a name for themselves amongst the all-time great duos of the NBA.

Since Pau has joined forces with Kobe, they have not lost a Western Conference title and has won an NBA championship in only two seasons together. Unlike the great duo of John Stockton and Karl Malone, where the two of them are still ringless.

During last season, this duo averaged 45.7 points, 14.7 rebounds, and 8.5 assists per game.

Expect the best from these two.

Kobe and Pau equals championship success.

Sasha Vujacic

This article about Vujacic tells it best. He has simply lost his shooting touch.

His jump shot is as erratic and sporadic as his defense. The Lakers just can't depend on Sasha to provide a few good minutes of play while Kobe rest his legs.

During last season, Sasha averaged a poor 5.8 points per game shooting a below-average 38.7 percent from the field.

He might turn it around next season, but for now he is a "machine" with low batteries. He needs to find his touch once again and finally start living up to his self-proclaimed name of the "Machine".

Till that day, the "Machine" is a negative.

Injuries

Injuries is part of every contact sport. Basketball is not an exception.

Last season, the Lakers' injury list included Andrew Bynum, Jordan Farmar, and Sun Yue.

Bynum's NBA career has been injury filled. It's a good thing that the Lakers have Lamar because Bynum has not showed that he can play a full eighty-two game season.

Andrew shows great potential, he even has the chance to become an All-Star next season. But if he has another injury plagued season, he will be more of a negative than a positive to me.

Also, the most recent injury the Lakers have right now during this offseason is with Pau. It's a minor finger injury that is expected to be fully healed in three weeks.

Though it's minor, I'm hoping it's not a bad omen for Pau and the Lakers coming into next season. An omen full of injury.

Injuries are a negative.

Age

The Lakers team is getting older, an inevitable thing.

Kobe is thirty, fastly approaching thirty-one. Lamar, Artest, and Pau are twenty-nine, while Derek Fisher just turned thirty-five.

Being old has its perks. Their basketball I.Q. is higher and their more calm in final second games.

But the older players athleticism is not as sharp as they used to be, the same with their endurance.

Due to this, the Lakers only has a one to three year window left where they can utilize Kobe's innate ability.

Aging is a downer, that's why since the beginning of time people has been looking for ways to negate it's effects.

Overall...

The Lakers are in a good place right now. They have gotten the taste of success last season making them more hungrier to win it back next season.

If they can stay away from the negatives listed and hone the positives, they will be in good shape.

To say the Lakers will repeat next season would be foolish on my part, but to say the Lakers don't have a chance at repeating would also be foolish.

Is it October 27th yet?

Kobe Bryant Vs. Osama Bin Laden: "I'll Dunk Right On His Face"

bob bob — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 01:31:18 -0400

The LeBron James getting "dunked" on fiasco is part of the past now.

Several NBA stars commented on what they thought about the whole ordeal, including Los Angeles Lakers superstar Kobe Bryant.

I wonder what NBA stars would think about this?

Peter Mehlman from Peter Mehlman's Narrow World of Sports had a humor filled interview with Kobe.

The interview varied in topics. From Kobe being a vegetarian, to tipping the referees cash after the game. It even had some politics in the mix.

What got my attention the most was when Peter asked Kobe, "...If you played Bin Laden one on one, isn't that playing for your country?"

Kobe answered, "Yeah, probably."

Peter then asked, "What would happen if you played him?"

Kobe simply said, "I'll dunk right on his face."

Peter asked, "How many times?"

Kobe replied, "Oh, every chance I get."

"Tomahawk?" Peter questioned.

Kobe raised his hand, as if to dunk a ball, and slammed it down--hand open. Then said, "Baaaaah," and chuckled a bit.

Obviously, this interview was made to make people laugh and should not be taken seriously. (Watch the video it's pretty funny)

But, it would be entertaining to see Kobe "dunk" on Osama Bin Laden. Especially, on live TV.

I'd buy that match on pay-per-view.

New Nike Commercial Rap: Kobe's and LeBron's Puppets got Nothing on This

bob bob — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 22:52:51 -0400

We have all witnessed the Kobe Bryant and LeBron James Puppet commercials.

Well, Nike is at it again with a new, funny, and hip commercial highlighting NBA stars: Kevin Durant, Mo Williams, Rashard Lewis, and Andre Iguodala.

Each NBA star has each taken a new persona.

Kevin as Velvet Hoop.

Mo as Fog Raw.

Rashard as Ice-O.

Andre as Chief Blocka.

The whole commercial of two minutes and thirty-seconds was actually really entertaining. Each athlete showed off their skills on the court and their skills in rapping. I gotta tell you, they were pretty good.

Here is their funny single "Don't Criticize (Hyperize)" by the "Hyperizers".

Check it out. It wont disappoint, I promise.

Repeat After Me: If Lakers Are to Win Another Title, These Flaws Must Be Fixed

bob bob — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 13:53:58 -0400

The Los Angeles Lakers are going to be defending their title in the 2009-2010 season. All is good in the world of purple and gold.

They have made moves during this offseason that arguably have improved their already championship-caliber team. By switching Trevor Ariza for Ron Artest and finally setting Lamar Odom's re-signing in stone, they are the team to beat coming into next season.

Like I said earlier, all is good in Lakers world. Yes, no?!?

In my point of view it seems like it. But in my point of view, I can also see some nagging problems the Lakers need to fix, or at least strengthen the area(s) where they are lackluster.

Giving up Solid Leads

Watching plenty of Lakers games last season and the season before, I had to share the numerous frustrations that every Lakers fan around the world felt every time the Lakers let a team back from the brink of defeat into a fighting chance at winning the game.

I swear, if the Lakers are going to put me through another Boston Celtics Final comeback type of game, I'm going to curl myself up into a ball, roll myself to my room, lock the door, and deprive myself from human interaction.

