UPDATE: Over at Basketball Prospectus, coach Anthony Macri (part of the IMG team in Florida, so you know he knows his stuff) broke down the Laker offense from game four and looked ahead to game five. Below is just part of it, but if you read just one preview of tonight read his, it’s the best thing on the Laker offense in a while:
Before Game Five, the Lakers will look back at the tape of this game and conclude that the more ball and player movement they can get out of the Triangle offense, the better off their attack will be. In the press conference after Game Four, Jackson and Bryant indicated a desire to run their offense with more efficiency and go to Bryant as an option late in the shot clock. This would seem a much better tactic for the Lakers, for Bryant’s supporting cast seems content to watch him too much early in the shot clock. Gasol is able to score seemingly at will against this Jazz team, as they simply do not have the height or athleticism to deal with a player of his ability. The Lakers managed to score on seven of the 12 possessions they were in the Triangle and hit the post player, cutting off of his shoulders to either side. In what is known as their “solo-cut” series, in which they isolate a post player and a wing player on one side of the floor and the wing cuts through opposite after entering the ball into the post, the Lakers managed to score on six of 10 possessions. While the Lakers are consistently labeled a softer, finesse team, they really do make a living going to the post. They should look to increase their post-touch possessions to somewhere between 25 and 30 in Game Five.
In addition, expect a stronger emphasis on scoring in early offense, as the Lakers attacked in transition just under 20% of the time, converting 52.4% of those possessions. By standing around in isolations and relying on other sets that lack ball and player movement, the Jazz’ slow-footed defenders had an easier time defending the Lakers. With their long, athletic, multi-skilled players, the Lakers have a decided advantage in full-court offense despite their lack of a star point guard.
Finding the right mix to showcase and take advantage of the versatility of the Lakers’ attack has occupied the coaching staff over the last two days. With the extra day in between these two games, and provided Bryant’s back is strong enough to allow him to play at a high level, expect the Lakers to get back to their high level of play on the offensive side of the floor on Wednesday evening.
Now on with our regularly-scheduled preview:
——————————–
I think Mark Heisler is right. (Hey, it was bound to happen.) At times we fans can be a little harsh on players — on Kobe for not running the offense in overtime, despite playing through enough pain to bench every other player in the league. On Jordan Farmar for having the temerity to slump in his second year in the league. On Pau for not playing in the paint like Bynum.
Tonight, I expect to see a lot of support from the fans, and I expect to see a lot of positives.
That list of positives starts with the fact the Lakers were just a made corner three from Odom or a couple of made free-throws away from stealing a game in Utah (with that comeback it would have been a steal). This is a series the Lakers should still win.
To do that they need to get back to some things from the first two games — and as it has all season for the Lakers the key is on the defensive end. Last game Utah continued its trend of improving its offensive efficiency with each game (up to 119 points per 100 possessions last game). Some of the reason for that efficiency is the Lakers missed shots (and turnovers) have sped up the Utah transition game. Darius has a few thoughts on how to slow that:
One thing I think we can do is find Deron early after Utah secures defensive rebounds. In the first half of Game 4, Deron went crazy in the open court and found ways to get easy outlet passes and push the pace (think Jason Kidd on team USA). This led to us cross matching in Utah’s *early offense* where no one was stopping the ball and ultimately leading to defensive breakdowns where Utah was able to burn us with lay ups and wide open jumpers because no one was finding their man. I think what hurt us, and Farmar, the most was that his lack of confidence led to concentration lapses. He was a little sulky (is that a word?) and was not transitioning from offense to defense effectively. Farmar (or Fisher or Sasha) need to be able to find Deron when he’s running out for the outlet pass and slow him down. Make him change direction. Funnel him to a side and keep him there. Basically, just try to ruin their early offense and make them work more for their buckets. When Deron gets an outlet pass running full speed, he’s a freight train…he just gets to the rim or occupies defenders and frees up other guys to get good looks. We have to slow this guy down a little; we can’t let him run around in the open court, we don’t have a guy that can stop him in that scenario.
Also, check out the comments from Renato (all the way from Spain Portugal) and Darius talking about dealing with the Jazz baseline picks.
On offense, the Lakers did one thing last game I liked — they got the ball more to Odom out in isolation when Boozer was on him. That is part of why Odom had a big game, the Lakers used his versatility to create mismatches on whoever guarded him. Pound AK-47 inside. Sloan puts Boozer on him to muscle Odom out of the paint and the Lakers counter with more wing isolation (same if Harpring was on him). The Lakers need to continue this as it not only is good for Odom but helps create matchup issues that help Kobe and Gasol.
I have about as good a chance plunking my money down on the right number at a roulette table as I do accurately predicting Vladimir Radmanovic’s play on any given night. That said, often when Phil calls him out in the press (as he did yesterday talking about the return of Ariza to practice) Vlad responds with some of his best play. I just have a feeling this is his breakout game.
I know we are a little tired of this topic, but I put these numbers out there (with three caveats): As the primary defender on D-Will in game four, Fisher was 0, Farmar was -9 and Sasha was +6. Now, the three caveats (meaning don’t read too much into those numbers): 1) Fisher still had the most time on him and Sasha the least, that would impact things; 2). This breakdown is statistically crude and going off of popcornmachine.net’s numbers not tracking the game film; 3) We are done with the Farmar bashing on this site. I think the numbers back up what we all saw with our eyes — Sasha is having more success as the second defender on Williams and needs to get more minutes in this series and in that matchup. But Farmar is not chopped liver and the days of unreasonable bashing him here are done. Unless you’d like Smush back.
Really, the big point guard issue for the Lakers is keeping Derek Fisher on the floor for more than the first four minutes of the first quarter — keeping him out of foul trouble. If you look at the raw playoff numbers so far, Fisher has the biggest impact on this team: he is +31.5 (meaning the Lakers outscore their opponents by that much per 48 minutes when he is on the floor) and Kobe is +15.2. Now (and stat-a-phobes and newbies) this in no way means Fisher is better than Kobe, but I think it says a lot about his impact at the point, both in this series and the last one, on defense and settling down the offense. The Lakers need him on the floor.
If you are going to the game tonight — be LOUD. This may not technically be a must win, but it’s about as close to that as it gets.
J.D. Hastings says
Bill Simmons’s freak out article about the Celtics made me feel a lot better about the last two games.
http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=simmons/080514
Of particular interest is his comments about Rondo and how his confidence has been shot. That’s the same issue as Farmar has had, but the reactions of the 2 coaches is very telling. Simmons blames Doc for Rondo’s problems. PJ has been careful no tto make that same mistake. He’s shown trust in Farmar which could pay dividends in the long run and I can get behind that (especially with Sasha’s wounded toe).
