LAKERS vs HAWKS (POST-GAME REPORT)

LAKERS 75 - HAWKS 86

Yahoo.com

It was the kind of shot Kobe Bryant might make—a 3-pointer that bounces high off the rim, ricochets off the top of the backboard, then drops through.
Mike Bibby was the one who pulled it off Sunday.
Bibby scored 21 points and buried Los Angeles with his improbable 3, leading the Atlanta Hawks to an 86-76 victory in which they took advantage of an ailing Bryant and dropped the Lakers farther behind Cleveland in the race for the NBA’s best overall record.
The playoff-bound Hawks led nearly the entire way, rebounding from consecutive home losses to two other elite teams, San Antonio and defending champion Boston. For Los Angeles, it was the lowest-scoring game of the season.
“We had just lost two very important games,” said Atlanta star Joe Johnson, who scored only 10 points but locked down Bryant at the defensive end. “We needed to get back on the winning side. This was probably one of our biggest games of the season.”
The Lakers secured the top seed in the Western Conference with a five-game winning streak, but Bryant had just 17 points on 7-of-19 shooting. He missed the morning meal and film session because of an upset stomach, then had his second straight subpar game.

“My stomach’s OK now,” said Bryant, coming off a 14-point performance at New Jersey. “When my medicine wears off, it’s going to be interesting.”
Bryant picked up two quick fouls and had to sit out most of the first quarter. He might have been better off just staying there, except no one filled the void.
Pau Gasol was the only other Los Angeles player in double figures, leading with 21 points, as the Lakers made just 35 percent (28 of 80) from the field.
“I don’t know exactly why we’re so out of whack and why we were missing so much,” Gasol said. “It was just a weird game, not recognizing how to attack them when they were switching.”
With Atlanta mired in an offensive meltdown, the Lakers pulled to 76-68 approaching the midway point of the final period. But Bibby locked it up for the Hawks with two huge 3-pointers.
His second took the last bit of life out of the Lakers, dropping through the hoop after two high bounces to make it 82-70 with 5 1/2 minutes remaining.
“I thought it was going over the backboard,” Bibby said. “I was like, ‘Oh yeah, it went in.’ I’ll take that.”
The Lakers suffered a setback in their bid for the best overall record—and guaranteed home-court advantage should they make it all the way to the finals. Cleveland extended its lead for the best record to two games with a 102-74 win over Dallas.
“We’re certainly not going to win out,” Los Angeles coach Phil Jackson said, “but we’re going to continue to put pressure on them.”
With Bryant mostly watching from the bench, the Lakers struggled to 5-of-23 shooting in the opening quarter. Los Angeles led 8-4 when their star picked up his second foul, trying to draw a charge in the backcourt just 4 minutes into the game.
“It took away his aggressiveness when he got those two quick fouls,” Johnson said.
Atlanta outscored the Lakers 16-5 the rest of the period for a 20-13 lead— Los Angeles’ lowest-scoring opening quarter of the season and less than half of its 27.3-point average.
Bryant returned for most of the second period, sparking the Lakers with his shooting and passing. He scored seven points, even though the Hawks tried to switch things up with little-used defensive specialist Mario West and frequent double teams.
West jawed a bit after a defensive stop on Bryant, which only seemed to fire him up. Isolated on West, he switched directions four times near the top of the key before sinking a 19-foot jumper. When the Hawks tried to double, Bryant found the open man. Gasol and Trevor Ariza both dunked off passes from him.
The Hawks, who had a 29-18 lead midway through the second, settled for a 40-39 advantage at the break. But Atlanta pulled away late in the third.
Maurice Evans hit a 3-pointer, and the Hawks turned it into a four-point play when Zaza Pachulia was elbowed in the side by Jordan Farmer while positioning for a possible rebound. Pachulia got up slowly but made the free throw.
Flip Murray missed a trey but Pachulia made a great tip in traffic for the basket, running back up the court with both hands in the air.
Then Johnson stole the ball from Bryant and passed ahead to Evans, who went in for a thunderous dunk that gave Atlanta a 72-56 lead. Bryant scored off a baseline scoop with 0.2 seconds left, but the Lakers went to the fourth down by 14.
Pachulia had 11 points and 13 rebounds, leading a strong effort by the thin Hawks bench. The reserves combined for 29 points and 15 rebounds, a much-needed effort with Johnson going 4 of 18 from the field.

Jackson: Bynum Not Close to Returning.

Got dammit Phil! Your killin' me Smalls!!! Give us something we want to hear. Be positive son!

Yahoo! Sports: It appears the Los Angeles Lakers will not get center Andrew Bynum back before the end of the regular season, according to the Los Angeles Times.

Coach Phil Jackson said Thursday while Bynum has moved beyond running on a treadmill his return will be closer to the start of the NBA playoffs than the orginal date of early April. Bynum is returning from a torn medial collateral ligament in his right knee.

“He has a considerable amount of time yet before he’s going to be even at practice with us,” Jackson said.

LAKERS vs NETS (POST-GAME REPORT)

LAKERS 103 - NETS 95

In Phil Jackson's 728th game as a Laker head coach, the Lakers go on to 4-0 on their road trip with a win last night against the Nets. While at the same time, clinching the best record in the west receiving home-court advantage up until the playoffs. "It's just one more step toward our goal," said Gasol. I like that.