Bench Production

The Lakers bench is decent compared to other benches around the NBA, especially with their leader back, Lamar Odom. But decent isn't good enough to repeat.

The Lakers need players like Sasha Vujacic, Jordan Farmar, Shannon Brown, and Josh Powell to step up their games.

Vujacic has had to find his "machine"-like touch again and Farmar has to focus on staying healthy, especially with the injury he endured during last season's play.

Brown and Powell were pleasant surprise last season. Brown gave Lakers fans consistency behind the arc and excited them with his athletic dunks, while Powell grabbed rebounds and offered a pretty good mid-range game into the Lakers offense.

Even though these two players exceeded my expectations, they still need to get better. Every team in the league has the whole Lakers team glued onto their dart boards, aiming for the Lakers' leader's head, Kobe Bryant, replacing the bull's eye spot.

Lamar Odom's Inconsistency

The Lakers-Odom ordeal is part of the past now. Odom is back and ready to defend his lone title with the Lakers.

The re-signing of Odom is a plus for the Lakers. Last season he averaged Sixth Man worthy numbers: 11.3 points and 8.2 rebounds per game.

Odom is a major factor in the Lakers' championship success. They are almost unstoppable when Odom brings his game with him. If he's having trouble, though, the Lakers go down a few levels and give their opponents the opportunity to get a W.

Andrew Bynum's Injury/Foul Troubles

Everyone can agree that Andrew Bynum is not the same spectacular Bynum that he was before his injury last season.

Before his injury, Bynum was starting to heat up, even out-playing Kobe Bryant during a few of the Lakers' regular season games last season. For instance, in a game against the Los Angeles Clippers last season, Bynum posted Wilt Chamberlain-worthy numbers with 42 points and 15 rebounds.

When he came back for the playoffs later that season, he had problems staying out of foul trouble. He attracted fouls like doughnuts attract cops or like supermodels attract guys.

Bynum needs to stay healthy for an entire season. He also needs to improve his post game and his mid-range jump shot.

All in All...

The offseason is still in process, meaning they still have time to improve. The Lakers' competition for the Larry O'Brien trophy has gotten a whole lot stronger than the previous season.

The Boston Celtics, Orlando Magic, Cleveland Cavaliers, and San Antonio Spurs, to name a few of the contenders, have also been busy improving their rosters.

It will not be an easy 2009-2010 season if the Lakers want to stay on the top of the NBA mountain. Far from it.

Which supports the reason why the Lakers need to improve any and every which way possible as their bid for a repeat lives on.

Top Five: Ugliest Shooting Styles in Basketball

bob bob — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 15:42:24 -0400

Take out the good. The bad. And just leave out the ugly because that is all you are going to see in this slideshow. Their are good shooting forms out there in the world of basketball. You could take notes on sharp shooter like Michael Jordan, Reggie Miller, Larry Bird, Ray Allen, or Kobe Bryant to name a few. Beating at a beat of a different drum are these players I'm about to introduce to you. Side Note: Please don't mimic any of these players forms. Just something to keep in mind.

Begin Slideshow

Lakers, Don't Make Kobe's Contract Extension Talk Into a Lamar Odom Fiasco

bob bob — Sat, 01 Aug 2009 23:23:38 -0400

The Los Angeles Lakers have had a busy offseason thus far. The Lakers front office swapped Trevor Ariza for Ron Artest and has re-signed Lamar Odom.

They are also expected to tackle contract extension talks with Kobe Bryant later on this month.

I expect the negotiations to go smoothly, but we can never be certain.

I expected the Lamar Odom's re-signing to be smooth as ice or at least as smooth as the surface of a wooden table, but we know how it really went.

First, the rescinding of Odom's contract. Coupled with very heated tension between both parties (Lamar Odom and Los Angeles Lakers) and added with the constant pestering of another party (Miami Heat), it turned into a roller coaster of a ride to say the least.

We are talking about Kobe, though, not Odom.

The man who is the face of the Lakers franchise.

The man who the Lakers' chose instead of Shaquille O'Neal.

A global icon, especially in Asia, Kobe.

He has the Lakers franchise wrapped around his fingers the way LeBron James has the Cavaliers future success in the palms of his freakishly large hands.

Kobe's number one priority right now is to repeat, so I don't think the talks his going to have with the Lakers are going to be the same hardball type of negotiations like Odom.

But anything can happen in Hollywood.

With All the Offseason Drama, Can the Lakers Foresee a Hollywood Ending?

bob bob — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 03:06:14 -0400

The Los Angeles Lakers' offseason has been full of twists and turns. Nothing less is expected from a team that resides in Hollywood, the No. 1 spot for divas and superstars alike.

Ron Artest

After winning their franchise's 15th championship, the Lakers organization got Ron Artest swapping places with Trevor Ariza.

Artest is an upgrade. He can average better numbers per game than Ariza, simple and plain. His 16.1 points, 2.1 steals, and 5.1 rebounds per game beats Ariza's 6.9 points, 1.1 steals, and 3.8 rebounds per game.

Ron Artest looks like a clear steal...right? I would have to agree, but I still have my doubts.

Ron-Ron is a Dennis Rodman type of player. As fans of the NBA, we know what he is capable of. When he is in one of those moods, the referee better eject him or he can single-handedly replicate the Pacers and Pistons brawl with a bat of his crazy eyelashes.

On another note, it would never be boring to watch Ron Artest go at it with a fan.

Lamar Odom

Lamar Odom has recently reached a verbal agreement with the Lakers. A four-year deal that is worth $33 million could very well be set in stone in the next few days.

It's definitely a time for rejoicing for Lakers fan all around the world. The man who has caused so much fuss in the NBA world, has finally put an end to the annoying Odom/Lakers' soap opera.

