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Can you believe that it was only 10 days ago that the Lakers got thrashed by the Thunder in game 4? While Lakers fans are used to going through some major ups and downs with this team, I think we could all admit that things were not looking good at that point. The Lakers looked old, they looked befuddled on offense, and they looked to be in a serious dog fight with an up and coming team that was one of the toughest first round opponents that I can remember. And while there were few analysts that questioned whether the Lakers would eventually win that series, you’d also be hard pressed to find many people that were really confident about them.
My, what a difference 10 days makes. Since that blowout loss to OKC, the Lakers have reeled off 4 straight wins and done them in rather convincing fashion. They’ve played elite level defense and their offense has started to come back around as well. So, with that turnaround I thought I’d issue my own little stock report on the players and this team.
*Kobe Bryant, Stock – Up: Uhh, decline? What decline? I can easily admit that I was concerned about Kobe coming down the stretch of the season and into the first round of the playoffs. Kobe’s various injuries were obviously hampering him as he displayed a lack of lift on his jumper and in his shots around the rim and looked a step slow in being able to beat his man off the dribble. Now? He seems to be nearly all the way back. He’s beating guys off the dribble, finishing in the lane, elevating well on his jumper, and has that bounce back in his step. Sure his finger is still giving him problems (evidenced by his sometimes shaky ball handling and subsequent turnovers), but his shot seems to be re-calibrated with the accuracy returning on his jumper. Kobe’s had three straight games of 30 or more points and has shot 34-66 (51.5%) over that time. And yes, that’s a small sample size. But right now he’s passing the eyeball test and that’s something that couldn’t be said a fortnight ago.
*Pau Gasol, Stock – Stable: I’d say that, like Kobe, Pau’s stock is up as well, but it’s pretty tough to improve on what Pau has been providing the Lakers for the last couple of months. In March, Pau averaged 18.5 points and 11.4 rebounds. In April (regular season only), those numbers jumped to 24.3 points and 12.6 rebounds. Against the Thunder, his points dipped to 18 per game and his rebounding fell slightly to 12.2 but against the Jazz his numbers have again jumped up to 23.5 points and 13.5 rebounds over the first two games. You add in his 3.5 blocks and 3 assists against Utah and you’ve got elite level production from your second banana. Plus, Pau just looks ready. Ready to compete each night, ready to defend the basket, ready to try and repeat as champion. Last night, Pau even got into a verbal spat with Boozer, got in his face, and didn’t back down (earning a technical foul in the process).
*Andrew Bynum, Stock – Up: ‘Drew’s not giving the Lakers fantastic numbers. Based off his stats in the playoffs, he wouldn’t be an all-star. But, what he is giving the Lakers is an impact. He’s using his size to contest shots and he’s rebounding as well as he has all season. You add to that the fact that he’s playing with a legitimately injured leg and I couldn’t ask for more from our young Center. I’ve mentioned this before, but there have been more than a few people that questioned Andrew’s love of the game, but I don’t see how that could really be the case. Listen to what he said about playing through his injury and tell me this guy doesn’t care (thanks to Land O Lakers for the footage).
*Ron Artest, Stock – Volatile: First things first, Ron has been tremendous on defense this entire season and superb so far in the playoffs. The job that he did on Kevin Durant should be put on tape and showed to kids on how to play a great scorer by using smarts and physicality. That said, his offense is inconsistent at best and bad at its worst. He’s just very up and down on the offensive side of the ball. His three point shooting accuracy remains in a free fall and his comfort level in the offense is still not quite there. That said, I’m seeing signs of improvement on offense and hopefully his niche is being found. In game 2 against the Jazz, Ron had 16 points and went 6-10 on shots inside the arc (though 1-7 on threes). And while he missed a couple of lay-ups, he was also aggressive with his cuts to the basket, carved out good position on the offensive glass, and ran the floor well. If I did this again in a couple of weeks, I’d bet he’d get a more favorable review.
