NBA Finals Game 4 Recap

(06/13/2008)

1:51

Matt Moore:

What's up party people, let's talk about the maxin and collapsin.

Friday June 13, 2008 1:51 Matt Moore

1:51

Matt Moore:

As a primer...

Friday June 13, 2008 1:51 Matt Moore

1:51

[Video file]

YouTube: _VNUqaAhq6U Play

Friday June 13, 2008 1:51

1:51

[Comment From ZillerZiller: ]

Beat me up, Scotty.

Friday June 13, 2008 1:51 Ziller

1:53

Matt Moore:

So I think the first thing we have to talk about is the fact that Lamar Odom finally started cashing in on all the checks everyone writes about his talent, and then summarily went bankrupt in the second half. Tom, do you think it was an adjustment stretch from Doc, or did Lamar just do as Lamar does?

Friday June 13, 2008 1:53 Matt Moore

1:54

Ziller:

I think explaining Odom in any form is difficult.

Friday June 13, 2008 1:54 Ziller

1:55

[Comment From ericeric: ]

i love when doc rivers stands in front of jack nickolas the whole game so he can look at doc rivers ass all game, there's no difference, looking at the lakers play or looking at doc rivers ass

Friday June 13, 2008 1:55 eric

1:55

Ziller:

But in this particular instance, the team offense just got extremely crunched up, and none of the things which allowed L.O. to dominate the first were available in the second half.

Friday June 13, 2008 1:55 Ziller

1:56

Matt Moore:

For me, it's just mind boggling that a guy can have that much natural talent and not be able to adjust at all. It seems like with Odom, it's either all or nothing. Either his layups, dunks, mid range, and post work are all clicking, or he's flopping on the ground like a marlin on astroturf.

Friday June 13, 2008 1:56 Matt Moore

1:56

[Comment From black deathblack death: ]

see my comment below (might have to refresh). it explains the Odom question.

Friday June 13, 2008 1:56 black death

1:56

[Comment From ViktorViktor: ]

We in Boston demand that raging homer Edwards head on a stick. Give him to us and we'll forgive Fanhouse for most of its Spygate witch hunt.

Friday June 13, 2008 1:56 Viktor

1:58

Matt Moore:

Brett Edwards is currently unavailable, as he is hungover, miserable, and on a long plane ride right now. Your vengeance will have to wait till his return. We thank you in advance for your cooperation, you taping, cheating chowdah heads. (just kidding, love you! 18-1 is grrrreat!)

Friday June 13, 2008 1:58 Matt Moore

1:58

[Comment From black deathblack death: ]

speaking of edwards, we should probably send someone to his house to check on him. i'm worried, it's not like him to go this long without spewing purple and gold colored hot air.

Friday June 13, 2008 1:58 black death

1:58

Matt Moore:

Rest assured, though, Brett was well enough to send us some vitriol concerning the doubts about Kobe, which the rest of us are filled with right now. Jordan he ain't.

Friday June 13, 2008 1:58 Matt Moore

1:59

Ziller:

KD of Ball Don't Lie wrote about this some earlier, but I do think that in considering Kobe's performance, we should heap plenty of credit on the Celtics.

Friday June 13, 2008 1:59 Ziller

2:00	Is Kobe Bryant close to being as good as Michael Jordan? Yes ( 16% ) No ( 65% ) Attitude, not talent. ( 10% ) Even MJ would have trouble with the Cs ( 10% ) GO LAKERS! ( 0% ) Friday June 13, 2008 2:00

2:00

[Comment From black deathblack death: ]

don't worry, none of us outside LA ever thought he was.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:00 black death

2:00

Ziller:

I mean, yeah, he's not Jordan. Clearly.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:00 Ziller

2:00

[Comment From ViktorViktor: ]

I was half expecting Edwards to pop up next to Mike Breen. They'd both get along famously with their Celtics hate.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:00 Viktor

2:00

[Comment From black deathblack death: ]

i find it cute that you refer to "facts" as "doubts".

Friday June 13, 2008 2:00 black death

2:00

Ziller:

But no player of the past decade could have overcome the type of defense Boston threw at him last night.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:00 Ziller

2:01

Matt Moore:

Lakers fans, if you're out there, do pipe up. We want to hear what you have to say about last night. Don't be afraid. It's not over yet!

Friday June 13, 2008 2:01 Matt Moore

2:01

[Comment From DanteDante: ]

LA has no deep bench in fact they have no bench but Ariza show me something and farmar is just a kid running all over with no direction at all!

Friday June 13, 2008 2:01 Dante

2:01

Ziller:

C'mon, there's no Lakers fans left ...

Friday June 13, 2008 2:01 Ziller

2:02

Matt Moore:

There's a good question, what happened to Ariza last night? I had to check the game flow chart this morning to see if he even played in the second half after that Gonzo first half.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:02 Matt Moore

2:02

[Comment From black deathblack death: ]

exactly, a player couldn't, a team might have had a chance.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:02 black death

2:02

Ziller:

Once the season ends, 90% of them disappear.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:02 Ziller

2:02

[Comment From ViktorViktor: ]

What is up with Kobe's post game comments last night? 20 shots? Beers? Was he trying too hard to come across like your average joe in how he'd handle the loss?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:02 Viktor

2:02

[Comment From black deathblack death: ]

ariza did suprise me. that's the only concession i'm giving the lakers

Friday June 13, 2008 2:02 black death

2:02

[Comment From DanteDante: ]

Ariza 8 minutes 6 points,5 boards, 1 block and 1 steal;

Friday June 13, 2008 2:02 Dante

2:03

[Comment From ViktorViktor: ]

Ariza is good for a 3 minute burst of win. Then he brings the epic fail.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:03 Viktor

2:03

Ziller:

Statistically, Pau has a good game.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:03 Ziller

2:03

Matt Moore:

Statistically, Pau's had a good series.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:03 Matt Moore

2:04

Ziller:

Well, his scoring has been down most of the series.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:04 Ziller

2:04

Matt Moore:

I had this issue yesterday, trying to explain that in the Finals, not only with the small sample size, but with such an emphasis on every possession, most of the stats don't mean much. I think only Offensive Efficiency really says something. Maybe PER.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:04 Matt Moore

2:04

Ziller:

And he needs to be scoring plenty.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:04 Ziller

2:04

[Comment From DavidDavid: ]

I thought Kobe's post game comments were extremely humerous.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:04 David

2:04

[Comment From DanteDante: ]

farmar 22 minutes 3 point s??

Friday June 13, 2008 2:04 Dante

2:04

[Comment From ViktorViktor: ]

KG isn't getting much press for this, but he really attacked the paint last night. Most all of his points game from within 10 feet -- including those 2 bucks and the trip to the FT line in the 4th.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:04 Viktor

2:04

Matt Moore:

That drop hook was huge from him. Took him long enough, though.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:04 Matt Moore

2:04

Ziller:

KG had a fine fourth quarter, playing at center.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:04 Ziller

2:05

Ziller:

You wonder if Doc will bring that out sooner in Game 6.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:05 Ziller

2:05

Ziller:

Err, 5.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:05 Ziller

2:05

[Comment From philipphilip: ]

Lkaer fan Doc outcoached Phil And your Celtics outplayed My Lakers

Friday June 13, 2008 2:05 philip

2:05

[Comment From black deathblack death: ]

nice to see pau pad his fantasy stats, i'm sure his agent will take that into consideration while negotiating his next contract. agent "sure, he can't win big games, but look at the fantasy line he puts up in the loss"

Friday June 13, 2008 2:05 black death

2:05	Okay, when's the axe? Celtics in 5, it's Temple of Doom style ( 43% ) Celtics in 6, C's want to win on Red's court ( 53% ) Celtics in 7, Lakers never say die. ( 0% ) Lakers in 7, KOBE RULES! ( 5% ) Friday June 13, 2008 2:05

2:05

Ziller:

The "doesn't win big games" thing is a silly argument for any player.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:05 Ziller

2:06

Matt Moore:

Explain.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:06 Matt Moore

2:06

[Comment From ViktorViktor: ]

Yeah, he appeared to be the only one who didn't realize that Pau Gasol couldn't stop him in any situation for the first 3 games. Even Pau knows.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:06 Viktor

2:06

Ziller:

... especially one who is in the midst of the playing the first "big games" of his NBA career.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:06 Ziller

2:06

[Comment From DanteDante: ]

Why Fisher didn't play more minutes ?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:06 Dante

2:06

[Comment From black deathblack death: ]

losing perk was addition by subtraction

Friday June 13, 2008 2:06 black death

2:06

Ziller:

It's a silly argument because it's been proven false repeatedly.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:06 Ziller

2:06

[Comment From jayjay: ]

lakers are done

Friday June 13, 2008 2:06 jay

2:07

Ziller:

It's any easy, undefinable label placed on players who lose. It's convenient, but meaningless.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:07 Ziller

2:07

Matt Moore:

So you would say that the knock against McGrady is a farce?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:07 Matt Moore

2:07

[Comment From GuestGuest: ]

Put a fork in the Lakeers, they are done. Celtics too much for them and Koby is no MJ, stop the comparisons

Friday June 13, 2008 2:07 Guest

2:07

Ziller:

Absolutely.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:07 Ziller

2:07

[Comment From ViktorViktor: ]

Imagine if Pierce had help for his entire career and spent a good chunk of time in the Finals like Bird did? He'd be a near legend.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:07 Viktor

2:07

Ziller:

Players can be less focused, or less composed.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:07 Ziller

2:08

Matt Moore:

I'm willing to give Pierce all the credit in the world for this season, but not without being even handed about the past. He wasn't there in the past, but he's doing what he has to now. That step back jumper was legend last night.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:08 Matt Moore

2:08

Ziller:

But that's hardly justification to labelling players as folks who "can't win the big game."

