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Lakers/Rockets Game 7 — Here We Go

by


NBA Playoffs Los Angeles Lakers vs Houston Rockets in Houston
As much as I am confident the Lakers will win today, there is a sense of nervousness around a game seven. Because anything can happen. We want more Ron Artest from the Rockets, but he is fully capable of having one of those games where his poor shot choices are falling. There are a lot of things to make Lakers fans nervous.

That said, the road jitters that take the team out of their offensive rhythm will be gone, replaced by a loud and supportive home crowd. The Lakers never lost home court in this series (as has been said), this game is why you want home court. And for all the stories that have said “the Lakers didn’t learn anything from Boston’s game six last year” this is the game where we really find out if they did. The team sounds ready. I know Kobe will be.

The key for the Lakers in this series has been on the offensive end of the floor. When they have lost that is the end where the Rockets and themselves took them out of their rhythm That is the end that fuels their passion on defense. Darius had a few suggestions on what the Lakers need to do.

1) Our big men changing ends better. The best way to use our size advantage is not by backing down stronger players, it’s by establishing deep post position. And the easiest way to earn that position is to sprint up court, get to the paint, and the turn for the ball. The only game we really did this well was in game 5. More please.

2) More cross screens for our bigs. The Triangle is an offense with many variables and actions. However, an under utilized initiation is to start the ball on the weakside with an empty post. This allows the three strong side players opposite of the ball to bunch at the pinch post and set a screen for a big that comes across the lane to form the Triangle on the ball side. This will get our bigs moving towards the ball which gets them in an advantageous position without all the banging.

3) More Pau at the FT line but with less settling for the jumper. Pau needs to attack Hayes off the dribble, but he needs to do it from the middle of the floor where his counter move is easily available. When Pau turns and faces from the wing, Hayes can use the sideline against him and also funnel Pau towards help. This positioning limits Pau’s ability to reverse course and pivot into open space. But if Pau attacks from the middle (especially when paired with LO) he can change direction much easier and have more of the court open to him while also making his reads on passes easier. And when paired with Drew (and at the FT line), Pau and Bynum need to work in tandem to better create high/low situations. Bynum needs to recognize when Pau is drawing extra eyes and initiate quick post position against his defender to create a passing angle. We used this on the first play of game 5, but have seen this action less than five times all series. Like I said earlier, deep post position will kill the shorter Rockets and when we have the chance to work these types of actions to get that position we must take advantage.

One other thing the Rockets have done well in this series is take away Kobe’s dribble penetration — we’ve complained that he has taken too many pull up jumpers in this series but credit the Rockets and Battier for playing good defense and guiding him to help, then everyone collapsing on him. Commenter andseedlings makes a good point here.

(How the Rockets defend Kobe is) Reminiscent of the way Posey and Pierce hounded him during last year’s finals. If it seems like I’m making a lot of Boston comparisons, I am. That is going to remain the blueprint on how to destroy the Lakers’ offense until we prove otherwise, but very few teams can follow that blueprint because very few teams in the league have the combination of both strength and quickness in both the wings and the post to be able to do pull it off. Houston, without Yao or T-Mac, is one such team. When you combine that with a general stinginess with the ball (10 Houston turnovers in game 6, only 6 Laker steals) to keep our transition game from clicking, all of a sudden the best offensive team in the league is struggling to score points.

There are things we should look for on defense as well. Like when Brooks drives the guard and help big need to force him baseline and out of the middle where he is most dangerous. Timely help on Scola is needed. Rebound like they mean it.

I expect the Lakers to overcome this in game 7. I expect a win and haven’t really thought about any other alternative. But everyone — this is the fun part as a fan, try to enjoy the experience.

I’ll be at the game today, so expect a lot of updates, here and via twitter.


Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Snoopy2006 says

    Nothing scarier and at the same time more exhilarating than a Game 7. So nerve-wracking, and at the same time if your team wins, it’s a blessing because it sharpens your players mentally.

    Our first Game 7 in Staples since…Portland 2000? Maybe a Kobe to Pau alley-oop is in the works?

    Staples better not sit down the entire game. Kurt, that’s on you. Scream like you mean it.

    http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/recap?gameId=220602023

    Have fun, everyone. Let’s get this on.

  3. dEDGE says

    D-fense! D-fense! D-Fish!

    I’m pulling for you, you old wily vet… I’m an old guy too and my shot left me years ago, but every now and then, I light ’em up just like in the good ol’ days.

  4. Stephen says

    So far in this series Kobe has shown he can get past Artest at will. So I’d have Kobe and Artest’s man play pick-n-roll,forcing the Rockets to switch. If they don’t Kobe will be left open for his J and the other Laker should crash the boards immediately as neither Rocket defender will be in a position to box out.

    Agree wholeheartedly w/Darius’ Point 3. But the Lakers should also use Gasol’s passing ability to cut hard to the basket-this means you Ariza and Odom. I’d even be ok w/Gasol shooting FT line Js as that pulls Hayes out from under basket and the other Laker big and Ariza should be able to clean up on offensive glass. Let Kobe and the PGs handle Rocket fast breaks.

    Finally I’d have an immediate hook for any player not hustling-don’t give such rot a chance to spread.

  6. Snoopy2006 says

    This is probably a really bad idea, and probably when I look back on this post half an hour later I’ll think it’s stupid too.

    But let me try to put my Zen hat on. What makes Phil great is that usually he forces the other coach to adjust to him, not the other way around.

    What if, when Fish gets a quick hook, we send Lamar in, essentially as the SF?

    I know, it sounds crazy. But this could be a great way of forcing Adelman to make a tough decision. Ariza has the capability to guard Brooks. Odom (at the SF, essentially) can guard Artest.

    But Brooks can’t guard Ariza, Kobe, or Odom. Most likely he’d be on Ariza, and Ariza could use his size advantage for some easy buckets.

    We’d have enough ball-handling in Lamar and Kobe. As far as spacing, Ariza and Lamar haven’t shot any worse than any of our other “shooters.”

    But the real advantage is that it’d force the Rockets to adjust to us. How do they deal with Brooks as a true defensive liability? He’s tiny and we haven’t taken advantage of that all series long.

    Do I expect to see it? Of course not. Clearly I’m trying to kill time, but that line-up seemed no worse than some of the awful rotations we’ve trotted out over the last few games.

  7. laker fan says

    luke walton has done nothing all year to contribute. the last game he took 2 three point shot’s and did not come close he also took 5 regular 2 pointers that were weak. he is not a shooter have him stop thowing away games. trade him but please keep Ariza. Paul Gasol needs to quit WHINNING and play more like SHAQ being Dominate and take charge. if he needs a pacifier he’ll find it on the bench that includes Andrew.Put someone in the game that want’s to WIN!