With less than a minute left to go in the half, Kobe took a collision with Devin Harris and landed awkwardly on his right foot. With everyone in lala land in a scare, everyone then let a sigh of relief when Kobe came back in the 3rd to play. Kobe had bad shooting night, hitting only 5-19 but was a big part of a 24-2 run the Lakers went on in the 3rd hitting 3 consecutive threes. Kobe scored more than 12 this time against the Nets. This time around he scored 14! And of course added 9asts, and 4stls.

The man of the game was Purple Spain. Which the Nets had absolutely no answer for. First they tried fronting him; sorry PAU! Scores! Then they play him straight up; sorry PAU! Scored! Oh, you want to double him? PAU! Give the man his assist! He finished up the night with 36pts, 11rebs, 7asts, 2stls, and 2blks, on 14-19 shooting. SON! Odom, also had himself a double-double with 12pts and 11rebs. Fish was great with 18pts hitting 8 for 12. Ariza added 11pts, which is only one point less than what the entire Lakers bench produced. Last time was 56, and this time only 12? And every time they don't play well, makes Phil give the starters more minutes than they need. Step up bench mob.

Lakers were able to allow Vince Carter 20pts and 7reb. Not very good but not too bad either. Devin Harris put up 13pts while dishing 14ast on his first time back from his 5 game injury hiatus. Rookie and also starting center, Brook Lopez, did quite well and had himself a double-double with 16pts and 10rebs on an efficient 8-11 shooting. He has Devin to thank for that, giving him easy baskets no more than a foot away from the rim. Every one else did okay. Except for Jarvis Hayes who added 19pts off the bench. He also jacked up a couple of threes late in the game to bring them closer but they just weren't enough.

I thought the Lakers did an alright job. I mean their starters did, I'm not too sure about their bench. Kobe and Pau played +40 minutes, while Lamar and Ariza used up 36 minutes a piece. I can't stress it more that the bench needs to step it up. If they don't, then goodbye Finals. Up next is Joe Johnson and the Atlanta Hawks.

LAKERS vs NETS (PRE-GAME REPORT)

Going on their fourth game of the road trip. The Lakers face the New Jersey, Nets in tonight's game. Last meeting between the two in late November, the Lakers took the win by 27 points at their home floor. But since then, there's been some changes in this Los Angeles team.

On November 25th, the Lakers took an easy one at home against the Nets. Kobe only scored 12pts in a final score of 120, and it was all thanks to the Lakers bench who scored 56 of the total points. But since then the bench has changed a bit. With Bynum out, Lamar made the transition from the 6th man to the 3rd scoring option in the starting line-up. A trade sent Vlad to Bobcats for Brown and Morrison. Taking Luke off the bench and having him start for Vlad, and then eventually a switch between him and Ariza for the 3 spot. And now the bench don't look so good. Evident in the second quarter of the previous game against the Pistons. What happened to that bench that extended leads?

Last time Lakers were able to hold Vince Carter to only 14pts, but allowed young guard Devin Harris to score 21pts. Harris, who has been sidelined with a shoulder injury, looks to make his comeback against the Lakers tonight. I'm hoping since he's fresh back in the game, that he'll take it easy. The other Lopez, Brook has been the starting Center and has done pretty well 12.9pts, and 7.9rebs a game. Yi Jianlian, has not been so great and has been struggling with his shooting the past couple games. Their bench is a bit inconsistent. Except probably Jarvis Hayes who gives them plenty of production.

I'd say that the Lakers have this game in the bag. But if the inconsistent play of the bench continues, I'm no sure what the outcome might be. But who knows, maybe Kobe will score more than 12 points tonight.

LAKERS vs PISTONS (POST-GAME REPORT)

LAKERS 92 - PISTONS 77

Yahoo.com

Kobe Bryant had a reason to smile when he left The Palace for a change.
Bryant scored 30 points and helped the Los Angeles Lakers beat Detroit 92-77 Thursday night, snapping a nine-game losing streak on the Pistons’ home court.

“It feels good to finally walk out of here with a win,” said Bryant, who helped Los Angeles score the last 20 points of the third quarter to surge ahead for good.
Including three losses in the 2004 NBA finals, the Lakers hadn’t won on the road against the Pistons since Jan. 8, 2002.
The Western Conference-leading Lakers earned their fourth straight victory to pull within a game of NBA-leading Cleveland, and five in a row on the road for a league-high 26 this season.