*Derek Fisher, Stock – Through the roof: Look, I’ve been a defender of Fisher for a long time. I think his intangibles are meaningful to the success of this team and I’ve been in many a debate about Fish over the past 2 seasons. That said, you’d have to be a complete Fisher homer to think that his performance during this season has been up to par. His shooting had been below average and his decision making had come into legitimate question. However, in the playoffs it’s been a complete turnaround for Derek. In the playoffs he’s been shooting 44.8% from the field (26-58) and 45.2% from three (14-31). He’s making the open shots that are presented and he’s even been pretty effective going to the basket when forced to put the ball on the ground. And while he struggled defensively against OKC’s Russell Westbrook, he’s done well on Deron Williams in the first two games and was a big reason why Deron went 4-16 in game 2.
*Lamar Odom, Stock – Starting to rise: Odom is what he is at this point. You’d be hard pressed to find a bigger supporter of Odom than me, but I can tell you that trying to figure out when he’s going to play well is a fools errand. However, after a rough going against OKC (and Serge Ibaka), things are looking up for LO against the Jazz. He’s had double digit rebounds in both games and in game two scored 11 points on only 4 shots by aggressively going to the basket and collecting 4 offensive rebounds. Odom may not be the most consistent player in providing the team numbers, but he’s re-establishing his role as a leader for the bench and understanding where his impact can be made for this team.
*Shannon Brown, Stock – Stable: The man we call WOW is having an okay post season with some good performances mixed in with ones that don’t distinguish themselves from any other game. In a way, this is a good thing as all I’m looking for is a steady performance from the bench players that see time where either leads are not given away or deficits not increased. I know these aren’t the highest of standards, but that’s where I’m at when it comes to the Lakers substitutes. I just want solid basketball played with correct decisions made as often as possible. And for the most part, Shannon is doing that. On the positive side, his jumper is looking better since he scrapped the tape on his right thumb late in the OKC series. On the negative side, his work in transition continues to be an adventure (and not necessarily in a good way) with opportunities missed through either poor passing or questionable decision making scattered between the always fun dunking prowess.
Jordan Farmar, Stock – Down: Over the years, I must admit I’ve been hard on Farmar. I’ve seen him as a talented yet hard headed player that at times can be his own worst enemy on the court. And lately, things have seemingly gotten worse. Yes, he had a couple of good games in the OKC series. But overall, his play has been sporadic and unfocussed. Instead of being a leader of the second unit (along with Odom), he’s been someone that too often goes out on his own looking for the best way for him to be successful, rather than the team. In game 1 he was a major culprit in the Lakers lead turning into a deficit. In game 2, he was well on his way to a repeat effort in the 4th quarter before Phil pulled the plug and put Fisher back in. I want to root for Farmar; I want him to be successful. But right now, that’s a difficult proposition for me.
Luke Walton, Stock – inching upward: At this point, Luke is a niche player. There will be nights where he’s not in the rotation at all and other nights where he’s called on for double digit minutes. I think it’s a testament to him as a professional that he is ready when the coach calls his number and plays within himself when the does see the floor. After and injury plagued season, I’m just happy that he’s able to play at all and when he does, that he’s making the right reads with the ball and looking for his shot at the appropriate times.
The Rest, Stock – Stable: Sasha is hurt and will hopefully be back in a week to ten days. Mbenga has not seen any floor time since his eye injury. Powell is even more of a spot player than Walton at this point and will usually only see minutes when every other big is in foul trouble, winded, or both. And Ammo is…well…Ammo. If there’s one thing I can say about these guys it’s that they all come off as professionals that are ready to play when Phil calls on them. However, lately, those chances have been few and far between.
Anyways, that’s where I see these guys as of right now. At a point where the Lakers are up 2-0 over the Jazz and with game three coming up on Saturday. Am I off base? 100% correct? Let me know in the comments
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Taylor says
I wanted to briefly follow up on our discussion of Fesenko from a few threads ago. I followed a link from a Jazz blogger and posted the question we had been throwing around a little bit here at FB&G, hoping to get a Jazz-perspective on it, and what do you know, a whole post dedicated to us (me).
Check it out for some answers on the “big Ukranian”
http://jazzingitup.com/
Darius…where would you put his stock? ; )
Maybe on a different market?