Friday June 13, 2008 2:08 Ziller

2:08

Matt Moore:

So is it a matter in this series of Phil Jackson coaching down to Doc's level, is Doc coaching better, or has Doc always been this good?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:08 Matt Moore

2:08

Ziller:

Pierce might be top-10 of this era, maybe above McGrady.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:08 Ziller

2:09

Ziller:

Jackson's rotation has been odd.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:09 Ziller

2:09

Ziller:

Rivers was great last night, but blew Game 3.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:09 Ziller

2:09

Ziller:

Coaching is so subjective.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:09 Ziller

2:09	Coaching question Phil's lost his mind ( 9% ) Doc's playing above the rim ( 21% ) Dco's been better this whole season ( 30% ) Having KG and Pierce and Allen makes coaching easy ( 39% ) Friday June 13, 2008 2:09

2:10

[Comment From black deathblack death: ]

soft and scared? the only thing i've seen pau do this series is catch passes at the rim and lay them in when he's open

Friday June 13, 2008 2:10 black death

2:10

[Comment From jayjay: ]

PLEASE STOP THE COMPARISON BETWEEN MJ AND KOBE.MAGIC EVEN SAID KOBE COULD NEVER BE MJ

Friday June 13, 2008 2:10 jay

2:10

[Comment From black deathblack death: ]

ok, how about "disappears in big games" or "doesn't play his typical game in big games"

Friday June 13, 2008 2:10 black death

2:10

[Comment From ViktorViktor: ]

Matt, do you think Bird has his rep without McHale and the Chief? Or Cornbread Maxwell and DJ? No way. Pierce had a crazy-eyed Antoine Walker to help him early in his career. Think about that.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:10 Viktor

2:10

Ziller:

black death -- No. It's silly.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:10 Ziller

2:10

Matt Moore:

Remember, Antoine Walker was a pretty good player when he was with Pierce. Same with Kemp and Payton.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:10 Matt Moore

2:10

[Comment From DanteDante: ]

Utah and Denver beat Boston with ease, go figure.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:10 Dante

2:10

Ziller:

It's ridiculous. Remember when Peyton Manning couldn't win the big one?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:10 Ziller

2:11

Matt Moore:

The Bobcats also beat the Lakers at one point. And the Celtics.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:11 Matt Moore

2:11

[Comment From zack_grizzack_griz: ]

surely everyone can now see that Pau is over-paid for what he is? right?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:11 zack_griz

2:11

[Comment From jayjay: ]

koby doesnt have the squad boston has to win this series

Friday June 13, 2008 2:11 jay

2:11

[Comment From black deathblack death: ]

let's not compare it to football, single elimination is different

Friday June 13, 2008 2:11 black death

2:12

Ziller:

Pau's borderline overpaid, in my estimation.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:12 Ziller

2:12

Ziller:

Not criminally overpaid, like Rashard Lewis or Marbury/Francis a few years ago.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:12 Ziller

2:12

Matt Moore:

Let's talk about Gasol. He seemed to do really well against Garnett offensively, but defensively, yeesh. Did everyone get a little too excited about this acquisition, or did Pau just face a pretty tough draw in the Finals?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:12 Matt Moore

2:12

[Comment From jayjay: ]

you seen that last nite and they just collasped

Friday June 13, 2008 2:12 jay

2:12

[Comment From two4onetwo4one: ]

kobe should stop thinking about mvp and pass the ball more

Friday June 13, 2008 2:12 two4one

2:13

[Comment From DanteDante: ]

Timing is everything , Boston strugled with young Atlanta and Lebron and the Cavs but they are 110% ready for LA ?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:13 Dante

2:13

Matt Moore:

I've been thinking about it a lot and I think the East may be underrated just because they're more defensively minded. I'm not sure the West was THAT much better. I have serious questions going into next year about Denver, Utah, Phoenix, Dallas, and San Antonio.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:13 Matt Moore

2:13

[Comment From GuestGuest: ]

Real simple form to why the laker can't not win....ADREW BYUM the big kid is ready to change the game for the lakers.....The knee ijury is more serious than they are letting on..If he come back health just like Greg Ogden in portland. Mark my word Portland & LA westter finals next year

Friday June 13, 2008 2:13 Guest

2:14

Matt Moore:

I'm also concerned about Bynum's knee. Not too much so, but I think everyone's prediction that they're going to be in the Finals for the next three years with the kid is premature, based off of one good half season.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:14 Matt Moore

2:14

[Comment From DRBDRB: ]

I love how the kobe haters stay quiet when he's playing great (game 5 against the spurs, game 3 of this series), but if his team loses one game, he'll "never be as great as MJ." Jordan lost games too, and he didn't play well occasionally, believe it or not. I'm not saying they're equal, but basing comparisons on one game is stupid.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:14 DRB

2:14

Ziller:

There was a pretty big gulf between the conferences once you get past the top 2.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:14 Ziller

2:15

Ziller:

I wonder what this series says about defense vs. offense.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:15 Ziller

2:15

Matt Moore:

Jordan would never have lost a 24 point lead. Ever. It's not in his cosmic DNA. The universe would detonate before that happened.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:15 Matt Moore

2:15

Ziller:

Does anyone know why Vujacic almost punched out the Gatorade boy last night?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:15 Ziller

2:15

Matt Moore:

The thing is, the Celtics offense isn't bad. It's deliberate, but efficient, and they have some flash. I do disagree with you Tom, I think this team is a lot more fun to watch thant he Spurs. Then again, ask me when they've been shoved down my throat for three more years.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:15 Matt Moore

2:16

[Comment From zack_grizzack_griz: ]

Pau's a max guy that is only a 2nd or 3rd or 4th option on a serious team....

Friday June 13, 2008 2:16 zack_griz

2:16

[Comment From two4onetwo4one: ]

gasol is not over paid they need to pass the ball inside more

Friday June 13, 2008 2:16 two4one

2:16

[Comment From SlothropSlothrop: ]

Last night, the Celts not only earned another banner, they earned the right to stand with the great Celtic teams of the past...it's not just what you do, but how you do it!

Friday June 13, 2008 2:16 Slothrop

2:16

[Comment From black deathblack death: ]

i dont' think pau did that great against garnett, he was either open and put it in, or didn't contest it. garnett killed him every time he tried to back him down

Friday June 13, 2008 2:16 black death

2:16

Matt Moore:

No, he legitimately worked Garnett on several possessions. He had trouble with Perkins and Powe, but Garnett was frustrated by, of all things, Gasol's length.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:16 Matt Moore

2:16

[Comment From ViktorViktor: ]

Dante, I really think that whole 'first time in the playoffs together' thing has some merit.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:16 Viktor

2:16

Ziller:

Boston's offense was only slightly better than the Spurs this year, and they play at about the same pace.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:16 Ziller

2:16

[Comment From zack_grizzack_griz: ]

Pau did good offensively? He did like he did in Memphis for year....look good in teh 1st half and make enough horrible offensive and defensive plays in the 2nd half to cause you to lose

Friday June 13, 2008 2:16 zack_griz

2:17

[Comment From vrandvrand: ]

It's called grit people, raw grit

Friday June 13, 2008 2:17 vrand

2:17

Ziller:

Maybe something about Rondo and Garnett and even Pierce makes them more pleasureable to the eye ... but the style is real similar.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:17 Ziller

2:17

Matt Moore:

I agree, they're both deliberate and efficient, but maybe it's jutst that I like watching Pierce and Allen more than Manu and Parker along with the ancient crowd.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:17 Matt Moore

2:17

[Comment From DizzleDizzle: ]

Gasol is not a true center. If Bymun was playing it would be a different story.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:17 Dizzle

2:17

Ziller:

zack -- Pau was why Memphis lost so many games?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:17 Ziller

2:18

Matt Moore:

Disagree. Celtics did a great job of confusing them defensively, and that would have only gotten worse with Bynum's youth.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:18 Matt Moore

2:18

[Comment From ViktorViktor: ]

Matt, most NBA analysts said the two best teams going into the playoffs were Boston and Detroit. Then everyone in the West with the Cavs sprinkled in somewhere.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:18 Viktor

2:18

[Comment From tftf: ]

boston emains much more composed thn la when things are not oing well

Friday June 13, 2008 2:18 tf

2:18

[Comment From black deathblack death: ]

usually the first year after a major knee surgery is a wash, bynum won't be a huge factor until 2009-2010 season

Friday June 13, 2008 2:18 black death

2:18

[Comment From GuestGuest: ]

Last series was defense v. offense but offense won out

Friday June 13, 2008 2:18 Guest

2:18

Matt Moore:

I think San Antonio was a touch overrated and burned out the boosters versus New Orleans. I'm still not sure the Spurs were a better team in that series.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:18 Matt Moore

2:18

[Comment From luc longleyluc longley: ]

I think the series says more about how 1 dimensional the Lakers are. They are a finesse team and that's it.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:18 luc longley

2:19

[Comment From DRBDRB: ]

How could we know? Jordan always had a HOFer by his side.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:19 DRB

2:19

[Comment From tftf: ]

ray allen playing like he houldhelps alo too

Friday June 13, 2008 2:19 tf

2:19

[Comment From black deathblack death: ]

his pad was in crooked

Friday June 13, 2008 2:19 black death

2:19

[Comment From mirzamirza: ]

lakers winnin the next 3 games

Friday June 13, 2008 2:19 mirza

2:19

Matt Moore:

That's the Lakers fan we all know and love!