  8. GR8Scott says

    Having been to all 3 games in Houston, I can honestly say that how we start today’s game will go a long way in determining our odds of winning. In all 3 of our losses (1,4 and 6) we were our own worst enemy with missed shots and lack of execution in the post early on – which resulted in big leads that couldn’t be overcome. Pau has to step up and play aggressively. Kobe will be Kobe. We have to watch the emotions, as most of our team hasn’t played in a home game 7. Let’s revel in the moment. Go Lakers!!

  10. Cavaquinho says

    I’m so jealous, Kurt. Being at a game 7 is something I’d die for. Have a great and exciting time.

    Let’s see how the Lakers come out and play. Starting well is important, but I would not be surprised at all to see this game close in the 3rd and possibly 4th quarter.

  11. kneejerkNBA says

    Those Joakim Noah photos are awesome.

    And Lakers by 20 today, btw. Adios, Rockets. Kudos to Aaron Brooks for helping us get our rotation straightened out a bit before Billups comes to town.

  12. james says

    I have to say i can’t help but think we will get some considerable help from the from ref’s tonight

  13. Archon says

    I was thinking who’s legacy was most at stake this game. At first I thought it was Kobe, but the more I think about it, I think Phil Jackson has the most on the line. He has been painfully outcoached so far this series as he was in the Boston series, there is no way that a team that has the attention and respect of their coach should lose a game 7 at home to an undermanned Rockets team

  14. Lewis says

    I said in a previous post we need to be on our feet the whole game keep the energy up and i think we will win !!

  17. Great Wall says

    I expect this to be a well played game from both sides. The sad truth for us Rocket fans is that if both teams play up to or near their capabililities the Lakers should win. I definitely agree with everyone saying the start of the game will go far to deciding the game/series. The Rockets are obviously better playing with the lead because they are a good defensive team who has trouble playing from behind because the offense could go stale for long stretches.

    Regardless of how this game turns out I have enjoyed this site over the past couple of weeks, Kurt you do an excellent job. Thanks to all of you who have both agreed and disagreed with my postings in a kind and objective manner. I plan to come to this site occasionally in the future to discuss basketball that doesn’t necessarily include my Rockets.

    I hope that you came to an appreciation of why Houston is so fond of this Rocket team. Lastly, I wish you good luck in the next round should today’s game go the way that I expect it to!

  18. Jed says

    #6 I have been hoping to see Phil do this ever since it became obvious that are PG’s can’t defend Brooks or hit the three any more consistently than Ariza. Although I wouldn’t mind seeing what happens if Farmar is allowed to make two mistakes instead on one before he gets the hook.

  19. joem says

    Please don’t let this be tomorrow’s headline:
    “HOUSTON WINS SEVENTH GAME. PHIL, KOBE
    REMAIN CONFIDENT”

  20. Lewis says

    Let’s pray that we have a better outcome since our last elimination game laker family!!!

  22. Tremble says

    I think it is important to put an exclamation mark on this game. We need to send a message to other teams in the league (hint: Denver).

  23. Snoopy2006 says

    Great Wall – It’s been great having you here man, it’s rare that we get an intelligent, reasonable opposing fan posting as regularly as you do. Hopefully you’ll stick around and we’ll see you on this site in the future, including next year.

  25. ansari says

    The Lakers have been getting out-worked and out-hustled. You have players on the Lakers that think they have arrived and are not going all out. When I look at the signing and drafting of players such as Walton, Coby Karl, Sun Yue, Sasha, Vlad Rad (Borat) and giving 60 Million to the 2009 version of Benoit Benjamin (Bynum), it is understandable why the Lakers find themselves in this position. Walton in no way, should even be in the league, that is a joke. If he were named Larry Jenkins and not Walton we would have never heard of him. But its not his fault that you can be completely and totally average at your job and get a 30 Million Dollar Contract (I’m Jealous).

    Everybody understands Bynum is coming off an injury and he’s a Green-Pea. But, it’s his lack of Fire, Intensity, and Passion is what should be worrisome. He has the emotional awareness of a slab of cement. Look at his body language, he’s content to sit on his 60 Million dollar contract, play video games & call it a day. Can he turn it around? Anythings possible, but I’ll take a player that has fire, that cares about winning more than anything else. Bynum reminds me more of Elden Campbell moreso than an up and coming great Center.

    The issue is the Laker Front Office, and the players they’ve decided to place around Kobe & Pau. Artest fitting in the Lakers system at this point is conjecture, no one knows how he would’ve fit. I know this, he’s played great since he’s been in Houston. What he adds you cannot put in the box score and what these Lakers are sorely missing. Intensity, Passion, and yes he is crazy as Bat Bleep. But what he brings is exactly what the Lakers lack and that’s why Kobe begged the front office to sign him. For that same reason I know Kobe misses Caron Butler.

    The point I am trying to make is that what the Lakers are missing is that person to step up with Intensity with Passion and a willingness to Intimidate.

    Maybe Mbenga can provide something, I don’t know. But I do know this, that when your 6 Foot Point Guard has to rub out an opponent because your Bigs lack the testicular fortitude that is a PROBLEM! The Laker front office has to bring in a Michael Cooper type a AC Green type a Charles Oakley type; and NOT a Sun Yue, Coby Karl, Walton, Sasha, Borat (Vlad Rad) Mihm. A player that will do the dirty work and be the enforcer that the opponent respects on the floor.

    Keep in mind, I am not talking about fighting, but someone that does not back down from a challenge. These players from the NBA 90% grew up playing in the park, street ball, and there is no way you can allow yourself to get punked and at the same time hold onto your self-respect. And right now people around the league figure you can punk the Lakers and their Bigs will do nothing.

    Sometimes in life and have to stand-up like a man and let someone know that you’re not going to be punked and intimidated. The Lakers will win tonight, but what I’m addressing is a pressing concern. Even if they beat Denver, which they should. They will not beat Cleveland playing this way, and the bottom line is winning championships NOT getting to the final round and getting humiliated.

  26. ansari says

    The Lakers have been getting out-worked and out-hustled. You have players on the Lakers that think they have arrived and are not going all out. When I look at the signing and drafting of players such as Walton, Coby Karl, Sun Yue, Sasha, Vlad Rad (Borat) and giving 60 Million to the 2009 version of Benoit Benjamin (Bynum), it is understandable why the Lakers find themselves in this position. Walton in no way, should even be in the league, that is a joke. If he were named Larry Jenkins and not Walton we would have never heard of him. But its not his fault that you can be completely and totally average at your job and get a 30 Million Dollar Contract (I’m Jealous).