“One of our goals is to have the best record before the playoffs start to have home-court advantage,” Lamar Odom acknowledged.
At this point, the once-mighty Pistons simply are hoping to make the playoffs.
They were without Allen Iverson (back), Richard Hamilton (groin) and Rasheed Wallace (calf) against the Lakers.
“They were short-handed,” Lakers coach Phil Jackson said. “We should’ve won.”
Hamilton is expected back on Saturday at Washington, where Wallace might also return, and the team hopes Iverson will be able to play next week.
“It’s a psychological lift knowing they’re going to return soon,” coach Michael Curry said.
Detroit desperately needs the trio on the court to salvage some pride in a season that has steadily unraveled since trading Chauncey Billups to Denver for Iverson in November.
The Pistons lost their third straight game and seventh of nine, falling into a seventh-place tie with Chicago in the Eastern Conference. They’re 18-19 at home and three games under .500 overall.
“They’ve had some trouble,” Byrant said. “But when the playoffs come around, I don’t think anybody wants to play this team.”
Detroit reserve Will Bynum had career highs with 25 points and 11 assists and helped his banged-up team outscore the Lakers 30-14 in the second quarter to lead 42-39.
The Pistons built a 10-point lead early in the second half and were ahead by five midway through the third quarter when Bryant made a layup and Trevor Ariza had consecutive putback dunks to spark a 20-0 run.
“We took Will Bynum out of the game and nobody else could do anything,” Detroit’s Tayshaun Prince said. “He’s the reason we had the lead at the half and the reason we made that comeback in the second quarter.
“Once he came out—end of the ballgame.”
Los Angeles looked as if it was going to rout the struggling Pistons when it led 25-12, marking a low first-quarter total for an opponent, but their Bynum-led bench dominated the second quarter.
The Lakers, though, ended any doubts about the outcome by outscoring Detroit 31-13 in the third quarter and coasted to victory.
Derek Fisher scored 15 points for the Lakers, and Odom and Pau Gasol each had 12 points.
“Those guys were playing well as a team and when they do that it’s a lot easier for Kobe to pick his spots,” Prince said.
Detroit’s Antonio McDyess had 14 points—making him its only double-digit scorer other than Bynum—and 12 rebounds.

Phil will start Bynum as a Reserve.

Well hopefully he's back before the Playoffs.

Inside The Lakers: “We’ll just have to see how he comes back, not when,” Jackson said. “Does he come back in condition where he can play 25 to 30 minutes? Is he going to be a ‘Starbury’ (Stephon Marbury of the Boston Celtics) where he’s playing 12 or 14 minutes a game, and then increase it that way? So, we’ll see how he fits in. He’s running on the court, and that’s about it. He’s doing some basketball skills. There’s a considerable amount of time before he’s even able to practice with us.”

LAKERS vs THUNDER (POST-GAME REPORT)

LAKERS 107 - THUNDER 89
Lakers sweep the Thunder with the win last night in Oklahoma City, going 2-0 so far in their road trip. Lakers led the whole way through the game and made sure they didn't lose the lead. I guess this win was that easy.

It was a night when every Laker that was suited, played. Six Laker players in double digits. Shooting 50% while holding the Thunder to only 41.5%. Yes, it was that kind of night as the Lakers made the game look effortless. And it was evident early on in the game when they took a 17 point at the end of the 1st, that they were focused. From then on Oklahoma couldn't bring the game any closer.

Kobe led the Lakers in scoring with 19pts while also filling up the box with 5asts, 4stls, 3rebs, 2blks, and zero turnovers. Pau nearly had a triple-double with 14pts, 14ebs, and 7asts. Lamar, though fouling out in the 4th, was aggressive every minute he was on the floor and had himself 18pts, and 6rebs, shooting 2-2 from behind the arc. Josh Powell contributed well off the bench adding 14pts to the 39 total points the bench produced. Sasha played poorly with 2pts shooting 1-6. But hey, he shot a combined 6-7 in the last two games, he was allowed to miss some this game. Luke was great with a good aggressive 11pts on 5-shooting. Even Shannon Brown got some burn and scored my two favorite baskets of the night.

They played some good defense tonight against the Thunder, holding their big 3(Durant, Green, & Westbook) below their season average. Durant finished with 24pts and 6rebs. Green added 12pts but was held to only 8 attempts. While Westbrook shot 2-11 from the field, but got the rest of his 10pts from the free throw line. They also had 6 players in double figures but only Collison was able to get into double digits off the bench with 10pts and 8rebs.

The Lakers played a great game with focus and energy. Consistency is all they lack. Well from the bench at least. But in recent games, they show what they're capable of. Giving us flashbacks of the early season when they not only kept the lead, but extended it. All they need is consistency. Up next, another revenge to check off the list in Detroit.

LAKERS vs THUNDER (PRE-GAME REPORT)

The Lakers on the second game of their 7 game road trip. Tonight they take a stop in Oklahoma City to take on the Thunder in their 3rd and final meeting in the regular season. Winning both previous match ups by an average of 10.5pts. Though to me weren't great victories.

In this final meeting against the Thunder, the Lakers look to sweep another team in the regular season. And facing a team well under .500, should be easy right? For some reason I don't think it'll be that easy. Oklahoma is very young, very athletic, and have guys who can go on scoring runs; especially that Durant fellow. Smells like one of the recipes that can give Lakers trouble. Most teams can't defend them, so they try and outscore them.

With their great young starters like Kevin Durant, Jeff Green, and Russel Westbrook; they can be a dangerous team, and would be great to build a team around those three. But for now they're stuck with an average bench and role players. Though from time to time, do have their moments. And for some reason, I always feel like Collison is going to put up numbers against the Lakers.

The previous win against the Bulls was just what the Lakers bench needed. A lift. A game to gain their confidence back. Farmar looked like his old self, stealing balls, hitting threes, and was assertive and aggressive. Sasha finally shooting over 50% in the past couple of games. Luke put in work when he was needed. And aside from that first half, the Lakers were doing what they should have been doing. Playing smart, fundamental, and most of all playing towards their potential.