Friday June 13, 2008 2:19 Matt Moore

2:19

[Comment From ViktorViktor: ]

Z, it says that the Celtics defense has been statistically an all-time great. Lakers average near 109 points per game this season/playoffs. Against the C's in 6 games? Just 92.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:19 Viktor

2:19

[Comment From mirzamirza: ]

kobe is better then mj

Friday June 13, 2008 2:19 mirza

2:19

[Comment From SkeetsSkeets: ]

Machine angry. Take Gatorade and shove it. Machine drink oil.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:19 Skeets

2:19

Matt Moore:

+1 Skeets.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:19 Matt Moore

2:19

[Comment From zack_grizzack_griz: ]

two4one....if Pau's not overpaid, then you think teams should have 3 MAX players on a roster? That would take up 80% of the cap space...

Friday June 13, 2008 2:19 zack_griz

2:19

Ziller:

Viktor -- that doesn't account for pace.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:19 Ziller

2:19

[Comment From mirzamirza: ]

that game last night just got away from lakers and they stopped doing everything

Friday June 13, 2008 2:19 mirza

2:20

[Comment From JerryJerry: ]

Regarding Gasol, this is a game of streaks andamtchups. Gasol got a tough draw guarding a superstar and trying to score on KG. The Celts were doubling both gasol and Kobe. they waited til the second half to double LO. But they earned a win as the lakers went limp expecting the Celts to fold.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:20 Jerry

2:20

[Comment From PsychwardPsychward: ]

Last nite's game was incredible. Historically speaking teh Lake Show is about to be canceled, but I'd love to see them push it to 7 games.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:20 Psychward

2:20

[Comment From luc longleyluc longley: ]

Just as an example, look at the Bulls of the 90s. They were a finesse team that relied on the triangle and MJ and Scottie's offensive brilliance. However, when they played bangers like Miami, Detroit, and New York, they were able to muck it up, throw elbows, whatever it took to win the game. This LA team, either they are running the offense to perfection, or they are out of sync when the game gets a little rough. They just aren't able to adapt to different styles.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:20 luc longley

2:20

[Comment From black deathblack death: ]

yeah, early, when everything was going amazingly good for the lakers, but i'm talking about the other 15 quarters of the series

Friday June 13, 2008 2:20 black death

2:20

[Comment From DRBDRB: ]

The other thing is that without Bynum, the Lakers don't have one guy who is a legitimate banger down low. Pau and Odom are both skinny and finesse players, so Perkins and PJ and Powe could dominate all day

Friday June 13, 2008 2:20 DRB

2:20

Ziller:

But yeah, Boston has throttled the Lakers offense, on the whole.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:20 Ziller

2:20

[Comment From mirzamirza: ]

pau didnt play as good as he could have and hes pretty weak against garnett

Friday June 13, 2008 2:20 mirza

2:20

[Comment From two4onetwo4one: ]

The Celtics have the EYE of the TIGER! Nothing takes the place of Passion and commitiment

Friday June 13, 2008 2:20 two4one

2:20

Matt Moore:

Cliches galore! Boston 08!

Friday June 13, 2008 2:20 Matt Moore

2:20

[Comment From luc longleyluc longley: ]

Boston is SA and let's be real about it. If SA was in Boston they would get the same amount of praise.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:20 luc longley

2:21

Ziller:

So what should the Lakers do this summer, assuming they lose?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:21 Ziller

2:21

Matt Moore:

Nothing. You got to the Finals with this crew, and you have Bynum coming back. You see how next season goes. Walton's untradeable.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:21 Matt Moore

2:21

[Comment From zack_grizzack_griz: ]

who starts for boston next game?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:21 zack_griz

2:21

[Comment From DRBDRB: ]

Black Death: Amare?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:21 DRB

2:21

[Comment From djdj: ]

if bynum was playing wouldgasol still be in la

Friday June 13, 2008 2:21 dj

2:21

[Comment From bignblu1bignblu1: ]

the lakers dont have enough heart or hustle to beat the cletics

Friday June 13, 2008 2:21 bignblu1

2:21

[Comment From RogerRoger: ]

I think you need at least a 60 / 40 split smothering defense to good, effective offense

Friday June 13, 2008 2:21 Roger

2:21

[Comment From luc longleyluc longley: ]

San Antonio was a different story. Not only was Manu hurt,their bench was woeful compared to Bostons.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:21 luc longley

2:22

[Comment From DRBDRB: ]

ray allen is the MVP of these Finals

Friday June 13, 2008 2:22 DRB

2:22

[Comment From heatwillbebackheatwillbeback: ]

jordan had the ball in the end and knew what to do

Friday June 13, 2008 2:22 heatwillbeback

2:22

[Comment From bignblu1bignblu1: ]

rebounds and hustle are what make the difference.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:22 bignblu1

2:22

[Comment From zack_grizzack_griz: ]

ziller.....when he's our #1 guy, yes....before the trade this year we were on pace to shatter the record for most losses by 3 points or less.....in the 4th quarter, teams rely on your best player and Pau continually shrunk in crunch time....in game 3 of the dallas playoff game 2 years ago, with the score close, pau double clutched free throw....

Friday June 13, 2008 2:22 zack_griz

2:22

[Comment From luc longleyluc longley: ]

DRB.....it doesn't take 2 Hall of Famers to maintain a 24 point lead. Kobe has more than a serviceable group of players. They just frazzled under pressure and that's it.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:22 luc longley

2:22

Matt Moore:

Friday June 13, 2008 2:22 Matt Moore

2:22

[Comment From bignblu1bignblu1: ]

it doesnt matter who Pau is guarding. the issue is does he have the courage and strength to bidy up against the BIG TKT

Friday June 13, 2008 2:22 bignblu1

2:22

Ziller:

But Matt, if you get back to the playoffs next summer and it doesn't work... Kobe's turning 32 and Bynum's costing $12 million.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:22 Ziller

2:22

Matt Moore:

Yeah, but that's the gamble you have to take. What can you possibly add to this team and keep it under the cap?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:22 Matt Moore

2:22

[Comment From bignblu1bignblu1: ]

nothing wait for Bynum

Friday June 13, 2008 2:22 bignblu1

2:22

[Comment From black deathblack death: ]

i think they should take the summer one day at a time

Friday June 13, 2008 2:22 black death

2:22

[Comment From mirzamirza: ]

they should just stick with the same team and wait for bynumm to get bak and they gonna be the best next year

Friday June 13, 2008 2:22 mirza

2:23

[Comment From RogerRoger: ]

Spurs were definately outmatched, but overrated? I don't remember anyone doing anything but calling them old for three series.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:23 Roger

2:23

Ziller:

Don't you have to look at replacing Odom?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:23 Ziller

2:23

Ziller:

Bynum's a big rebounder, and if you plug in a great rebounding SF (Ariza) ...

Friday June 13, 2008 2:23 Ziller

2:23

Matt Moore:

I guess what I mean to say is that they finished above their talent level. Which says a lot about their heart and poise.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:23 Matt Moore

2:23

Matt Moore:

Ziller, who do you send him to? Who's taking him after all th is?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:23 Matt Moore

2:23

[Comment From DanteDante: ]

Get Al Horford!

