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A Lakers Blog. Thoughts, reflections, and the odd rant on the Los Angeles Lakers and the NBA (even the Clippers).

Lakers/Celtics Game 3 Chat

by


Obviously this is a must win game for the Lakers. Although fans of Boston sports know that a comeback from 3-0 is possible in a series, Lakers fans would rather not test that and would prefer a home win tonight to get this series back on track. All that said, we must remain confident. We are a great team. We have not lost a home game in months. And while the Celtics performed well on the road against Detroit, they were taken to 7 games against both Atlanta and Cleveland and really showed that they could be rattled on the road. They are not immune from having let downs on the road and tonight they face one of the best home teams in the league. I know the players believe; we should believe too. And on that note here are some keys to tonight’s game from several of the regular contributors to the site, in bullet fashion:

 

 

*The Lakers have not performed up to its (lofty) standards on the offensive end so far. A lot (and I mean a lot) of credit must go to the Celtics’ defense, while some of that dropoff can also be attributed to just missing shots and not playing in any type of rhythm for major stretches in both games. While the Lakers have had some early success in both games (and a nice run in the 4th quarter of Game 2) we must find ways to sustain that effort for longer stretches tonight. There are 2 keys to making this happen and they work hand in hand. First is establishing the post. Pau proved that he could score in the post on both KG and Perkins. He was decisive with the ball and attacked with aggression when given the opportunity. The problem was, those opportunities did not materialize in the second half as we continually went away from the post and were very perimeter centric. We need to continue to get the ball inside and let Pau create for himself and for others. He has a quickness advantage on Perkins and has the size to nullify some of KG’s length and athleticism (and as he showed on that baseline drop-step/spin move, he is not scared to challenge KG when it’s there for him). We need more of this in order to establish our half court offense. But, the Lakers can not just rely on half court sets to beat this Celtics team. The Celtics are one of (if not the) best half court defensive teams we have seen all year. When their defense is set, they do a great job of taking away passing angles with ball denials and shutting down driving lanes. So, we need to create more early offensive chances. That means rebounding the ball (something we were a lot better at in Game 2, 37-36 advantage Celtics) and pushing the ball. This is where Lamar can get on track by rebounding and pushing, and this is also where we can get Kobe more chances to work in space and attack where he sees fit. During our comeback run in the 4th quarter in the last game, Kobe basically got the ball in the open court, created for himself or broke down the defense and created good looks for our 3 point shooters. Basically, we need to play faster when we can, and when we can’t push pace, we need to establish the ball in the post.

 

 

 

*On defense, the Lakers need to play a much stronger game than what they’ve played so far. We need to play position defense and quit the reaching, grabbing, swiping, and hacking. The Celtics are a good FT shooting team and we can’t bail them out by getting into the penalty early. That means we need to quit fouling when players are not in a position to score and that means that we need to eliminate the off ball fouling. Also, defensive possessions end with a defensive rebound. We have played strong defense on many possessions, only to have Boston get an offensive rebound and just reset their offense. As I mentioned above, a major key to us being able to get out and run on offense is securing the defensive rebound. Every players focus should be securing the ball. The bigs need to box out and the guards need to close down the FT line. We need all 5 to the glass tonight.

 

 

 

*We need an improved effort from our bench. Traditionally in these playoffs they have played much better at home than on the road. We will need that improved effort from them tonight. One of the big keys to this series so far has been the effort and effectiveness of the Boston bench. The Lakers need to get that same effort, effectiveness, and execution from their bench. In short, we need a Leon Powe game from one of our guys tonight. Remember, this is a bench that has put up huge chunks of points in games throughout the season. They are capable; they must show it. As for a couple of specifics, I hope to see more Turiaf on Powe tonight. Turiaf is a similar player to Leon and I hope Phil uses him in the same way that he used Sasha on Korver/Ginobili in previous rounds. Turiaf can match Powe in energy and can bang with him on the glass and I hope he gets a chance to prove it. And while I hope to see Ariza some tonight for defensive purposes, I think we can only use him while Odom is out of the game. Phil said after Game 2 that he took Trevor out of the game because his presence was stagnating to the offense. With both Trevor and Lamar in the game, Boston is able to sag off of 2 Lakers and further control the paint with its help defense. So while Trevor’s defense can come in handy, Phil will have to be careful with how he dispatches him tonight (and if to at all) because of the impact it can have on the offense. But overall, we need sharp bench play. Our guys are young and should have fresh legs after a pretty quick turnaround and a long trip.

 

 

Overall, as I mentioned above this is a must win game. But we have the ingredients to beat this team and it’s a testament to our team that while playing below our usual standard, we have had the chance to win the first 2 games in the closing minutes. For more insight, please read the thoughts of David Thorpe and Mike Moreau over at the WWL.

 

 

 

Commenting Note: Kurt has been out, but he has entrusted this site to us, the community that makes Forum Blue and Gold the great blog that it is. And in that spirit, I ask that we maintain this site in a manner that is respectful to everyone. So respect the guest posters. Respect the commenters. And for those that leave comments that do not show an understanding of the posting guidelines, your comments will be moderated and/or edited/deleted.

Darius

 

Update: Just wanted to mention that I received news from Kurt that Mom, new baby girl, and family are all healthy and happy. -Gatinho


Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. tonystarks says

    Agree with the post up of Pau. Most successful play we ran in the halfcourt against the Boston D. Can’t get impatient and stray away from it.

    It’s gonna be interesting how this game is reffed early on. Hopefully they just let the teams play. Enough with the tickytack calls. No one came to watch the refs blow whistles.

  2. ryan says

    First of all, congratulations to Kurt and his family.

    I also agree with posting up Pau. He was very successful in game 2 when he had the ball in the post (I think he made his first 6 shots). I remember screaming that aint no “weenie” shot when he dunked on KG. The Lakers need more of that. Hopefully the Lakers play much better tonight I know they are capable of it. The shots should fall a little bit easier for guys like Sasha and Farmar.

  3. Mark Sigal says

    I will reiterate what I said in earlier comments. I think that we need to find a way to keep Radmanovich on the floor, as he has done well rebounding and his three point shooting makes it harder for the Celts to clog up the lanes.

    That said, if he is stuck on Pierce it is going to be a challenge for him to stay out of foul trouble so I hope that someone else gets that assignment.

    Celtics deserve ample credit, to be sure, but the Lakers have shown little discipline to stick to their game, and surprisingly, for all of the talk of their ability given their personnel to play different styles, have made few wholesale adjustments, save for abandoning the triangle in Q4 of game two.

    Game three is a nail biter moment.

    Mark

  4. carter blanchard says

    Just wanted to say that while at first I was very excited to see Ariza early, it became pretty obviously quickly that he has no business on the floor this year. I think Pierce blew by him on 3 straight possessions. It’s easy to forget that he’s only 23, hasn’t played basketball in months, and has no playoff experience to speak of (getting swept with Orlando doesn’t really count for anything). To throw him into a crucial Finals game like this is probably not the best move. I think in the years to come he’ll be a huge help, but he needs to regain his confidence, feel for the game, and trust in his teammates. I’d prefer him not to go through that during this series.

  5. nomuskles says

    Congratulations are in order for the new daddy, Kurt! Glad to hear everything went well!

    Tonight I’m looking for Pau, Kobe, and hustle–out of their minds desperation hustle. I don’t want to see James Posey running around like a chicken with his head cut off and radmanovic loping around like a dairy cow.

    Carter, good point about Ariza.

    Someone brought up The Truth’s three point shooting percentage before. While 7/8 is ridiculously good, they’ve all been wide wide wide open (did i mention he was wide open). let’s have less of that, shall we? Mmm thanks.