And in general the article made me feel good to have one of the greatest coaches of all time on the sidelines with one of the greatest players on the floor. I don’t have any snazzy numbers to back it up, but I think that’s an advantage for the Lakers.
My predictions for the game: Farmar goes for 50 points, Odom with 22 rebounds and Pau with 32 assists.
Renato Afonso says
Kurt, I’m from Portugal, not Spain! Do I need to invade Spain to prove I’m not one of them? 😉
Anyway, on topic… One way of slowing down Deron without getting fouls on Fisher, could be forcing Deron to dribble to his left (almost all of his assists are done with the right hand… check in today’s game, unless it’s a straight pass with both hands…) and having a big show up from the blind spot.
The problem is that the defensive restrictions in the NBA (which I find absurd, and I’ll talk about it in the summer) don’t allow a defensive player to stay in the paint if he’s not close to his defensive assignment. This restriction can make the defender one half-step away from the “correct” position. But maybe it’s time we risk it… Plus, it will punish Deron phisically (at least to some extent).
On the game today, Kurt is totally right… be LOUD! Get into Kirilenko’s head… Make him a target (boo him everytime he touches the ball). We want Harpring in, not him…
Mark says
Good Luck Lakers… This should be a great game. May the best team win.
Bill Bridges says
Kurt,
Agreed about the Farmar bashing. Now many of you might lump me in that category. And you’d be right to some degree. But I really do try to call it as I see it and I’d have no hesitation calling for Sasha to be the backup point again this game as this is game 5 of a 2-2 second round playoff game not a regular season game in January.
But being a die-hard Laker Fan I want all of the Lakers to play well, help the team win, and be good men on and off the court.
In today’s instant, multi-media world we fans get insights into the players as people never possible before. I’ve seen enough of Luke’ Life, appearance on Local Radio, and various Lakers Videos to decide that Jordan is a good guy who works hard and tries hard. He is tight with Luke and Ronny and is a good teammate.
So do I want him to do well? obviously.
What would I say to Jordan if I had him on the therapist couch for 10 minutes?
Dear Jordan,
Thanks for seeing me for a few minutes. I only have a few things to say to you.
1. Stay confident and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Don’t think and simply play. Phil has stayed with you through the worst stretches so don’t worry about getting pulled.
2. On defense, play with purpose. Don’t just react to Williams and try to stay with him. Try to drive him one way or another. Like most, Williams penetrates to his right and pulls up to his left. I would suggest trying to drive him to his left, especially baseline into help defense. You’ve also stopped talking on D. Get vocal and keep yapping.
3. Try to keep your dribble alive. You have a tendancy to pick up the dribble outside the circle. This breaks up the continuity of the offense and puts you under defensive pressure, rendering the pass to be a safety valve rather than an attack pass. Keep dribbling until you make the play.
4. When you come into the game let’s try to get an easy shot. A two dribble pull up 2 point J, a driving lay-up etc… before you attempt your first 3 pointer. John Wooden had a rule that each sub first had to touch the ball on one possession before shooting on the next. For you, no three pointers before a 2 pointer.
5. Use your pace. The first half of the year, you’d take the outlet pass and be … gone. Use your pace to create early offense for yourself and yourteam. You will benefit, Sasha will benefit and the second unit can reclaim the mantle of “bench mob”
6. There’s a reason you hit end of quarter shots. Just relax, play hard, be aggressive, have fun, and just … play.
Your hoping all the best fortune for you and team support pal,
Bill
carl says
To echo Kurt’s last comment – BE LOUD! It was mentioned in previous posts, Laker fans at Staples Center are too……quite. LETS BE LOUD!!!!!!!!!!
MC Welk says
Harpring + Kobe’s back = trouble.
Red 5 says
In complete accord with your post today.
I heard that KLAC is giving out megaphones
to fans tonight provided they go up to their booth.
They should hand them out at the doors
and make sure everyone is equipped.
( I wouldn’t mind if they swiped cell phones
while they were at it )
In some ways, it’s a moment of truth game–
for the fans to truly defy the acoustics of Staples
and be the Lakers’ sixth man
and for the squad to find that extra layer
of mental toughness that they’ve been cultivating
through the season.
DFish absolutely needs to stay out of foul trouble
but surely Sloan has him targeted
so Jordan’s got to steel himself and study
the action on the floor to find where he can be effective
when he’s called upon.
Bless Sasha’s terrier mentality,
but eff the ref and stay in the play.
Lamar can outlope nary any defender
to the basket– call your own number, Headly.
Luke v Harpring
will also be a matchup to watch,
trying to instigate overreaction.
Speaking of which,
Ronny will be back and his enthusiasm
will be dialed up.
I hope to see DJ in the game
to give Pau a spell and maintain a lead
during strategic minutes in the 2nd/3rd quarter
and not as the last resort on the beach.
I sure wish I could go to this game,
but if you have your window open
may you hear many an “O yea!”
from somewhere in Ellay
That’ll be me, 12 other tenants
in my bldg, and everybody else
that couldn’t get a ticket.
Go to the uttermost, Lakers.
– 5 –
Joem says
Just one thought on Fish staying on the court. In game 3 about
1 minute into the first Q, he took a deliberate foul to stop a DWill
layup. That seemed ridiculous at the time. DWill of course made
both free throws, so what was the thinking? Anybody else
notice that?
drrayeye says
The BEST thing that could happen tonight would be for the Lakers to win by at least 20 with Kobe scoring 4 points and only playing 15 minutes.
It would be great for Kobe and great for the Laker team.
Bill Bridges says
Oh and Steve Javie is officiating tonight. I think he is probably the fairest of the referees and least intimidated by the home crowd. He is a sight for sore eyes for the visiting team. Too bad he didn’t ref in SLC.
Lakersfan88 says
From Ball Don’t Lie on Yahoo. Nothing new, but always worth pointing out:
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/22893-Utah-Jazz-The-Most-Disgusting-Fans-In-The-NBA
The idiot in the first picture is the same guy who got thrown out of the one Rockets-Jazz game in the first round on ESPN. Here’s hoping not only to winning tonight, but closing it out in 6 and rubbing it in those Jazz fans’ faces.
MC Welk says
San Antonio got 41 FTAs to Utah’s 20 at ESA under Javie’s watch in game 4 in SLC last May.
Renato Afonso says
Can we fly Javie with the Lakers to SLC?
Bill, I agree with you on Farmar…
MC Welk says
On the other hand, there was this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AqZehxA3Srg
81 Witness says
Great advice Bill. I think PJ should also encourage him to be more aggressive on both ends of the floor, not just on offense.