As long as the starters stay as they are, and the bench plays consistent; this team will come out with another win.

Bynum a Month Away?

Lakers coach Phil Jackson echoed recent comments by Andrew Bynum, saying that the center is still a month away from returning to the court.

With Los Angeles closing up their regular season on April 14, that means Bynum wouldn't return until the postseason.

"I would say he's still like a month away from being a player," Jackson said. "And if he had to do that in the postseason, then he's going to have to do it. That's just part of it. It's going to change how he comes back obviously."

Bynum suffered a torn MCL in his right knee on Jan. 31 against Memphis.

Via ESPN

Cavs Eyeing Ariza.

Trevor Ariza has said that his first choice would be to remain with the Lakers, but he could be a free agent target of the Cavaliers this summer.

"I would love to be here," the wing said of Los Angeles.

Ariza will become an unrestricted free agent after the season.

Via News-Herald

LAKERS vs BULLS (POST GAME REPORT)

So I've been looking for
these guys for awhile and they
finally showed up. The Bench Mob. After praising them so much a few weeks ago, they finally remembered why they were knighted "The Bench Mob.

So I was in Vegas this weekend and was watching a show during the game. During the middle of the show I had to go out and check what the score was. Down 14 at halftime? This was too depressing for me to watch so I decided to head back in and watch one of the greatest Michael Jackson impersonations ever. Seriously. Then I walk out from the show and take a peak at the TV and see we happened to pull out a victory.

When I got back from Vegas I got to watch the whole game on my DVR. Kobe had a DECENT night. It wasn't GREAT. He was taking some real difficult shots. Double teamed, off the wrong leg, fading away, difficult shots. I'm pretty sure if he made these shots I wouldn't be complaining right? Yeah, I know. 28 points, 7 assists, and 5 steals. Pau came through again, but when does he not? It's very rare he doesn't play some solid ball. 23 points, 10 boards, and 3 assists. Lamar finished with 16 points and 5 boards after getting in a lot of fould trouble again. Move your feet Lamar, move your feet! Trevor Ariza has truly embraced his starting role. His 3s are falling, his slashing is great, and he has proven that he can take it to the rack. I'd like to see him develop more of a passing game, I think with the triangle that we'd be unstoppable with that under his belt. 18 points, 8 boards, 2 steals and 7-9 shooting. Pretty effecient if you ask me.

The Bench Mob ended with 27 points shooting 50% and pretty much brought us within distance to finish off the Bulls. Considering Lamar and Trevor are inserted into the starting rotation, Jordan Farmar did a great job in leading the bench. 5-10 shooting with 13 points, 3 assists, and 3 steals. Tyrus Thomas, welcome to Jordan's poster, would you like an autograph?

A solid win on the road for the Lakers. Next up, OKC for the Thunder. Put them away early so the starters can get some rest on the second game of this 7 trip roady.

LAKERS vs WARRIORS (POST-GAME REPORT)

LAKERS 114 - WARRIORS 106

Yeah Yeah Yeah. The Lakers blow leads, last time I checked we still win games. It is frustrating, but a win is a win.

Everyone adds their two cents. Mine is that the team that has the momentum and gets the lead, is the team that should be on the floor when the opponent makes their run. I know Phil doesn't call the time outs when any "regular" coach would, as he tries to let them play through it, but come on Phil, you're embarrassing our guys out there.

Pau was superb. 21 points with 14 boards on 9 of 15 shooting. Do you remember a fellow named Kwame Brown? Me too. Well, vaguely. Lamar always gets in foul trouble on some questionable plays. Just play your game Lamar. Stop putting that look on your face like you smell urine. I think that's from hanging around Vujacic and all his whining. 16 points, 12 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 blocks. You're filling up the stat sheet for me in my fantasy league. Thanks L.O.! Trevor Ariza had 13 points, 3 boards, 3 assists, and 3 steals. Not to mention a big 3 pointer which sealed the deal. He's really getting comfortable in that starting position and looks damn good at it. Kobe had 21 points, but was harrassed the whole game by Captain Jack. 9 of 25 shooting, 5 turnovers, and a lot of frustration. Luke Walton made up for it by posterizing his old buddy Ronny Turiaf.

Next up, a big 7 game road trip starting with Derrick Rose and the Chicago Bulls.

LAKERS vs WARRIORS (PRE-GAME REPORT)

Last game was(as Robert says) a "stinger." Really though, ouch! As sure as all Laker fans feel it, I know the Lakers feel it more. And if that loss doesn't fire them up, then I don't know what will. Tonight the Lakers host Golden State as they look to sweep the Warriors in the regular season. This game is also the last home game before their seven game road trip.

The Lakers hope to bounce back from that horrible loss to Philly. Now I can throw a bunch of numbers an percentages at you, but you already kno all that. And if you don't? Please just click on one of the previous Warriors Pre-Game. Let's see what this other California team has been up to lately.

They've won 3 of their last 5 games. Stephen Jackson was suspended in their last game for picking up his 16th technical foul this season. A couple of those techs came from trying to guard Kobe and blamed the refs out of frustration. I'm pretty sure he'll add on one(maybe two) in tonight's game. Warriors' Coach Don Nelson, for some reason, wants to bench Jamal Crawford for the next two games and start Sophomore Marco Belinelli at the SG position. Why? I have no idea. From what I understand, Crawford will not play at all.