Friday June 13, 2008 2:23 Dante

2:23

[Comment From ViktorViktor: ]

What does that even mean, Z? "doesn't account for pace?" Falafel for you?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:23 Viktor

2:24

[Comment From heatwillbebackheatwillbeback: ]

do u think pippen, kerr, paxson, or anyone else would roll their eyes when mj spoke?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:24 heatwillbeback

2:24

[Comment From GuestGuest: ]

They should be really nice to bloggers' significant others. We're an influential group.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:24 Guest

2:24

[Comment From vrandvrand: ]

Lakers should do what every team do, Go fishing

Friday June 13, 2008 2:24 vrand

2:24

[Comment From PsychwardPsychward: ]

I wonder if Ray will get more shot attempts in game 5 after those two baskets he made last nite--considerin PP doesn't really pass him the ball and all

Friday June 13, 2008 2:24 Psychward

2:24

Ziller:

He has one year left on his deal, and he proved in the second half of the season he can be a great roleplayer.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:24 Ziller

2:24

Ziller:

He's valuable enough.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:24 Ziller

2:24

[Comment From JakeJake: ]

As every Laker fan said, the LA Kobes can still win three in a row, its just he doesn't want to

Friday June 13, 2008 2:24 Jake

2:24

Ziller:

If Diaw can be moved this summer, Odom can.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:24 Ziller

2:24

Matt Moore:

I guess you can shop him. It would be risky though, if you don't get 1.25 on the dollar.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:24 Matt Moore

2:25

Matt Moore:

I agree with that, even though I'd take Odom a million times over before Diaw.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:25 Matt Moore

2:25

[Comment From Lalalarry34Lalalarry34: ]

I agree, Ray is the Finals MVP

Friday June 13, 2008 2:25 Lalalarry34

2:25

Ziller:

Why? The team's deep.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:25 Ziller

2:25

[Comment From bignblu1bignblu1: ]

dont make excuses for the Spurs getting older. its just part of the game

Friday June 13, 2008 2:25 bignblu1

2:25

[Comment From luc longleyluc longley: ]

I think LA should trade Odom.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:25 luc longley

2:25	Odom? Trade him ( 41% ) Keep him ( 38% ) Bring him off the bench ( 14% ) Have him carry Kobe's sweats. ( 8% ) Friday June 13, 2008 2:25

2:25

[Comment From black deathblack death: ]

the lakers will (unfortunately) be fine. they shouldn't make any major moves, but as a certified hater, i hope they do.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:25 black death

2:25

Ziller:

Unless Buss wants to spend $30 million in luxury tax, it's got to be Odom that goes.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:25 Ziller

2:25

[Comment From two4onetwo4one: ]

I hope Ray Allen and Paul Pierce tie for MVP. Ray is soooo consistent and Paul motivates and leads the team

Friday June 13, 2008 2:25 two4one

2:25

[Comment From DRBDRB: ]

Ziller/Moore: How long do you think the Celtics window lasts for?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:25 DRB

2:25

Matt Moore:

2 seasons, no more.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:25 Matt Moore

2:25

[Comment From mirzamirza: ]

odom is good and u cant trade him

Friday June 13, 2008 2:25 mirza

2:26

[Comment From bignblu1bignblu1: ]

Odom is gone he will not be a laker next year

Friday June 13, 2008 2:26 bignblu1

2:26

[Comment From zack_grizzack_griz: ]

who would take odom? what could you get for him? does he play SF next year for the lakers?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:26 zack_griz

2:26

Ziller:

Kobe's leaving?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:26 Ziller

2:26

Ziller:

You have Pau through, what, 2012?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:26 Ziller

2:26

[Comment From DRBDRB: ]

And no, you don't replace Odom, you put him on the 2nd team

Friday June 13, 2008 2:26 DRB

2:26

[Comment From luc longleyluc longley: ]

Trade Odom for a defensive minded SF (perhaps try and pry Battier?). They will have enoug scoring with Bynum Gasol and Kobe, and the bench will only improve. Odom is inconsistent, and has played exactly 2 good quarters so far. Not a great 3rd optoin.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:26 luc longley

2:26

Ziller:

Bynum will get started with a near-max deal in 2009-10.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:26 Ziller

2:26

[Comment From bignblu1bignblu1: ]

No they need a solid 3

Friday June 13, 2008 2:26 bignblu1

2:26

[Comment From SkeetsSkeets: ]

Last night was the first time I ever remember seeing Phil Jackson look "frazzled" on the sidelines. The weird comment to Tafoya when the Lakers coughed up the lead, the wasted timeout with 16 seconds to go, and a few of those drawn up plays coming off a clipboard conclave late. That was weird to watch.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:26 Skeets

2:26

Ziller:

Skeets -- that was indeed an odd interview.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:26 Ziller

2:27

Matt Moore:

So you're saying they HAVE to do something with Odom, that complacency is not an option?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:27 Matt Moore

2:27

[Comment From PsychwardPsychward: ]

I don't get why VladRad was put in late in teh game and Odom was benched...i think it's common knowledge by now that if Vlad doesn't give anything in the first 5 mins, he won't give anything at all. I think Lamar and Phil need to have a nice long convo b4 game 5

Friday June 13, 2008 2:27 Psychward

2:27

[Comment From DanteDante: ]

Every body is talking like Boston has been so good for the past 21 years , ? NOT a lot of help and dealings, beginning with McHale and Ainge

Friday June 13, 2008 2:27 Dante

2:27

[Comment From bignblu1bignblu1: ]

shooters like ray are rare, sign him until that horse drops out

Friday June 13, 2008 2:27 bignblu1

2:27

Ziller:

I couldn't tell whether he was a deer in the headlights or messing with her.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:27 Ziller

2:27

[Comment From black deathblack death: ]

i think LA should panic and blow up the team, the current players haven't gotten them anywhere

Friday June 13, 2008 2:27 black death

2:27

[Comment From SlothropSlothrop: ]

What should the Lakers do this summer? Get a good tee time... for, say, Monday?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:27 Slothrop

2:27

[Comment From PsychwardPsychward: ]

Ok stop--Ray can't finals MVP for two plays! He didn't even start the comeback--that was Posey! He solidified it, yeah, but c'mon! PP has been the MVP.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:27 Psychward

2:27

Ziller:

Matt -- I think the risk in playing it out is too great, given it might not work.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:27 Ziller

2:27

[Comment From black deathblack death: ]

odom isn't going anywhere until isiah thomas gets another GM job

Friday June 13, 2008 2:27 black death

2:27

[Comment From zack_grizzack_griz: ]

game 5 circa 2008 finals = game 3 circa mavs/heat finals........the lakers better hope it doesn't carry over to next year

Friday June 13, 2008 2:27 zack_griz

2:28

[Comment From ViktorViktor: ]

I'm not sure why people think Bynum is some magic cure-all that could've destroyed the C's. He played both times in the regular seasons against Boston, when everyone was talking him up, and the C's beat them worse than they have in the playoffs.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:28 Viktor

2:28

Ziller:

In fairness, since Odom will be an expiring, they can wait until February.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:28 Ziller

2:28

[Comment From PsychwardPsychward: ]

Momentum is a strange girl comment?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:28 Psychward

2:28

Matt Moore:

+1 Thanks for reminding me I have some photoshopping to do later.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:28 Matt Moore

2:28

[Comment From GuestGuest: ]

Trade Odom and Gasol!!!!

Friday June 13, 2008 2:28 Guest

2:28

[Comment From black deathblack death: ]

that interview was phil trying to not look worried when he was actually sh!tting his pants

Friday June 13, 2008 2:28 black death

2:29

Matt Moore:

watch the language people.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:29 Matt Moore

2:29

Matt Moore:

everyone say "Bye, tom!"

Friday June 13, 2008 2:29 Matt Moore

2:29

[Comment From luc longleyluc longley: ]

How has Pierece been MVP he shot 2/14 in Game 3! Allen has been the most consistent Celtics player.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:29 luc longley

2:29

Ziller:

Bye, tom!

Friday June 13, 2008 2:29 Ziller

2:29

[Comment From ViktorViktor: ]

Dante, just stop. Lakers fans have NO room to talk about shady deals. At least the C's gave up a legit threat to be a 20-10 guy in Al Jefferson. Jerry West's last order in Memphis was to gift wrap Gasol to LA for garbage. Please, Lakers fans. Get a clue.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:29 Viktor

2:29

Ziller:

Oh...

Friday June 13, 2008 2:29 Ziller

2:29

[Comment From luc longleyluc longley: ]

I think Bynum woul have been huge. All great defensive teams are anchored by a big man. LA has way too much softness up front, Bynum would have battled with KG a lot more on the boards.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:29 luc longley

2:29

Matt Moore:

That's true, but he's also young and prone to mistakes. Plus he would have slowed down their pace, which is a key to their success.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:29 Matt Moore

2:30

Ziller:

See everyone for Game 5.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:30 Ziller

2:30

[Comment From DanteDante: ]

Guest cause of Gasol they are in the FINALS!

Friday June 13, 2008 2:30 Dante

2:30

[Comment From bignblu1bignblu1: ]

listen they need a player that can coexsist with Kobe. also a strong perimeter player that will make defenses stay honest and he can drive and slash

Friday June 13, 2008 2:30 bignblu1

2:30

Matt Moore:

like... Ray Allen?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:30 Matt Moore

2:30

[Comment From SlothropSlothrop: ]

PJ on momentum: "It will return." How zen! How wrong!

Friday June 13, 2008 2:30 Slothrop

2:30

[Comment From SkeetsSkeets: ]

Two4One: Ray's been great — 48 minutes last night, running the point, D, clutch play — but PP will, and in my opinion, should take home the Finals MVP hardware. He is playing at the level most of figured Kobe would be at this series. He amazes me — and JVG, apparently — more and more with each possession.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:30 Skeets

2:30

[Comment From black deathblack death: ]

um, big al IS a 20/10 guy, not just a threat

Friday June 13, 2008 2:30 black death

2:30

[Comment From vrandvrand: ]

This can"t be the real Luc Longley

Friday June 13, 2008 2:30 vrand

2:30

Matt Moore:

you'l never know. That's the fun of the internet!