Chownoir says
Not that I expect him to be a saviour or anything like that. But what do you think a healthy Sasha playing like he did to end the regular season would do to help the second unit?
Craig W. a couple of threads ago reminded us that having Sasha back means no Brown/Farmar tandem.
What’s the potential domino effect and situational substitutions possible with a healthy productive Sasha?
Q says
I just read an article by Simmons and he actually lives in LA?!?!?!?!
jodial says
I’m sort of pleased that Artest got snubbed for the All-Defense teams…just have the feeling he’s going to be using that as extra motivation the rest of the postseason.
MannyP13 says
Q – Yes, Simmons lives in LA, in Santa Monica or the South Bay I believe. A couple of years ago he wrote a very touching piece about the death of one of his dogs and he mentioned taking him on walks on the beach near his home here in LA. It was the only Simmons article I ever read that made me feel sorry for the guy and made me forgot for a minute what an arrogant @#@#$%% he can be.
As far as Farmar, man, the kid needs a shrink. He seems to play so much better when Sasha (or someone else) is nipping at his heels otherwise he reverts back to his commando ways. Frankly he reminds me of when I was a kid and my Dad used to “ask” me to mow our lawn. If my pops was around doing things as I mowed the lawn, man I did a good job. However, if he was working that particular Saturday I cut corners and did whatever I could to get by on minimum effort. I get the same feel from Farmar when Fish is on the bench with foul trouble or because of defensive struggles. Its almost like he’s daring Phil to pull him out of the game.
Burgundy says
Ugh – Sasha is not the savior guys. These “we just need to get Sasha back” comments drive me nuts. Sasha is a terrible, terrible player who occasionally has his moments.
Darius, you were pretty much dead on with your stock report – at first I was thinking, “Why isn’t Pau’s stock up?”, but you’re right, he’s been playing like a champ for a while now.
Artest needs some type of electroshock collar every time he sets up to shoot a three pointer.
Especially against, Utah, he’s actually really effective going to the rim. That’s what he should be doing.
I have to give credit to Fish, too (and I’ve bashed him as hard as any). You’re right, his stock is ridiculously high simply because he’s making shots. I’m not sure how he rediscovered his stroke during the postseason, but whatever he’s doing, KEEP DOING IT (by the way, part of what he’s doing, to his credit, is only taking shots in the rhythm of the offense – he’s not trying to create shots off the dribble, so he’s having a lot more success).
I think Phil needs to give some serious thought to adjusting his Brown and Farmar at the same time lineup (remember when we used to say the same thing about Sasha and Farmar…who’s the constant?). You can’t have two brain-dead guards on the court at the same time (even if you balance it out by having Walton and Odom out there).
The thing is, I think Shannon is really solid when he shares a backcourt with Kobe – you can tell he “wants” to do the right thing.
We’ve been watching Farmar for a couple years now, and honestly, I just don’t think he wants it.
When Artest and Shannon screw up an offensive set, it’s confusion, but with Farmar…it’s like he’s going to do whatever he wants, no matter what. And WE KNOW he knows the right way to play (EXHIBIT A: Houston series Game 3, last year). Maybe he’s just done being a backup, when he clearly feels like he should be the starter.
He wants to jack up a three…he’s going to jack up a three. He want to hurl himself at the basket…that’s what he’s going to do.
It’s like everyone else is out there playing the triangle, and he’s playing Nellie-ball.
It is what it is.
Part of the frustrating part with Farmar, too, is how bad he is on the defensive end – and it’s just lack of recognition and effort.
Fish is hampered physically. It’s clear he KNOWS what he’s supposed to be doing, and against a guard who’s not a waterbug (like Williams), he can subtley take away spots and funnel him towards help.
But with Farmar…he’s late to rotate, he’s late to close, he helps when he doesn’t need to (then doesn’t close out on his man), and he strolls back in transition (so Ronnie Price has a red carpet laid out to the cup).
Maybe I’m reading too much into it, but his attitude just stinks – and you can feel it (and so can the other players, otherwise Odom wouldn’t be getting into it with him on the sidelines).