  6. dometla says

    3 easy steps to winning game 3:
    1) Play defense
    2) Play some more defense (no one should have a lane to the basket from the other court’s 3 point line NO ONE)
    3) Be aggressive, we won’t get calls otherwise

    If we don’t do the above we will get swept. Doesn’t matter where we play, LA, Boston, Mars … whatever

  7. This Little Pinky says

    Seems like when Kobe is aggressive and then dumps the ball off, it creates an open look for the next player or the player after that.

    I remember one play in particular where drove, he seemed to have nowhere to go, threw it back to Radmanovic as a last resort, and then Rad found Fisher for an open look.

  8. DMo says

    Offense: Run the the ball through Pau, let Odom roam in the triangle, get open 3’s for Vlad and Sasha, more pick and rolls for Gasol, less isolation, less midrange jumpers, more Kobe in the paint…

    Defense: stop the entry pass, keep Garnet shooting J’s, defend Pierce closer on the perimeter, give better help in the post, invite Rondo to shoot any jumper he wants, be more physical on Allen.

    Mentality: The Lakers need to remember what they did to the Celtics at the end of the 4th quarter on Sunday. They must push the ball all game, tire the old men out and use their athleticism. If they assert their dominance, Boston will lose their confidence.

    If L.A. can do these things, they will not only win the game, but reset the tone for the entire series. The Celtics have showed their fragility in the past… let the role players know that they aren’t as good as they think they are, and they will lose their edge.

  10. lakerade says

    Congrats Kurt and family! Nothing like a new life to put all this sports hype in perspective. Enjoy the new addition, please don’t name her Paula or Leona even though those performances seemed downright miraculous. Seriously though, congrats to you and yours, look forward to reading your stuff again soon…

  11. inwit says

    The Lakers need to FIGHT and COMPETE!!!! Enough is enough. Either they gut it out or get wiped out. No more excuses.

  12. hansoulfood says

    Congrats Kurt!

    Go Lakers!!!!! I believe in the team. Hopefully, the mindset from the 4th quarter in game 2 can carry them through the series.

  16. Atown says

    I can’t agree more with that has been said so far on the blog and the comments. The only idea I have not seen being considered concerns the defensive end.

    Kobe Bryant on Ray Allen is not a great matchup for LA. Not because Kobe can’t guard Ray (he obviously can shut him down if need be), but because it is simply dumb to have your star offensive player constantly chasing a jump shooter through picks – not to mention the cheap fouls he picked up in game 2 due to Allen. This cannot happen again.

    I say the best solution is to switch he and Fisher. Let Kobe roam from the weak side while guarding Rondo. He will give him the jumpshot and do a good enough job of staying in front of Rondo so that he’s not constantly filing through the paint and dumping off 16 assists in one game. He really has been the x-factor for Boston, because of his comfort level. He is playing extremely confident and he’s getting the entire team involved and they’re catching the ball in positions to score. With Kobe blanketing him, it can take him a bit out of his comfort zone. There won’t be much need for help defense even if Rondo beats him off the dribble, because Kobe will be able to recover well enough, seeing as Rondo doesn’t have anything close to an arsenal of moves on offense.

    That leaves Fisher on Allen, which I’m okay with, as long as Ray Ray isn’t letting ’em drain (which i’m optimistic about from an LA fan’s standpoint) like its NBA Live. He can at least get a hand in the face of Allen and keep a body in front of him. Most importantly – keep him off the FT line!

    Its worth a shot – I just know that Kobe on Allen is NOT the best approach to our defensive matchups, and Kobe guarding Rondo allows him room to roam, get loose balls, block shots, and hit the open floor earlier for fast breaks. These are the things we currently are lacking and why we are down 2-0.

    It’s about that time to pull the switcharoo – at least in certain situations when Farmar is not on the court.

    Regardless – Lakers should and will win tonight – Boston is going to shoot poorly (there is a difference in the rims tightness levels between Boston & Staples. If you notice, Boston’s are very bouncy, while LA’s are supertight). And we should get a fair number of trips to the charity stripe – not to mention our Bench stepping up.

    LA 106
    Boston 99

  17. Bill Bridges says

    Atown. Your defensive switch makes alot of sense. Also, having Kobe on Rondo neutralizes Rondo’s offensive rebounding ability. Let Ray Allen beat us on the post.

  18. Laker Pauer says

    Did you guys hear that Donaghy has officially accused 2 other refs of helping fix at least one playoff series? More gut wrenching is that it was the Lakers/ Kings series of 2002. I’m inclined to believe what he is saying. I don’t see how he could have manipulated a series alone. This is coming right after a very questionable game yesterday. Dark days for our favorite sport.

  20. inwit says

    Hate to say it – but with the Donaghy story breaking about the 2002 Lakers/Kings Conference Final, and with Joey Crawford as a ref (no call against Fischer vs. Spurs), and all the uproar about game 2 – the Lakers will get screwed again as there would be too much comment and controversy if the Lakers get more calls than the Celtics.

    All this stuff is ruining the NBA. Very sad.

  21. Rico says

    Congratulations Kurt !!!
    I’m still confident that the Lakeshow will perform up to standard tonight… GO LAKERS !!!!

  22. The Fanalyst says

    Congrats to Kurt on the new addition. Another Laker fan in the world is a great thing.

    Lakers are gonna sweep at home and make this their series. They’ve come too far this season as a team to just lay down and die without taking this thing back to Boston up a game. Go Lakers!

  23. Goo says

    I’m watching some clips from game 2, alot of their off ball screens killed us, no one has been able to keep up through the 2-3 screens on Allen/Pierce etc. and it lead to alot of easy points. Is it feasible to throw a zone at this? Maybe switch on off-ball screens as well? Their conversion rate on these plays had to have been 3/4+ and I’m hoping PJ figured out a way to stop this

  25. lakerade says

    The only series specifically noted in the donaghy article is the Rockets/Mavs in 05. There is mention of another series in 02, but it says that game 7 was “ensured” after two players got ejected in game 6. That wasn’t any Laker series, so which teams was it?

  26. Moore says

    I am picking the Lakers tonight by about 5 or 6. I think the scoring for the Lakers will be in the high 90’s. I expect the defense to pick up tonight.

  27. Laker Pauer says

    Vlad and someone else fouled out. I don’t think they were technical fouls, but it was definitely Laker/Kings game 6.

  29. lakerade says

    27. So there it is, a game we were all pointing to as an example of bushleague officiating is now the game that donaghy points to to show the same thing. My initial conclusion is that that means the NBA wanted the Lakers to threepeat… so what do they want now? A long series, where by game 7 the refs finally let the teams decide? A guaranteed ring for the C’s before their window closes, as tough early round matchups showed they might not be as dominant as hoped? A hole for Kobe to heroically climb out of? We’ll find out soon enough, I guess, but it’s sad the players really have no say. I just hope someone brings out a folding chair and does a flying suplex off the top rope or whatever…

  30. Anonymous says

    Pollard was the other person to foul out in game 6. 6 fouls in 11 minutes of play?? come on now?

  31. robinred says

    Congrats to Kurt.

    A little cultural note:

    I noticed that on C’s blog, they post links to Laker blogs at the top of the thread–with this one first. That and Jeff’s outburst about the “Dark Lord” post may partially explain all the Celtics’ fans coming over here.

    As far as Game 3, a quick recap of what I said earlier:

    –contain Rondo better
    –be physical off the ball
    –attack the rim offensively
    –hope the Celtics, particularly Pierce, miss a few shots. Pierce is 7/8 on 3s so far.