I.e. Farmar is getting screened off by bigger players to get D-Will and Price open looks or passes. Don’t be afraid to push off or push past the screener to get to your man. Refs don’t call light contact in these situations against smaller players getting screened, so be aggressive.
Challenge yourself to disrupt the jazz offense and get them frustrated.
Rob says
We invite you to read the live blogging of the two game 5’s in the NBA tonight. Coverage starts at 8pm on maizeandblog.blogspot.com.
Louis C. says
I’ve been saying it all year, and the numbers (despite not being adjusted to account for playing time) back it up: Sasha is a phenomenal perimeter defender. And with Ariza out and Kobe with his back problem, I would argue that he is the best perimeter defender on the team right now. Phil has been using him as the Korver stopper to great effect, but I think Sasha should get minutes even when Korver is on the bench, guarding D-Will or Ronnie Price (but only if Kobe is the other guard). I just think that would work very well. And if we advance, he should get minutes guarding Tony Parker or Chris Paul. Again, no one is more qualified.
Kevin says
I think this needs revisiting – Lakers should stop trying to “contain” Deron Williams by sending help defenders (which they did often when Farmar was defending him), not worry about how much Deron will score – but how much Deron involves the rest of the Jazz (namely Okur, Boozer, and Kirilenko).
In the 28 losses in the regular season, Deron averages 8.8 assists vs. 19 points – but averages 17points 11 assists in their wins.
The Jazz offense “begins and ends w/ Deron.” I’m not suggesting the Lakers sag on defense and give Deron open jumpshots, but they should make a conscious effort to take away passing lanes and force Deron to beat the Lakers shooting jumpers. And if he penetrates – let him have the lane and force him to finish. Deron feels more comfortable passing than scoring.
Kurt says
18. I think you’re right. If the Lakers (as Bill Bridges said) can force D-Will to his left, where he is more likely to pull up, and take away passing lanes, the Jazz become more of a jumpshooting team. Easier said than done, but it’s a goal.
inwit says
The Lakers might want to wake up to Utah going to AK47 and Brewer in the first few possessions of a game or half. They always get a few free points this way with some set plays, while the defense is focused on the main threats.
Also, another reason to put pressure on Williams is because Utah often goes late into the shot clock to get a good shot. You need to defend 24 seconds, not 18 or 20. So taking 2 to 4 seconds off the clock with some pressure could have an effect and help create some stops.
Darn, I knew inside it was going to be Javie. At least there will be less whining.
J.D. Hastings says
I wish we could’ve had Javie in Utah, but I didn’t have much of a problem with the crews we got out there. The Bavetta crew did great and I didn’t recognize who was leading the second group and thought they were more affected by the crowd, but it happens, so I could live with it. Tonight Javie should call a good game. That should favor the lakers against the Utah back-pushers (much more apt name than “Jazz” no?)
vion says
No team with Odom in its starting lineup will ever go to the NBA final. Period. Miracle does happen, but not very often.
B.J. says
vion –
Why do you think no team with Odom in its starting lineup will ever make the finals? While he’s not an all-star, he is certainly a better than average player in the NBA and would start for almost any team. Some people think he shrinks in pressure moments, but he certainly played well in game 4 and made some big plays to make the game close at the end.
Keep in mind, I’m a Jazz fan saying this.
Craig W. says
Steve Javie is one of about 2 refs that I never want to see officiating a game. Da*n, and with Kobe having a sore back too.
Kurt says
22. Vion, you’ve got to do better than that, you have to back up that statement with some kind of argument. I mean, are you suggesting a lineup of Fisher, Kobe, Odom, Gasol and Bynum (with a bench of Farmar, Sasha, Ariza, Walton, Radman and Turiaf) would stand no chance to win a title? Really? As BJ said, Odom is a good player and an amazing third wheel.
vion says
I have seen him committed critical mistakes in the crucial juncture of the game over and over again to make this judgment. There are also many other factors…
Take game 4 as an example. The Lakers started the game brilliantly and had a commanding 13-5 lead something like that). Then Odom committed two silly mistakes and in one minute, the momentum suddenly shifted and the Jazz made a 8-0 run, after that, the game is virtually over.
He is a momentum shifter.
But this is just one example. There is no defense stat. If there is, we will see how many points were made against his weak defense. There are too many things that he failed to do to be a player in the championship calibre.
WIth the money and minutes the Lakers invested in him, they lost too much with the resources they invested. Replacing him with any other player that much money can buy, they will have much better chance to be in the final.
eyeGore says
Vion’s argument has been brought up before by professional sports writers. Odom does tend to make bonehead plays in clutch situations, as noted in articles I’ve read over the last few years. I still think the cast around Odom can make up for it though.
vion says
Kurt,
I don’t suggest that lineup at all. As a matter of fact, I posted a message (that was deleted by the opinion police of this supposedly free speech forum a few minutes ago) regarding this current Lakers roster. In that message, I stated that the current roster has little chance to go behind the third round of NBA playoff.
The Lakers fans will have our hearts broken again this year simply because we have too many slow players.
Even with the current inadequate roster, I will (like lowly LA Clipper did) courteously invite Odom to sit on the bench to give them a slight chance to go beyond the third round.
Take a look at the first five minutes of game 4 to try to understand what I am saying. Odom destroys any chance for a team to win when the game is played in the highest level.
Kurt says
Vion, I think, to put it simply you are wrong. First, are you talking about the Lamar Odom who hit the clutch three last game as the guy who cost us the game? The guy who was the Lakers best player that game, the guy who was 10 of 18 from the floor with 13 boards and kept the Lakers in it for the first half. That guy cost us the game?
Also, there is a defensive stat, these things are tracked. When asked to cover small forwards Odom is a good defender, opposing threes shot just 45% (eFG%) against him and had a PER just below the league average. When asked to cover fours, the shooting percentage jumps to almost 49% and the PER to 16.9, basically worse than you’d hope but not far off the median in the West, which is deep with talented fours.
In these playoffs alone, the Lakers outscore their opponents by 13.3 points per 48 minutes when Odom is on the floor. He has covered power forwards almost exclusively and held them to an average PER of 14.7, which considering the tasks assigned him is quite good.
Bottom line, I don’t think you see Odom or what he does for the Lakers objectively.
Kurt says
28. Vion, I did cut your first post because it did not meet the commenting guidelines to the right. Again, just saying “Odom sucks” in more words without backing it up is the kind of thing that gets cut around here.