MannyP13 says
I wish Ammo would grow back that old dastardly mullet. Good times.
Chownoir says
#3 Q, Simmons moved out here a few years ago to write for the Kimmel show. I used to read him regularly before I got tired of his schtick.
But he did have some good columns about writing for that show and making the transition to LA. Also how tempting Vegas was with it being only a few hours drive away.
#5 Manny, you think Ammo’s shot was tied into his mullet? Short of like Sampson? Maybe coaches need to make him grow it like they made Sasha cut his hair. Ammo could be the secret weapon shooter the team needs if he brings the mullet back.
Jim C. says
Good analysis. I agree with all stock ratings.
In particular, I agree with Artest’s. Whether he’s a benefit or a detriment to the team right now largely depends on matchup.
Offensively, he’s been beyond atrocious shooting the ball. When you’re in your mid teen’s with a high number of attempts from three in the playoffs it’s perhaps a hint that you should stop shooting the ball from range and the coach should make some adjustments.
mikeinchitown says
here are my paired trades:
1. laker team:
– long kobe, fish (that’s we tolerate him folks, he apparently has an extra gear during playoffs)
– short bynum (he only looks good against goofy ukranian centers that are starstruck). if he has to battle shaq or howard, think he shrinks. plus injury should be rested, don’t know why he’s playing this series. that could haunt the lakers later.
and for income, sell calls on gasol (steady eddie, performing at a high level, but tough to think of upside from here).
2. playoffs:
– long orlando
– short cleveland (will lose to either BOS or ORL, lebron leaves with legitimate excuse- mike brown is an idiot- and his teammates are not playoff ready- where is mo?)
DirtySanchez says
I thought when Sasha was healthy he came in at the two, and then Brown or Farmar was at the point. Brown is in the same boat as Farmar when it comes to executing the offense, making the easiest task look twice as hard as it should be.
Unless my memory serves me wrong, the option of having either Brown at the 1 and Sasha at 2, Farmar at 1 and Sasha at 2, or Sasha at 2 and Brown at 1 doesnt solve the problem of bad decision making by LA’s second unit guards.
Since all are pretty much the same type player, inconsistent set jump shooters, their playing time will be only based upon who is on top of their game on that particular night.
Sasha’s return will not have that great of an impact other than giving PJ another option at the guard. Only as insurance, in case one of the back up guards is having a terrible night like Farmar’s in game two.
Daniel says
Anxiously awaiting Aaron’s praise of D-Fish’s performance in the playoffs.
flip says
odom – shoulder injury. artest – shoulder injury and probably still dealing with plantar fasciitis. shannon – thumb injury. injuries are no excuse in the playoffs, but should be mentioned if we’re going to mention significant injuries by other players. walton’s professional demeanor is a really good observation, especially when you compare it to farmar or sasha. it’s one reason why walton will around longer than those two. walton has also dealt with a pinched nerve in the back all year, but it seems to have gone away for now.
Chownoir says
Burgandy, where did you ever read anything that says Sasha was a saviour? I explicitly said he wasn’t. Or that he was a player that is highly needed.
I had the same point that Manny had. That Farmar seems to play more focused when he feels competition. I was curious to see how a healthy Sasha would affect substitution patterns and be used by Phil to indirectly put pressure on Farmar to play more intelligently. To not do all those things you outlined.
lil' pau says
bringing this forward from last thread:
Not to look ahead, but…
I’m wondering what people’s sense is about which team we should be rooting for in SA/PHX. We retain the same size advantage against Phx that we do against Utah, although they are obviously a lot more athletic and dangerous offensively. The Spurs are one of the few teams that have the size to match up well against us, but look often like a 85 percent version of the Lakers (admittedly plus Parker). What’s the sense here– which team should I be rooting for if I am a Lakers mercenary & all I care about is a trip to the Finals?
R says
Darius : “Plus, Pau just looks ready.”
So true!
I’ve been struck by his hungry demeanor. He reminds me more and more of Walton – no, I don’t mean Luke!
Jim C. says
@Burgandy
Re: Sasha
Yes, yes, YES and more yes!
Sasha is indeed a terrible player that has his moments.