Now the match-ups(or possible ones at least). At the PG, Monta Ellis who has a huge advantage over Fish, which is why I think Kobe will take on the duty as Fish will most likely take Belinelli. Ariza gets to take on Stephen Jackson. A guy who can score, but at the same time, loves to pass. Which is perfect for Ariza, who loves to play the passing lanes. Lamar has Brendan Wright, who has been getting limited minutes coming back from an injury. And Pau has Mr. Ronny Turiaf, who happens to be their tallest guy with Biedrins out. Shouldn't be a problem since Pau and Ronny had some experience with each other during Laker practices.

Both these teams can score. Especially the Warriors, who at any given night, can have one of their other players like Maggette, Randolph, Azubuike, and Watson, score +20 points. The question remains. Which team will defend? The team that does, will likely be the winner.

Mustache Speaks!

from realGM

Adam Morrison knew he wouldn't get a lot of playing time with the Lakers, but he disagrees with critics who claim that his NBA career isn't going anywhere.

"I think some of it's fair to say," Morrison said. "But then some of it is not. This is [really] my second season. I came off an ACL surgery. My career is not close to being over."

He admitted that his knee still isn't fully healed, which has affected him significantly this season, but he doesn't understand why people are forgetting his rookie season.

"That's the one thing that does bother me," Morrison, who averaged 11.8 points in his rookie season, said. "It was like I didn't really do anything that year. Then now I come off the surgery and I don't really get the benefit of the doubt until I get healthy. But this is a business and this is the pros so I understand how some people are."

LAKERS vs 76ERS (POST-GAME REPORT)

LAKERS 93 - 76ERS 94

Stinger. A "stinger" is when you get stung and it hearts. Iggy's last shot at the buzzer was probably the biggest "stinger" to the Lakers this season.

There's no excuse, the Lakers blew an 11 point lead and didn't play hard tonight. There was definitely a different level of intensity compared to Sunday's game against the Mavs.

Pau had a great effort, 25 points 8 rebs and 6 assists. Lamar pitched in 14 points with 11 rebounds. Our MVP was held to only 11 points after sitting in foul trouble, even after hitting a probable winning shot, Kobe had a horrible game. Trevor Ariza was having another stellar night, until he decided not to use the teams foul to give. 16 points, 8 rebounds, 2 steals, and a defensive lapse that will haunt him for awhile. 18 L.A. turnovers compared to 9 Philly turnovers. We got to take care of the ball.

Next up, the Golden State Warriors. There's a lot of chaos going on with that team, but they always act like they're capable of beating the Lakers. I expect the Lakers to let them know they're in a league of their own. Lakers should be pretty pissed, and even if it's going to be a high-scoring game, expect the Lakers to take their frustrations out on the Warriors.

Bynum: “I’ll definitely be back this season”

L.A. Times: “I’ll definitely be back this season,” he said.

“I went to get on the court and see what happens if I start trying to do some moves and things like that,” Bynum said. “I don’t have a [specific] date. I just know in a couple of weeks, hopefully, I’ll be able to participate with the team a little bit more in practice, and a week after that, I should be back in game shape.”

LAKERS vs MAVS (POST-GAME REPORT)

LAKERS 107 - MAVS 100

A preview of what could be the first round match-up of the NBA Playoffs for the Lakers. The Lake show does it again. Aside from a little scare in early in the fourth(when Mavs took a 6pt lead), the Lakers cruised through the it making the game look easy. And eventually took the win in the end, giving the Mavs the 6th consecutive game loss against this L.A. team.

The Lakers started off like they started against the Spurs. Shooting around 60% in the first quarter. Gasol in the first half was at 100%, literally. He went 10-10 in the first half and finished with 25pts, 8rebs, and 3blks on 12 for 13 shooting. Are you kidding me? If someone is that hot, shouldn't he have more than just 13 attempts? Well maybe you can blame that on the Zone defense the Mavs threw at the Lakers when they got tired of being punished inside the paint. Kobe was Kobe and finished with 28pts, 8rebs, and 5asts. Kobe was clutch and crucial in this Laker win. Odom didn't shoot too well but still managed 10pts, 14rebs, and 4blks. I guess he isn't in a slump anymore.

But the story isn't Kobe's clutch shots, Odom's comeback, nor was it Gasol's efficient play. Ariza scored a career high 26pts and 3stls. He also shot 3 of 5 from 3-point range. Ariza was a part of the 12-0 run the Lakers went on when down 6 in the fourth. Trevor contributed 6 consecutive points in that crucial run. When Kobe was asked about Ariza's performance, "It doesn't surprise me at all," Bryant said. "He just knocked down the shots that we see him knock down in practice all the time."

The Maverick starters were held to horrible numbers. None of them shot over 50%. But it can't be all credited to the Lakers' defense, the Mavs had plenty of open shots, they just couldn't hit them. Dirk did have 20pts but missed 14 of the 20 shots he attempted. J Kidd played all but 2 minutes of the game and only had 9pts, 9asts, and 7rebs. Their bench was a different story. All 3 shot over 50%. James Singleton added 16pts and 10rebs and hustled whenever he was in. But it was Jason Terry who was what they needed and led the Mavs to a 21-2 run that started midway through the third and carried on in the fourth with a bunch of 3-pointers, including a buzzer beater to end the third on a Laker turnover.

