The reason that so few teams run the triple post is that it is an experienced-based offense as opposed to a play-driven offense. It relies on players knowing when and whom to pass to. Colleges don’t run it because players get cycled through too quickly, which means that virtually no rookies are accustomed to it at all when they enter the NBA. That being said, it is possible that even with a veteran cast of players, we aren’t playing it well because there is a lot of newness to our game so far this season. Kobe is playing more of a post role, which takes getting used to for the players around him. Bynum is trying to live up to the ginormous contract he was given, so more of the offense is going into him than it had last year. Finally (and most importantly), Pau is not in the offense. He is so skilled at making the proper pass and making our offense flow. Given all of these reasons, it should not be terribly surprising that the offense isn’t smooth as silk yet. We’ll get there.

‘Nuff said.

Remember this time last year Vlad was starting, Luke was buried for no apparent reason, and Ariza was a spark off the bench. That had all changed when things mattered most, in part because Phil got to test things out on the floor over the course of the season.

That said, I haven’t liked the way the bench has been used so far this year. Too many mass substitutions and changes from game to game. But I take comfort in remebering that leading the standing in November isn’t the end goal.

Pau’s absence, and now Luke, certainly hasn’t helped foster any continuity either. These things will pass.

I’ve not given up on Sasha just yet, though the hope isn’t buring too bright at this point. He had a nice few minutes against the Hornets a few nights ago but hasn’t produced as well since. I agree with those who noted his minutes have fallen as Farmar and Shannon have played well. Jordan looked like the old Jordan last night. Let’s see more of that.

I was impressed with Fish’s insight on how one can shorten the learning curve for new players by repeating proper execution and I guess the issue I least comprehend is, how does a team that has essentially been together for 3 years and 2 deep playoff runs, lose the timing and/or sense of where they are supposed to be on a given play? The fact that it happens, it’s really no wonder so few teams run the Triple Post, I just would like more insight into what makes it so difficult to not only learn but then to retain.

Another reason I think is if Brown’s shot is falling consistently, then he’s a much better option than Sasha. He brings so many other things to the table, defense, etc. But setting aside all that, when he’s playing SG in the tri, Brown’s weaknesses are minimized. He’s not asked to create his own shot. I still distrust his handles when driving. But he’s shown flashes of being a good spot up shooter. He’s strong and quick enough to handle most SG’s. And again, you can’t overstate the chemistry that he and Farmar seem to be developing. The two of them are also up tempo players that can ball hawk and hopefully get some easy scores by changing the pace like last year early season bench mob.

The danger of course is what happened in last night’s game. They can fall into the trap of running and jacking up undisciplined shots.

My hope for Brown is he takes the same curve as Trevor did. He’s been in the system less than a year and I agree with the notion that most fans have backup QB syndrome with him right now. That said, if Phil continues to encourage him to take the shot and be comfortable, while getting the offense down, why can’t he develop like Trevor did? Slowly developing a consistent shot like Trevor did last year during the regular season. Then dependable during the playoffs. Applying the athleticism as a ball hawk to change tempo. Brown still has a lot of holes but it seems like the SG spot would actually fit him better right now if the shot is there sufficiently. This of course assumes Farmar continues to build on his positive showing.

For all of his faults, Sasha has actually been our best 3 point shooter, hitting exactly 50% of his attempts. Now I think his defense is highly overrated and has been for awhile (as Bill Walton used to say, never mistake effort for achievement), but his 3 point shooting – when in rhythm, which I know is a big caveat for him – is there.