Here’s my final comment on this discussion: If you watched these games think the Lakers (who played at a faster tempo than the Jazz did all season) are a slower team than the Jazz then I see no need to continue an illogical debate. Boozer is not quicker than Odom, it’s not even close.
AZ LakerFan says
It’s game day for an indisputably pivotal Game 5 and having followed this blog for some time wanted to introduce myself and make a first post. FB&G has some of the most balanced and incisive commentary available in the “sphere” or elsewhere. It appreciate Kurt’s writing and the way he has chosen to moderate this site, where one is encouraged to express opinions but to do so sensibly and offer some rationale.
Bill Bridges’s Farmar therapy session earlier was outstanding. I am in full agreement. I know the topic has been covered ad nauseam, but let’s be clear- having a capable backup to Fish is essential and Jordan has shown in the first half of the season that he can be that guy. Which is precisely why his performance in the playoffs has been incredibly frustrating. I trust BB’s discussion will help to restore his flagging confidence but when the shots are not falling he should do what Sloan told Boozer to get him out of his slump. Focus on your defense until the O comes back. I am paraphrasing here but you get the idea. Jordan’s effort and decision making have been decidedly sub par which is the thing that has concerned me the most. He is young and will improve but I am not as sanguine as some here about his upside potential. I don’t think he will develop into one of the West’s best PG’s but perhaps we can live with that since the triangle doesn’t really need a Parker, Paul or Williams. But boy it sure would be nice!
A key goal tonight is to keep DWill’s assists below 10 and cut down on the easy penetrations to the rim. I think we win this game and the series but I thought we were going to win Game 4 …
WetPlumpies says
I am a big cali basketball fan…i love both the lakers and warriors. I am very concerned now though about the lakers…Utah Jazz has proven to be a very physical team that has broken the lakers down both emotionally and physically. Why has kobe proved to be so weak recently? Can the other Lakers step it up for this series? Its just too bad I once had faith in this team. i will continue to support them but now know they will not make it past the Jazz. oh well. there is always next season with Bynum back….
Mark says
Someone erased my comments – I had the first three comments – all very respectful. Are you afraid I jinxed the Lakers?
vion says
Kurt,
Right or wrong with any reasoning is not judged by arguments, but buy fact. My prediction is that no team with Odom in its starting lineup will ever go to the final. Only time can tell whether the judgment I made is accurate.
As to the stat.. you have to know that NBA plays involved a lot of switching. Thus you cannot use one-on-one stat to judge the defense. You virtually have to watch the tape to see how a player react in each play.
vion says
Kurt,
You are way out of line to cut my message. You can ask me to back up my claim, which I did.
Do not have the habit of jumping to the conclusion.
Mark says
Ooops… you erased my first two comments.
B.J. says
I will also say this… Karl Malone made some bone-headed plays in big games… but he also played on three finals teams and did have some big playoff moments in his career.
vion says
Kurt,
Are you saying that any message that you don’t like will be deleted by you? Are you treating this forum as a personal forum instead of a public forum?
Kurt says
32. I got the stats from 82 games, which does watch film and break these numbers down, some for public consumption but also for teams (with more detailed versions). If this is info teams are purchasing, I think I’ll trust it over just guessing.
Kurt says
This is a public forum in the sense anyone who abides by the commenting guidelines can contribute. I certainly don’t agree with everything posted here, nor do I wish to. But as it is my blog I am the arbiter of what meets said guidelines.
vion says
Did you post the guideline anywere? Which rule in the guideline I Violated? Or your liking is the guideline?
B.J. says
vion –
I don’t think he minds you posting your opinion about Odom, I just think he wants you to back it up. Your first post contained nothing to back it up, and it wasn’t until later posts that you at least put some evidence in to back your claim, which made those later posts acceptable.
The Fanalyst says
I love the playoffs. Even the blogging is heated. No easy buckets (or comments).
Lakers squeak by tonight in a tight one, with Odom in the starting lineup by the way, and will take it in seven (though I’d love to see those fans get their hearts ripped out on their own turf in 6). Kobe needs his rest, so I hope the Spurs can stretch their series another two games as well. Go Lakers!
ron1ndon says
A few more hours and most of our questions will be answered. I’m getting antsy and I can’t wait for tip-off. I find myself checking up on FB&G, ESPN & Truehoop just to get my fix.
Lets go LAkers!!
The Fanalyst says
Vion, I didn’t see your post that was deleted, but by what else I’ve seen, I’d say you violated Guidelines 2, 3 and maybe even 6. Wait, I think I might be violating 2 and 6 right now. I guess maybe you were a 3? I don’t know, but I trust Kurt to mediate this. Sorry, dude.
ron1ndon says
Oh and Yahoo Sports too! It’s like crack I tell ya!
BTW vion, you can find the guidelines on the right side under the COMMENTING section, No. 6, hyperlinked as Full Guidelines.
Let’s stay positive people, go LAkers!!
Darius says
Wow, that came out of nowhere…
Maybe Vion thought that since bashing Farmar is kinda off limits, he’d go back to the OG Laker whipping boy in Odom…
I’m not going to defend Lamar. I’ve done so much of that over the years that it’s become a pain for me to do it. I just think LO’s a guy that you like or you don’t. Those that don’t, never will. If we actually make the finals this year, I doubt we’ll see Vion on this board saying “I was wrong”. Or better yet, if we fall short of the Finals but LO has a string of great games, will he say that he was wrong then, because it really wasn’t Odom’s fault?…I really don’t care at this point. I honestly can’t take any argument seriously that starts off with *The Lakers having a commanding lead of 13-5, and then Odom screws it up with 2 bonehead plays*….the reasoning that games are won or lost or impacted greatly by one or two plays in the first minutes of a game where we’re talking about a 2-3 basket difference at the time is just not sound thinking, in my oppinion. Everyone is entitled to think what they want, but I don’t see the logic in that. Sorry.
And at this point, my focus is not on Lamar, who is, by my account, doing his job. My focus is on improving areas that need it and beating the Jazz. This is a big one tonight. LETS GET A WIN!
Tremble says
Yea Vion, at least if you’re going to bash anyone it should be Farmar………….. just kidding 😉
Kurt says
Wow, absolute must-read about the Lakers offense: This really deserves more than just a comment so I may add it to the post as well.
http://www.basketballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=332
lakerade says
Positive vibes all around, I’ll be there, I’ll be LOUD, and I know 18,997 others will be too! Yes, there are times during the regular season where it seems like it’s more important to see which celebs are at the game or to want to hush the crowd so you can finish your cellphone call, but not tonight. Even in the first round, when the opponent isn’t playoff worthy, the crowd gets subdued, so used to the results, not tonight. There is one thing that gets a Laker fan up and roaring, and sustaining that energy and fire throughout the game, where Staples turns into a tidal wave that only lives for one thing, a W… that’s tonight. GO LAKERS!!! Utah my azz…
Darius says
49. Kurt, that was a fantastic piece of work over at BP. I hope we take some of what was said and utilize that tonight and get the offense back to it’s peak efficiency.