    Everybody understands Bynum is coming off an injury and he’s a Green-Pea. But, it’s his lack of Fire, Intensity, and Passion is what should be worrisome. He has the emotional awareness of a slab of cement. Look at his body language, he’s content to sit on his 60 Million dollar contract, play video games & call it a day. Can he turn it around? Anythings possible, but I’ll take a player that has fire, that cares about winning more than anything else. Bynum reminds me more of Elden Campbell moreso than an up and coming great Center. Where’s his stones?

    The issue is the Laker Front Office, and the players they’ve decided to place around Kobe & Pau. Artest fitting in the Lakers system at this point is conjecture, no one knows how he would’ve fit. I know this, he’s played great since he’s been in Houston. What he adds you cannot put in the box score and what these Lakers are sorely missing. Intensity, Passion, and yes he is crazy as Bat Bleep. But what he brings is exactly what the Lakers lack and that’s why Kobe begged the front office to sign him. For that same reason I know Kobe misses Caron Butler.

    Maybe Mbenga can provide something, I don’t know. But I do know this, that when your 6 Foot Point Guard has to rub out an opponent because your Bigs lack the testicular fortitude that is a PROBLEM! The Laker front office has to bring in a Michael Cooper type a AC Green type a Charles Oakley type; and NOT a Sun Yue, Coby Karl, Walton, Sasha, Borat (Vlad Rad) Mihm. A player that will do the dirty work and be the enforcer that the opponent respects on the floor.

  27. Don W says

    17, Great Wall I have learned a great deal about the Rockets and appreciate them that much more. Thanks for your insight.

  28. chris h says

    I like the idea of forcing Artest to switch onto Kobe, that makes a lot of sense. Battier with the friggin’ hand-in-the-face guarding technique really upsets me and seems to (over time) be effective on Kobe. whereas, Kobe can take Ron in so many ways that he can’t seem to get off with when guarded by Battier.
    good idea, let’s hope on staff has the same idea.

    and I don’t know about Sasha, I think he gets either a DNP coaches decision, or very short leash today. he just doesn’t have it this year, and this is not the game to see if he can find his rhythm.

    I’d much rather see Shannon get the PT which would normally go to Sasha, in fact WOW is a much better shooter right now.

    and “Drew, he needs to take a deep breath before the offense sets, he’s rushing it, and reminding me of another “hands of stone” guy we used to have around here. settle down man, and when you do catch it, don’t bring it down low. But we do need him to get off, start believing in himself, so I’m hoping we get him some early looks.

    go Lakers, bring it, and bring it early today!
    don’t fall behind early, they are gonna bring it, match the intensity, the first 5 minutes of the game and the second half a HUGE!!!

  29. Magiclover says

    I think it’s simple,keep taking the ball to the basket.Whoever is in there,slamdunk.The Lakers keep doing that,they win.

  31. Joe says

    Like Kobe said…”Let’s get the hell out of this one.” I couldn’t agree more

  32. Snoopy2006 says

    Wow that was awful. A fairly impressive opener (for ABC), and then cut to Stuart Scott’s idea of a joke. It was like going from a Megan Fox montage to Guillermo. Sorta a let-down.

    It must be a Game 7, I think this is the first time in a year I’m sitting through a full half hour of the ABC pre-game show.

    ABC needs a better voice-over guy. This dude’s voice is too Darth Vader like, makes it more comical than impressive.

  33. Snoopy2006 says

    lmao Jon Barry can’t even play defense against a CGI Kobe at about 2 frames per second.

  35. Kurt says

    Best pregame quote was from Adelman, essentially saying there are no surprises left, today is about execution. Team that does it better win. Simple, but true.

  37. jac says

    IM FEELIN NERVOUSSSSSSS!

    not because I think we are going to lose, but it’s a GAME 7!

    AHHHHHHHH

  38. anonymous says

    i strongly feel the MAIN key to this game – is the lakers and the crowd coming out fired up – and the lakers getting off to a good start to deplete houston’s confidence – the longer the game remains close we give houston confidence (and all the pressure is on us) i pray they come out STRONG

  44. Archon says

    This is why the regular season matters, if this game were at Houston the lakers would be the underdog…

  45. silly bitch says

    i am being forced to watch with a celtics fan and an anyone-but-the-lakers fan…

    heeeeeeere weeeeeee gooooo!

  48. Anonymous says

    Is it me, or does everyone look extremely focused today? Kobe has cross-hairs in the eyes, and I thought I saw Gasol take aim on jugulars…

    And yes, let’s make Artest keep shooting like that.

  51. Mimsy says

    Is it me, or does everyone look extremely focused today? Kobe has cross-hairs in the eyes, and I thought I saw Gasol take aim on jugulars…

    And yes, let’s make Artest keep shooting like that.

  55. Archon says

    WOW the lakers are juiced…Could this be what the Lakers needed to play with fire?

  56. lakergirl says

    I like the energy. I can feel it.

    Way to go Gasol. Get off your feet on that contest…

  58. Don W says

    I am just now watching the pregame. Stuart Scott has only one joke: so and so is (insert exaggerated age) and so and so is who? pretending to not know dominant player/team

  67. anonymous says

    i like to start – however let’s go stale quickly here- can somebody please give me a reason why fisher is in the game – this part makes me really angry even if we still win

  70. Jaybird says

    Nothing has been falling for the Rockets. I expect them to pull it together soon. But if Lakers keep this energy up I love our chances. D Fish seems to have lost confidence in his shot. Ariza rcertainly hasn’t!

  79. Jaybird says

    Ok Fish!!! If more of these go down I’ll be so damn happy for him. I also want to see more Pau touches.

  81. emh101 says

    I agree. The Rockets will not continue to miss like this all night. But if we get a big enough lead and they have to play behind all day, I don’t think they will be able to generate enough offense to beat us.

  83. BCR says

    Start couldn’t be better.

    Artest is shooting the Rockets out of the game, Fish has regained his shot, and Andrew is active on defense and on the boards.

    And Kobe has taken only three shots.

    I’m feeling it.

  86. The Dude Abides says

    If Phil only plays Drew for 20 minutes today, it better be because we have a 30-pt lead going into the 4th quarter. When Drew is active, there are few layups for HOU and more contested jumpers for them.

  87. Snoopy2006 says

    Happy with the defensive intensity, but is it just me, or did our spacing look off at the beginning? At times there have been two on Kobe and Kobe hasn’t swung the ball. Could be that they’re just swarming even more than usual, but there have been a couple times where I’ve seen Lakers run into each other. Doesn’t seem like the proper triangle.