Friday June 13, 2008 2:30 Matt Moore

2:30

[Comment From PsychwardPsychward: ]

Phil post game interview: "The series is not over" Ummm...ok. Keep tellin urself that. I'm sorry, but it's gotta be embarrassing for him to lose to Doc, who gets his speeches from a Cracker Jack box.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:30 Psychward

2:31

Matt Moore:

Don't get too confident Boston. You remember the Yankees.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:31 Matt Moore

2:31

[Comment From luc longleyluc longley: ]

Compare LA to the 2000 LA. They had Rick Fox and Robert Horry as defensive guys to put pressure on the opposing team when the offense stagnates. Now, they are relying on Luke Walton and Sasha to play the same roles, but they just aren't good defensive players. Fisher is a step too slow at times, Kobe is burning himself out trying to play well on both ends. Just a bad matchup for LA.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:31 luc longley

2:31

Matt Moore:

Can't believe Sasha tried to half court trap Ray Allen.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:31 Matt Moore

2:31

[Comment From bignblu1bignblu1: ]

i agree that Bynum might have made some difference, however remember the lakers have lost 5out of 6 to the Celtics this year. They played above there talent level

Friday June 13, 2008 2:31 bignblu1

2:31

[Comment From DanteDante: ]

Get Al Horford he has an open contract with Atlanta!

Friday June 13, 2008 2:31 Dante

2:31

Matt Moore:

This is NOT happening, ever.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:31 Matt Moore

2:31

[Comment From heatwillbebackheatwillbeback: ]

ZEN master = Zero Energy Now

Friday June 13, 2008 2:31 heatwillbeback

2:31

[Comment From luc longleyluc longley: ]

Yeah but their pace hasn't gotten them anywhere so far, The only game they won was an ugly affair.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:31 luc longley

2:32

Matt Moore:

But even then, thats' when they're at their best, and it would have hurt to go into a half court game. Besides, we're talking hypotheticals.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:32 Matt Moore

2:32

[Comment From black deathblack death: ]

PP is the MVP, no question, you cna't ignore his history with the celtics, he has towed the company line and it will be rewarded

Friday June 13, 2008 2:32 black death

2:32

[Comment From ViktorViktor: ]

Yeah, he's up there, black death. I'd like to see it for another year, though. Especially when OJ Mayo comes in to poison that team.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:32 Viktor

2:32

[Comment From PsychwardPsychward: ]

yeah, fisher is too slow--they should start Farmar. Mix it up a bit.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:32 Psychward

2:33

Matt Moore:

Fisher's slow, but Farmar gets lost sometimes because of his youth. If he had another two years on him, he would have hit a few more shots and layups last night, different ballgame. Just too young.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:33 Matt Moore

2:33

[Comment From SkeetsSkeets: ]

Sasha plays defense with his mechanic wrists. It's ridiculous.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:33 Skeets

2:33

Matt Moore:

And he constantly goes for the steal.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:33 Matt Moore

2:33

[Comment From luc longleyluc longley: ]

Viktor: do you actually follow basketball? The Memphis owner is actively trying to sell the team. Pau has a huge salary that was easily cut by trading him and they got a huge expiring deal in Kwame.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:33 luc longley

2:33

[Comment From two4onetwo4one: ]

Okay, skeets, I agree Pierce amazes me too. He doesn't even look like a baller or like he's fit. I think that is part of his ploy because when he gets the chance he sticks it to you.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:33 two4one

2:33

[Comment From DavidDavid: ]

If you're a lakers fan you have to be nervous that your title hopes are riding next year on a guy who's like, what, 21?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:33 David

2:33

[Comment From FromBostonFromBoston: ]

Celtics are the better team overall. Period

Friday June 13, 2008 2:33 FromBoston

2:34

[Comment From DanteDante: ]

farmar noooo he is the one messing up

Friday June 13, 2008 2:34 Dante

2:34

Matt Moore:

I could have sworn that was Vujacic/Radman/Gasol/Odom.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:34 Matt Moore

2:34

[Comment From luc longleyluc longley: ]

I just see Phil as not being too miffed about this because he sees this team as having another 2 years as title contenders.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:34 luc longley

2:34

Matt Moore:

I think he's not too miffed because he knows this team isn't "great" in the classic sense.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:34 Matt Moore

2:34

[Comment From black deathblack death: ]

big al is young and only getting better, but he is still the tallest midget, i'd like to see what numbers he could put up along side a legit #1 or #2

Friday June 13, 2008 2:34 black death

2:34

[Comment From KnickBockerKnickBocker: ]

remember people it takes 4 wins not 3 in best of 7

Friday June 13, 2008 2:34 KnickBocker

2:35

[Comment From BillBill: ]

Let's face it..Kobe is a punk...has great individual talent but he ain't any kind of leader...Lakers look real soft...and it's all Kobe's fault.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:35 Bill

2:35

Matt Moore:

I think that's more than a little ridiculous, but his leadership last night was questionable with the yelling and screaming.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:35 Matt Moore

2:35

[Comment From luc longleyluc longley: ]

I wouldn't say boston is better overall. They figured out their flaws against Atlanta and Cleveland and were able to peak at the right time.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:35 luc longley

2:35

Matt Moore:

Boston has been better all year. They had a slump in the first two rounds and then figured it out. BEating Detroit is no small feat.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:35 Matt Moore

2:36

[Comment From JakeJake: ]

PP has approximately the same career averages as Kobe with no Shaq and none of that pesky lockerroom cancer

Friday June 13, 2008 2:36 Jake

2:36

[Comment From ViktorViktor: ]

luc, it was highway robbery and everyone who didn't pluck the Lakers flags off their cars last night knows it. Kwame Brown rofl. Contract or not, he is no where near the center piece of a deal for Gasol.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:36 Viktor

2:36

[Comment From GuestGuest: ]

I agree...they are the hungrier team....they proved it last night!

Friday June 13, 2008 2:36 Guest

2:36

[Comment From regretlesspandaregretlesspanda: ]

Odom's trade value is too low to be moved until at the trade deadline, they'll see how their full line-up plays out first

Friday June 13, 2008 2:36 regretlesspanda

2:36

[Comment From black deathblack death: ]

doesn't phil have another 4 or so years on his contract?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:36 black death

2:36

[Comment From luc longleyluc longley: ]

Bill you could say the same for Kevin Garnett.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:36 luc longley

2:36

[Comment From PsychwardPsychward: ]

Farmar's not the one messin up! He doesn't even get enuff minutes to really mess up. It's like Phil's livin in the past w/ fisher or sumthing--this ain't 2000-02!

Friday June 13, 2008 2:36 Psychward

2:36

[Comment From SkeetsSkeets: ]

Two4One: YAYsports on Pierce today: "Paul Pierce, by the way, didn’t get carried off in Game One because he was faking — he got carried off because he's ... chubby. Chubby like a baby."

Friday June 13, 2008 2:36 Skeets

2:36

[Comment From regretlesspandaregretlesspanda: ]

the series is as much on PJ as it is on KB

Friday June 13, 2008 2:36 regretlesspanda

2:36

[Comment From GuestGuest: ]

A real leader makes his teammates better, doesn't just make himself the center..

Friday June 13, 2008 2:36 Guest

2:36

[Comment From black deathblack death: ]

last night? doesn't kobe yell and scream at his teammate every night?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:36 black death

2:36

[Comment From PsychwardPsychward: ]

How can one person account for the softness of an entire squad?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:36 Psychward

2:36

[Comment From SkeetsSkeets: ]

That's the Q: Would this Lakers team have beaten the Celtics in the first round of the playoffs?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:36 Skeets

2:37

[Comment From black deathblack death: ]

beating atlanta is not as easy as every one thinks, didn't the lakers lose to them last time they played?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:37 black death

2:37

[Comment From ViktorViktor: ]

How in the world is Boston not better overall, luc? And you question my basketball mind? Wow. They've dominated the Lakers in all but 1 of their 6 games this season.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:37 Viktor

2:37

[Comment From JDJD: ]

The Lakers are unlikely to trade anyone. Odom is the reason they dominated the first half in Game 3, and has been a major factor this year. I'm a Laker's fan, but give Boston credit: nobody was going to beat them with that line-up: three superstars who would all deserve double teams. Garnett is the most unique 7-footer ever. When Andrew Bynum returns -- he was first in FG %, 10th in blocks, 12th in block shots -- Gasol and Odom return to PF and SF, their natural positions. The Lakers may trade a role player or two ... Vujacic, Farmar ... to get a big, strong point guard. Boston has played brilliantly, they are the best team in basketball by a sizeable margin. Losing to them is no disgrace. Let's see how they match up with a big, strong center in the Laker's court...

Friday June 13, 2008 2:37 JD

2:37

[Comment From luc longleyluc longley: ]

Viktor when you learn the economics of the NBA then you will understand why stars get traded for nothing.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:37 luc longley

2:37

[Comment From heatwillbebackheatwillbeback: ]

if u have ever played organized ball, u know kobe is NOT ur captain or leader..very selfish...u could see his charachter last night after the game..."we wet the bed"

Friday June 13, 2008 2:37 heatwillbeback

2:37

[Comment From BillBill: ]

But Garnett stepped up this year..Kobe still has the same mindset...it's all about him

Friday June 13, 2008 2:37 Bill

2:37

[Comment From GuestGuest: ]

THEY NEED TO GET RID OF LUKE WALTON!!!