Tremble says
Nicely written
vion says
The followings are the guidelines I found. If I have known this forum is moderated by person like Kurt, I would never have wasted my time. This is not Communist-China that has opinion control. People have different opinions. Kurt needs to learn how to debate, not shutting different opinions off.
Yes, I saw the guideline now. Pretty standard one. It’s Kurt that did not understand the guideline. The accusation that I didn’t “back up one of my statements” (which I did in the follow-ups) is simply not in the guidelines.
If one wants more backup of any statement, just ask. Maybe Kurt don’t know how to read his own guidelines.
# 1. Don’t use profanity. Don’t talk politics.
# 2. Try not to make multiple comments in a row (we want a discussion not a lecture).
# 3. No personal attacks.
# 4. We use complete sentences here, this is not an IM conversation.
# 5. This is not a blog that supports wild trade speculation.
# 6. Don’t drink and comment.
peace.
kwame a. says
Everyone sit in your lucky seat at home or lucky bar stool at your local watering hole. I feel like its a must-win.
KurkPeterman says
vion – you seem like you need attention to me. There are plenty of people here with dissenting opinions, but they aren’t inflammatory like you’ve been. Discussion is good; making hostile, subjective comments (or judgments as you claim) is bad.
Stephen says
I wonder if helping Farmar get his confidence back might be done by the Lakers going small. Kobe at the 3,Sasha at 2-but guarding Williams-and Farmar at PG but guarding Brewer,Korver.(I’d even consider Walton at 4,Lamar at 5 for a few minutes.Walton can stay w/Okur.Brewer doesn’t post much but Korver would take Farmar into post. But if Farmar fronts and Sasha pressures PG Lakers might not get too badly hurt on D. On O,Farmar won’t have to be spacing shooter,which he is ill-suited for,and instead can be off side penetrator w/Sasha,Kobe and Lamar/Walton spacing for kick-out 3s.
kwame a. says
Watching this Cavs/Celts game, 2 things
1. Cassell, in his last 3 games, 0-12 (take solace in that young Jordan)
2. For the first time this series, the Celts have no answer for Lebron
vion says
Kurt,
What I am talking about is not attention, but justice, a concept you seem to know little of. I spent some time to write a message, and you have no right to delete it unless I violate any rules that has been either written down explicitly or considered prohibitory in general. I did none of the sort.
What you said is your “opinion,” and it seems to me you have a HUGE ego about your opinion. Maybe we all do, the problem is you started a forum and cut off message that you claimed was “inflammatory.” But how do we define what is inflammatory? Isn’t that subjective?
You abused your power against your own rules. That’s the bottom line.
Aaron says
Kurt,
I love this forum…specifically because we talk about the Lakers. Any way you can keep others from causing a power struggle in the middle of the forum for the Lakers’ biggest game of the season?
Palani says
just leave, it is a big day today, and we dont want to be distracted…
lakerfan101 says
Kurt, That “raw playoff numbers” site is great , I’ll spend some time before the game going over it.
Go Lakers…
silly bitch says
lamar is chuck’s “closer of the game” tonight
“he was fantastic in game 4”
i wonder if that wins championships
Aaron says
1 HOUR ‘Til GAME TIME BOYS! (and Emma).
Seems to be a disagreement about Javie. Is he good for the Lakers or bad? If he calls it close, then Boozer could be sitting on the bench five minutes in…
j. d. hastings says
Did they just ask Avery Johnson how to stop Kobe? Next they’ll have Isiah on to tell us how to build a team…
This site is publicly avail;able but is privately run. We post at the whim of the owner/manager. It is only Kurt’s patience and appreciation for discussion that might give anybody the impression that they have inalienable “rights” here. We do each have the right to create our own blogs, though, and can say whatever we want there… until it violates the terms of whatever site is hosting it. But our rights here go as far as being free not to participate if we don’t like how it’s run.
Snoopy2006 says
62 – I think the general consensus is that Javie would be great for us in Utah, since he is tough as nails and doesn’t get affected by the fans. Unfortunately this might mean he won’t be affected by our fans tonight, but, to be honest, Staples Center is rarely considered a ref-altering stadium.
I’m wondering, though, what Javie’s style in general is (irrespective of home/road games). Does he call tight games or let players play physically? If he calls tight games, it’s excellent for us, because Utah is one of the most physical teams in the NBA.
Also, one interesting note from Adande on ESPN: the Jazz and Pistons are the only teams Kobe has met and never beaten in the playoffs.
ryan says
63. Hillarious:
“Did they just ask Avery Johnson how to stop Kobe? Next they’ll have Isiah on to tell us how to build a team…”
I was thinking the same thing when they asked him that.
kwame a. says
65- I saw something saying the Jazz are 3-7 in the last ten games officiated by Javie and the Lakers are 7-3. Might mean nothing, but hey, anything pointing to a Laker win right.
Warren Wee Lim says
Obviously, this site could use another John R.
Vion is the least of my worries at this point… its almost tip-off. Wooooo!
Kurt says
Some feelings never die — I find myself rooting hard for the Cavs. I just can’t pull for the Celtics.
j. d. hastings says
66- I just wish they phrased the question as, “2 years ago when Kobe single-handedly outscored your Mavericks team through 3 quarters, what did you do to stop him?”
Jeff says
Alright, everyone, it’s Gametime. Got my beer(s), Laker apparel, and am in full blogging mode tonight. Laptop in front of the TV, I’m FEELING IT TONIGHT!!!!
Let’s go lake show!!!
Snoopy2006 says
69 – Same (which is interesting because I’m too young to have seen the original rivalry…it just shows how powerful that rivalry is). I really don’t like rooting for Lebron though.
Palani says
good start!
Snoopy2006 says
Are you kidding me? Pau just stood in the paint and watched Brewer coast in, like a spectator. At least it’s good material for nomuskles, I guess.
Jeff says
Yeah…methink’s Kobe’s back is doing much, much better. Dude’s in attack mode tonight, and I think he’s feeling it. I smell 50.
j. d. hastings says
We defended Okur well those last 2 possessions
Jeff says
ZOMG VLAD DROVE TO THE BASKET. I’m somewhat shocked.