On the other hand, I also think he might be a big benefit if we had him for our current series against the Jazz. As was pointed out in an article a couple of days ago, there isn’t a guy on the Jazz who takes full advantage of the benefits that Ron brings to the table like there was with the Thunder.
Pair that with the Jazz’s willingness, nay, EAGERNESS to have Ron shoot the three and having Sasha playing 2 and having Kobe spending some time at the 3 would be something I wouldn’t mind seeing currently.
Darius says
#2. Though Sasha has been a bit player this season and his minutes have been jerked around, I’d like him back sooner than later. I’m no coach, but if I was running this team I’d want options. Against a team like Utah, Sasha could serve as a defender on a guy like Korver or as an offensive place holder at SG if/when Phil puts Shannon on Deron.
The weakest part of the Lakers bench is its guards and having another option to go to (even if it’s only in a pinch) is a good thing, imo. And to speak to your point about competition, I agree with that sentiment. Not only in regards to Farmar, but for all players. I want someone pushing Jordan and Brown. I want another option to pair in the backcourt with Kobe should any of the other reserves not play well. I want spirited practices with guys battling it out in front of the coaches. That’s how players improve and that’s how you earn minutes.
So, savior? No. And I think we’re all on the same page there. But as another piece/option to turn to? Sure, throw him in the mix and see what we can get out of him. He’s not the best nor most consistent player, but he tries hard and has an established role that he was starting to feel out near the end of the season.
Jim C. says
Darius:
The benefit I see for Sasha, specifically in the current series against the Jazz, is that he could stretch the floor.
Our shooting from three has just been abominable. A halfway decent percentage and we’re talking about two straight blowouts.
The downside to Sasha is that he’s just so damned frustrating at times. He’s a headcase just like Ron, only in an entirely different way. The “I’m going to foul 70 feet from the basket” or the “oh no, it’s been two minutes since I jacked up a shot” or the always frustrating “I always hit the shots in PRACTICE…” way.
jon says
Farmar is just a knuckle-head; a will-full knuckle head at that. Sometimes he makes a play, more often he doesn’t, but the decision is almost always a poor one. Then he likes to compound mistakes, like getting burned on D then running up court and throwing up an ill-advised shot. It’s like he’s thinking, “if i make this shot and it will make up for the previous crappy play.” but make or miss, it never does – especially with 16 left on the shot clock. I don’t doubt he’s got the physical tools to be successful elsewhere, but his “head-game,” or lack there of, doesn’t cut it here.
Craig W. says
This year Sasha has been either injured or playing within the system. Most (not all) of our comments about him relate to last year.
I, also, do not consider him a savior, but another – and different – tool in the guard bag. Farmar is a faster, lighter Fisher with ‘triangle sawdust’ for a brain and no apparent defensive desire – didn’t he play for Ben Howland? (I guess there’s no accounting…)
Against Utah I would prefer a 4 guard rotation of Fisher, Kobe, Brown, Sasha. I might change that against Phoenix, but I would probably retain it against San Antonio.
harold says
I think Sasha, even in his worst form, shot better than 12~26% from 3.
That’s better than what we are doing as a team, so I’d think him returning would be an improvement.
And trust me, we’ll NEED outside shooting in the finals, be it against the Celtics or the Magic or the Cavs, all teams that can hang with our big men.
MannyP13 says
BTW – I saw Rambis sitting next to Jeannie Buss during Game 1 of the Jazz series. Man, Rambis really bleeds purple and gold. Maybe his path and the Laker’s path will again cross in the future.
tsuwm says
I think that even BS realizes his schtick wears thin with the discerning reader. and so, he changes things up a bit, as in today’s column wherein he (mostly) admits to having enjoyed himself at game 2. and I (mostly) enjoyed reading this column.
http://tinyurl.com/26xmvns
Snoopy2006 says
I haven’t been in the last couple game threads so this has probably been mentioned, but has anyone else noticed how much better our fastbreaks look as of late? Ever since Phillip had that post breaking down video of our awful fastbreaks, I’ve noticed better decisions and passes at the right times (especially from Kobe, and occasionally from Shannon). Is “Phillip” Phil Jackson?