Friday June 13, 2008 2:37 Guest

2:37

Matt Moore:

Unfortunately they just signed him to a big new contract.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:37 Matt Moore

2:38

Matt Moore:

So if you're Jackson, what adjustments do you make for Game 5? I'm bringing Odom off the bench to motivate him and playing Kobe at 3, with Fisher and Farmar. It's time to get out and run.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:38 Matt Moore

2:38

[Comment From KnickBockerKnickBocker: ]

Lakers can still win but it'll require Kobe being unconsciously jordan-esque otherwise its over sunday night

Friday June 13, 2008 2:38 KnickBocker

2:38

[Comment From PsychwardPsychward: ]

Clearly I'm not seeing wat everyone else is--Kobe got his teammates involved last nite--he had like 10 dimes. I can't MAKE them hit the shots! Dude was bein covered by like 3 guys at a time last nite.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:38 Psychward

2:38

Matt Moore:

He didn't take over the game late, which is what he's expected to do with the accolades that have been heaped on him. Maybe it's unfair, but that's what it is.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:38 Matt Moore

2:39

[Comment From black deathblack death: ]

luc, stars get traded for nothing, but what the lakers gave up was less than nothing, and usually you accept the pupu platter at the deadline, not 3 weeks before it

Friday June 13, 2008 2:39 black death

2:39

Matt Moore:

Memphis is going to be okay. I know you'll think I'm nuts. Just remember I said this. Three years, they'll be a playoff team.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:39 Matt Moore

2:39

[Comment From luc longleyluc longley: ]

I would say they are not better but probably equal. I'm not a Lakers homer but Boston is just a terrible matchup, a team that is physical and bangs players around, it's like why the Suns lose to the Spurs all the time.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:39 luc longley

2:39

[Comment From B.A.M.A.B.A.M.A.: ]

kobe is not as selfish this year and they still have a chance

Friday June 13, 2008 2:39 B.A.M.A.

2:39

[Comment From GuestGuest: ]

lakers in 7!!!!!!!!!!

Friday June 13, 2008 2:39 Guest

2:39

Matt Moore:

Welcome back Lakers fans.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:39 Matt Moore

2:39

[Comment From DanteDante: ]

Phil should star Ariza for # 5

Friday June 13, 2008 2:39 Dante

2:39

[Comment From SkeetsSkeets: ]

I wish Bill Walton had showed up at the arena last night with a big ol' sign that read: "Hey, Luke, you're a bum."

Friday June 13, 2008 2:39 Skeets

2:40

[Comment From luc longleyluc longley: ]

Matt. If you're Phil and you bench Lamar....doesn't that damage his psyche more?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:40 luc longley

2:40

Matt Moore:

AT this point you have to do anything you can to motivate him. And you can't risk more wild off the glass shots.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:40 Matt Moore

2:40

[Comment From heatwillbebackheatwillbeback: ]

paul pierce is one guy

Friday June 13, 2008 2:40 heatwillbeback

2:40

Matt Moore:

That's a deep statement.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:40 Matt Moore

2:40

[Comment From luc longleyluc longley: ]

When the team is run by a blathering idiot (Heisley) then those trades happen.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:40 luc longley

2:40

[Comment From KBGKBG: ]

This series can become a great psychological thriller...but Jackson must become Hitchcock

Friday June 13, 2008 2:40 KBG

2:40

[Comment From GuestGuest: ]

The Lakers need to send Luke Walton packing! He's useless!

Friday June 13, 2008 2:40 Guest

2:40

[Comment From ToddTodd: ]

3 guys on him? I only say Pierce shutting him down without much help. Where were the three guys?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:40 Todd

2:41

[Comment From TIMTIM: ]

Last I saw was Lakers 29 Celts 8 1st qtr almost over. What happened ???

Friday June 13, 2008 2:41 TIM

2:41

Matt Moore:

EPIC FAIL.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:41 Matt Moore

2:41

[Comment From JDJD: ]

Trevor Ariza will replace Walton: he's way more athletic, and twice the defender that Walton is. And a better shooter: he's a great role player. This is most likely Boston's year, obviously, and they deserve it. I've never seen better, smarter defense. But with Bynum, Ariza, and perhaps a new point guard, the Laker's and Celtics may be going at it for a long time.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:41 JD

2:41

[Comment From KnickBockerKnickBocker: ]

Celts on other hand played fast and loose being as far back as they were once the in words of Marv Albert,'were on fireeee'

Friday June 13, 2008 2:41 KnickBocker

2:41

[Comment From L AL A: ]

Its funny how many Celtic fans there are now a days, or should I say band wagon fans!!

Friday June 13, 2008 2:41 L A

2:42

Matt Moore:

Irony: LA Fans claiming boston bandwagoners. YOu could have heard a pin drop last night in Staples.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:42 Matt Moore

2:42

[Comment From Dr. LakerfanDr. Lakerfan: ]

Lukes bad, why do people keep defending him as a fan favorite? He's got very little talent.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:42 Dr. Lakerfan

2:42

[Comment From black deathblack death: ]

if benching does hurt his psyche, doesn't that just reinforce the "soft" label?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:42 black death

2:42

[Comment From TIMTIM: ]

Paul Pierce CAN defend Kobe

Friday June 13, 2008 2:42 TIM

2:42

[Comment From ToddTodd: ]

Not a celtics fan, just hate the big baby kode. Anybody buy LA is my moto.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:42 Todd

2:42

[Comment From luc longleyluc longley: ]

You could have heard Will Smith promoting Hancock last night

Friday June 13, 2008 2:42 luc longley

2:42

[Comment From Dr. LakerfanDr. Lakerfan: ]

can Kobe Bryant be more of an jerk during timeouts to his own teammates? Damn, show a little love dude!

Friday June 13, 2008 2:42 Dr. Lakerfan

2:42

[Comment From luc longleyluc longley: ]

The Lakers flaws can't be corrected in this series. Pau is a poor defender, Vlad is exposed against Pierce, and they don't have good interior defense.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:42 luc longley

2:42

[Comment From PsychwardPsychward: ]

That was late in teh game though--check earlier in the game.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:42 Psychward

2:42

[Comment From kobe bryantkobe bryant: ]

prepare for a miracle L.A.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:42 kobe bryant

2:42

[Comment From heatwillbebackheatwillbeback: ]

mj and bulls would not blow a 24 pt lead

Friday June 13, 2008 2:42 heatwillbeback

2:43

[Comment From BillBill: ]

Lakers need a center..unfortunately it's kind of late to be looking for one during the finals.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:43 Bill

2:43

[Comment From ViktorViktor: ]

black death, Lakers fans are the most pretentious in sports. They'll twist themselves into pretzels blindly supporting their team. Though, I suppose I'd be a bit delusional if the national media threw themselves at my teams' proverbial feet at every turn, too.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:43 Viktor

2:43

[Comment From KnickBockerKnickBocker: ]

anyways i originally was gonna say as celts caught fire lakers on other hand went into what in nfl is called a PREVENT-mode,meaning it prevents you from closing it out

Friday June 13, 2008 2:43 KnickBocker

2:43

[Comment From JDJD: ]

Nobody would bench Odom. Not one Laker except Odom for a half really dominated last night. Kobe settled for outside jumpshots because the Celtics defense was astonishing.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:43 JD

2:43

[Comment From LaurenLauren: ]

But the Lakers seem to depend on Kobe in the second half while the Celtics play as an actual team for the entire game.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:43 Lauren

2:43

[Comment From KBGKBG: ]

Jackson must change the face of the Lakers dramatically in the next game...a major shake up

Friday June 13, 2008 2:43 KBG

2:43

[Comment From regretlesspandaregretlesspanda: ]

people with glass designer handbags should not throw stones

Friday June 13, 2008 2:43 regretlesspanda

2:43

[Comment From PsychwardPsychward: ]

can u blame them for being quiet last nite though? I would been quiet too

Friday June 13, 2008 2:43 Psychward

2:43

[Comment From TIMTIM: ]

IF LA is THIS weak how did they get through the WEST ?????

Friday June 13, 2008 2:43 TIM

2:43

[Comment From luc longleyluc longley: ]

It's kind of ironic, but the Lakers could have used PJ Brown.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:43 luc longley

2:43

Matt Moore:

They definitely needed a tough, aggressive veteran big.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:43 Matt Moore

2:43

[Comment From PsychwardPsychward: ]

Can we at least agree that the mj had a better cast than Kobe does?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:43 Psychward

2:44

Matt Moore:

Sure. We can also agree that MJ would never have let what happened last night happen, even if he was playing with a D-League squad.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:44 Matt Moore

2:44

[Comment From JDJD: ]

I'm a Laker's fan, but I'm aslo a basektball fan. Boston deserves credit for an astonishing defense. Once they are at full strength, the Laker's will be a different team, and a real match up problem for anyone, especially the Celtics: KG has problems with big, strong centers like Shaq and Bynum.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:44 JD

2:44

Matt Moore:

Friday June 13, 2008 2:44 Matt Moore

2:44

[Comment From TIMTIM: ]

Maybe the Celts are THAT good

Friday June 13, 2008 2:44 TIM

2:44

[Comment From Dr. LakerfanDr. Lakerfan: ]

Doc Rivers outcoached Phil Jackson...I'm sorry I have to admit that...

