Lakers vs. Thunder: Los Angeles Doesn't Have Makeup to Topple OKC

There's something called having a championship mentality.

In short, Kobe Bryant has it. The rest of his team this season can't seem to grasp it.

The Los Angeles Lakers, after barely squeaking by the Denver Nuggets in the first round of the playoffs, absolutely tanked in Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Monday night. 

It wasn't just a defeat: It was a thrashing. The Lakers lost to the Thunder, 119-90, allowing the home team to shoot 53 percent from the floor. The post defense was once again lazy and forgiving, allowing Russell Westbrook and Co. to drive into the lane at will.

Westbrook shot 10-of-15. Kevin Durant shot 8-of-16. Only three Thunder players actually shot poorly: Derek Fisher, James Harden and Royal Ivey. It was a disgrace.

Do the Lakers actually want to win a title this season? Because I'm having a hard time seeing that. Andrew Bynum can rack up points and rebounds all he wants, but if he isn't present on defense that means nothing. Same goes for Pau Gasol. As for Metta World Peace, you never know with him.

All you have to do is look at the sense of urgency Bryant plays with and then look to his left or right and you will see the difference between him and his teammates. It's as clear as night and day.

Bryant, despite already having five championships, still wants a title as much as he did before. There are some players on the Lakers without a ring that don't even seem to care.

Championship contenders don't lose by nearly 30 points to open a playoff series. They certainly don't get pushed around like the Lakers did on Monday night.

It's not necessarily about talent for the Lakers this postseason. It's about how much they want it. At this point, it wouldn't be a surprise if they were swept by the Thunder.

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