The Lakers bench is en route in getting their leader back.

The Lakers Sixth Man averaged 11.3 points, 1.3 blocks, and 8.2 rebounds per game during last season's play. He improved those numbers during the Lakers' championship run in the playoffs by averaging 12.3 points, 1.4 blocks, and 9.1 rebounds per game. Not too shabby for a Sixth Man.

This deal truly benefits the Lakers in more ways than one. They have "insurance" if Bynum goes down with another injury next season, and they have someone to lead the Lakers' second unit.

For every good there is a bad. Odom is known for his versatility and also for his inconsistency.

When Odom has his game, there is no question, the Lakers win. When he's a no-show, the Lakers have to claw their way just to get a W.

Also, will his tough negotiations with the Lakers affect how he plays for them in the near future? The Lakers' and Odom's road to an agreement was a rough one to say the least, so it's something worth thinking about.

Is the Lakers' chemistry in jeopardy?

With a new face and a possibly sour Candy Man, the Lakers might have some inner problems. I personally believe that all will be well in Los Angeles by the start of next season, but I'm not certain. Anything can happen between now and the first tip-off.

My doubts shall be answered in the 2009-2010 season. All I can say now is, is it November yet?

The Los Angeles Lakers Are the Favorites to Win Even Without Lamar Odom

bob bob — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 20:28:09 -0400

Since the beginning of the offseason, I've been very optimistic that Lamar Odom will be coming back to the Los Angeles Lakers.

The switching of Trevor Ariza and Ron Artest, coupled with Kobe's optimistic outlook in Odom returning to his rightful place, supported my hopes of Lamar coming back. But the road to bringing Odom back has been filled with speed bumps along the way.

From the Lakers rescinding Odom's contract a few weeks ago, to the "serious" considerations Odom is having in returning to the Miami Heat, the road has been, by no means, pretty. Instead, it has been the exact opposite.

Lamar's future is still not certain. Reports believe that the questions surrounding Odom to where he is going to be living next season will be answered in the next few days.

I have been hoping that Odom's fate would've been answered much, much sooner. Now, due to the whole negotiations fiasco the Lakers and Odom has put the NBA world through, there is one thing that truly looks crystal clear to me.

No matter how important Odom was in the Lakers championship formula, he was not the key piece to the formula. Far from it.

Odom is a versatile player that can average Sixth Man worthy numbers: 15.1 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 4.2 assists. Even with those numbers, Odom was only the third best player in his team, behind fellow teammates Kobe Bryant and Pau Gasol.

His best interest is with the Lakers if he wants to win another ring. The Lakers are still projected to win an NBA championship, with or without Odom.

Oddsmakers has the Lakers at a 2-1 favorite to win the Larry O'Brien trophy next season. Behind them are the Cavaliers at 3-1 and the Celtics at 5-1.

If Odom joins the Heat, he will only strengthen the Heat as playoff contenders, not championship contenders. The Heat only has a 25-1 odds at winning it all next season without Odom and a 22-1 odds at winning it with Odom. Not much of an improvement compared to the clear-cut favorites.

Odom will also receive the most amount of money per year with the Lakers even if the Lakers reduced their original offer of $27 million over three years.

Better money, better chances at another ring. What more could he want?

I guess we will have to wait and see how the Lamar Odom soap opera will end.

Lamar Odom Shoving Los Angeles Aside, Headed for Miami?

bob bob — Sun, 26 Jul 2009 01:59:04 -0400

Special thanks to F. Dellomes II for telling me about the latest news on Lamar.

Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo Sports and Andrew Kamenetzky of the Los Angeles Times Blog, has written about the latest developments on the Lamar Odom and Los Angeles Lakers situation.

The Los Angeles Lakers and Lamar Odom soap opera has taken a new turn for the worse. According to Andrew's and Adrian's Report, Lamar Odom is taking Miami's offer to heart. His considering leaving the Lakers for the Miami Heat.

Their is no final answer to where Odom is going. It seems as if his milking the Lakers for a better deal and is using this sudden interest in the Heat as a ploy.

Nonetheless, I still have a strong belief in Odom coming back for next season.

It would be foolish on his part to leave a franchise as great as the Lakers are right now. His best bet in winning a championship is with the Lakers. To top that off, his getting paid a luxurious amount. I would think, that, it would be enough for him to accept the Lakers' offer.

I would certainly like Odom and his agent to stop playing hard to get.

The Lakers' front office has already proved they can play hardball. I would advise him not keep pushing their boundaries or another rescinding of a certain someone's contract could once again be in order.

I just don't know what's up with agents these days...

Kobe Bryant Takes College Student to School...Overseas

bob bob — Sat, 25 Jul 2009 18:45:52 -0400

Kobe Bryant has been fairly busy this offseason.

After winning his "Shaq-less" fourth NBA title and receiving his first NBA Finals MVP just last June, the Los Angeles Lakers' guard has added a few more miles in his already wornout legs.

His currently on a six-city Asia Tour, that includes these Asian Cities: Manila, Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Chengdu.

The tour is mainly to promote his new Nike shoes, reach out to his fans all over the world, and to teach and play basketball to whoever is willing to play and learn.

During one of his basketball clinics, he played a game of one on one with a college player in one of the Asian cities.

This matchup was the simple story of student meets the teacher. The student had no chance.

It's simple enough to know who plays the role of student and teacher in this situation. Although Kobe didn't play his fullest, he still managed to teach the kid a lesson or two in playing a superstar.

Kobe showed an array of moves from the little exhibition play. He showed off his footwork, defense, and mid-range jumpers.

The most impressive play, Kobe made, was his signature pump-fakes he does so, so well. His defender was biting off those fakes as if he had burning coal beneath his feet, until finally, the fourth pump-fake. Kobe released the ball off his magical fingertips and, as if on cue, the ball swished through the hoop.