    The Lakers know all this—and much more, of course. It is an issue of “can.” I hope they can, but I am ready for the possibility that the Celtics, an excellent team, are just a bad matchup for the Purple and Gold and adjustments can only go so far.

    Go Lakers.

  32. Tremble says

    So now we get confirmation that NBA games are fixed. [sarcasm] Wow, what a relevation. [/sarcasm]

  33. Anonymous says

    So, if games are fixed. Then Lakers are definitely winning tonight…hahaha. But, will they cover?

  34. CTDeLude says

    Whatever happens, the NBA is in DEEP trouble regardless. This doesn’t even need to be 100% true as NBC just had a poll that had 57% responding that they thought the NBA was fixed. This just gives more fuel to it. And it seems like that’s the case because the NBA just couldn’t help but go to the well one more time in Game 2.

  35. Laker Pauer says

    It’s absolutely sickening. If his allegations turn out to be true, which seems pretty likely, the sport is going to be turned upside down. It also means that two NBA refs are still out there doing the same underhanded crap. I don’t know about game 2, but it’s as good a guess as any. They need to restructure next season. It’s funny how the media is kind of dodging the topic right now. I mean you’re talking about a scandal that could completely ruin the relevance of the sport. Unbelievable.

  36. sleeper says

    It has been very odd for me to watch these Finals. Neither of the games played in Boston did LA play with any passion or intensity. The Celtics were regularly going hard to the hole while the Lakers were looking to go for layups and jumpers instead of going strong to the hole.

    I haven’t seen a Laker take a hard foul the way I saw Rondo take one in Game 2 and to me that is disconcerting.

    This though I think is born out of the fact that the Western Conference is talented, but not nearly as physical as the Eastern Conference. Some would say that the Jazz played a very physical brand of basketball, but I would say it is NOTHING on the level of what the Celtics/Pistons/Cavs play.

    Boston takes this to another level by basically using every defensive “trick” in the book. This goes from Jersey grabbing to hip bumping to wrist or arm grabbing after a player goes by them. None of it is illegal or will cause a player to fall down (unless they are a flopper) and it really eats at players.

    Boston has been extremely physically with the Lakers and the Lakers have tried to imitate what they believe the Celtics are doing, but I believe this is playing as the Celtics do. Anyone who follows sports knows you don’t come into a series and play reactively to a team or try to counter what they do. You play your game plan and then tweak things that don’t work.

    Up until now I haven’t felt the Lakers made adjustments to what their game plan and making it better, but simply trying to be “physical” with the Celtics since it is being done to them in hopes that this will slow them down.

    The reality…is that the Celtics like it when you play that way with them and due to the now very obvious strength and toughness advantage that the Celtics have (especially in their front line) it’s an uphill climb.

    The Lakeshow cannot continue to try to mirror this type of chippy play the Celtics want to play. LO and Pau HAVE to find Garnett and Brown/Perk and put a body on EVERY defensive board opportunity. In fact, EVERYONE has to get a body on their guy and stop giving up offensive boards. Between Garnett, Perk, and Powe these guys go after offensive rebounds and they must be accounted for. Box out these aggressors and trust your teammates to get boards .

    They need to get back to crisper ball movement (more passing less dribbling) or if there is going to be excessive dribbling take it going north south and not east west. I guess what really boggles me is that I know the Celts have a quick rotating defense to get to open shooters even when they double, but people cannot outrun a ball getting passed around the perimeter 2-3 times. Someone is going to be open.

    As bad as the Lakers have looked in two games so far…I’m still waiting for them to actually mentally make it to the Finals and realize they are two games from elimination. This is as poor as I’ve seen them play and frankly it just looks like everyone is afraid to step up and take the charge/big shot, drive hard to the hoop even if you know a hard foul is coming, box out every time for boards, make the hustle plays and show some fire and pride.

    I commend Kobe for showing that fire, but I feel that the way he shows it really dejects his teammates at times and it is more destructive than constructive. He means well…but man he can seem like a jerk.

    Hopefully, the homestand will get that fire and pride going and the Celts will stop being able to push the Lakers anywhere they want them to go on the court and if they can play to even half of their potential instead of the slop I’ve seen so far…this is going back to Boston 3-2 Lakers.

  37. This Little Pinky says

    The refs for Game 6 of the 2002 playoff Kings-Lakers: Dick Bavetta, Bob Delaney, Ted Bernhardt

  39. Laker Pauer says

    Hoo boy… Phil just addressed the Donaghy issue. He dodged it for the most part, but you could tell he thought the fix was in. Man… this is really, really bad.

  40. sharky says

    I wrote yesterday about how a lot more was at stake in the NBA than who wins this series. I had no idea there would be this Donaghy bombshell today. The funny part is that it’s obviously calculated on his part. He waited until the NBA did their thing (which he KNEW would happen) and then he struck. He is sticking it to Stern.

    I said it a few nights ago and I’ll say it again. Game 2 of the 2008 Finals is when the NBA as we have known it died. If Stern and the NBA were smart they would have made sure and call this series as clean as humanly possible. No matter if it shortened the series, it would have not compounded the PR DISASTER they have on their hands now.

    Has an NBA game’s officiating EVER been watched as closely as tonight?

  41. lakergirl says

    I hate the entire abc/espn production. The commentators/hosts say the must dumb things. Its almost like its against their contract to agree with each other. They have to oppose each other even if the argument doesnt make sense….I miss TNT!!

  43. busterjonez says

    Kurt, awesome news, congratulations. Take it all in, ’cause it only happens a few times. Best health to you and your family. Heck of a first father’s day…

    Lost in all the talk about the referees is the fact that we still have to come out and play inspired ball against a very tough Boston team. I hope that Pau really takes it to the rack, his length bothers Garnett. Odom needs to show up with lots of energy and get us some rebounds.

    Luke Walton, where are you?

  44. Darius says

    I agree with everything busterjonez just stated. It’s game time and the players need to do *their* jobs…

    Gotta be in attack mode tonight. Everything has to be done with purpose and energy.

  47. nomuskles says

    Lakers are clearly the aggressors early. The refs are still missing lots of fouls by the celtics. As good a start as we could hope for, but it’s too early to know anything.

  49. ryan says

    I like Kobes mind set. It seems like hes saying that he is going to dunk it every time. I like that. Set the stage for the rest of the team to be aggressive.

  51. sfJayp says

    Congrats Kurt and family!

    Out to a good start! I’m happy to see Kobe starting aggressive instead of hanging back and letting everyone else get involved. Lets hope everyone else keeps themselves involved.

  54. nomuskles says

    Where are Lamar and Pau? Are they still invisible? So far it’s the Kobe show. he’s scored like 80% of the Lakers’s points.

  55. Anonymous says

    Doesn’t look good…lakers can’t even take advantage of Allen on the bench and Pierce with two fouls. Down 2 pts and Garnett and Pierce hasn’t even scored!

  57. nomuskles says

    The Celtics survived the initial surge. The Lakers can’t get disheartened and need to keep pressing.

  58. 91601guy says

    The 1st quarter result isn’t good, they should be up by at least 7. However, I like the general aggression of the team and if they continue to play like this good things will happen.

  61. Anonymous says

    Gosh…Can Lamar not be in foul trouble for once? “You’re better than that!” – Mark Jackson

  62. kc says

    yea, leon… not so superstar ~ish without the calls…

    still gotta give the guy credit for hustling and physical plays out there.

  65. now says

    Wonder what smack the guy who took half the season off and then tried to piggyback to a championship had to say?