Friday June 13, 2008 2:44 Dr. Lakerfan

2:44

[Comment From regretlesspandaregretlesspanda: ]

LA is not weak, the Celtics are the best team in the NBA this year, full-stop

Friday June 13, 2008 2:44 regretlesspanda

2:44

[Comment From black deathblack death: ]

can we at least agree to not mention MJ for the rest of this chat?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:44 black death

2:44

[Comment From KBGKBG: ]

Kobe is not using Gasol effectively enough like MJ used Pippin

Friday June 13, 2008 2:44 KBG

2:44

[Comment From ToddTodd: ]

Trade Kobe!, You could get someone less arogant and someone who can run a team!

Friday June 13, 2008 2:44 Todd

2:45

Matt Moore:

-1

Friday June 13, 2008 2:45 Matt Moore

2:45

[Comment From regretlesspandaregretlesspanda: ]

MM: someone like PJ Brown? ;)

Friday June 13, 2008 2:45 regretlesspanda

2:45

[Comment From QuestionableQuestionable: ]

No I think Mj realized he couldn't do it by his self, and Kobe has not figured that out yet

Friday June 13, 2008 2:45 Questionable

2:45

[Comment From PsychwardPsychward: ]

I mean w/ all the blown 24 point lead comments--you'd think Kobe single handedly let the lead go.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:45 Psychward

2:45

Matt Moore:

He's the leader. It's on him. That's the burden of being the guy and the best player in the league.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:45 Matt Moore

2:45

[Comment From JakeJake: ]

MJ's cast never did anything w/out him, it just seemed like they were better than they were because Jordan (like Magic and Bird) made his teammates better

Friday June 13, 2008 2:45 Jake

2:45

[Comment From DanteDante: ]

It Took Boston 21 years, remember ? to have a decent team enjoy it!

Friday June 13, 2008 2:45 Dante

2:45

[Comment From Dr. LakerfanDr. Lakerfan: ]

And I'm missing Andrew Bynum soooo much! I can't stand this Euro Ball softness

Friday June 13, 2008 2:45 Dr. Lakerfan

2:45

[Comment From GuestGuest: ]

I am a Lakers fan through and through. They messed up bad last nite, dropped the ball literally! This may not be theri year but they have such great potential that I am not worried that we will win the Finals in the coming years!

Friday June 13, 2008 2:45 Guest

2:45

[Comment From SkeetsSkeets: ]

I'm confused with this bench Lamar nonsense. LO played great last night. GREAT. He had the angles right attacking the rim, gained some confidence and pulled it outside, was active around the net on both ends of the floor ... and then the Lakers went away from him. It's not his job to grab the game, he's not an elite #1 option. His 2nd half MIA has to also fall on P-Jax, Kobe, and to some extentm, the Lakers guards' shoulders.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:45 Skeets

2:46

Matt Moore:

Skeets, he did go to pieces in the second half, especially with those wild, off the backboard shots.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:46 Matt Moore

2:46

[Comment From BillBill: ]

Kobe won with Shaq at center..but Gasol..give me a break

Friday June 13, 2008 2:46 Bill

2:46

[Comment From kobe bryantkobe bryant: ]

i will be more aggressive next game, have fate

Friday June 13, 2008 2:46 kobe bryant

2:46

[Comment From timtim: ]

i think that the lakers needed andrew bynum to be their low post player because gasol can't handle garnett and pau gasol doesn't play physical enough. i wanted the lakers to win but the series is over.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:46 tim

2:47

Matt Moore:

And I want to bench Odom to motivate him, not punish him. Think of it as a Manu move.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:47 Matt Moore

2:47

[Comment From Nate JonesNate Jones: ]

Jordan played with a bunch of playoff tested veterans

Friday June 13, 2008 2:47 Nate Jones

2:47

[Comment From Dr. LakerfanDr. Lakerfan: ]

Stop bashing LO, hes a straight baller who takes all of Kobe's browbeating with humility. LO for the win!

Friday June 13, 2008 2:47 Dr. Lakerfan

2:47

[Comment From LeprechaunLeprechaun: ]

Clearly, Phil Jackson was outcoached by Doc Rivers.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:47 Leprechaun

2:47

[Comment From luc longleyluc longley: ]

I think we can really put to rest those "this LA team is better without Shaq" chants

Friday June 13, 2008 2:47 luc longley

2:47

[Comment From SkeetsSkeets: ]

Pieces? Tell me how many shots he missed in the 2nd half, Matt?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:47 Skeets

2:47

Matt Moore:

Friday June 13, 2008 2:47 Matt Moore

2:47

[Comment From black deathblack death: ]

skeeters, that guy in the LO jersey played great in the first half, what about the other 7 halves of this series?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:47 black death

2:47

[Comment From Nate JonesNate Jones: ]

How many years did it take the bulls going to the conference finals and getting knocked around by detroit before they got it right.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:47 Nate Jones

2:47

[Comment From JDJD: ]

No coach in the NBA would bench Odom, after his first half last night. The Laker's need to spread the floor, Kobe needs to attack, and the role players could sure help by hitting a few shots. Let's see how badly the Lakers want to go back to Boston....

Friday June 13, 2008 2:47 JD

2:47

[Comment From DanteDante: ]

Lebron and the Cavs have an unsetled dispute with Boston comes next year! So is young Atlanta

Friday June 13, 2008 2:47 Dante

2:48

Matt Moore:

I'm just saying that Lamar vanishes for long stretches in games, and they need someone who's going to give effective minutes. That's all. I'm big on Odom when he's actually got his noggin screwed on right.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:48 Matt Moore

2:48

[Comment From PsychwardPsychward: ]

Touche Nate

Friday June 13, 2008 2:48 Psychward

2:48

[Comment From T SquaredT Squared: ]

LA has 6 good teams in the West to overcome next year too

Friday June 13, 2008 2:48 T Squared

2:48

[Comment From ToddTodd: ]

Bench Odom? How about pay him based on his performance like most of us have to deal with. Get rid of the pay check if you don't perform or meet expectations.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:48 Todd

2:48

[Comment From KBGKBG: ]

the Heat was able to unload Odom in the Shaq trade because they understood that he was usable as bait in the land where style beats substance...LA

Friday June 13, 2008 2:48 KBG

2:49

[Comment From luc longleyluc longley: ]

Nate technically the Bulls core needed 3 seasons to get it right.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:49 luc longley

2:49

[Comment From cazcaz: ]

Just like everybody held grudges with the lakers, the celtics will once again be on that list

Friday June 13, 2008 2:49 caz

2:49

[Comment From Dr. LakerfanDr. Lakerfan: ]

Why wouldn't PJ keep Ariza in the lineup? I mean the guy was super effective when he was in? Nice job coaching PJ, not!!!!

Friday June 13, 2008 2:49 Dr. Lakerfan

2:49

Matt Moore:

Ariza was also on the floor for a 10-0 Boston run in the third.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:49 Matt Moore

2:49

[Comment From Nate JonesNate Jones: ]

The Lakers have a bunch of guys that have never been out of the first round before this year and yet they are in the finals right now. They also have a bunch of guys that have played no more than five years in the league. The celtics on the other hand are a team of battle tested veterans. You can't blame Kobe for not elevating his teammates. It's more of a youth/inexperience problem than anything. How come people aren't saying Chris Paul doesn't make his teammates better when his teammates choked against the Spurs? Just ridiculous.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:49 Nate Jones

2:50

[Comment From luc longleyluc longley: ]

I'm sick of this West dominance crap. How many teams in the West can actually COMPETE for a title? SA, NO, LA and that's it. Utah has horrible defense, Dallas is not a contedner, Houston can't win a series and neither can Denver.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:50 luc longley

2:50

[Comment From PsychwardPsychward: ]

Yeah, and how long has this laker's core been together? not 3 seasons

Friday June 13, 2008 2:50 Psychward

2:50

[Comment From DanteDante: ]

LA is getting younger and Boston is getting older ala Heat

Friday June 13, 2008 2:50 Dante

2:50

[Comment From black deathblack death: ]

people hate the lakers because of kobe, the celtics won't be hated the same because they don't have a kobe

Friday June 13, 2008 2:50 black death

2:50

[Comment From JDJD: ]

When Boston got KG, everyone expected them to be in the finals. No one expected the Lakers. Justice prevails, and the future of the NBA and its marquis rivalry looks good. No one expected the Lakers to dominate the Western Conference -- 12-4 in the three conference match-ups -- so they go away encouraged, and Boston returns to its glory.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:50 JD

2:50

[Comment From GuestGuest: ]

it got me mad when the sport announcers were saying the game was over and the Celtic's were going to loose. Then when they came back the Celtic's were wonderful and the best team in the NBA. They should just shut up and keep there band wagon cheers to themselves

Friday June 13, 2008 2:50 Guest

2:50

[Comment From BillBill: ]

Prediction....LA folds on Sunday..they have no heart...Celts hang another one from the rafteres..and Nicholson makes another deadbeat movie to pay for his courtside seats!

Friday June 13, 2008 2:50 Bill

2:50

[Comment From Dr. LakerfanDr. Lakerfan: ]

Well I can blame Pau Gasol for his lack of physicality. Its called "hit the gym" and pump some iron boy!