    Now it looks like the spacing’s settled down.

  88. Ben says

    If Fish can get his stroke back, we are much tougher to beat. The guy is fearless and can hit 5+ threes when locked in.

  89. paul says

    pau must be beter on defense and make a quick move on offense – after the entry past he is holding the ball to long allowing for the double team to come over

  90. Jaybird says

    If anyone’s still looking for a link, try footysports.tv – that’s where i usually get mine

  92. Kurt says

    Paul, you can see Pau thinking and not just playing right now. He is waiting for things and not being aggressive at least until that rebound .

  94. Zephid says

    Other than Pau leaving some low-post defense to be desired, and a couple blown lay-ups, cannot ask for a better start.

  95. BCR says

    Bynum needs to be in when they have both Landry and Scola on the floor. Gasol has a tough time guarding either of them one-on-one.

  96. Kurt says

    The Lakers will go as far as their defense will take them. Rockets shooting 25% eFG% for the first quarter and with an offensive rating of 60.

    Ignore anything I wrote about this being about the Lakers offense.

  97. Lewis says

    Kurt tell Phil to but Drew back In the game NOW he has changed the whole Identity of the game with his defensive presence!!!

  98. Great Wall says

    I didn’t like the start or being down by 10 at the end of 1. But…I don’t know how we are only down by 10.

  99. lakergirl says

    How does Scola just back Gasol down like that? Is Gasol not holding his ground or is Scola just that much stronger? Scola looks to me like he has more finese than strength tho.

  100. Archon says

    That was a good first quarter, although they still aren’t really clicking offensively…

  102. Kurt says

    Great Wall, I agree, and the fans here seem nervous about the size of the lead after the fast start.

    Lewis, from the press box seats I got for this one I can tell the people in the top row of seats something, that’s about it.

  105. Zephid says

    Gasol is getting backed down because Scola keeps changing directions. He’s a really, really, really good post player is all

  106. anonymous says

    can somebody tell me why we need to put these losers in the game i.e. vujacic and walton – i mean it is game 7- let’s ee if the rockets cut way into the lead with this lineup

  109. anon says

    dont hate on walton…he brings some positives to the table. sasha on the other hand…

  112. Mimsy says

    Great to see Farmar found his rythm. Now I hope Sasha can as well… I like Sasha, I want to see him contribute and do well.

  113. lakergirl says

    I see the lakers finally got the memo on Hayes. Whats the worst he can do? Pass the ball?

  115. anon says

    i like sasha too. u can tell he really plays with passion. its just when his shot isnt falling hes more of a liability

  116. paul says

    the lakers are back to not executing on offense – pau looks like he is getting frustrated- because he is being crushed on defense and now settling for jumpshots? we don’t want them to be even close at halftime

  117. J says

    Kurt,

    Agree about Pau. I love Pau’s play but my biggest beef about him this series is his lack of decisiveness. He’s spending way too much thinking and holding the ball instead of reacting.

  118. Mimsy says

    What was that pass!?!

    Someone said Luke doesn’t add anything? He just saved us there.

  119. Archon says

    This current configuration of Houston’s team would actually be better without Ron Artest.

  121. J says

    Luke’s biggest failing this series is the same as most of the team, hesitating on offense and not having the crispness in execution.

  122. Kurt says

    Mimsy, that Gasol pass led me to yelp “oh God” in the press box, at which point the two guys next to me from WFAN looked at me like “who the hell are you?”

  123. Mimsy says

    Archon, just before this game, my husband described Artest as “our secret weapon!” 😉

  124. Ben says

    Bynum has played well today. They are small and we need to continue to reward him with post touches. He is earning some on the defensive end.

  125. Kurt says

    The only thing I’d really like to see some more of is a couple Rockets turnovers that lead to fast break points.

  126. Archon says

    Ron Artest has the shot selection of Kobe Byrant with the accuracy of DJ Mbenga

  127. Joel Paris says

    Walton is no loser, just a classic intangible, cerebral basketball player. Never going to show up in box score..love him.

  129. Kurt says

    The Lakers are doing a pretty good job of forcing Brooks and Lowery baseline when they penetrate, not into the middle of the paint. That really has been key. Need to be on his jumpers, though.

  132. Zephid says

    omg, that’s 3 times I’ve screamed, “DON’T BRING IT DOWN” when Andrew catches the ball near the basket. He needs to keep it high and dunk on some Rockets

  134. J says

    All of Scola’s shots that were falling in Hou are not falling down. That’s why i thought the whole defensive intensity argument was somewhat exaggerated. Hou was making all the tough shots at home. Not so much on the road.

  135. Mimsy says

    Bynum is back! He’s active on both ends, stepping up on defense, he’s going for rebounds, and attacking the basket. Loving it!

  138. Nick the Great says

    It’s kind of a small thing, but the Lakers have had much more active hands defensively, especially ‘Drew. They are knocking balls out of the passing lanes and just getting hands in shooter’s faces. I think it’s really messing with the way the Rockets have been trying to run their offense.

    Also, I would just like to point out that for all the people who have been griping about Phil, we’ve seen extensive Andrew Bynum and Jordan Farmar this quarter…

  143. Kurt says

    Bynum did push Brooks at the end, and the Refs are not going to let anything go this game. Need to move on not let it effect him.

  148. Tremble says

    Can you imagine the Lakers playing like this in every playoff game? It would be a cakewalk to an NBA Championship.

  149. Mimsy says

    #145, Lei,
    Bynum collided with Brooks, and since Brooks is roughly half his size he fall over, and Bynum kept running without even needing to slow down. They called it a shove, what it actually was, was more of a “big guy runs over smaller guy and keeps going” situation.

  150. Lewis says

    Do you notice Van Gundy and Jackson don’t have much to say when the Lakers play well!!!

  152. J says

    I can see why Von Wafer wouldn’t have gotten along with Phil and the tri. Too bad, his athleticism and ability to score would have been nice off the bench.

  156. paul says

    148, i think the lakers are playing well but certainly not lights out , remember houston is making none of their shots, they definitely were smoother in game 5, however if they keep it up a win is all that matters
    also pau needs to go to nba camp and learn how to play defense

  158. Turrible says

    That’s it Gasol. Rebound and keep the ball high. The Rockets are full of little people.

  161. BCR says

    Okay, if Sasha can’t even hit the wide open corner three, then I’ve lost all hope.

  162. Jaybird says

    I like Kobe’s shot selection, he’s just not knocking them down. Battier has 3 fouls, I expect Kobe to rack up some points while he sits.