Kobe still has a few cities left in his hectic schedule, and a few more opportunities to teach the students of basketball how he plays the game, or at least school them.

Kobe Bryant vs. Michael Jordan: 81 Or 69?

bob bob — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:14:16 -0400

They have been compared to religious figures.

They are acknowledged by many as the greatest in their individual eras.

They are truly bona-fide superstars of the NBA.

During a lazy afternoon a couple of weeks ago, I stumbled upon this video, sitting prettily inside the confines of YouTube. It's topic was about Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan: who had the better overall performance, Kobe's 81 points or Michael's 69 points?

Each of those point totals are each player's highest scoring performance in their career...thus far.

They are certainly unbelievable numbers for a player to score in a single game, but whose single game performance was more impressive to you viewers?

Kobe's or Michael's?

Here are Kobe's stats in the high-scoring game: 81 points, six rebounds, two assists, three steals, and one block.

Notable: He shot a blistering 28-46 from the field, making over 50 percent of his shots from behind the arc to the rim. The Lakers were down by double digits starting the second quarter before Kobe started shooting lights out. Kobe was also shooting 90 percent from the charity line.

Here are Michael's stats in his high-scoring game: 69 points, 18 rebounds, six assists, and four steals.

Notable: He shot a hot .621 percent from the field making 23-37 field goal attempts. When he scored 69 points, it was an overtime thriller against the Cleveland Cavaliers. MJ had his career high in rebounds as well with those 18 boards grabbed.

Each option, whether it is Kobe or MJ, have defensible opinions that are understandable. Kobe had the higher point total, while MJ had the better rebounding numbers, etc. Their are no right or wrong answers.

So...which performance impressed YOU the most?

Report Claims Lamar Odom Is Expected To Stay a Laker

bob bob — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 21:50:05 -0400

Lakers-Examiner~y2009m7d21-Things-looking-up-for-Lamar-Odom-and-the-Lakers">Great news on Lamar Odom's return to the Los Angeles Lakers!

I was informed of this great news by Brian Kamenetzky, a writer for the Los Angeles Times Lakers blog, when I read his article involving Odom.

It states no one expects Odom to leave the Lakers.

Who would?

The Lakers' offer for Odom is the best one he is getting so far. With the possibility of winning another ring, who would turn the Lakers' offer down?

This is very promising news for Laker fans all around the world.

Odom is one of the most versatile players in the league. He uses his "wiry" build to grab rebounds. His ball handling is above average compared to other big men in the league, and he can just flat-out score from behind the arc, from mid-range, or in the post.

When performing well, he is a high-energy player. Odom's emphatic slams can get the crowd in an uproar.

Plus, last season he averaged 11.3 points and 8.2 rebounds per game while coming off the bench. Odom was the Lakers' much-needed sixth man.

When the Lakers needed him most, Odom was there, waiting patiently.

For instance, when Andrew Bynum went down with an injury last season, the Lakers needed someone to assume the starting role. Lamar Odom was there to save the day.

He set aside his ego last season for the good of the team. Doing that, he helped quench the team's seven-year championship drought.

Now, I can only hope there are no more twists and turns involving Odom's future as being part of the Los Angeles Lakers.

I'm crossing my fingers on this one.

Losing Lamar Odom a Shady Proposition: For the Lakers, There's No Bright Side

bob bob — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 23:52:37 -0400

How is Lamar Odom still teamless? Specifically, how is Lamar Odom still not signed with the Los Angeles Lakers?

This late in the offseason Odom is still sitting on his butt with an obscure future ahead of him.

Is he going to sign with the Lakers and finally stop all the fuss that has been whirling around lately? Or is he going to sign with another team like the Miami Heat or the Dallas Mavericks?

The end to all of this is still ambiguous; news of Odom has been scarce lately.

Keeping an open mind, who will benefit the most if Lamar actually leaves the Lakers...for good?

The L.A. Lakers or Lamar?

Yes, it's true that Lamar needs the Lakers more than the Lakers need him.

Yes, their is also a good possibility the Lakers can win it all next year.

And yes, Odom will be leaving his best chances in winning another ring if he and his agent chooses to join another team.

It seems like the Lakers get the better end of this deal. Right?!?!

Yes and no. The Lakers are still a top contender without Odom, but what is the bright side in losing Odom?

There is no other player in the market that can match the productivity of Lamar. He averages 15.1 points, 4.2 assist, and 8.2 rebounds per game. Lamar was a double-double machine for the Lakers in two out of the five seasons playing for the club.

Who will fill his shoes: D.J. Mbenga...or Josh Powell?

What happens when Andrew Bynum gets into foul trouble or his injuries become a pattern throughout his career. Who will be his "insurance?"

Who will take on the role as being the leader of the bench, the Lakers' sixth man? Luke Walton, Sasha Vujacic, Shannon Brown, Adam Morrison, or Jordan Farmar?

I have nothing against these players. They are good enough to be playing in the NBA, and they are good enough for me. But let's get serious here. Odom is the better player out of all the players I've listed throughout this article.

There is no replacement for Lamar. No one can truly fill in the void that is left.

In reality, there is no true winner if this deal were to happen. Lamar will be leaving his best chances in winning a championship for less money and the Lakers will not be gaining anything. Instead, they would be losing a great player in Lamar.

Kobe Bryant Plus Pau Gasol Equals Championship Success?

bob bob — Sun, 19 Jul 2009 02:36:17 -0400

Kobe Bryant is many things.

Kobe is a man, a husband, a father, and a basketball player.

He is also part of one of the greatest one-two punches the NBA world has ever witnessed.

Along with Shaquille O'neal, these two accomplished a rare three-peat together.