  68. ryan says

    The Lakers have a little attitude tonight. Thats what they’ve been missing. The chip on their shoulder.

  73. ryan says

    71. I find how people critique Kobe quite hillarious at times. If he’s aggressive and is taking shots, then hes being selfish and not getting his team mates involved. If hes getting his teammates involved then hes not being aggressive enough. I see a player who is being aggressive but taking what the defense gives him.

  76. 91601guy says

    Luke not earning his keep tonight. Let’s get Pau some shots, Kobe can’t do this for 48 minutes.

  77. Muffin-Man says

    Walton is really killing us with his misses tonight. Every time he misses it seems the Celtics get a quick score on the other end. C’mon Luke, hit a flippin layup.

  78. Amazing_Happens says

    Luke Walton giveth, and Luke Walton taketh away.

    My question is, when the heck is Kobe going to find time to get some rest? He’s working so hard, but I would be scared to take him out, too.

  79. Anonymous says

    Pau needs to start stepping up. Only two field goal attempts in 14 minutes? Come on now! You’re better than that!

  82. ryan says

    Waltons a boston ringer. Its been ingrained in him from when he was a kid and Bill played for the celts.

  84. Derek says

    It’s been good that Kobe has been ‘occupying the ball’ right now. He’s taking it strong and playing well on the offensive end. If he shots 50 times in a game taking it hard to the hole, that’s fine. I’ll go with that before Paul and Lamars weak shots.

  88. Anonymous says

    Did you see Pierce trying to bait kobe to foul him while taking a 3 pointer. Result = airball.

  91. dafish says

    87. But see, now its even. The only difference is that we can’t complain if we lose tonight.

  92. Laker Pauer says

    Lopsided officiating? Check. I hate the NBA right now. Granted we’re being more aggressive, but the NBA needs an overhaul.

  93. hotchip says

    I think Kob just got away with a defensive foul on Pierce when Pierce cut to the block and Kobe undercut him. Then Kobe looked like he got away with a walk on the offensive end.

    Good night to be home.

  94. lolwut says

    As a Lakers fan, more importanty a basketball fan, the freethrow disparity in this game bothers me just as much as Game 2 did. Homecourt should not play -that- big of a role in getting fouls. True, the Lakers are more aggressive, but c’mon.

    I would much rather a whole series called with no disparity as great we’ve seen so far. Lakers fans weren’t mad at how many freethrows the Celtics took in Game 2, rather how inconsistent and how few the Lakers received.

  96. nomuskles says

    Alright, let’s comment on the game itself, not on conspiracies, david stern, or throwing games. We’ve done a great job so far of being really respectful of each other. So keep that up. If you’re going to say you think the officiating is lopsided, back it up; just like the Celtics fans asked us to after game 2.

  98. Muffin-Man says

    Great. We’re finally getting free throws and now we aren’t converting them! 12-20. Ugh.

  99. Anonymous says

    Lakers might have taken more free throws in this game, they they sure aren’t converting a lot of them. Make your free throws!

  100. Darius says

    What I do see is some frustration from the Celtics, especially Perkins. He’s putting a little bit extra on at the end, if you know what I mean. Both sides need to just keep playing ball.

    I do like Kobe’s aggressiveness. Sasha’s too. We are definitely playing with more effort.

  103. ryan says

    Oh I think the officiating has been consistent I just think they are calling too many fouls.

  104. kc says

    99 – i think it’s because it’s been too long since lakers got to the line in a game. haha.

  107. nomuskles says

    Our bench has been very solid tonight in support of Kobe. Farmar, Walton and Vujacic are are very good in +/-

  108. Anonymous says

    Pau is playing just horrible. Maybe they need to have him come from the weak side cuz he’s not getting anywhere with Perkins guarding him.

  111. bj says

    Lakers only up 6 pts at halftime with the boston big 3 doing absoultely nothing? They shot more free throws and they can’t even make them! Horrible!

  112. Muffin-Man says

    Wow. Missed free throws are killing us. We should be up about 16 right now. To start the second half we MUST get Pau involved offensively. Kobe and Sasha need some support.

  113. dafish says

    111. Yeah, Phil forgot to announce that he resigned Shaq to be the designated free throw shooter for the game.

  115. kc says

    good job, kobe. biting hard on that tongue. let that frustration show on the court!

    man, getting to the line is one thing, it means nothing if we can’t convert.

    gotta give celtics credit. even with the disparity, they are only down by 6… and that’s with kg and pp struggling. ugh!

  116. Jake says

    The 3-0 is definitely on! Despite getting nothing from the Big 3, we’re only down 6. Awesome!

  117. harold says

    [the following rant is solely based on the box score]

    This will be interesting. So many missed FTs. Judging from the box score, this has very great potential to end up being a Celtics win, since I doubt KG and PP will continue their futility in the second quarter, while LO and Pau are likely to be just as ineffective.

    Now if the refs keep this up, we’ll have the entire celtics roster in foul trouble in the 4th, not to mention be in the bonus again in the middle of the 3rd.

  118. Muffin-Man says

    bj–Another way to look at it is Lakers missed 10 fts, neither Pau nor Odom have a fg, and they’re still up 6. And it’s only Pierce and KG that are doing nothing, Allen had a great half.

  119. Anonymous says

    We know Pierce and Garnett are going to get their points in the second half. We need Lamar to stay out of foul trouble and Pau to get his head in the game. Both play better when they’re on the floor at the same time. Come on Lamar and Pau, we need you because Kobe can’t do it alone!

  121. kev says

    I think this game is going to come down to who wakes up first Garnett or Gasol. Kobe, Sasha, and Farmar are playing great but they need Gasol and Odom to do some work inside the paint.

  122. dafish says

    The Kobe interview got me to thinking… has ABC done a playoff segment on Lamar? He’s been through a LOT to change him from his days with da weed while on the Clips.

  124. Dennis says

    I hope they do a halftime segment on Lamar cuz it seems like whoever has a segment blows up and has a career game. (i.e. Powe – Game 2, Kobe – Game 3)

  125. Bill Bridges says

    The pressure on the Lakers tonight is akin to game 7, explaining why the guys are wound a bit tight., showing up in missed chippies and free throws. The effort is there though.

    Pau’s body language is terrible. Sat hunched on the bench the entire time he was out. Need Cher to slap his cheek and yell “Snap out of it”!

    I think Lamar will come out strong. Don’t know about Pau…

  126. Muffin-Man says

    Lamar’s problem is that he doesn’t know how to attack Boston. So whether he comes out strong or not is beside the point. If he can’t knock down some 10-12 footers, he’ll continue to get called for offensive fouls as they sag into the lane. Pau can score over Perkins or KG–he’s shown that. He just needs to get the ball in the right position early on…

  130. dafish says

    124. Wait, so if Kobe has a career game…

    He has 21 points now, that means another 61 points in the second half, Lakers score well over 100…

  131. lolwut says

    – RadMan is playing terrible.

    – Lakers need to run the offense. Even though Kobe is hitting his jumpers, when he goes cold we will struggle.

  135. Laker Pauer says

    Hate to say it, but I think the Celts have our number. We’re playing better, but we’re playing their tempo.

  136. emh101 says

    It’s amazing how hesistant Lakers not named Kobe are being. They need to take the shots they are given and not stand around and watch Kobe go for it.

  137. kev says

    Pau is playing like he is back in memphis. He is doing the celtics a favor by being so passive.

  138. Dennis says

    Man, what is the point of dumping it down low to Pau when the guy just passes it back to the perimeter. Make a move damnit

  143. kc says

    wow. so technically we really didn’t have much to say to last game’s free throw disparity. we can’t knock down free throws.

    this is getting very frustrating to watch.