  163. Archon says

    BCR,

    Just pretend 07-08 never happened and you’ll feel better about Sasha and the defensive energy he brings.

  165. Lewis says

    Kobe not settling for J’s Is one og the keys to the lead we have now plus I*t’s obvious Ron cannot guard him Shane has done a much better job

  166. J says

    BCR, I lost a little hope after that shot. He took his time, went straight up and that shot still missed. And it wasn’t off by just a little bit. Normally he misses when he rushes or drifts, I expect the shot to miss. But when his form is good like that, I expect a make or it barely missing.

    Ugh, if I never see or hear another plaschke quote/column, it’ll be too soon.

  168. Mimsy says

    Gasol and Bynum should play this well! They’re about a foot taller than any healthy Rockets player after all.

  170. J says

    There should be a Jack cam for every home game. With a drinking game created for it.

  172. Kurt says

    Glove 22. Laker.com beat guy has a theory that you can tell everything you need to know about Gasol in a particular game by how he rebounds in the first 8 minutes. True today, at least.

  173. Joel R says

    I love Jack pumping up the Staples Center crowd. Anyone know if that blonde is his date or his granddaughter?

  176. J says

    Good decisive mood by Pau in the post.

    My friends and I love checking out who Jack has seated next to him each game. Running jokes dependent on whether its male or female for the game.

  178. Jaybird says

    Limiting Houston to only 31 points in the half is beautiful. Brooks line – 5 points on 1/6 shooting and 1 assist. That’s huge. And they seem to have gotten the memo to simply ignore Hayes when he sets the screen.

  180. BCR says

    Archon,

    Eh, I can probably count the number of times Sasha’s “pressure D” has had a positive outcome on two hands.

    J,

    Amen.

  181. J says

    Any thoughts on the Magic/C’s game? I can’t see Magic winning G7 at Boston after all the meltdowns. But they should won closed this series out after five games already.

  183. jac says

    the first half has been amazing

    not only is Kobe NOT the leading scorer, the whole team is actually playing amazing together.

    Everyone who questions that this team lacks chemistry should really watch the game

    I love the fact that Kobe doesn’t have to do this alone. Everyone is here to play, a sign of a mature team so far.

  184. Lewis says

    We must continue to put our foot on the rockets neck when we come out this half. Continue with the same passion and energy In the second half and the game will be over by the start of the 4th

  185. Anonymous says

    kobe might look like hes not having a game but since he keeps driving all the defenders are shading over towards him. thats why paus so open for the putbacks and tip-ins when kobe misses

    hes doing things that dont show up on the stat sheet

  187. J says

    Ugh, Jon Barry = analyst fail. I’ve been watching him for two years and he makes an intelligent analysis about once a season.

    And I love Magic, grew up watching and idolizing him. My all time fave Laker. But he should never be allowed near a mic.

  188. The Dude Abides says

    In this game, our bigs have shown more aggressively on the high pick and roll than they have all series. I was really happy with Drew’s pick and roll defense in that half. When he does that AND protects the rim, the other team has 30-pt halves.

  189. Archon says

    Believe me I’m one of Sasha’s biggest detractors, but he’s a defenisve agitator that gets underneath opponents skins and takes other players out their game. He did it to Kyle Korver, he did it Von Wafer and he’ll do it to JR Smith next round.

    I Just don’t want him taking off balance jumpers anymore

  190. Lewis says

    If the Lakers play defense like they have today they can’t be beat In my honest opinion the question Is will they

  191. Shaky says

    Really like the first half effort. Kobe 2/8 could/should have been 5/8, but since the bigs got putbacks off the misses the score wouldn’t have moved — I’m sure Kobe is very happy with the result.

    181 J – I like the Magic to beat Boston. They’re going to finally start making their 3s, it has to happen at some point right?

    They’ve “won” depending on your pov 4 or 5 of the first 6 games, just blowing it at the end with the “meltdown” you allude to. They’ll finish one of those, tonight. Or Jeff VG is going to have to answer a lot of questions the rest of the playoffs about his brother, and nobody wants that.

  192. anon says

    @J
    lol…completely agree about magic. i remember hearing his halftime “analysis” once and he said “whoever plays good solid D and starts hitting shots will win” …uh dur

  193. Mimsy says

    #183,
    That’s the advantage of having a player like Kobe on your team. You have to double him, especially now that Battier has had to sit, so no one on the floor can actually guard Kobe without help right now. As a result, at least one Lake will be left open, and if that Laker can score reliably… then we’re golden again.

    And if they don’t double on him, Kobe can score just fine too, as we all know.

  194. DTC says

    I know Jeff Van Gundy annoys a lot of Laker fans, but if Phil retires, what about getting him as coach?

    The rationale is that JVG teams are always tough, top defensive teams, and our guys can put up 110 pts a game no matter what system they are running.

  195. exhelodrvr says

    Kurt,
    Rebounding is significantly affected by focus and aggression; hard to turn those off and on within the same game. Gasol’s aggressiveness isn’t always there, which seems to be the main factor in his great vs mediocre games. So it makes sense that if he starts off focused and aggressive (which is shown by the rebounds) he will play well throughout.

  196. Joel R says

    I think JVG is a great coach, and I certainly wouldn’t mind having him on our bench.

    Thinking about Phil retiring just makes me sad, though.

  198. Lewis says

    I know there is a second half to play but I’m calling my shot today Lakers In 5 or 6. I think the Lakers lackadasical play, has given the national media and naysayers the ammunition they need to question our championship aspirations but I think Denver Is overrated watch and see that will be a much easier series for us

  199. Michael Jordan says

    The lakers are going to win game 7 in LA easily. They have to many threats and the rockets are not going to be good under pressure. They aren’t quite experienced yet.

  200. emh101 says

    If the Lakers win this game, I like that there is only a two day layoff before they start the WCF. I think the long layoff hurt them against Houston in Game 1.

  201. Joel Paris says

    The first 5 minutes after any sports halftime are crucial. Let’s put it to them and cause a timeout with 8 minutes left in the third..

    DTC::: No Jeff Van Gundy…PERIOD

  202. Lewis says

    #195 Van Gundy Is a good coach but for a guy who has never won anything, to criticize the way Phillip coaches a young team as opposed to those Bulls or Laker teams who had seasoned NBA veterans on the roster Is ludicrous on his part

  204. Bill Bridges says

    On Bill Simmon’s podcast. JVG said he wants to coach again and believes that he will have to start again as an assistant. Losing in the 1st round two years in a row, he believes, means that he can’t get right back to a head coaching job.