Shaq was always the one in the one-two punch. Kobe settled with being number two.

When Shaq left the Lakers, the dynasty started to fall apart. Kobe became a "villain" after numerous controversial headlines were "glued" over his head. It took awhile for the franchise to bring the championship parade back to L.A.

Kobe took sometime to reinvent himself and has taken the role of being the Los Angeles Lakers' leader. When the Lakers acquired forward/center Pau Gasol on Feb.1 2008, the Lakers team started to flourish.

That same year when the Lakers acquired Pau they sailed their way to the Finals, but was shot down in humiliating fashion by the Boston Celtics. The following season the Lakers came with a vengeance and climbed their way to the top once again.

During the Lakers' title run, a great Duo emerged along the way. Kobe and Pau is now making a name for themselves amongst the great duos in the NBA vault.

Kobe and Pau made great clutch plays during the playoffs and has great chemistry on and off the court. Kobe even said that Pau is his favorite player in the NBA right now.

Kobe averages 25.1 points, 4.6 assists, and 5.3 rebounds per game during his career coupled with Pau's 18.8 points, 1.7 blocks, and 8.7 rebounds per game they are a force to be reckoned with.

Kobe has already been apart of two great duos during his prodigious career. The difference between the Shaq/Kobe and the Kobe/Gasol parings is Kobe's now the man.

Kobe is not the second option anymore like his early years with Shaq. He is now the one in the Kobe/Gasol one-two punch.

With this young duo that is Kobe and Pau they are on their way to championship success. Since Gasol has been apart of the Lakers they have won consecutive Western Conference Finals and is now the top team in the NBA.

With these two still in top form, their is no telling how much more championships they can win. They have definitely shown their potential to win much, much more in their journey as teammates and friends.

Without Trevor Ariza and Possibly Lamar Odom, How Can Lakers Repeat?

bob bob — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 21:27:43 -0400

The past few days, Lamar Odom and the Los Angeles Lakers have made a buzz around the basketball world.

I'm sure every Lakers fan around the world knows about the recent developments in the Lakers' negotiations with Odom.

The Lakers organization has withdrawn its offer to Odom after he and his agent left the Lakers hanging without a response. The rescinding of the offer was also due to Odom's agent opening talks with other teams in the league. The bright side is the offers could be once again reopened.

The Lakers already lost a key player from their championship team, as Trevor Ariza swapped places with Ron Artest. Trevor is now playing for a broken team: the Houston Rockets.

While playing for the Lakers last year, Ariza averaged 8.9 points, 1.7 steals, and 4.3 rebounds per game. In the playoffs Ariza came up big, averaging 11.3 point, 1.6 steals, and 4.2 rebounds per game while shooting 47 percent from behind the arc.

If the Lakers lose Odom, they would be losing a player who averages 15.1 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game. Lamar might be an "iffy" player, but when he gets it going, the Lakers are at their full potential.

Like Ariza, Odom came up big during the playoffs. One of his most memorable plays in the finals was the back-to-back threes he hit to stop Orlando's run during the third quarter of the fifth game in the series. Carmelo Anthony of the Denver Nuggets said Odom was the key in the Lakers/Nuggets series.

In hopes of the Lakers repeating, they want Odom back on their roster. Without Odom, the Lakers' bench does not have a leader. The Lakers' second unit will not be as strong and will be weak compared to other championship contenders' benches.

The Lakers are still a top five team and are in the mix for getting a title next season, but their chances will significantly decrease without Ariza and possibly Odom.

Kobe Bryant has expressed outwardly feelings in wanting Odom back. He better use some of his power over the Los Angeles front office and bring him back for next season if he wants to increase his chances of being on the top team again.

The drama continues for the Los Angeles Lakers, as their bid for a repeat lives on.

The Los Angeles Lakers Named The Best Team In ESPY Awards

bob bob — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 01:04:51 -0400

The Los Angeles Lakers Squad was named the best team of 2009 in the annual ESPY Awards.

Led by their team captain Kobe Bryant, the Lakers won a Western Conference best 65-17 regular season record. They fought tough battles with the Utah Jazz, the Houston Rockets, the Denver Nuggets, and the Orlando Magic to win their fifteenth franchise championship.

Phil Jackson, the coach of the Lakers, was also named coach/manager of the year at the ESPYs.

The Lakers came back from a humiliating lose by their rivals, the Boston Celtics, in last years NBA Finals to winning a championship this year. They wanted to establish their roles in the NBA as being the best team, and now they have accomplished that.

Congratulations to the Los Angeles Lakers in winning this coveted award.

LeBron James Chosen As NBA Player Of The Year In 2009 Espys

bob bob — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 00:43:30 -0400

LeBron James, the MVP of the NBA this season, led his team to a regular season best 66-16 record, and is now the reigning Best NBA Player of the Year at the Espy Awards.

He was chosen by millions of fans to win this award edging out Kobe Bryant, Dwayne Wade, and Dwight Howard.

It wasn't that big of a surprise after the kind of regular season and playoff numbers he put up during last season's play.

In the regular season he averaged 28.4 points, 7.2 assists, and 7.6 rebounds per game.

During the playoffs he improved his regular season numbers by averaging 35.3 points, 7.3 assists, and 9.1 rebounds per outing.

Congratulations to LeBron James in receiving this great award.

Los Angeles Lakers vs. Lamar Odom: Who Will Have Their Way?

bob bob — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 16:19:32 -0400

Their have been numerous articles written about the Lamar Odom situation.

From this article, it states that the Lakers have rescinded their offer of nine million per year to Lamar Odom, after Odom and his agent did not respond to the Lakers offer.

It also states that the Los Angeles Lakers organization is frustrated with the situation due to Odom's agent opening talks with Dallas and Miami.