Friday June 13, 2008 2:50 Dr. Lakerfan

2:50

[Comment From luc longleyluc longley: ]

Nate is CP3 the best player in the league? He's a 3rd year player that exceeded all expectations of him. Give me a break.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:50 luc longley

2:50

[Comment From T SquaredT Squared: ]

Spurs would whip Celtics this year

Friday June 13, 2008 2:50 T Squared

2:50

Matt Moore:

-5

Friday June 13, 2008 2:50 Matt Moore

2:50

[Comment From MarshallMarshall: ]

Most of Boston's players have never played in a final also

Friday June 13, 2008 2:50 Marshall

2:50

[Comment From KBGKBG: ]

Kobe needed some seasoning in college...if Kobe had gone to Duke for a couple of years, the series would be knotted at deuce

Friday June 13, 2008 2:50 KBG

2:52

Matt Moore:

I guess the idea that this Laker team will "season" right is valid. It's certainly possible and pretty likely. You just have to wonder what they're going to do about fundamental flaws, like, oh, say, the inability to defend under the basket. I know the answers is "Bynum" but what if he doesn't come back 100%, or if he doesn't ccontinue his progression rate? Their defense last night was horrid.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:52 Matt Moore

2:52

[Comment From luc longleyluc longley: ]

If Kobe went to Duke he'd be a leage leader in flops

Friday June 13, 2008 2:52 luc longley

2:52

[Comment From SkeetsSkeets: ]

Black Death: I can't argue that LO's been hack most of this series, but I'm looking at last night's game only. Yes, he went MIA, but that has to fall on the coaches — both off the court (PJax) and on the court (Kobe, leader).

Friday June 13, 2008 2:52 Skeets

2:52

Matt Moore:

Friday June 13, 2008 2:52 Matt Moore

2:52

[Comment From Dr. LakerfanDr. Lakerfan: ]

Kobe needs to stop bitching at his teammates and lead them in a different way!

Friday June 13, 2008 2:52 Dr. Lakerfan

2:52

[Comment From regretlesspandaregretlesspanda: ]

sorry Nate, but the veteran/youth and experience/inexperience goes for both teams, you're forgetting about Fisher and Rondo/Perkins/Powe

Friday June 13, 2008 2:52 regretlesspanda

2:52

[Comment From Nate JonesNate Jones: ]

Dr. Laker fan: Gasol is not a beastly center, and shouldn't be expected to play like one. He's playing out of position

Friday June 13, 2008 2:52 Nate Jones

2:52

[Comment From SkeetsSkeets: ]

Lamar Odom did not FALL APART in the second half of the game, that's all. He didn't go all 2-17 (or whatever it was) John Starks-y on us.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:52 Skeets

2:53

[Comment From DanteDante: ]

Rebember KG for 12 years in Minnie and doing 0

Friday June 13, 2008 2:53 Dante

2:53

[Comment From JDJD: ]

The Lakers have no heart? Based on what... making it through the amazingly tough Western Conference? Look at the W-L record of West vs. East. Other than Boston and Detroit, and sometimes Cleveland, there were 9 good teams in the West. Stick to the facts and not your bias... getting through the West showed great heart for a team that was almost written off.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:53 JD

2:53

[Comment From KBGKBG: ]

yeah..luc...tell that to christian laetner...genius

Friday June 13, 2008 2:53 KBG

2:53

[Comment From regretlesspandaregretlesspanda: ]

Spurs were 0-2 against the Celtics this year, just FYI

Friday June 13, 2008 2:53 regretlesspanda

2:53

[Comment From T SquaredT Squared: ]

Hey, it's back to a TEAM game. TY Regret

Friday June 13, 2008 2:53 T Squared

2:53

[Comment From jcjc: ]

matt, what is your prediction about sunday's game

Friday June 13, 2008 2:53 jc

2:53

Matt Moore:

Lakers respond with everything they have, empty the guns, all of them. Exhaust themselves and win. Boston wraps it up Tuesday in Beantown.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:53 Matt Moore

2:53

[Comment From luc longleyluc longley: ]

Matt I think the only thing you can do right now is just wait for Bynum to return. This team just isn't grasping fundamental defense with the fervor that the Bulls did in the 90s, or the Spurs or Celtics do now.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:53 luc longley

2:54	Game 6? Lakers respond, blow them out and keep it ( 4% ) Celtics take care of business, dominate ( 44% ) Celtics steal another one ( 11% ) Lakers win a close one, Kobe redeems ( 37% ) MACHINE!!! ( 4% ) Friday June 13, 2008 2:54

2:54

[Comment From Dr. LakerfanDr. Lakerfan: ]

Stop defending Pau Gasol people, a lot of the blame rests on him and having to help him double KG, which opens up E. House and J. Posey for back breaking threes. Get healthy Andrew quick, I can't watch Euro ball Pau Gasoft much longer at center.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:54 Dr. Lakerfan

2:55

[Comment From T SquaredT Squared: ]

So do the Lakers have a shot still ??? I say Celts win it all in 6 now....

Friday June 13, 2008 2:55 T Squared

2:55

[Comment From javalenjavalen: ]

How do you have Fisher on the bench for 13 minutes and not bring Arizas back until its too late

Friday June 13, 2008 2:55 javalen

2:55

[Comment From black deathblack death: ]

wow, you laker fans are really putting all your eggs in the Bynum basket aren't you?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:55 black death

2:55

[Comment From jcjc: ]

wrong.... lakers in seven baby!!!!!!!!!

Friday June 13, 2008 2:55 jc

2:55

[Comment From PsychwardPsychward: ]

I still don't get how they got thru the Spurs, though aging, still played D, and can't defend the Celts now...(scratches head)

Friday June 13, 2008 2:55 Psychward

2:55

[Comment From ToddTodd: ]

Bynum the savior, give me a break! He will not solve the issues that lost the game for them last night.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:55 Todd

2:56

[Comment From Nate JonesNate Jones: ]

regretlesspanda: you're talking about three guys in Rondo/Pekins/Powe, but Posey, KG, Pierce, Ray Allen, Cassell, and PJ Brown are all playoff tested veterans. You can't compare the two teams in terms of experience.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:56 Nate Jones

2:56

[Comment From SkeetsSkeets: ]

And oh, before I go get drunk, Matt you said way up top about Kobe: "He's the leader. It's on him. That's the burden of being the guy and the best player in the league." Minus the "best player in the league" part and you have the EXACT reason why I absolutely despise Vince Carter.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:56 Skeets

2:56

[Comment From Nate JonesNate Jones: ]

Black Death: Did you see Bynum play this year?

Friday June 13, 2008 2:56 Nate Jones

2:56

[Comment From luc longleyluc longley: ]

Pyschward. The Spurs were not as deep as the Celtics are. The Celtics best players are playing with an urgency to win their 1st ring that can't be duplicated.

Friday June 13, 2008 2:56 luc longley

2:56

[Comment From cazcaz: ]

they shouldn't have gotten through the spurs. They should be in the finals, not LA

Friday June 13, 2008 2:56 caz

2:56

Matt Moore:

Okay, guys, that about wraps it up. Thanks for stopping by, and remember to check back here at FanHouse for all sorts of coverage of the Finals, the draft, and of course, how in the name of Great Oden's Raven Jaric got Lima to marry him. Final predictions for Game 6 people! Peace! Two minutes out!

Friday June 13, 2008 2:56 Matt Moore

2:56

[Comment From Dr. LakerfanDr. Lakerfan: ]

well its called Paul Pierce straight owning you on both ends of the floor. He did it against Joe Johnson, Lebron and now Kobe. Inglewood !

Friday June 13, 2008 2:56 Dr. Lakerfan

2:56

[Comment From T SquaredT Squared: ]

Bynum, Kwame Brown, etc

Friday June 13, 2008 2:56 T Squared

2:56

[Comment From regretlesspandaregretlesspanda: ]

Psych: Ray Allen is playing more consistently than Manu, that's how

Friday June 13, 2008 2:56 regretlesspanda

2:56

[Comment From javalenjavalen: ]

the lakers should be running running and running, it works! boston has a lot of bad wheels

Friday June 13, 2008 2:56 javalen

2:56

[Comment From JDJD: ]

The Laker's big weakness is interior defense, because Gasol and Odom are obviously not big bodies and great shot blockers. Bynum changes all that, and Arizza -- the guy has only been in two games the entire second half of the season -- shows that he's the Laker's best role player. Boston is aging: Garnett will be 33. They'll have to do what they can to win the nesxt 2-3 championships before the miles catch up to them. Should be very interesting...

Friday June 13, 2008 2:56 JD

2:57

[Comment From MarshallMarshall: ]

The Celtics are now 5-1 against the Lakers this year, winning in LA twice out of 3 games. I think the Celtics are just clearly the better team. Not really close

Friday June 13, 2008 2:57 Marshall

2:57

[Comment From PsychwardPsychward: ]

point conceded luc--but they can at least LOOK competitive

Friday June 13, 2008 2:57 Psychward

2:57

[Comment From DanteDante: ]

The Spurs in 9 years have 4 titles better then Boston in the past 21 years!

Friday June 13, 2008 2:57 Dante

2:57

[Comment From T SquaredT Squared: ]

The Celts Big 3 wants the 1st ring. No getting in their way NOW !!!!!!!!!!