Palani says
kurt:
That said, often when Phil calls him out in the press (as he did yesterday talking about the return of Ariza to practice) Vlad responds with some of his best play. I just have a feeling this is his breakout game.
wow
carter blanchrd says
wow. has vlad ever shown that kind of emotion before?
Snoopy2006 says
lmao I think I actually saw emotion out of the Space Cadet
On a serious note, Kobe needs to keep his eye on Brewer. He’s responsible for nearly all of the Lakers’ defensive lapses so far.
laughing hard says
Go SPace Cadet!
Jeff says
VLAD RAD!!! Call him out more often, PJ. I actually saw a scream out of him there. Keep it up, Vlad.
kwame a. says
Good energy from the lakers. Good defense (except the Brewer lay-ups).
Kurt says
Kobe seems to be in his gambling defensive mode tonight. That got him that nice steal right there but has meant the Brewer layups as well. I’m not comfortable when he gets like this, it’s feast or famine.
kwame a. says
I have a feeling that Jordan is gonna have me eating crow tonight, a bounce-back game is in order.
Snoopy2006 says
Over-passing led to some bad TO’s. It’s a good problem to have, I guess, but the TO and the Korver 3 swung the momentum of the game.
j. d. hastings says
Utah is shooting 61%, they have 3 offensive rebounds while the lakers have 4 rebounds total. Both teams have turned the ball over 6 times. The only reason the lakers are in this is they’re shooting 60% and have hit 4 more free throws on 2 more attempts. I don’t like those numbers.
nomuskles says
expect a live blog tonight…although it might be a little more….unhappy than usual.
Kurt says
Both teams over 20% of possessions end in turnovers in the first quarter (Lakers 26%). First team that starts taking care of the ball wins.
carter blanchrd says
farmar superstar!
laughing hard says
Farmar! More like that!
Nik says
Yea, Gasol go up strong
carter blanchrd says
sing it lamar! he really might be the coolest guy in the nba. if i could choose any player to hang out with/get high with, it might be Lamar.
Snoopy2006 says
Might be overanalyzing, but I don’t like how relaxed they showed LO in the Inside Trax. Before they showed that I was thinking how he doesn’t seem to be in that aggressive mode he needs to be in to be effective. You know when he comes out with that beast mentality by watching his work on the defensive boards. Hopefully he’ll pick up the intensity.
Jeff says
That was one of the best Defensive sequences I’ve seen in a while. Moar, please.
j. d. hastings says
Great help d by Odom after the pretty Williams spin move.
kwame a. says
Best defense we’ve played in awhile. We are pushing them out deep on the perimeter, chasing and helping. good stuff.
laughing hard says
Gasol is playing really good 1-on-1 defense tonight — nice to see that part of his game clicking.
Jeff says
Now THIS is the pretty, pretty ball movement we’ve grown to know and love. WONDERFUL passing in this quarter. I like the speedy lineup on the floor right now. Can’t get physical with the Jazz? fine, run them off the floor.
Kurt says
Did Collins just say the difference was the Lakers were doing well because they were so much faster than the Jazz? I swore I read today the Lakers were slow. (#28)… (I really should be more mature and just let that go).
Hansoulfood says
If we cut down on the TO like right now, we’ll be good.
pw says
odom, please don’t leave okur open on the 3-pt line…
kwame a. says
We may regret not pushing that lead out more. We were up 12, chance to go up 15, and we turn it over, now it is 7, and we turn the ball over again. Gotta close out quarters, where is Stu?
Nik says
We need to stop turning the ball over.
Hansoulfood says
We’re turning the ball over too much on the fastbreak. We got to recognize when it’s not there and not get too anxious to score quickly. In other words, play smart.
Snoopy2006 says
Agree with kwame a. Closing out quarters was a staple of our championship teams, and it’s definitely something Phil will be harping on.
1st quarter: we’re in control, make a bad TO, Korver nails a 3, and the momentum shifts
2nd quarter: we’re in control, Kobe’s leading the break and has Fish open for a dagger 3, and throws it away. Memo comes back and drills his own 3 (if I rmr correctly). 6 point turnaround, and the momentum shifts again.
All comes down to taking better care of the basketball.
Kurt says
KD is going to have a field day with this tomorrow at Behind the Boxscore — both teams over 22% in turnovers for the first half. I still think the one team that stops this first wins.
j. d. hastings says
Kobe is letting Brewer do whatever he wants. Literally, he isn’t even looking for him on defense.
Snoopy2006 says
I cringe automatically every time Pau gets the ball in the post and holds it for more than 2 seconds. I thought he overcame that in the 1st half, but I guess not.
You can see the TO coming before it occurs. Pau holds it, has very weak hands, you see the double coming, Pau is too slow to react, and instant TO. You’d think by now Pau would anticipate a double, but he either doesn’t see it coming or is just too slow to react.
Nik says
It seems that Kobe is still hurting a little bit from his back
Snoopy2006 says
On a side note, is the “Dodge in the City” segment the most pointless and annoying endorsement in NBA basketball. The Closer/Tyler Perry/Bill Engvall are annoying because they’re shown so often, and because they’re not “very funny,” but the Dodge in the city is so pointless. A random guy in a car driving down the street. Seriously, they couldn’t come up with anything better?
lakergirl says
This game is weird…yeah both teams can stop turning the ball over and it will be better..
Why are both teams in a hurry? They talk about execution but are not willing to execute….
Mico says
darn, it’s a tied game but i can’t shake the feeling that we are in trouble
carter blanchard says
There are 9 white guys on the court right now. Kinda rare.
carter blanchard says
(and I’m counting Farmar/Deron as one)
lakergirl says
Are the Jazz scared to take the lead….they have had chances
I cant stand Harpring!!!
carter blanchard says
Farmar answering back!
laughing hard says
Jordan Farmar!
Hansoulfood says
I feel Farmar coming back!!!!
j. d. hastings says
That’s right., Jordan, you bad, you know it! Do your thing!
ryan says
FARMAR!! He decided to show up tonight.
pw says
Farmar,Vlad playing well. That’s great to see.
j. d. hastings says
(BTW, the boss of that girl in the Closer ad is a lucky man)
euph0ria says
116-118: I hope you’re right. It’ll be like Austin Powers finding his mojo, which is a good thing. Yeah baby!
Jeff says
Jordan to Deron- “You do YOU like your ankles broken, Mo Fo???”