The whole situation was looking good a few days ago. It looked as if Odom was returning to the Lakers once again, but the situation has transformed into a headache for the Lakers and their fans.

Odom was a key piece to the Los Angeles Lakers championship puzzle. He averages an acceptable 15.1 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game. Though we never know which side of Odom we will see when he steps onto a basketball court, if he is having one of those nights, the Lakers are almost impossible to beat.

This fiasco has turned into a bluffing competition. Odom's "crew" is just trying to squeeze out as much money from the Lakers as possible. The Lakers on the other hand, are being stubborn and not falling for the bait.

Odom's agent left the Lakers hanging and sprinkled it with the possibility of Odom going into another team and the Lakers' ownership answered the bluff by withdrawing their offer.

Lamar Odom has to know that his best chance of winning the coveted Larry O'Brien trophy is with the Lakers. If the Lakers unfortunately lose Odom in the near future they still have a chance to go for a repeat without him. The chances will decrease significantly, but the Lakers are still in the mix for the race to the top.

This whole back-in-forth between Lamar Odom and the Lakers will have one party getting the better end unless they can reach a compromise.

Let's hope they reach a compromise for the sake of the Lakers' fans all over the world.

Kobe Bryant: Following Michael Jordan?

bob bob — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 11:27:44 -0400

Kobe Bean Bryant brings excitement every time he steps onto a basketball court— but we never know which side of him we're going to see.

Will he score 50 points tonight, or is he going to go 5-for-20 from the field?

Nonetheless, he has that "edge" in him that makes basketball fans want to see him play...whether its to cheer him on or to put him down.

People who have watched both stars in action say that they have that same intensity; that "flare" and excitement.

Kobe's game surely resembles Jordan's game: Both of them are complete players. They have virtually no weaknesses.

They can score from anywhere on the field, with the three ball, and mid-range jumpers in their arsenal. They can both post-up players, and use their bodies to slash their way to the rim.

It's what makes them the most feared players in their respective eras, especially when it comes down to the clutch.

Kobe and Jordan are even similar in the fashion they win their numerous championships, having both experienced the rare event of a three-peat.

Bryant and Jordan have even been led by the same coach with the most NBA championships: Phil Jackson, who won six times with Jordan and four with Kobe.

So, is this a good sign for Kobe?

Kobe has the talent to lead his team to back-to-back championships, and with the Lakers' squad, they have the potential to track down another three-peat.

I doubt that this would happen, but we can never underestimate the "heart of a champion."

If Kobe can reinvent himself from the most despised NBA player in the world a few years back, to the bona fide champion he is now, he has the will to accomplish a feat like this.

All we can do now is wait and see.

The Los Angeles Lakers: On The Right Track For a Repeat

bob bob — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 00:52:32 -0400

The 2008-2009 NBA champs are cementing themselves at another shot at the title.

The Lakers have made blockbuster deals in getting Ron Artest on their squad for the 2009-2010 season.

Ron Artest can relieve Kobe Bryant on defending players like LeBron James and Carmelo Anthony so Kobe can focus on his role in running the Lakers' offense.

Ron Artest is a former Defensive Player of the Year that is part of a group who averages 15+ points, five+ rebounds, and two+ steals a game in their entire career. A group that consists NBA greats like Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen.

The Lakers are also making efforts in getting back Lamar Odom. In this article, it states that the Los Angeles Lakers are offering Lamar Odom in the neighborhood of eight million dollars in the hopes of bringing him back for next season.

Lamar Odom is a great role player for the Lakers. He has experience on the big stage and has been with the Lakers through its subpar years. Averaging 15.1 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 4.2 assists a game, he is a player the Lakers do not want to let slip away.

Their are also players that has the potential to contribute to the Lakers next season. Randy Garcia's article, about Adam Morrison got me thinking on how nice it would be for Adam to be a scorer for the Los Angeles Lakers bench.

Adam Morrison has played a total of three games in the Summer League averaging 22 points, five rebounds, and shooting 50 percent from behind the arc.

The Summer League is not like the regular season. Looking beyond that Adam Morrison is showing the Lakers the potential he can bring.

If Adam Morrison is reinventing himself for the better, the Lakers bench will be one of the greater ones in the league. Presuming Lamar Odom will be back, the sixth man for the Los Angeles Lakers, then surely the Lakers team are already stacked with great talent.

Also, the great duo in Kobe Bryant and Pau Gasol wouldn't hurt either. These two made some clutch plays in the playoffs. One of their most memorable plays in the playoffs that they contributed on is this little dish for Pau from Kobe.

With great things coming from the Lakers' players and staves they are the favorite to win the Lakers franchise its sixteenth championship. Phil Jackson better get used to wearing a toe ring.

Promising News on Lamar Odom's Return to the Los Angeles Lakers

bob bob — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 01:21:37 -0400

Los Angeles Lakers forward Lamar Odom is on course to stay with L.A. after all.

Lakers Assistant General Manager Ronnie Lester has said that the Lakers are willing to pay Odom around the $8 million price range. He also stated that the deal could be done by next week, which is good news for Lakers fan.

Odom is the best player right now on the NBA market for the Los Angeles Lakers. Odom has certainly expressed his desire to stay with the Lakers after they won the franchise's 15th championship.

Lamar can produce numbers like these in a nightly basis: 15.1 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game.

The Lakers have the potential to repeat without Odom, but Odom increases their likelihood of doing a feat like that.

Now let's hope Lamar Odom doesn't have the same agent as Trevor Ariza.

This is the source I got the great news from: http://lakersblog.latimes.com/lakersblog/2009/07/lamar-odom-lakers.html.

Thanks to Randy Garcia for pasting this on a comment I accidently bumped into. Very much appreciated.