  148. harold says

    Kobe’s futility on the line continues.

    8/14 8/14, FG/FT.

    After this game, the C’s might rethink their defense and just let him shoot FTs, hoping to tag Kobe with more T’s.

  149. LakeShowTime says

    KG woke up and pau and lamar have not, thats the difference at the moment…

    this is worrisome

  150. lakergirl says

    It looks like we are bringing everything we’ve got and the C’s are just doing enough…this is not looking good.

  151. Bill Bridges says

    Rondo’s injury has been an unintended blessing. House knocks down a 3 but more importantly, creates more space for Garnett

  153. emh101 says

    #150 We are NOT bringing everything we got. That’s the problem. The Lakers are not playing well at all.

  158. harold says

    hate to keep posting, but i’m starting to understand how Spurs fans must have felt with Manu not being Manu. Really.

  159. now says

    @157, seriously Kobe must have the lowest contest-foul ration in the league on jump shots.

  161. kc says

    it’s a shame that we don’t have another big to put on kg instead of pau. pau for whatever reason is totally spooked out of his mind.

    he just looks so confused out there, both on offense and defense. whatever demon he’s fighting, he needs to snap out of it.

  162. Bill Engvall says

    if this is the best the Lakers can play, then the Lakers deserve to get swept.

  166. lakergirl says

    At least Pau finally scored a FG and Lamar looks a little active…all hope is not lost

  167. kev says

    Lakers just need someone other than Kobe to provide a spark here. It does not matter if its on offense or defense someone just make a couple of plays and we will be fine.

  168. Pato says

    Pau didn’t play the final… That’s how… And he missed the finals (and closest) minutes of the semi…

  169. Bill Bridges says

    Grasping at straws here… Ariza looks better. Farmar playing well and Sasha the only othe player with fire in his belly.

  175. emh101 says

    The Lakers offense looks terribly out of sync. I blame a lot on the refs for the second game. This game I blame the Lakers’ nerves.

  179. Laker Pauer says

    I think the Lakers need to get someone tough in the offseason. A Ron Artest or Shane Battier type of player. We seriously need that more than Vlad Rad.

  180. kev says

    Finally a hustle play!! Thanks Farmar. Watch, this will get us going defense and rebounding.

  181. bj says

    Here’s a sad stat. Everyone in the lakers starting five other than kobe has no higher than 4 pts….Lakers will be lucky to pull this one out with that sad stat.

  182. otbricki says

    Lakers are getting the calls tonight and are still struggling. That Peirce offensive foul wasn’t close to 50/50.

  184. Darius says

    If we get beat on that baseline hand off one more time I’m going to pull my hair out.

  186. kc says

    kobe is being a double edged sword tonight. brilliant on offense (not at free throw) and a defensive liability.

    play some d, kobe!

  187. Derek says

    Jesus, I love Van Gundy. Can make me laugh even when we’re losing. Half price haircuts for the rest of his life!

  191. emh101 says

    Even if the Lakers win this, they have inspired no confidence in their ability to win this series.

  192. LakeShowTime says

    i like fish being agressive, and showing the rest of the guys that they shouldnt be afraid and passive

  193. now says

    Series ain’t over guys… plus, if Pierce keeps flopping he might convince even himself he’s injured.

  203. lakergirl says

    Great point from truehoop chat

    DAVID THORPE: LA will discuss ballscreen offense right now. They are blitzing Kobe, leaving PG open if they make quick passes. He’ll dunk it if they execute.

  205. LakeShowTime says

    hopefully pau will sense our frustration and step up in the last 4:25…we only do this to help him right?

  217. nomuskles says

    Gasol has gotten two major offensive rebounds and putbacks. I’m not sure this is the time to be criticizing him.

  219. LisaL says

    Laker Pauer, you’re right! What am I thinking, that isn’t an even trade…haha

  220. nomuskles says

    now, it was hilarious. But I warned everyone earlier in the thread that the conspiracy talk and all that was to stay out of this thread.

  222. LakeShowTime says

    We need to protect the defensive glass and not give up any 2nd chances. Boston is too good. We also need to keep scoring or getting to the line, so we need to get the ball into the paint.

  223. harold says

    Despite its looks, this isn’t nearly as lopsided as Game 2.

    26-22 on PFs, with theirs spread out and ours lobbed on the starters. FT wise, it’s 32-20, which isn’t anywhere CLOSE to 38-10.

    We’re lucky PP and KG picked this game to play horribly, as PG and LO really look like Kwame-Cook.

  226. Laker Pauer says

    Win this game or not, win the championship or not, we need a tougher team next season.

  229. kc says

    now three lakers fighting for the same rebound, that’s what i like to see!

    great shot sasha!

  234. LakeShowTime says

    big boards by Gasol! a 3 by Sasha! Fish to the line! this is good to see, not Kobe having to force jumpers!!

  240. Laker Pauer says

    Bynum will help, but I think Lamar will probably be gone despite his flashes of brilliance.

  245. harold says

    They dunk, we jump. They hit a three, we hit another j.

    Well, Kobe’s gunning for 40. And we’ll need every single point.

  254. B says

    Pauer, I might have to agree with you, I think Lamar needed some great games in this series to prove he belongs on this team. He still hasn’t proven it yet in these finals.

  255. nomuskles says

    I’m not sure what happened there at the end. boston not fouling and lamar getting called for an offensive foul?

  257. dafish says

    I have just one question for all the Celtics fans who told their bosses they weren’t coming in on Friday: what are you plans for the day off?

  258. Amazing_Happens says

    Wow. I sure hope the Lakers can duplicate that on Thursday night.

    And Sunday night.

  259. nomuskles says

    My seventeen year old sister wants everyone to know that she thinks kevin garnett looks like the martian manhunter.

  260. Laker Pauer says

    Odom tends to vanish in big games. I love his numbers and versatility, but he just is mentally unequipped to play on this stage.

  263. nomuskles says

    dafish, i hardly think this win entitles us to any type of right to trash talk. let’s just celebrate the win.

  264. Emma says

    OMG, he DOES look like the Geiko gecko!!! I would never have made that connection myself..

  265. B says

    We knew Kobe would bring it tonight, but I wanna give props to Sasha for showing up tonight!

  267. Craig W. says

    I will certainly take this win, but it shows the mettle of our 1st time finals players. Pau is a questionmark, but Lamar is gone if he doesn’t get smarter, less tense, and fundamentally sounder for the remainder of this series.

    I think it shows the coaching confidence when Sasha is finishing finals games, especially down 2-0.

  268. B says

    I wonder why Doc decided to keep House in there instead of Rondo. Was his ankle sprain that bad?

  269. chibi says

    I’m pretty relieved the Lakers gutted this one out. If you’re a Celtics fan, you’ve got to be kind of pissed off. This was the game to steal, what with the Lakers’ atrocious FT shooting.

    Sasha was excellent tonight. One thing about his game bothers me, though. Has anyone else noticed Sasha’s reluctance to pass into the post? What gives?

  270. Karl says

    Encouraging to see that kind of defensive play by the Lakers, but I don’t even feel too satisfied with the win with the way the offense has been playing these past three games.

  271. Muffin-Man says

    Craig W–There’s just no question that Pau is a keeper. He struggled tonight offensively, but did other things to help the team win. Lamar has been a key player throughout the playoffs…but the Celtics are a terrible matchup for him with the type of defense they play. Lamar just isn’t smart enough to make the necessary adjustments. I don’t know the long-term future for Lamar, but let’s wait until Bynum is back in the fold before we pass any judgments, regardless of what happens in the next few games.

