Los Angeles Lakers: How They Survived Without Andrew Bynum
When the NBA announced Andrew Bynum would be suspended for two games as a result of his flagrant foul against Michael Beasley, Lakers fans everywhere immediately began to panic.
Bynum has been absolutely incredible for the Lakers over the last 10 games, averaging 13 points and 14 rebounds over this stretch.
Plain and simple, if Bynum continues to play at this level during the playoffs, the Lakers will not lose a playoff series to anyone.
Bynum has especially been productive on the defensive end, averaging nearly three blocks per game over his last nine games.
His most impressive performance came against Dwight Howard, who most consider to be the best center in the world. It was clear that Bynum wanted to make a statement to the rest of the league that it may not be long before he needs to be in the same discussion as well.
Bynum had 10 points, 18 rebounds, 4 blocks, and hounded Howard into nine turnovers as the Lakers cruised to a 97-84 victory.
Needless to say, many felt the Lakers would lose at least one, if not both games without Bynum—and they almost did.
Luckily, they were able to escape the Staples Center with a 2-0 record and remain in the chase for home court advantage in the Finals against the East, where they currently trail the Chicago Bulls by one game.
Let's take a look at how the Lakers were able to survive the two games without their dominant big man...
Mr. Clutch: Derek Fisher
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There is no doubt that Derek Fisher is starting to get into postseason mode with his recent play.
In the Lakers first game without Bynum against Portland, Fisher led a late comeback with back-to-back defensive plays and hit a game clinching jump shot with 10 seconds left in the 84-80 victory over the Trailblazers.
“I do relish the opportunity to help us win from time to time, whether it’s the first quarter or the fourth. Experience does create a lot of situations where it allows you to think clearly under pressure in big-time situations. It’s like riding a bike.” (quote from Greg Beacham, AP Sports Writer)
Bottom line, if not for Mr. Clutch, the Lakers do not survive that game against Portland.
The Best All Around Big Man in the Game: Pau Gasol
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Although his shot was a bit off during the two game stretch (combined 15-40 from the field), Gasol was asked to play major minutes in the front court for the Lakers during Bynum's absence.
The Spaniard played a total of 97 minutes during the two games while combing for 38 points, 26 rebounds, 6 assists, 4 blocks, and 2 steals.
There is no doubt that when Bynum is in the game and Gasol can slide back into his normal position at the 4, he is a much more effective player.
However, Gasol did what he needed to do down low and helped the Lakers escape with two narrow victories over the Blazers and Suns.
Ron Artest Is Finally Back!
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Lakers fans have been frustrated with Artest nearly all season long, and rightfully so.
He's seemingly been drifting in and out of consciousness and can often be found alone in the corner waiting for someone, anyone, to notice him.
And finally, after five months of drifting, Ron Artest is focused on the task ahead of helping the Lakers repeat what they accomplished last season.
The change in attitude hasn't gone unnoticed, head coach Phil Jackson had this to say:
"I just think his mood is really good, he's having fun. He's enjoying his activity and what he contributes to the team. I think he recharged at the All-Star break. He kind of recharged and got back on the beam." (quote from Ramona Shelburne of ESPN Los Angeles)
Over the two game stretch, Artest played a total of 85 minutes and combined for 28 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists, 4 steals, and 2 blocks.
Kobe Being Kobe
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I don't know if I ever seen Kobe as animated/visibly frustrated as he was last Sunday night against Portland.
Upset because of the lack of foul calls, Kobe managed to keep it together enough down the stretch to score 10 of his 22 points in the fourth quarter lifting the Lakers to an 84-80 win over the Trailblazers.
In the two games combined, Kobe averaged 32 points, 8 rebounds, and 6 assists, not bad for a guy playing on a severely sprained ankle.
After their triple overtime thriller vs the Phoenix Suns, a reporter asked Kobe if he was tired after the game, his response: “We’re the champs, we’ve got a lot of mental toughness, and we just keep on fighting. It’s not anything new.” (quote from Greg Beacham, AP Sports Writer)
Mr. I'll Do Anything, Anytime, Anyplace, Anywhere...LO
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Visibly tired after their triple OT win against the Suns, Lamar Odom had quite possible the quote of the year, “I’m tired. I want to go home. I’m in the mood for pancakes.” (quote from Greg Beacham, AP Sports Writer)
Odom combined to play over 96 minutes during the two game stretch, averaging 22.5 points, 13.5 rebounds, and 5.5 assists.
Someone please tell me how this guy is not your 6th man of the year award winner.
So here we are, the Lakers are 13-1 since the All-Star break and playing their best basketball of the year, just like they have done for the past three seasons.
Next up is a date with the Los Angeles Clippers and the return of Andrew Bynum to square off against Eric Gordon and the "Blake Show."
I think it's safe to say the Staples Center will be fairly energetic on a Friday night in LA...