Kobe Bryant: "You're Not Dunking On Me At My Camp!"

bob bob — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 00:09:31 -0400

Los Angeles Lakers Shooting Guard Kobe Bryant played a quick game of one on one at his yearly Kobe Bryant Skills Camp.

He played a short game to five against one of the fellow campers, Marco Smith.

Marco Smith wanted to know when was he going to play a game against Kobe.

Kobe simply said "I never back down from a challenge."

Kobe, of course, destroyed him five to zero.

Then Marco comments about LeBron James getting dunked on by Xavier's Jordan Crawford. Kobe's response was, " You are not dunking on me in my camp."

Kobe got a good chuckle out of it.

Here is the video:

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Is LeBron James' Ego Messing Up His Image?

bob bob — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 18:16:23 -0400

Their is no question the Cleveland Cavaliers' forward is one of the best players in the league today. Last season, LeBron won his first MVP award at his tender age of 24. He has numerous NBA records, awards, and an Olympic gold medal under his belt.

You can't blame him for having an ego. Look him up at Wikipidea. He will blow you away with his stats and success.

The question that has occupied my mind in the past few days is; Has LeBron James' ego affected him? In not only his game on the basketball court, but also his image that the media has built him up to be?

There are "kryptonites" that every human beings share. Is LeBron James' "kryptonite" his ego?

The first major incident in which I saw his ego talk that pops in my head is the overly publicized "crab dribble." This is where LeBron tried to defend his (clear) travel by calling it a "hesitation move" that he nicknamed the "crab dribble."

The second incident that comes to mind is when he joined the infamous "no-shake-hands" group. He tried to defend himself by saying he is a winner, and doesn't see the point in shaking someones hand when they just beat you.

The third incident that I can remember is when he endorsed his MVP award accomplishment. He wore an "LBJ MVP" shirt around the streets of New York.

In LeBron's defense, he did win the MVP award and has the right to wear anything he wants no matter how narcissistic it might seem.

The most recent scene LeBron James has caused throughout the media world is the famous facial Xavier's Jordan Crawford served to LeBron James that we might never see. Nike confiscated the videos showing the whole "baptism" of LeBron and saying that there was a no recording policy in the LeBron James Skills Camp.

Jordan Crawford didn't make much of it when he was interviewed by ESPN, but I know if I dunked on LeBron James (imagining I actually have hops) I would be wanting to have proof—preferably a video recording the whole thing.

These might just be individual events, not a foreshadowing of the future for this superstar. Or it could also be vice versa?

We can only wait and see.

NBA News: The San Antonio Spurs Cementing Themselves Amongst the NBA Elite

bob bob — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 23:24:08 -0400

The most consistent team in the NBA is cementing themselves amongst the NBA elite once again.

The San Antonio Spurs have won 50 or more games each season during this decade. Reaching the 60-win mark a few times along the way.

Winning three championships in this century isn't to shabby either.

Now, with their recent additions of Antonio Mcdyess and Richard Jefferson, the Spurs have the potential to win 60 or more games this up coming season.

I won't be surprised if they reach the Western Conference Finals with the kind of team, coaches, and players alike, the Spurs have in their arsenal.

Getting Mcdyess and Jefferson is so beneficial to the Spurs because these two players know their roles in the team. Meaning ego is not a problem, and they can produce worthy numbers during games.

Antonio Mcdyess averages 13.2 points and 7.8 rebounds a game.

Richard Jefferson is not that bad himself with 17.3 points and 5.3 rebounds a contest.

With these two teaming up with Tim Duncan, arguably the best big men of his era, Tony Parker, a top 10 point guard in the league today, and a hopefully healthy Manu Ginobili—this team has a chance to win their fifth championship of the San Antonio franchise.

Time and time again the Spurs have proved themselves that they are one of the best teams in the NBA. Love them or hate them, it's asinine for us to deny their rightful spot in the race for the Larry O'Brien trophy.

NBA Contenders: Teams That Can Surprise The NBA

bob bob — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 00:50:49 -0400

During the off season trades have been filling up the NBA headlines. Trades that are mainly making the favorite teams to contend for a title next season arguably better.

Ron-Ron to the Los Angeles Lakers, The Big Aristotle to the Cleveland Cavaliers, Mr 'Half-man-Half amazing' to the Orlando Magic, and Richard Jefferson to the San Antonio Spurs.

These teams are just cementing themselves in the race for the Larry O'Brien trophy, but what about the forgotten teams in the NBA. The "underdogs" per se. The ones that many people have written off as playoff contenders.

The Los Angeles Clippers

It's highly unlikely for them to compete with the better teams in the league, but having players like Baron Davis, the rising Clippers' star Eric Gordon, and the newly added member of the group Blake Griffin, they have the potential to pull out a few surprises next season.

Baron Davis averages 16.9 points, 1.9 steals, and 7.3 assists a night. On the the other hand, Eric Gordon whose Rookie season averages were 16.1 points, one steal, and 2.8 assists a game. With Blake Griffin, who is a double-double machine and the number one overall pick of the NBA draft, they have the talent to silence their critics.

The Dallas Mavericks

The Mavericks surprised me by beating the San Antonio Spurs last season in the first round, but were humiliated by the Denver Nuggets in the second round of the playoffs.

If they can get their hands on Shawn Marion, they can surely pull out a few shockers here and their during the regular season and the playoffs.

They have a veteran's determination in Jason Kidd, the reigning 6th Man of the Year in Jason Terry, and a superstar in Dirk Nowitzki. That's a formula for a great threat in the NBA.

They have the potential to make a push at the title.

The Chicago Bulls

The Bulls lost in dramatic fashion against, the used-to-be defending champion, Boston Celtics. The Bulls/Celtics series was the best playoff series in NBA history in my eyes. They surprised us and the injured Celtics by making it into a seven game thriller, with numerous overtimes in the thick of it.