  272. Amazing_Happens says

    Anyone else notice Trevor Ariza toweling the sweat off of Joey Crawford’s bald head during a timeout?

  273. hiero_yo says

    Machine win game. Kobe Bryant makes Lakers fans collectively pee their pants a little at the FT line before icing it. Much thanks has to go to Doc Rivers for playing Kobe straight up in the final possessions. Gasol and Odom never show up luckily neither does Pierce and Garnett (to some extent).

  274. B says

    Who would’ve thought the lakers would win a game while scoring only 87 points. That’s what happens when you play some DEFENSE for once!

  275. El Seano says

    Well five in the morning the UK and I just watched the end of what may be the ugliest game the lakers have won all series. Boston lost this one, we didn’t win it but a W is a W all the same and I’d rather that than it be 3-0.

    Work at 4pm is definately going to be interesting at this rate.

  276. harold says

    Let’s look at the box score…

    Celtics:
    29-83 FG 8-18 3P 15-22 FT 45RB 19AS 8STL 8BLK 13 TO 28PF

    Lakers:
    30-69 FG 6-143p 21-34FT 44RB 17AS 4STL 6BLK 12TO 23PF

    we shot much better from the field, but not as well from the arc and fts. FT difference was 12, which is, in my opinion, not much. PF difference is even less glaring, 28-23, although this alone doesn’t say much. Everything was fairly close, aided by the non-inspiring performances by KG, PP, LO and PG.

    KG and PP combined for 19 pts, 3 blks, 2 stls, 8 assists, 18 rebounds and 6 TOs

    LO and PG combind for 13 pts, 1 blk, 1 stl, 6 assists, 21 rebounds and 8 TOs.

    I’d say any of those 4 players could have put up such stat lines by themselves on a good night. For PG and KG, even on an average night.

  277. Amazing_Happens says

    What kind of coach doesn’t get the ball out of Kobe Bryant’s hands at the end of the game?

  279. ryan says

    Lakers were trying to give me a heart attack tonight. Great game from Kobe. The Machine was well oiled. Gasol had an aweful game. And Odom looked lost until the last few minutes of the game (the foul trouble helped there). Great D though, particularly on Peirce. No open shots, only got to the basket a few times the whole game (the foul trouble helped out with that though). Loved the deciston to put Kobe on Rondo. This allowed Kobe to play a one man Zone for most of the game which help clog up the paint. Putting House in there prevented that a little bit. My guess is that Doc will do that sooner in the next game on Thursday.

  280. B says

    Even though Kobe had a great night scoring wise, Sasha was the difference in this game…he almost outscored the entire Boston bench….20-21.

  282. lakergirl says

    Doc just took a shot at Phil in the post game conference…Someone asked what Doc thot about Phil saying Garnett ran outta gas…Doc said he is just surprised that Phil didnt whine about foul shots…ouch!

  283. lolwut says

    #278 In Game 2, Ronny had 0 rebounds, as well. I haven’t seen energy from Turiaf in a while…

  285. Tremble says

    omfg did you just hear what Doc Rivers said in the post conference? “I am sure glad Phil Jackson didn’t complain about the fouls.”

  286. kev says

    I dont know about anyone else, but I did not breathe normally until Fisher hit those last 2 freethrows. Lakers really had me on edge tonite.

  287. LJ says

    We all concurr it was Gasol’s worst game as a Laker. But
    he was a major factor in KG’s worst game in the finals; and after 9 12 2, thinking about letting him go anywhere else…

  290. Ollie says

    Doc proving he still the idiot we all knew he was before he was handed a great team that would maybe be better off without a team.

    I pray those comments about phil come back to bite him..

  291. Bill Engvall says

    what a stupid question about “the machine” and his “rockette” nickname

  293. passerby says

    Good win. I still am looking forward to a dominant showing by the Lakers. Something tells me though that they have to escape from this kind of performance from hereon. Nice game from the Machine and yes, Kobe seems to have found a swagger badly needed to spark the team. I also liked the defense in moments of the game. They have to play good D longer if they are to win more. Boston this time had a sub-par game. I expect a Laker equalizer but I hope they make a statement in Game 4. They have to run and gun and inject so much motion in games. I am not sure about the Celtics losing steam in the 4th but if that is the case, all the more is this attacking mode important. Tempo is everything here.

    Expect a counter-shot from Coach Phil. Added note, I am surprised at how the tone of sports writers change from game to game. I passed by paid cable of relatives from the Philippines and noticed how seemingly biased a particular commentator had against the Lakers. I heard translations of the Lakers having “no hope” and repeating statements like “they’re a step too slow”. I wonder how he covered this game. Cmon, give the teams a break! The officiating needs to be more consistent still. Go Lakers!

  294. B says

    We all know it’s a given that Lamar and Pau have to play well in the next game. What I’m worried about is which role player for the lakers will step up in game 4. Sasha will not produce the same amount of points as he did in game 3. We need Fish, Vladman and Luke to step up for game 4.

  296. John S. says

    Good win, it’s a series now. As a celts fan I am still confident. I hate losing the game, but the fact is the Celts didn’t play well enough to win.

    Told you guys to bother Rondo. You keep him out of the lane Celts really struggle offensively. House helps spacing, but he can’t initiate the offense. Cassell is a jumper.

  298. laughing hard says

    292 — I don’t know if that’s a given — we’ve been waiting for Odom to step up this whole series… he did show a lot of aggressiveness in the fourth quarter, which is a good sign. Hopefully that does signify something good for game four!

  299. Amazing_Happens says

    The only guys with gumption on the Lakers: Kobe, Fisher, Vujacic, and Farmar.

    Neutral gumption: Ariza, Turiaf.

    No gumption: Odom, Gasol, Walton, Radmonovic

  301. lolwut says

    – What frustrates me about Odom the most is that I feel he had so much potential to become a great player.

    – Gasol played terrible, don’t expect that kind of performance from him again in the series (hopefully). However, Gasol did get some crucial offensive rebounds and converted those into second-chance points.

    – Kobe hitting his jumpers is a good thing and a bad thing. If he makes them, great, we’re unstoppable. If Kobe cools off, the offense will become stagnant and Lakers will struggle to score.

    – Doc Rivers, please, are you kidding me? Any coach that couldn’t lead this Celtics team to the Finals wouldn’t be a coach at all, so their record and current position is in no way a reflection of Rivers as a coach. Also, I noticed the Celtics’ main attack is Pick-and-Roll, then either letting KG pop the mid-range jumper or pass it out for a 3-pointer if the defense collapses. They’re scoring solely because of the individual talent of the players, not the coach’s brilliance.

    – Sasha is our Powe for this game, except Sasha didn’t shoot more freethrows than the whole Celtics team.

  302. B says

    No worries Laughing…=) Yeah, I’m still waiting for Odom to step up this whole series as well….

  304. B says

    Do I need to clean my ears or did I just hear Kobe say “shit” in the post conference?

  305. robinred says

    “I am sure glad Phil Jackson didn’t complain about the fouls.”

    He actually said “whine.”

  306. Texas Rob says

    I’ve played with guys like Lamar… and one thing they always needed was a “rythm” for the game, let him shoot 4 outside shots in the 1st quarter. He will be open, they never body him up from the outside… just let him pull the trigger and watch the game come to him. Same with Gasol… 14-15 footers are there for the taking. Thats what makes these guys valuable…now if we can just get them to realize this!

  307. the other Stephen says

    dude, man. so today i noticed how much taller vladi is than ronny. they’re both listed at 6’10”. i’m sick of listed height fluctuations and inaccuracies!