But like in most Laker stories, Kobe saves the day and led a run of 12-0. And also hit a downtown three. Sorry for you Jason Terry. Go suck one Mark Cuban. Not in our house. Up next is the Philly Sixers.


I'd also like to say congrats to the Clippers, for ending their 7 game losing streak on a great win over the Nets. Baron Davis could have easily taken a open 3 but gave it up for a better open and shooter in Steve Novak. It was all smiles yesterday in Staples Center.

Bynum Continues to Improve.

Lakers.com

Good news on the Andrew Bynum front: The young center began running on a treadmill Tuesday, and there have been no negative repercussions thus far.

The news is at least a tad surprising, since in Portland on Monday Phil Jackson had informed reporters that there would be little to talk about until April.

Last week, we learned that Bynum had begun doing cardio on a stationary bike and a Precor machine, which was progress from Jackson’s comments just after the All-Star break.

Just after the injury, we spoke to Bynum in New York City, and he already was in high spirits. With the ongoing news all suggesting that he remains on schedule, chances are that his mood hasn’t changed.

LAKERS vs SPURS (POST-GAME REPORT)

LAKERS 102 - SPURS 95
The Lakers come home with a 2-1 road trip while at the same time clinching a playoff spot in the Western Conference, after a win last night against the San Antonio Spurs. As these two western powerhouse teams played, it was obvious in the first quarter that this game was over, when the Lakers took a 18 point lead before the Spurs even knew what hit 'em.

Lakers came out focused, fluid, and ready to play. As the Spurs, didn't. The defensive minded team was just out of sorts, as one Laker after another hit shot after shot while at the same time making sweet defensive plays. With a well rested Lamar, and the start of Ariza, the starting line was full of energy.

After a suspension and some rest, Lamar went back as him old self and put in some work with 12pts, 10rebs, 2ast, 2blks, and 1stl. Another box filling Odom night. Ariza's 3rd start turned out pretty good with 10pts, 3rebs, 2asts, and 4stls. Fish also had 10pts to add. Pau had himself a night with 23pts, and 11rebs, while Kobe too also had 23pts himself and added 4rebs, and 6asts. The bench had it's struggles but managed not to completely blow the lead and accounted for 24pts.

With scoring trouble from Duncan and Parker most of the scoring was left to veteran Michael Finley who finished with a season high of 25pts, shooting 5 for 6 from behind the arc. Drew Gooden made his Spurs Debut and was quite effective with 2pts and 4rebs on only 4 minutes of playing time in the second quarter. With only minimal points in the first half, Parker went nuts and went on a scoring rampage to help bring his team back. Which he did up to being only down by 2 points. Then they made the mistake of letting Kobe gain control of the ball, in which he hit a big time 3-point contested shot over George Hill. Game over.

It's funny but true that the Lakers' 18pt lead in the first was a big enough cushion to push through the rest of the next 3 quarters in which the Spurs had won. They slowly chipped away at the Lakers lead but without a Manu to bring them back with a big enough scoring run; they had no chance. Up next, Dirk and the Mavs.

LAKERS vs SPURS (PRE-GAME REPORT)

The Lakers end their road trip, still lost somewhere in Texas, and find themselves in San Antonio to face the Spurs. They play for the third and last time of the season with the Spurs winning the first game with a lucky shot by Mason, while the Lakers took care of business in the second game winning by 14pts. Tonight, Lakers look to come back with a 2-1 road trip.

In the Last meeting Andrew Bynum had himself a game with 15pts, 11reb, and 4 blks, and was a huge factor in the Lakers win while going up against one of NBA's elite, Tim Duncan. Bynum started to show progress again as a great center till less than a week later when an injury occurred in his knee sidelining him for the majority of the season.

Though the Lakers come Bynum-less this time around, the Spurs also have a missing piece in Manu Ginobili who has been out a while with an ankle injury. Still, San Antonio has Duncan who can keep Pau busy all night, but it's not something Pau isn't used to. And the Frenchmen Tony Parker, who can be a handful for Fish and Farmar(did someone say Shannon Brown?). And also the emergence of Mason and Bonner who both a hold a spot in the top ten 3-point shooting percentage. Mason has been key in some of the Spurs wins this season, with clutch 3-point plays(one against the Lakers). Kobe and Odom just need to stay home on their man and let Pau handle his own against Duncan.

Lakers are hungry. Everyone who saw the game last night, knows it. Odom was unhappy about the whole suspension, look for him to make a statement tonight. Regardless that it's a back-to-back, I have a feeling this Laker team will come out with great energy. If you haven't realized yet, if Phil starts them like he usually does, but with Ariza instead of Luke; it's the Lakers line-up that has the highest +/- out of all possible line-ups. I have a feeling this starting line will come out firing. The only question is, can the bench follow? Well they're goin to need to if they want the win tonight.

Ariza to Continue Starting

Prior to L.A.’s win against Houston, Luke Walton approached head coach Phil Jackson with an idea: why not see if L.A.’s flow worked better with Trevor Ariza starting and Walton coming off the bench?