  206. Snoopy2006 says

    I just realized:

    Shannon Brown has not played tonight, has he? Zero minutes?

  208. Mimsy says

    Good observation, Snoopy, he hasn’t yet. Then again, Farmar has somehow managed to return in full glory, Fisher has had some good shots… let them play!

  210. Turrible says

    I wonder why Shannon Brown hasn’t played. Is it b/c the lakers have played well w/o him today??

  212. paul says

    notice how the guys have total backed down on defense – that is why i get soo mad- is it too much to ask to play 48 complete minutes of defense -they back down after they gain big leads

  213. Archon says

    I’m glad Fisher’s shot is falling now if he would just stop going to the hole under any circumstances we should be okay

  215. Turrible says

    Ariza to Bynum for the dunk!!! 2 players the Lakers could have REALLY used in last year’s playoffs!

  217. paul says

    btw – sometimes van gundy says the most idiotic thinks – i have to laught “battier would make a good pick-pocket” can i get paid tons of money to be an announcer and say dumb things like that!

  218. Jaybird says

    Ariza is quietly having a great game. He has been key in a lot of defensive stops, and for the most part making good decisions on offense.

  219. The Dude Abides says

    Was that last play a foul on Kobe? I thought that Gasol was the one who got the contact.

  220. Shaky says

    I want to see a replay of the Kobe block on Scola’s layup attempt.

    Was there contact? Man I wish I had tivo.

  221. Tremble says

    I am not going to celebrate until there’s less than 5 minutes left and Lakers are up by at least 20.

  223. Snoopy2006 says

    I kinda want Brown to get some Game 7 experience. A DNP at this stage can’t be good for his confidence.

  225. Mimsy says

    Brooks just became the first Rocket in double figures. Our defense today really is what’s got us to this point.

    Luis Scola is, so far, 3-11. Two of those made three shots are 3-pointers. He killed us in the paint, we adjusted, he has been neutralized.

    Why can’t we play like this more often?!?

  228. Engvall says

    “I seem to have misplaced my 3 championship rings”

    “I did say I have 3, didn’t i?”

    “One for each chocolatey cookie”

  229. sT says

    The game is far from over, but if we keep playing like this it should be a win, imo.

  231. Snoopy2006 says

    Wow Drew’s looking sharp. I’ll take that kind of output against any opponent, 6’9″ or not. This may be a huge, huge blessing. Rest for Lamar and Drew getting his game back before the next (hopefully) series.

  233. The Dude Abides says

    226. James, Pau has more rebounds (13) tonight than the Houston’s two top rebounders tonight combined.

  235. Mimsy says

    Pau also has seven more rebounds than Bynum right now. There are players on our team that deserve some harping on, but not Pau. Actually, tonight maybe none of them?

  240. paul says

    although kobe has had some pretty “loose” call on him this series i wish he would stop complaining too much – he traditionally has had good favor with the refs on foul call s- and the more he complains he is losing his credibility

  241. Mimsy says

    If they bleep out four-letter words on TV, they really shouldn’t have the camera on players as they comment on plays they disagree with. Anyone with rudimentary lip-reading skills knows what Bynum thought of that foul on Kobe… 😀

  243. chibi says

    I wish the players would exchange jerseys with each other after a game, like in soccer.

  244. The Dude Abides says

    Kobe got three ridiculous calls on him that 3rd quarter. Probably all makeup calls for the noncall when he pushed Brooks in the back on that rebound in the 1st quarter.

  246. Lewis says

    Kinda getting sloppy guys .Cut down on the turnovers in the 4th and we should cruise to victory

  247. Turrible says

    How many T’s does Kobe have this playoffs? 4? He cannot risk another one in this series.

  248. Mimsy says

    emh101,
    If you consider how much soccer players sweat it is also pretty gross.

  249. chibi says

    Ariza has been amazing tonight. His ball-denial is suffocating and he is absolutely locked in.

  250. The Dude Abides says

    Wow. They just showed that replay of Drew’s steal of Brooks that the statistician didn’t give him credit for.

  254. lakergirl says

    The ref fell asleep huh. Woke up and realized that might be a foul on Gasol.

  259. lakergirl says

    Wow that was a dirty play by Scola. Punching Odom knowing he has a back injury.

  264. Mimsy says

    Wait for the retaliation play…. wait for the retaliations. Scola might not have been called for that, but I doubt he will get away with it.

  266. Lewis says

    Kurt How many turnovers do both teams have this period? sloppy basketball by both teams

  267. anonymous says

    the lakers are going to win – and i’m thrilled but still a bit nervous for the future – this game has gone the way all their playoff wins have gone – big leads starting from first quarter following by stagnant play that basically maintains the previously gained lead – and in addition careless turnovers in the 4Q – do they have what it takes in a close playoff game? or to come from behind?

  270. Jaybird says

    that lineup was not working.

    did anyone see the scratches on scola’s back? is he an S&M freak behind closed doors, or does someone on the Lakers have long nails?

  272. Kurt says

    Lewis, Lakers had 8 third quarter turnovers, Rockets 5. Not sure about the 4th, don’t have that stat here.

  273. J says

    How could there not be a call on Scola on LO. Right in front of the ref. Yanks the elbow, then the jersey. It’s that kind of stuff that makes people mad at Nba reffing.

  282. Snoopy2006 says

    Nah, D Crawford is a solid ref. The bald one’s the joke.

    Any retaliation on Scola would be immensely dumb. We have a new series to prepare for, Scola has nothing to lose. Get Bynum in there, get Lamar some rest, don’t let him re-injure his back.

  284. Mimsy says

    I love that Brown absolutely refuses to give up. He hustles remarkably well.

    Why is Kobe coming back in? Keep him out as long as you can!

  287. Great Wall says

    Good luck next round! I said this after game 3 but I’ll say it again – If the Lakers play like they did today, they will be ok regardless of who they play. I do think that your team will benefit from playing this series, so take that lesson and use it to your advantage.

  291. haha says

    THANK u houston!

    if we win a championship we owe the rockets for a hell of a series and fight.

  292. Mimsy says

    Next stop: Denver. Or do we have home court against them too, so we start in LA on Tuesday?

  293. The Dude Abides says

    That’s the first of Sasha’s “dribble to the left” jump shots where you could see him consciously slow himself down enough to get squared up.

  296. J says

    Why wouldn’t Phil have the second unit in and practicing some tri sets? You know Hou won’t give up, perfect situation to have them get more comfortable running the offense against an opponent that has given them problems. Sometimes I just don’t get Phil.