Snoopy2006 says
Interesting take by Kevin Harlan…..Farmar has 2 baskets which apparently means he has “rediscovered his game.” lol I kid. That was a nice, aggressive move. The best part of the play was his scowl afterwards. Even though he hasn’t played well, he always plays with a chip on his shoulder. Hopefully he’ll stay this aggressive and give us the old Jordy.
laughing hard says
Memo to Matt Harpring: If you use your hands on another player, you will get called. I don’t know if this is news to you.
Nik says
hey boozer is definitely pushing off there
carter blanchard says
Ya.. Odom’s not very good.
lakergirl says
ODOM!!!!
laughing hard says
Jazz are already in the penalty. Noice.
Jeff says
And Lamar BRINGS THE PAIN
j. d. hastings says
127- Harpring was actually called for a foul and didn’t complain a few minutes ago. No, I’m serious, go back and watch the tape. I didn’tbelieve it either. Maybe he thought it was called on someone else.
Snoopy2006 says
Damn what a dunk. I had no idea Odom could move that fast.
Doug Collins hit it right on the head. Our best matchup at this point is actually Odom, because no one can deal with his speed. We need to take advantage of that. LO in transition has been especially effective, attacking the rim. I’m dreading that if the game gets close Kobe will start to iso again. We need to keep doing what got us this lead.
Kurt says
Sasha needs to stop shooting threes early in the clock. He doesn’t have it tonight.
Kurt says
Or, maybe late in the clock too.
kwame a. says
Kobe/Pau pick and roll or clearouts for LO, that’s what I want to see.
Hansoulfood says
Take the ball to the rack ppl! Rack up some fouls Kobe.
RVS says
we should shooting 3’s and Kobe should start attacking the basket for fouls
j. d. hastings says
A couple outside shots haven’t fallen for us (both pretty well contested). Keep going inside, guys.
nomuskles says
how about in the middle of the clock?
Jeff says
Sasha needs to STOP. SHOOTING. NOW.
Snoopy2006 says
135 – Agreed, although I’m willing to cut Sasha more slack because he’s usually so automatic. But yeah, he does need to be more patient.
Am I the only one who thinks they should run Sasha off of more screens? We don’t take advantage of him nearly enough, even though he’s been incredible this season.
lakergirl says
Sasha needs to shut up too
Anonymous says
WTF sasha…if we lose by one point…damn..
lakergirl says
Every time LO touches the ball something good happens….you’ll think we’ll run our offense through him
laughing hard says
GASOL!
Anonymous says
man, thank god for pau….geez, it is not sasha’s night
j. d. hastings says
I love you, Pau Gasol
Kurt says
I’m just saying I think Sasha passed that to Gasol. It’s hard to get it to bounce off the rim right to a guy like that.
Nik says
wow sasha doesn’t stop, lol
Hansoulfood says
Redemption for all the other pushoffs! That’s right Okur! That’s right Boozer!
kwame a. says
Biggest rebounds of Pau’s career. Huge o-boards.
now says
Really hate to say it, but this 4th quarter feels like Deron Williams for the Jazz vs the refs for the Lakers. The whole story in this series is home-court officiating.
Bill Bridges says
Agreed Kurt. Great pass by Sasha
Snoopy2006 says
I take back the slack I was cutting Sasha
In all fairness to Jazz fans, I think Pau got away with a push (unless it was a flop), or even two.
chearn says
The Jazz have been in a shooting foul situation since the timeout. But what does the Lakers do out of the timeout? Shoot a 3 by Radmanivic. Then we assault the Jazz by continuing to shoot 3’s on the next 3 possessions! What are we doing. That’s what home court advantage is about. Drive to the hole strong and get the whistle, and hit the freethrows!
Nik says
It looked like a push
j. d. hastings says
Some 50 year old white guy just flashed his giant gold medallion at the camera behind the announcers. That’s what people think of when they think of Lakers Fans.
ChrisNYC says
Honestly, I kind of admire Sasha for continuing to shoot. It’s not his job to substitute himself out of the game, and as long as the shots are there, statistically he shoots a good percentage, and many of those shots should be taken. I mean, the “hot hand” was disproved by Tversky.
Now that I think about it, though, I don’t know if Tversky disproved the “cold hand” side of the theory.
Anonymous says
rebounds will be key finishing this out. jazz 43 lakers 32
Anonymous says
is that right? sasha 1-11? stop taking shots!
pw says
Hey stop blaming Ssha guys. He has mainly one job on offense – to take the open 3-pointer. When he’s passed the ball and he’s open he takes the shot. Some days it goes in, some days it doesn’t. Today is not his day. I feel his shot is too flat, not enough arc. He’s come back and shoot well next game.
lakergirl says
Doug said Okur made it look like he was pushed but he wasnt…I believe Doug….
now says
Is anyone else irked by the whole “points per shot” angle? I mean, free throws use a possession too, why aren’t they counted as a “shot”.
rtrojan says
why hasn’t Mihm played at all? why does Mbenga get a few minutes here and there and not Mihm? I must have missed something on Mihm. Game 6 is gonna be tough to win, need Vlad to show up again, like tonight.
Anonymous says
I’m so glad kobe distrubuted the ball during the 4th quarter….he knew his limitations because of his bad back and he found his teammates…what an MVP!
harold says
sasha had every right to take those shots, except one or two that seemed too quick 😉
anyway, happy to see a W, and happy to see Kobe pass and pass and pass…
lakergirl says
Just by the way….why is Danny Ainge the Exec of the year…why does he get awarded for being a member of the celtic fraternity???
Bill Bridges says
163. Fisher got 4 foul shots on off the ball fouls by kirilenko and then by Williams. Not counting the intentional fouls of course.
Kurt says
165. That’s one reason I like True Shooting Percentage (which is a PPS divided in two to make a “percentage.”) It counts fouls drawn into the attempt number, giving you a more accurate number.
Nik says
Hopefully Kobe’s back gets even better in the next 2 days, then we might have a chance to pull it out on Friday night.
Snoopy2006 says
Agreed Kobe played an excellent team game tonight.
Good win, but the Jazz are incredibly resilient, they really made me sweat throughout the entire game. It’s so hard to put them away. We have to open strong in SLC, so far the team that has fallen behind early has always lost.
Hansoulfood says
Hypotheically, do you guys think that people will say Kobe quit on his team if the Lakers lost this game a la game 6 2006 vs. Phx? I’m not suggesting that but haters will be haters.
I think Kobe is saving up his game for Utah. Watch for the Kobe explosion next game, an away game where Kobe needs to play big and be aggressive.
j. d. hastings says
Lakers with “only” 14 turnovers, so Kurt was right about the team that tyightened it up. Great game. This is a great series. Kobe played brilliantly given his limitations, getting what offense he could before his back stiffened up , then playing the decoy role late, letting Odom and Pau take up the slack. Was that Gasol’s best game of the series?