22 – I wonder if that irks the Timberwolves, or makes them feel uncomfortable at all? I don’t think he’s doing anything wrong, but some people might get the impression he’s not 100% committed to MN. I disagree with that, obviously, but I just wonder if some people in the MN front office would take it that way.
DirtySanchez says
The bench scored 22 points in game one against Utah, and 21 in game two. I think thats pretty respectable considering the eggs that the bench had been laying during the regular season. Leave rotation as is, the regular season is the time to be earning minutes in practice. If you havent earned the respect of the coaches and players by now I dont think the light is coming on anytime soon.
Ms says
Sooooooooooooo…what about PJ’s stock? With all the mystery surrounding his future I was a little surprised to see no mention in the article or the comments. Or did I just miss it?
I’m long phil like I’m long BRK. Talk about steady, no-nonsense business yielding success. The track records speak for themselves.
Can we expand this to other teams’ players? ‘Cause if so I’m picking up some timmyD. Timmy’s all about the fundamentals and that doesn’t just go away (I wanted to work in a fundamental vs. technical joke, but I just can’t get there).
Sedale says
@22
I hope so.
Chownoir says
@25 DS. Except Sasha did earn his minutes in the reg season. After coming back from his injury and before and after he got into the dog house, he was part of the rotation and often getting the call ahead of Farmar depending on match ups. During the Boston game, he actually was on the floor and was productive before he hurt the shoulder. He was getting the call before Jordan because he was playing in better control than him and doing the little things like boxing out for boards and playing smart D.
Not only that, but I don’t consider what the bench did in both games respectable at all. Barely adequate maybe and that was at home where you expect your role players to do better.
Look, I don’t want to oversell this and say he’s going to be Dfish circa 2001 and rain 3’s as soon as he’s healthy. I too am frustrated by his silly fouls 70 feet from the basket. But I just think he was playing decent before the ankle injury. He had eliminated many of the silly mistakes and rushed shots.
Given the inconsistent PG play by Farmar, what would have happened if Fish had fouled out and Jordan was playing bad? It would have been nice to have Sasha soak up even 3-5 minutes. That’s valuable minutes that Kobe could spend on the bench resting instead of filling in at the PG spot. Because he’s the 3rd PG right now with no Sasha. Someone being able to give even 3-5 minutes of controlled ball is huge in the playoffs when every possesion is so crucial.
Take Jordan’s Game 2 fourth quarter sequence, what if he hadn’t made those mental errors and turnovers in those 3 minutes? Lakers probably don’t lose another few points off the lead and it’s an even easier win and rest.
phineas says
@tsuwm
That was a strange reading experience. It went far beyond admitting he enjoyed Game 2 –it was like reading a love letter. He was practically gushing.
Man, are Celts fans going to be pissed.
Aaron says
Daniel (12),
I guess you didn’t read what I wrote up on Fisher before the series? To sum it up… Fisher has been a huge surprise with his outside shooting these playoffs… so far. Derek getting hot is so much more important now that Artest, the Lakers best 3 point shooter in the regular season (people forget that) has lost his range completely. But lets not go crazy… he has gotten hot for 8 games… is it good timing or simply Derek having one last bullet he saved for his last playoff run? And he still is a traffic cone on defense but you have to give it up to the guy… he is a warrior.
Darius,
Great idea to grade the Lakers players up to this point. And on your assessment from the last thread on Artest’s defense… you couldn’t be more spot on. He should be in the top 3 in the DPOY award voting. I have never seen somebody play defense like Kobe plays offense… he is always in attack mode. There is no defense in RonRon’s defense.
Craig W. says
For anyone – like me – who has sworn not to read a Simmons column…make an exception and use the link at 23).
phineas, boy you have it pegged. The Celtic fans are really going to tar and feather him – and on a night the C’s dumped the Cavs too! Ouch, ouch, and ouch!
kehn says
Bill Simmons wants so badly to be a Laker fan. in fact he is one deep down inside, but has thus far avoided officially acknowledging it, out of fear of what people will say when he comes out to the Boston faithful.