  309. DMo says

    The next game is the really big one. If L.A. can tie it up, it ensures at least 6 games–and the longer this series goes, the easier it will get. Boston has faded in the 4th quarter twice in this series, and except for Allen, the Big 3 played pretty small tonight. They are too good not to come back, but Odom and Gasol almost can’t play worse than they did tonight… and fatigue is not a factor for either of them. If this thing goes back even, L.A. should win this series.

  310. magiclover says

    Refs have had something to do with Odom’s play.
    Lakers play better every game from now on
    Refs can still take the series away from the Lakers
    Only three more wins to the championship!!!

  312. Karl says

    303 – People are going to discredit the Lakers even more from now on because of that.

  314. robinred says

    “No more complaining, Laker fans.”

    Thanks for the guidance.

    Checking my list from post 31, the Lakers did OK:

    –contain Rondo better
    –be physical off the ball
    –attack the rim offensively
    –hope the Celtics, particularly Pierce, miss a few shots. Pierce is 7/8 on 3s so far.

    ***

    Pierce/Garnett were 8/35; OTOH, the Lakers missed 13 FTs.

    However, if they can’t get something from Odom, it is hard to picture a big comeback ,and the Celtics seem to have him stymied. I expect Jackson may use Bryant/Farmar/Vujacic a bit more at the same time in Game 4.

    The Donaghy story is potentially very big.

  316. chris h says

    the one positive we can take from this ugly win, is that we didn’t play our best ball, the refs weren’t really a factor either way, and we still eeked out a W.
    I think we can still play at the level we played during the WC playoffs, and that is going to get us a game 4 W…and game 5 is gonna be a WAR!!!

  317. harold says

    306. You should stop and think a minute before you go on saying that the games were rigged in the Lakers’ favor and say that we thus have nothing to complain about.

    The KEY statement is not that the games were rigged to have Lakers win. No, that’s the OUTCOME. The KEY is that the games were rigged to INCREASE REVENUE.

    Think on that for a minute, and then think again what would be the most feasible way to achieve that. It’s to give the home team obvious advantages until game 7, dragging the series to 7 but making it a one-game series.

    Assuming what Donaghy said is true, it is the LEAGUE that fixes the games. The league, however, does not benefit any more or any less if a certain team wins; on the contrary, it benefits whenever a series is dragged out.

    So the ‘correct’ or ‘educated’ conclusion to be drawn from the article you have linked is that the Lakers were indeed shafted in games 1 & 2, while the Celtics were given the short end in game 3.

    And that’s if you believe Donaghy.

  318. harold says

    wow, that above post came out very poorly. that’s what i get for trying to post in English after working a full day using only Korean.

    Anyway, what i meant to say is that:
    1. Assuming TD is telling the truth
    2. The league fixes games to stretch series for revenue
    3. so it’s safe to assume that they give the benefit of the doubt to home teams because
    4. if home teams always win, each series is guaranteed to go 7
    5. ‘home advantage mystique’ can cover iffy calls better than anything given the ‘crowd influence,’ and ‘home turf mentality.’
    6. thus if you believe TD, this year EVERY visiting team has had good reason to complain about reffing
    7. and since the Lakers were the visiting teams in games 1 and 2
    8. we have every right to complain if we believe TD.

  319. Mason says

    309 – My money is on Kings fan. What else to they have to do in Cow Town but recall a bygone era?

    Plus, It’s pretty late on the East Coast and so all the “Sullys” in Southie have gone to bed.

  320. Joe says

    I still think Celtics have a huge advantage. If they win one of the next two games they win the series. Lakers MUST win both games 4 and 5. It wont be easy. Both teams played bad tonight, but Lakers made the big plays and won. Gasol and Odom must play better or Lakers arent going anywhere.

  321. Hansoulfood says

    Weird “win” tonight. We kind of should of win game 2 because of the officiating I guess, but I don’t think we should of win game 3. Weird how the NBA works. The Lakers need to shoot some FTs. Making at least 70% tonight would have sealed the deal.

  322. lolwut says

    Mark, the “fix” Donaghy mentioned was to extend the series to 7 games, not to allow a team to win. They gutted it out in Game 7 in Sacramento and the Kings choked.

    Also, in Game 6 (the game they supposedly “fixed”), Horry made one of the all time clutchest shots. Did the referees ensure that shot to go in? Or was Divac in on the fix too, tipping the ball to the wide open Horry??

  323. The Dude Abides says

    Thank you Phil, for doing what I pleaded for you to do before Game 1, and then after Game 2, and that was to put Kobe on Rondo. Such a simple move…Kobe doesn’t have to chase Ray-Ray through all the screens, and can lay off Rondo in order to play passing lanes and double-down on the block. Fisher is big enough and physical enough to guard Allen, and when Kobe doubles down, he’s a bigger presence than Fish.

    Also–Mark regarding 2002 Game 6 WCF, yes, the 4th quarter was a joke in the Lakers’ favor, but it was also a make-up quarter for the Game 2 and Game 5 debacles in favor of the Kings. Even will all that, the Game 6 officiating wasn’t nearly as much a ripoff job as Game 2 last Sunday night.

  325. The Dude Abides says

    lolwut, Horry’s shot was to win Game 4. The Game 6 foul breakdown was 27 FTs for the Lakers vs 9 for the Kings, although it was only 19-9 before the Kings started intentionally fouling. However, a number of those FTs of that initial 19 were undeserved. It was a total makeup job, but I’ll take it, because Games 2 and 5 of that series were so bad.

  328. Scot says

    I just got home from Staples Center tonight – one of the weirdest playoff games I’ve ever attended, particularly one with so much at stake. The building was absolutely dead from the start, and remained a black hole until Farmar took the charge against Pierce in the 4th quarter. It’s almost like the lack of passion in the crowd mirrored that of the team in the first two games. I can only attribute the vacuum to everyone’s nervousness and fear over the 2-0 deficit and the lousy way the team was playing. Our poor performance on offense, the over-abundance of foul calls, and the choppy pace of the game kept the environment shockingly low key for an NBA Finals game.

    As far as the game itself, I am feeling more of a sense of relief than any euphoria from the season-saving win. Kobe and Sasha obviously were magnificent and team defense was stalwart in stretches, but the offense as a whole was breathtakingly inept at times. Given that we’re now 18 games into the playoffs, it is stunning how discombobulated, confused, and over-matched Pau, VladRad, Lamar and Luke look out there. While a win definitely is a win and the team deserves credit for prevailing while not bringing its A-game, it’s hard to believe the Lakers can rally and take this series if Lamar and Pau in particular cannot elevate their games to their prior high level of play. It’s hard to know how much credit Boston’s defense should get, and how much “blame” should go to Lamar and Pau for not fulfilling their offensive responsibilities – they really have been embarrassing. While Kobe absolutely needed to do what he did tonight and I only applaud his aggression, a Kobe-dominated offense has to be fool’s gold in the long run. I’m sure Boston will make some adjustments on Kobe for game 4 – who else among the starters is going to finally step up? At this point, I don’t think we can just *assume* Lamar or Paul will finally bring it.

    Finally, I was also impressed with Jordan Farmar tonight. He outplayed Fisher, was quick and aggressive, and the charge he took on Pierce finally electrified the crowd and may have been the turning point in the game.

  329. pw says

    Hey guys. I could not watch the game today. Glad that the Lakers won. I was reading the play-by-play report and it says Lamar Odom committed an offensive foul with 6 secs left. Can somebody explain what exactly happened? Thanks.