Weird that Sasha had such a bad shooting game but still ended up +11. Fluke or defense? Also, welcome back Farmar and Vlade. Oof, just a great game. Now if we can just find a way to take a game in Utah and hope San Antonio comes back to give Kobe some rest.
red 5 says
O, yeah.
Same grit, zen mentality
more Lamar and Pau
and close it out on Friday.
– 5 –
Muffin-Man says
Wow. All of Pau’s 6 rebounds came on the offensive end. Of course the last one should count for 5…
nomuskles says
Kurt has the live blog in his mailbox
nomuskles says
that last rebound is going to make jazz fans mad. but if u look, pau never extended his arm. there was no way okur, a huge man would travel that far from no movement on Pau’s part.
MT says
This was one of the top five worst officiated games I’ve ever seen. If you can’t watch players compete on an even playing field what’s the point? A win is a win I guess, but anybody with a concience (Mr. Stern?) was throwing up in their mouth a little bit when Gasol ran over Harpring and the ref basically gave Matt the staredown as he’s lying on the ground. I had to rewind the play just to make sure it really happened.
pb says
178 – I agree…but how fitting is it for the Lakers to win on an offensive rebound that came possibly due to pushing from behind. Whether it happened or not, I’m glad that’s how we won. Now the Jazz fans will know how we feel when their team gets away with that ALL THE TIME! Pau and Odom worked well together tonight. We need them to step up in Utah, too.
PLEEAAAASSSSEEEEEE in 6!
Anonymous says
i just rewatched that “foul”. there’s no foul. just a lot of acting. gotta give okur credit for trying though. it was a really good acting job and well timed, but no push off from gasol.
now says
“top five worst officiated games”
Bill Simmons, is that you?
pb says
166 – That’s what Doc Rivers would be doing… I’m glad PJ has tightened up the rotation. Experimenting is for the regular season. The playoffs is for the proven players – 7 men rotation, 8 with foul trouble, but that’s it.
Craig W. says
Kobe said his back stiffened up in the 4th qtr. Perhaps that’s why he baited the Jazz, then passed it off. Smart play, whatever the reason.
Sasha is a shooter who is not hesitant to take the last shot. We need a couple of those on the club besides Kobe. Horry and Fish are the only other recent shooter who would take the last shot. Gasol doesn’t appear to be that and Lamar sure isn’t. I still don’t want Lamar handling the ball at the end of games – his free throw habits and his tendency for boneheaded passes (I know he made all his FT attempts tonight).
81 Witness says
JD, I think we can find such a game. In Utah, Okur, AK, and Boozer found their shots and rhythms. All it takes is 1 or 2 guys posting bad shooting nights and it is ours. Such as a letdown performance by Boozer tonight carrying into game 6.
Excellent game by 24. He didn’t take many shots, but made some key decisions and trusting his teammates. Sasha, Jordan, and Luke will award his unselfishness in game 6. They may not have done it on a consistent basis tonight, but players do not forget.
lakerfan101 says
Yea, j. d. hastings, I know what your talking about with Sasha’s stats. All I know for now is the regular box scores have no impact on that “+/-” stat whatsoever. Then sometimes it gets adjusted, I am not sure if the NBA numbers are adjusted or not, Kurt would probably know.
Anyway the Lakers were basically positive tonight and the Jazz were in the negatives, thats good for us huh.
Mark says
One reason the Jazz lost – Carlos Boozer. He’s been horrible, save one game. Tonight he stunk it up! His defense has always been suspect – but at least he has had offensive output and rebounds. Tonight he should have benched himself – he was useless.
j. d. hastings says
187- NBA.com’s stats aren’t adjusted, theyre jjust straightforward. Sasha’s +/- could mean he played good d, or that Valde played bad d. Or it could mean that he came in as Deron Williams or someone was being substituted out.
186- I hope so. I’m hoping that the key bigs for Utah have their confidence shaken and don’t believe. I don’t think Williams is going to get to that stage, but I’m hoping the other role players do.
And I agree that the offensive rebound was no foul. I can’t believe Okur even bothers to flop on that play given how often his own pushes in the back aren’t called. I don’t remember the play MT is talking about with Gasol running over Harpring, but again, given how often Harpring runs over people it could just b a case of their team being officiated the way the Jazz dictate it. There were a lot of calls that went uncalled on both ends inside (despite the high number of total FT attempts (and a lot of the Lakers advantage in that stat is from intentionals)).
Craig W. says
One of the reasons for Sasha’s +/- numbers are that he is logging increasing minutes with the starters toward the end of games. His defense can be counted on, he often hits shots, and he is unafraid of shooting in the clutch – probably left over from when he was the go-to guy on his European teams. Anyway, since we win more than we lose with our starters, and we don’t get blown out much, it figures that his +/- numbers would be positive.
Travis Y. says
1- The refs called a less physical game that favored the Lakers.
Seriously, the Jazz were getting fouls called for sneezing on the Lakers. Millsap became a nonfactor and many fouls at the end of the night were the type of actions the Jazz got away with at home.
2- Farmar and Radmonovic stepped up!!! It’s not so much that Farmar hit a three and tough and one, but his defense against Williams wasn’t that bad. He finally bodied him up a bit and was actually playing with some intensity.
3- Kobe allowed himself to be the facilitator the WHOLE GAME. I didn’t see one isolation, ball stopping play granted I might have missed a few. He was setting up guys and picked his spots to execute and here’s the key WITHIN THE OFFENSE! The ball movement was nice and Gasol and Odom got it going on the inside.
4- Sloppy game on both ends, with putrid passes and mishandling of the ball. But the Lakers tightened up in the 2nd half and it was a joy to watch.
Hopefully this carriers over to Utah…I think Utah has lost at home 4 times this year. And lo and behold we own one of em, I bet the Lakers can’t get a 2nd one… nehhh no way that would make them legit… let’s see.
Kurt says
Nomuskles new live blog is up.
chris h says
I haven’t read the comment past that Vion dude’s spewing about LO being a non-champion caliber type player… (but I will)
I bet he’s eating a LO-crow sandwich today, hahaha
LO rocked last night! he WAS a major difference maker, taking it to the hole with AUTHORITY!!!
boozer cannot guard him.
cheers Vion
alex v. says
I think Sasha’s +/- numbers were good because he played good defense. He tipped a lot of passes and even when Utah didn’t lose the ball they burned off a lot of time recovering which led to bad shots at the end of the shot clock. I’m not sure I’d trade that effort for Sasha shooting 1-11 every night… but I’d think about it.