Jackson concurred, and both players were effective in L.A.’s 102-96 win. Ariza scored eight points with six boards, three assists and two steals in 29 minutes, while Walton logged eight points alongside five boards and two assists in 23 minutes.

Jackson said the team would stick with that lineup for the foreseeable future.

Ariza had protested a starting role earlier in the season, but apparently changed his tune when the bench wasn’t producing much in the last few weeks. After the Houston win, Ariza said that “It’s cool” for him to continue starting, as long as it’s helping the team.

Lamar Unhappy with Suspension

from realGM.com

The NBA suspended Lamar Odom for Wednesday's game against Houston and he was not happy with the decision. He was suspended for leaving the bench following Trevor Ariza's foul on Rudy Fernandez.

"I probably would do the same thing over again if I see one of my teammates put under pressure by two guys from the other team," Odom said Wednesday. "I was no further than when I cheer. I guess I'm on the court when I cheer as well, so I've got to watch that. I might get suspended for that."

LAKERS vs ROCKETS (POST-GAME REPORT)

LAKERS 102 - ROCKETS 96

What an exciting 2nd half to watch. A day after watching the Clippers meltdown to Lebron and company, we watch Kobe try to rally at the Toyota Center in Houston.

Playing without Lamar Odom and a still injured Andrew Bynum, forwards Josh Powell and Trevor Ariza were inserted in to the starting lineup, and played very well. Josh Powell had 17 points and 9 rebounds against a very good defensive backcourt including Yao Ming and Luis Scola. JPeezy even had a dunk on the 7'7 giant which to me, was Powell's greatest moment as a laker. Maybe even his best game. Trevor accepted the starting role today and had 8 points 6 rebounds 3 assists and 2 steals and did an exceptional job on Ron Artest holding him to 4-16.

Pau Gasol played great defense on Yao Ming. Sealing for position then beating him to the spot, Pau grabbed 4 steals en route to the Lakers victory. 20 points and 5 rebounds helped the team come down from a 14 point deficit. Kobe Bryant showed again why he is the reigning MVP. After a little scuffle with Artest, Kobe went into another gear. After scoring only 6 points in the first half, Kobe ended with 37 points 4 steals and a big block on Artest but still couldn't shut him up. As Artest kept talking, Kobe kept scoring. There is usually a dagger when Kobe goes for the win, like in the last matchup against the Rockets where he barried a 3 to seal the game. Tonight, Kobe took the dagger and kept stabbing it in the middle of the Rockets chest. The fourth quarter belonged to Kobe Bryant. Against two of the better defenders in the league in Shane Battier and Ron Artest, Mamba scored 18 points all in that single quarter. He showed that he is truly unstoppable and is the greatest closer in our game.

Next up, a back to back Texas two-step in San Antonio. The last time we were there Roger Mason hit a shot and DFish helped him win the game by sending him to the line. I expect a totally different game, and hopefully Kobe doesn't do the "Mr. Big Balls" dance, it tends to jinx us for the win. I expect the Lakers to take this one on the road and come home 2-1 for the road trip. They've gained confidence from winning against one of the better Western Conference team with an undermanned team, with Lamar Odom back in the lineup it should be a total mismatch.

LAKERS vs BLAZERS (POST-GAME REPORT)

LAKERS 94 - BLAZERS 111

How embarassing was that? They start their 3 game road trip horribly. And for the seventh time in a row, the Lakers take another loss continuing the losing streak at the Rose Garden. It was a no contest. The Blazers flat-out wanted it more while the Lakers seemed to slowly die and melt down towards the end till the bench warmers from both teams stepped out and the Lakers made a semi-run.

First off let me just say that Ariza would have worked Roy in that little scuffle, and Josh Powell would have mopped Outlaw just 'cause! And as bad as I feel for Rudy Fernandez, it was the fall not the foul that got him hurt. Anyway, where were we?

The Blazers came out blazing while the Lakers seemed flat. And when the Lakers did start to make their shots, they couldn't to get any stops. So at times when the Lakers seemed to go on a run, so did Portland. They also killed the Lakers in the rebound department. Pryzbilla and Aldridge crashed the boards accounting for 31 of the Blazers 46 rebounds. Everyone from Portland who I thought would be a threat, became a threat.

Kobe and friends could not have played any worse against a young and athletic Blazers. For a second I thought I as back to watching the Lakers-Nuggets game last week. And this to me was the Lakers' biggest loss of the season(so far). Now Odom-less they head to face a recently well-playing Houston Rockets. But trust me. When Lakers get thin, they get tough.

LAKERS vs BLAZERS (PRE-GAME REPORT)

Before I start, I'd like to apologize for not having a proper "pre-game" and "post-game" in a long while. I was deprived from Internet use(haha). But anyways, back to business..

Here we go again. The Lakers start a 3 game road trip with Portland, and finish with Houston and San Antonio. Though winning the first two games against the Blazers this season, the Lakers come in and look to break their 6 game losing streak at the Rose Garden, with their last win on Portland territory dating back to February of 2005. And after losing the last two road games in Phoenix and Denver, expect Kobe and friends to end both streaks tonight.

The last meeting, the Lakers took the win against a Roy-less Blazers. Since then both teams took a blow in the Center position, with the Lakers losing Bynum and Blazers losing Oden(momentarily). But regardless of losing starting Centers, both are deep and talented enough to win any game against any team.