I'm sure with Derrick Rose, the reigning Rookie of the Year, the Bulls franchise could go further than they have ever been since the Jordan-Era.

The Bulls have players like John Salmons, Brad Miller, Kirk Hinrich, and Loul Deng teaming up with Rose. They are regaining their spot in the Eastern Conference.

The bad side is they lost Ben Gordon, who was clutch during the Bulls/Celtics Series.

The Washington Wizards

The Wizards had a 19-and-63 2008-2009 season. They were tied for the second worst record in the NBA with the L.A Clippers. Only the Sacramento Kings had a worst regular season record than the Wizards. Their previous regular season record was 43-and-39.

The thing they were missing through most of the 82 games played in the 2008-2009 season was Gilbert Arenas. I guess one player could lift up a team and take down a team with him, which was proved by Dwayne Wade.

If Arenas stays healthy throughout the whole regular season next year, then it would be foolish of us to think that the Wizards will not be playoff contenders.

Arenas, who averages 22.8 points, 5.5 assists, and 4.2 rebounds will be a stretch for next year. Teaming up with players like Caron Butler, who averages 16.7 points, three assists, and six rebounds per game, and Antawn Jamison, whose career averages are 19.9 points and eight rebounds per game, makes the Wizards a threat coming off next season.

The key to the Wizards hopes to a successful season is keeping Arenas healthy and ready to play.

In closing

Their are many teams outside from the chosen few I've picked to write about that are capable of surprising the NBA next season. Teams like the Atlanta Hawks and the Miami Heat (if they are able to get the help Dwayne Wade needs).

Heck, even the Oklahoma Thunder could pull out some shocking victories during the regular season.

It's just great to watch underdogs prove the majority wrong time and time again.

NBA News: Shawn Marion As a Dallas Maverick?

bob bob — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 23:51:52 -0400

The forgotten All-Star has been a big part of the trade rumors lately.

Shawn Marion is part of a sign and trade deal that the Toronto Raptors and Dallas Mavericks have been discussing.

If the trade falls through, then the Mavericks would have a big improvement in getting Shawn Marion.

"The Matrix," a four time NBA All-Star, is one of the most versatile players in the league today. His athleticism and size to defend many positions is greatly valued.

He was also part of the 2004 Olympic team where he was teamed up with Duncan, LeBron, Dwayne Wade, and Carmelo Anthony to name a few of his teammates.

Shawn Marion averages 17.8 points, 1.3 blocks, 1.8 steals, two assists, and 9.9 rebounds per game. His best season (in my opinion), the 2005-2006 season, he was the only player in the NBA being ranked in the top 20 in points, rebounds, steals, blocks, field goal percentage, and minutes.

In that season, he averaged 21.8 points (leading the Suns in points per game), 11.8 rebounds, 1.7 blocks, and two steals per stretch.

Looking in another perspective, Shawn Marion is also in the declining part of his career. His golden days, where he prospered most, were when he was playing for the Phoenix Suns.

Now he is aging and in a phase of moving around to find where he belongs.

With the pros and cons out of the way, I truly think the Dallas Mavericks will get the better end of this deal. Having Marion, Dirk, and Kidd in the same team will make the Mavericks a greater playoff contender.

The Dallas Mavericks will be making a great move in signing Marion.

NBA Records: Top Ten Scoring Assults in NBA History

bob bob — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 19:33:45 -0400

Over the years their are players who go above expectations. Scoring amounts surreal to the spectators eyes. The picture above shows two of those great scorers; Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan. These two are one of the best scorers in the game-EVER. This slide show will show you my all-time best scoring assults in NBA history. Note: The players in this list are only going to be show once with Wilt as an exception.I'll show Wilt Chamberlain twice because he has reached the 60 or more point mark 32 times over his career.

Begin Slideshow

NBA Collision Course:The Drama Continuous For Kobe and LeBron

bob bob — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 17:15:26 -0400

West vs. East: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Cleveland Cavaliers; Kobe Bryant vs. LeBron James.

24 vs. 23:

That is 'The Great Debate' that has erupted into a full blown volcano during last season. There were numerous commercials made, the more popular ones featuring puppets of Kobe and LeBron.

The much commercialized collision course between Kobe and LeBron did not happen last season due to the Cavaliers falling short against the resilient Magic, but next season might tell a different tale because of a few twists to the story.

A New Cavalier Has Joined The King.

The one and only Shaquille O'Neal ,is again situated in the Eastern Conference, teaming up with James. Shaq's motto for next season is simple: "Win a Ring for the King."

Easier said than done.

Shaq has been fortunate to have superstars the caliber of Kobe and Dwayne Wade on his team and with LeBron, he just might be the guy to help him get to the Finals in the 2009-2010 season.

The downside with the move is that Shaq is not as spry as he used to be. He is an aging 37-year-old whose dominance is slipping away as the days go by.

The Eccentric Artest in Purple and Gold.

I'm sure everyone here at Bleacher Report knows about this move. Numerous articles have been written about this during the last few days, I've written one myself.

To tell you the truth, I never expected Artest to go to the Los Angeles Lakers, but after teaming up with Kobe, this duo has the potential to be the best backcourt defense in the NBA.

Artest was the Defensive Player of the Year, for the 2004 season. Kobe Bryant is no sissy himself. He has been in the NBA All-Defensive team a tremendous seven times.

The lesser side with this excellent move is that they ended up losing Trevor Ariza, the rising star of the Los Angeles Lakers.

Ariza was a major component to the Laker championship run. He made big three's when it was needed, and made key steals down the stretch that decided the winner of the game.

All in All:

I'm expecting more action towards next season. I can't wait to see the great duals between LeBron/Shaq vs. Kobe/Artest. Oh, I hope they bring back the puppets!