  297. Lewis says

    great post Great Wall!! good to have you on board. congrats to the Rockets they are a great team with a lot of heart!!! We did not beat you guys we survived. \Don’t be a stranger great wall your opinions are well respected around here

  298. The Dude Abides says

    I have to agree with Great Wall’s comment. The Rockets showed our team how to play together for 48 minutes.

  301. J says

    Thanks to Kurt for a great site that allows classy intelligent posters like Great Wall to be heard instead of idiot fanboy posts.

  302. Mimsy says

    greatwall, I didn’t see your post before, but you’re absolutely right. This series against the Rockets was just what the Lakers team needed to grow and mature as a team, and learn how to stay focused, and more importantly, to not ever underestimate an opponent.

    Good luck next year! And I mean that in every way. The Rockets are a great team, they deserve success.

  303. Jaybird says

    Hats off to the Rockets. I gained a lot of respect for them from this series. After all the negativity thrown the Lakers way as a result of this series (and I admit I was part of it) I still feel very confident about our chances. I hope we’re labeled underdogs from here on out. Anything to motivate them to keep playing like this.

  304. Snoopy2006 says

    After a game like this, is there typically a let down, or do players stay pumped? We do not want to go down 0-1 to the Nuggets.

    Typically this team does awful with a ton of rest, we come out rusty to start series with a week of rest. So maybe this is a blessing.

    Our bench needs to play Denver’s bench to at least a draw. Mbenga, I’m looking at you.

    Ahhhh, the “na na na good-bye” song, always a classic.

  308. anonymous says

    the only ones who can beat the lakers are the lakers themselves it’s that simple

  309. J says

    Still shocked at the low number of total points. It’ll be interesting to see what the points per hundred is. Pace seemed to have affected the total.

  310. Bill Bridges says

    Rox got only 5 of 48 potential offensive rebounds whereas the Lakers grabbed 13 of 40.

    Although Kobe only had 14 on 4- 12 shooting, he attacked the rim and Gasol and Bynum put back alot of those misses.

    Very cerebral, controlled, and decisive game by Kobe.

  311. The Dude Abides says

    This game was won with the Laker bigs on the front line being perhaps the most important factor. Drew/Pau/Lamar had a combined 41 pts, 31 rebs, 6 blks, 58% FG vs 23pts, 13 rebs, 2 blks, 33% FG for Hayes/Scola/Landry.

  312. haha says

    Imagine being Kobe right now, going from Shane Battier and Ron Artest to Dahntay Jones and JR Smith

    hAHhahahaahah….must feel like HEAVEN.

  314. Mimsy says

    This was a beautiful game to watch, from a defensive standpoint at least. i am now going to celebrate. After all, there is Haagen-Daas in my freezer just waiting for an excuse….

  315. Archon says

    I really think we match up much better against the Nuggets. They don’t have anyone close to as effective as Battier to guard Kobe and Chancey Billups is the truth but he doesn’t break down our guards like Aaron Brooks does.

  317. anonymous says

    i think we can eat denver but no longer can afford to hand over road victories to the opposition because of our effort

  318. Don W says

    I’d bet our momentum will carry over to gm 1, especially with us staying at home and not having to rest long.
    It was great to finally see Vujacic, Fish, and Gasol making some jumpers they’ve been making all season.
    And of course, our intense defense.

    Great win.

  319. wondahbap says

    I have to give a slight apology to Fish. He really didn’t do too much differently form a defensive standpoint today. Our bigs played Brooks much better this game, and it made all the difference in the world. They were much more active either hedging the screen or dropping back and ignoring Hayes or Scola at 20 ft. out.

    Great D today.

  320. Snoopy2006 says

    Bottom line, the Nuggets are for real. We had plenty of comments dismissing the Rockets before this series began. Match-ups, sure, they don’t have a Battier. They also have some legit 7-footers whereas this Houston team had none, solid individual defenders, great energy guys and a much better bench than Houston. Kleiza in particular has had good games against us. Smith is a much more efficient offensive player than Artest.

    Let’s not get carried away with the ‘we match up so much better.’ I’d much rather treat the Nuggets with too much respect and be surprised with a 5 game series than the other way around. Our offense was the problem in this series, but our defense will be the problem in the next one. Any Billups led team will execute well, and with the offensive talent of Melo and Smith, their offense is formidable (now on top of solid defense). This will be a fun series, and we’ll have to tone down the inconsistency in order to take down the Nuggets.

    On another note, the Nuggets are easy to hate. Houston, not so much, a classy organization. With the Nuggets, it’ll be all-out war.

  321. euph0ria says

    What’s great about reading this blog is that the post Kurt made about the Lakers being who they are (their Achilles heel being motivation) was pointed out by Jeff Van Gundy during the fourth quarter. I hope Drew’s confidence will be carry over to the next round with the solid game he had today.

    Kurt, when are you going to have one of the live chats? Live chats are fun 🙂

  324. Snoopy2006 says

    I haven’t watched a ton of Denver. Can someone break down Melo’s offense vs Kobe’s offense? My impression is that they’re the two best scorers in the league. Melo has a much stronger post game, but can he attack off the dribble like Kobe? What are his offensive weaknesses?

    I want to see very little Farmar. He played great, but he can’t match up with Denver. A lot of Brown, a little bit of Fish.

  325. The Dude Abides says

    322. Melo has an unbelievably quick first step for someone who is 6-8 240 lbs. The weird thing about Melo vs the Lakers is that Luke consistently does an excellent job D-ing him up, much like the way he played defense on Artest today in the first half. I think the series will be won or lost at the PG position and on how well the Nuggs play D on Kobe.

  326. Snoopy2006 says

    325 – Agreed, but I think the bench play will also be huge. Our bench needs to get its swag back, because their bench as a unit is playing very well right now. Kobe will get his, but we’ll see if others can hit shots (as they didn’t early in this series) and space the floor.

  327. sT says

    Yeah, Denver will be easier to hate, I never hated Houston, ever. My son lives in Houston (he’s a Laker fan though) and he says they do not hate us either, so great, see you next year Rockets.

    Bring on the Nuggets…

  328. E-ROC says

    Melo is a good standstill shooter from the midrange and the three point line. His post game is well advertised, though lately, he has been a more face-up player than a back-you-down post player. Anthony likes to face up and drive, preferably right, but either direction, it doesn’t matter. He is ultra aggressive when he makes a decision while facing up. With that aggression, comes a quick first step I don’t think the he is a good passer, although he has become a more willing passer. Double teams still a confuse him a bit. I haven’t seen him finish with his left hand much. That’s about all I know. 🙂

  330. Kurt says

    J. Lakers were right at 100 points per 100 (89 possession game, which is a little slow, but with the lead the Lakers were willing to play more slowly.