With Oden out, Przybilla is back to starting and for some reason always seems to do well against the Lakers. If Roy is Roy, look for him to put up big numbers(unless of course, Kobe decides to play some D tonight). Blazers has numerous fire-power with Blake, Batum(one to look out for), and the dudes that lead the bench, Outlaw and Fernandez. But the Lakers' biggest problem is still LeMarcus Aldridge. That man is quick enough to beat most power forwards off the dribble, but can also shoot from long range if given enough space.

The Lakers took two confidence booster wins after two horrible back-to-back losses. And while "Congo Cash" has been putting up career highs, Lamar has been on a huge scoring slump(or in a slump overall). Shooting a combined 4-15 in the past 3 games while playing huge minutes(not too efficient if you ask me). But I'm confident he'll come out of it. Kobe has been Kobe and Pau has been Pau, the rest of the team just needs to keep up with them. If they do then they'll be fine. I expect a win tonight. May not be easy, but I do believe the Lakers can break the curse in this game.

LAKERS vs GRIZZLIES (POST-GAME REPORT)

LOS ANGELES (AP)—Two was the limit, Kobe Bryant decided.

The Lakers halted their mini-slump at two losses in a row with a front-running 99-89 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies on Tuesday night, allowing Los Angeles to avoid its first three-game skid of the season.

“The focus was just about coming out and playing the right way and winning the game. You don’t want to compound mistakes or add to losses—two was enough,” said Bryant, who scored 31 points and sat out the fourth quarter while mostly reserves finished up.

Memphis, 3-24 on the road, kept it relatively close until the Lakers pulled away from a 54-51 lead early in the third quarter. They were up 78-67 by the end of the period and remained comfortably ahead in the fourth quarter.

Lakers center Pau Gasol, matched in the middle against younger brother Marc, had 13 points and eight rebounds. Derek Fisher added 11 points for Los Angeles.

Lamar Odom was only 1-of-8 from the floor and scored just two points for Los Angeles, but posted some other impressive numbers: 13 rebounds, eight assists and six blocks.

Bryant said that just illustrates Odom’s versatility.

“That’s what he does well for us and that’s what we need from him. He does a lot of the intangibles, and some of the stuff he does doesn’t even show up in the box score,” Bryant said. “He’s been playing extremely well.”

Shaq, Suns overcome Kobe to beat Lakers 118-111

PHOENIX (AP)—Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant were dominant forces on the same court where they were All-Star Game co-MVPs three weeks ago.

Give this one to Shaq and the Suns.

O’Neal scored 33 points and Phoenix overcame Bryant’s 49-point performance to beat the Los Angeles Lakers 118-111 on Sunday.

Matt Barnes added 26 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists as the Suns, without Steve Nash for the third straight game because of a sprained right ankle, defeated the Lakers for the first time in four tries this season.

Pau Gasol added 30 for Los Angeles, loser of two in a row for just the third time this season.

“We’re going through a period right now where everybody’s just kind of tired a little bit,” Bryant said. “It happens. … Everybody kind of goes through it a little bit. And this two games, we’ve been playing lethargic. It’s that point in the season where we kind of hit it. The key for us is to snap out of it.”

After his 45-point game against Toronto on Friday night, O’Neal has consecutive 30-point games for the first time since March 5-7, 2004, when he and Bryant were teammates in Los Angeles.

“It’s what I do,” O’Neal said. “I’ve been doing it since 1992. If you don’t believe it, Google me.”

O’Neal, who turns 37 on Friday, is the fourth player over 35 in NBA history to score at least 33 points in consecutive games. The others are Michael Jordan, Karl Malone and Alex English.

“A lot of people thought I lost it,” O’Neal said. “It’s kind of funny to me, when I say ‘I’m injured,’ no one believes me. Last year I was injured and this year I’m feeling pretty good.”

Bryant was asked if O’Neal reminded him of the Shaq of old.

“No, not quite,” Bryant said. “But he’s playing extremely well, obviously. The thing is they’re looking for him, they’re going inside to him. Tonight, I mean, Pau is giving up 250 pounds (a bit of an exaggeration). There’s really not much he can do in that situation and Shaq took advantage of it.”

Bryant made 18 of a season-high 38 attempts in the 96th 40-point game of his career. He scored 17 points in a span of less than four minutes early in the second half.

Leandro Barbosa added 22 points and Grant Hill 17 for the Suns, who improved to 6-2 since Alvin Gentry replaced the fired Terry Porter and returned the team to Mike D’Antoni’s fast-paced style. It was the Gentry-led Suns’ first win, though, over a team with a winning record.

“Obviously a great win for us,” Gentry said, “against what I think is still the best team in the league.”

Entering Sunday night’s competition, Phoenix was 1 1/2 games behind Dallas for the eighth and final playoff berth in the West, but only three behind Houston for the No. 4 spot.

Coach Phil Jackson, whose team was coming off a 90-79 loss at Denver, said the Lakers’ loss came at the free throw line, where Phoenix was 26-for-42 and Los Angeles 19-of-20.

“It’s tough to win when you gave up that many free throws,” Jackson said. “We gave up 37 on Friday and 42 tonight. You know, that’s tough.”