LA Lakers: What a Difference a Season Makes

In the 2008 NBA Finals, the Los Angeles Lakers team looked worse than the Memphis Grizzlies, or even the Oklahoma City Thunder. 

The Boston Celtics were tougher, stronger, hungrier, and deserved to beat the Lakers.  These traits are unquestionable. 

However, this year will be completely different. 

This Los Angeles Lakers team is by far better than the Celtics, with or without Kevin Garnett in the lineup.  It is unfortunate that the Boston Celtics will not make it there this year—without the Big Ticket, they have no chance.

LA's X-factor in this equation is Andrew Bynum.  The kid is a monster on the boards and has a soft touch around the basket. He blocks shots and runs the floor really well.  He is what was missing from the playoffs last year. 

The Celtics have no one that could effectively match up with Pau Gasol and Bynum both in the lineup.  The boards will be as clean as newly shined hardwood floor. 

The sharp shooting of Paul Pierce and Ray Allen would keep the game interesting and close, but the game would get uglier than roadkill in the fourth quarter.  The constant beating in the post and too much Kobe Bryant equals NBA championship. 

They may be the same team on paper, but physically and emotionally, they are playing with so much heart. 

The 2009 LA Lakers are completely different and are destined for another trip to Finals.