  332. heh8meN1 says

    Good job Rockets. You taught the Lakers a valuable lesson that will help them go a long way: How to play Hard, with Heart, and Valor or get EMBARRASSED. Hold you heads high- you made the city of Houston and the entire Western Conference proud.

    C’s it’s your turn to take care of business. Number 15 won’t be as sweet if it’s not won in your GARDEN.

    Game 7’s are for the FANS. NBA Playoff Basketball is FANtastic.

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TWDCN-un2vE

  333. Snoopy2006 says

    Odom on Melo is worth exploring, if Melo blows by Luke. Ariza may be too weak if Melo takes him down into the post.

    Nene’s pick and roll defense is solid-to-great. I’m curious to see if they’ll play Martin on Pau or Kobe (like last year), or both. It might work when Andersen is in the game.

    Does Karl historically have a gameplan of letting Kobe get his and stopping the others, or trying his hand at slowing down Kobe?

  334. Great Wall says

    Snoopy2006,
    I’m going to respond to both of your most recent posts. I think you will have an easier time with Denver than Houston. They are playing good team ball and I would love to have Billups leading my team, but Kobe will be on fire in this matchup. They will be rough, but the Lakers will be used to that after the past 2 series. J.R. Smith is a more natural scorer than Artest, but beyond that he is a worhtless player. I think that Smith is similar to Von Wafer, and if that is the case then the Lakers should substitute Sasha in just as they did against Wafer in this series where he did a tremendous job. You all complain about Sasha alot, but I’m telling you that is the type of player we want in Houston. Offense may come and go, but if the effort is there continually, I want him on my team.

    As for Kobe and Carmelo, There is really not that much of a comparison. Carmelo is a good outside shooter, and on the post but does not have the ability to take over games like Kobe does. As a matter of fact he is very easily taken out of the game mentally. He is also not a great defender or passer. He is a decent ball handler for a player of his size.

    On another note, I just watched the Rocket postgame interviews on my local sports channel. They made no excuses for the beating they took today. They almost seemed offended that the press expected them to make excuses. They made statements like “We are NBA players and get paid well to play to the best of our abilities regardless of who is available”, “We were beat by a better team”, “They wanted this game more than we did”, and “They played an excellent defensive game, and took us out of our offense”.

    You all need to enjoy the moment and not take every loss so seriously because it is a seven game series, and the best team usually does win in the end.

  335. E-ROC says

    Snoopy2006, I think Karl, historically, lets Kobe get his and try to limit the contributions of others.

  336. Snoopy2006 says

    E-Roc – thanks. I can’t really blame Karl, if his primary defender is D-Jones.

    If there was a Most-Cockiness-for-the-Least-Talent team, Dauntey Jones and Eddie House would be my starting backcourt. Can’t think of a frontcourt off the top of my head right now.

  337. lil' pau says

    Congrats to the Lakers, but also warmest wishes and thanks to the Houston fans who posted here as well (esp G.W.). Plenty for you to be proud of re: your gutsy and intelligent team…. and plenty for you to look forward to as well, especially after next season when you dump TMac’s bloated contract and spend it on some real players.

    I must admit that I was pretty sure the future in the west was going to be a 2 horse race between the Lakers and Portland… certainly Houston has proven to me that they belong in that elite group as well.

    Finally, I will say this: your brethren at Staples today represented themselves extremely ably, especially at the bars.. but does everyone from Houston have a gray or black goatee??

  339. Snoopy2006 says

    Predictions with this Lakers team are stupid, because you can’t predict how intense their defense will be from night to night.

    That said, I’ll be stupid and take a shot: Lakers in 6.

  340. Turrible says

    Who’s Kobe gonna guard in the next series? Dhantay Jones? I figure we’ll some of the following:

    Nene – Bynum
    Kenyon – Pau
    Melo – Ariza
    Jones – Kobe
    Billups – Fish

    Melo is going to eat Ariza up. One of the bigs is going to have to help when Melo penetrates. Most likely, Pau will have to sag on Kenyon when Melo has the ball.

    Also, Pau is going to have to play TALL and for Billups when he’s got the rock. Fish will not be able to guard him and the Lakers will need to team effort to cover up their matchup deficiencies.

  341. harold says

    if i learned anything about the lakers and us as fans this series is that we’re really alike. bipolar, extremists, etc.

    and… if anything, i just know that the Lakers didn’t learn squat from this experience and will still have half-hearted efforts against the Nuggets.

    still, we will come as a surprise to the nuggets who really had it easy against New Orleans and Dallas who really weren’t playing their best ball.

  342. Lewis says

    I see the Laker hate has started already with Fatboy, who actually rooted for the Rockets something he admittedly never does, the Jet and the cheater/bonehead C-Webb saying the Lakers don’t deserve to win the title because of there lack of effort game to game. And with the exception of Kenny those 2 are picking Denver. My thoughts, Nobody deserves to win anything you have to go out and get It and what ever the critics may say the Lakers are once again 4 games from the finals any thoughts?

  343. haha says

    magic deserve to win.

    and charles barkley is predicting that the nuggets win…i guess that means the lakers will win! haha

  344. Kurt says

    new post up, starting to talk Denver.

    And I want to second all the thanks to Great Wall, Stephen and the other great Rockets fans who came by. Thanks.

  345. Scot says

    Was at the game today – weird atmosphere. Very intense and electric initially, but then somewhat flat for a game 7 after the timeout at 8-0. Maybe because the Lakers never trailed. Maybe because it was an early afternoon game.

    It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out this is a different team that plays at a much higher level when Drew is on. It was a pleasure seeing his activity level today on both ends – ESPECIALLY defense. The team plays with so much more confidence when Drew is defending the paint with aplomb. It’s hard to be critical of the team when they were up by 31, but it still didn’t feel like we were firing on all cylinders on offense – hesitation, fumbled passes, missed shots.

    As far as the next series, it’s almost impossible to predict. Who knows which Bynum, Odum, and Gasol will show up. Will the Lakers play every game the defensive commitment and energy they played with today? While I’d like to think we “learned a lesson” this past series, Games 4 and 6 suggest we haven’t, and we’ll just have to hope we play with a sufficient level of passion and smarts in 4 of the next 7 games. Denver is talented and, with Billups, more focused and poised. But it still feels like whether we advance ultimately is on us.

  346. Stephen says

    Two things to keep in mind on Melo.
    He racks up FTs. He can have a 5-17 game and still shoot-and make-10 to 12 FTS.
    He crashes the offensive glass very well.(Those of us who are unkind,thinks he does so so he can get the ball to shoot it again!)