  330. jason says

    It would sure be nice if we had Bynum. That will make us more physical next year alone. We really miss him vs this physical team. The exp in these finals (win or loose) should make one of the youngest teams in the NBA that much better next year. And like him or not, Kobe clearly has the respect of his teammates now moving forward. I still think we win this thing. We could have won both in Boston while playing pretty bad. We won tonight playing pretty avg (at least offensively) and I think with this win we will relax a little and play better and blow them out next game. Then the Momentum shifts with the celts feeling like game 5 is a must for them. Can’t wait till thursday..

    PS: long time lurker over two years) and first time poster

  332. nomuskles says

    pw, Lamar took it to the hole in semi transition and Joey Crawford said that Lamar cleared out with his off hand while trying to dunk over Ray Allen. Dubious. Dubious.

  333. jason says

    admit that I am a short white guy who never played hoops..so is there something that pjax can do to get those two going? or do they simply need to nut up? cause yeah we need them, thats very true. (lamar and pau)

  334. P. Ami says

    The fact that the Donaghy situation exists is problematic when coupled with what looks like very poor officiating during this series.

    I think the Fisher foul on Barry was obvious. He should have taken two shots and the Lakers should have won in overtime.

    Regarding the Donaghy allegations, dude took money from criminals and fixed basketball games. You want to take his word for the truth about anything? Maybe the Kings Lakers series was fixed. I certainly think the officiating was bad in that series. Maybe that aggressive style, the sort of beatdown that Shaq was capable to putting on his opponents in those days has an effect of the refs. If so, I don’t blame the players. I blame the refs and a league that does not protect every style within the context of the rules.

    I think that tonight’s game was poorly officiated. Doo Doo Brown has been fouling like an idiot and there has been allot of clutching which is are not being called by the refs. Moving picks are being allowed to the Celtics. Pushing off is being allowed to the Celtics. And being the aggressor is not any excuse to let those fouls go. A foul is a foul.

    If the Celtics win the series, then they’ll be champions. In these first three games they look like the better team. I do think the officiating is biased towards them although I can’t say that bias is conspiratorial or even consciously enacted. I think the refing in the league is garbage. It just so happen that in this series the garbage is falling on us.

  336. aB says

    Dude Abides,

    You hit right on the head. The Lakers were robbed in Games 2 and 5 of the Sac 2002 series. The refs have the hardest job in any sport and they are bound to miss some, and call some that are questionable. I think the NBA really needs to look at having 1 more ref to control the game. I also think the “Flopping” fines will make a difference next year and return some integrity, honor, and respect for the game (at least I hope it does).

  337. alexlancaster says

    lakers did a good job tonight! energy outmatched that of boston’s. probably mostly carried over from end of game 2.

    i can live with ray allen scoring the most points for the celtics because he has to guard kobe on the other end so good luck with that.

    i can live with Poe scoring the most points for the celtics as long as they dont come easy and they are not second chance points. less shots for the “big three” means they won’t be a factor.

    KG has his hands full with gasol so hes not on help most of the time with anyone else. ray allen/paul pierce are definitely not able to guard kobe.

    give “the machine”/rad more open threes and they will have to spread the D meaning more room in the paint for our big three meaning easier points/free throw attempts

    paul pierce is a garbage player and always will be, guard him, make him work for points or even the ball and u see the results (game 3). KG will be trying too much on defense. ray allen is just another brent barry with less defense.

  339. Mark says

    Not a Kings or Celtics fan, I’m a Sonics fan and more importantly a basketball fan. Who can’t believe the audacity of Laker fans crying about refs. And I’m sorry, but all those responses absolutely pale in comparison to the fact that the 02 series was FIXED. There’s really not a good comeback to that one, sorry.

  340. The Dude Abides says

    Mark, so you believe it was fixed by the league to go seven games? Did the fixing start with Game 6? Because after the Lakers won Game 1 in Sac even though Sac were the favorites, that was six consecutive playoff wins over the Kings. The Kings were DONE. Then, Kobe got sick before Game 2, the zebras got whistle happy, and suddenly the Kings had life. For Game 5, the whistles again went the Kings way, especially the final 20 seconds. Lakers up one, obvious ball out of bounds to the Lakers but refs say Kings ball. Blatant moving pick on Webber to free up Bibby for the go-ahead jumper. At the other end, Bobby Jackson pulls Kobe’s jersey completely out of his shorts as he goes up and misses the game-winner.

    Yes, the whistles went against the Kings in the 4th quarter of Game 6. Nineteen FTs for the Lakers to nine for the Kings, until the final minute when the Lakers shoot eight FTs on intentional fouls. Some of those first nineteen were jokes, no doubt–especially the one where Bibby turned his back and ran away from Kobe and still got whistled for a foul.

    So, if you want to say the fix was in, I say it began after Game 1.

  341. harold says

    Mark, what part of the fixed games don’t you understand?

    They fixed the game to have it go to 7.

    That means that they rigged both Laker wins AND losses. You can’t get to game 7 if the Lakers win in 4, can you?

  342. LJ says

    I’m unable to load the new post. (As matter of fact the whole page doesn’t load).

  343. Laker Pauer says

    Mark, even if the ’02 series was fixed, it doesn’t make it better to have officials plaster the Lakers. That just compounds the problem. I’m pretty convinced that game 2 was a fix. Every fan of the NBA should be pissed about that. Hate the Lakers all you want, but the integrity of the entire league has to come before any one team.

    Not to mention that the Lakers aren’t responsible for a LEAGUE conspiracy. I doubt anyone on the Lakers would have wanted preferential treatment, because of precisely what you are doing in this thread.

  344. robinred says

    “Not a Kings or Celtics fan, I’m a Sonics fan and more importantly a basketball fan. Who can’t believe the audacity of Laker fans crying about refs.”

    Take it elsewhere. Even if we assume you are right and Donaghy is telling the truth, and he may well be, I am sure there are many games/series that were shaded in this manner. Miami/Dallas in 2006 comes to mind, for example, and given how Jordan-centric the league was in the 1990s, many Bulls games/series. And of course ALL teams have fans that complain about the refs. It is a fan trait that varies from fan to fan. Further, there is no coherent logic in saying, “The 2002 WCF was fixed, so you should never say anything about the refs again.” It is just an emotional response on your part. Indeed, if you are concerned about the integrity of the game and think the refs are dirty, you should applaud Phil Jackson and Bill Bridges et al here for focusing on them. I personally thought Doc Rivers showed some class by not blaming the refs after Game 3, but if the refs are dirty, maybe Doc is just an NBA company stooge.

    I saw Games 6 and 7 of the 2002 WCF and like most Laker fans, remember them vividly. The last 8 FTs in the 4th qtr of Game 6, as said, were after intentional fouls. There were some suspicious calls., and I do not blame Kings fans for being angry. That said, the Kings simply choked at the line in Game 7, particularly Webber, going 16/30 at the line in their homecourt, and that, as much as anything, cost them the NBA title that year.

    So, Donaghy may well be telling the truth. But if he is, it is a league issue, not a Laker issue, and singling out Laker fans is simply your own bias.

  345. TC says

    To piggyback on what The Dude and Harold said, if the fix was in, it sure wasn’t just the Lakers who were affected by it. I thought watching Game 5 that the Kings were the beneficiaries of some ridiculous calls. If the refereeing was fixed, it’s not the Lakers’ fault. It’s the refs who are in cahoots with some sort of organized ring. But the fix was certainly in on Game 5 also. No one seems to remember that the league determined that half of the refs were involved in gambling but Stern said (unsurprisingly tersely) that none of the further gambling was serious (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=3079309). So I wouldn’t be at all surprised if Donaghy was just the tip of a very dirty iceberg.