You know as well as I do that he has a life size Kobe poster in his room, complete with purple and gold pom poms.
lil' pau says
re: the article (spoiler alert):
I’d like to think Nicholson actually recognized BS when he was entering the Chairman’s room, quickly took a crap in the toilet, then broke the toilet insuring it wouldn’t flush, then sat just outside the bathroom waiting for BS to emerge in order to (1) enjoy his discomfort and (2) confirm that BS is too much of a wimp to say anything. Go Lakers.
chearn says
Regarding Farmar: Don’t you just wish that the basketball light would come on for Farmar sometime during this playoffs! Either way at the end of this season I envision him on another team.
You just keep hoping that he’ll understand that he’s not at UCLA anymore!
If anyone thought that Kobe was going to go down without a fight, how little do they know him. His mental approach to adversity is remarkable, probably none like him to have ever played this game!
Luke Walton is a triangle NBA player, he knows the offense so well, just watch him moving without the ball in the triangle. That’s how its supposed to be, read and react offense, he’s just not gifted athletically. If those other guys with athleticism would learn the triangle the way that he has the Lakers would actually have a bench.
Kaveh says
You are absolutely correct on a majority of your post. The biggest difference, by far, has been the performance of Kobe. For some reason, Kobe had gone away completely from his old style. Kobe has these spots on the floor, where he dribbles to and just rises for a mid-range jump shot which tends to go in 75% of the time. This aspect of his game was completely gone, replaced with wild and erratic moves with the sole purpose of getting a foul called. Kobe had been removed from the elite class of the NBA and been placed in AVERAGE class. But that has all changed over these last few games. Kobe is back. And with a superstar Kobe, this Lakers team has everything which is needed.
I do disagree with you regarding Fisher, however. No doubt that his play has improved on what it was before. Unfortunately, improvement on garbage puts you at sub-par level. Fisher is still a very below average NBA player. Even in these playoffs, he is BELOW average. It just seems like an incredible performance because, well, it is an improvement over the WORST player in the NBA type of performance we have been used to this year.
Fact: Fisher’s PER in this year’s playoffs: 9.2. Remember now, 15 is the AVERAGE NBA player! Where are Farmar and Brown? 10.8 and 10.4 respectively. Despite this “resurgence” by Fisher, he is still playing below the level of Farmar and Brown.
themonkey says
Off topic*
If you look up the nba first and second defensive team you will see that Ron isn’t even in it, kind of laughable.
VoR says
I read the Simmons article and thought, I guess he’s never moving back to Boston. Though I wish he would.
It has been said before, Farmar needs to play in a different system. I actually think he would be a good back up on a team like Phoenix or NY. On the Lakers he just doesn’t fit what is needed – good D and occasisonal spot up threes.
DirtySanchez says
At the beginning of the season I thought that maybe Farmar would step up his play considering its a contract year. If money cant motivate this dude, Im confused about what really does. Even if he went to a more open style offense, he would not be able to just dominate the ball and forget about his teamates. Maybe a couple of years on a 20 win team will do wonders for his ego.
Craig W. says
I think Farmar believes he is a starter. Therefore, he is going to really chafe in any disciplined system. I also think he feels he is a Steve Nash type of point guard and that, like Steve Nash, he will have to move until he finds a system that fits him. Of course he isn’t the shooter Steve is, but I really don’t expect to see him in Laker colors next year. For this year I think he is usable in very specific situations – and I think Phil also feels this way.
Taylor says
@39
I think the fact the he is in a contract year and “knows” he’s not going to to be returning to the Lakers is the reason he’s playing outside of our system. No other team in the league runs the triangle, so he doesn’t need to showcase his knowledge of that. That’s why I think he likes trying to run PnRs and plays solo-ball. I don’t think this is a bright idea at all, just trying to figure out what he’s thinking. If I were another coach, I would see his inability to play how PJ is asking, not his ability to run his own game (lacking there too).
I think he’s playing for himself and trying to play for a contract with another team…but doing it in a very misguided manner. I think money IS what is motivating him to play like this.
Jaybird says
OT and getting ahead of myself but who do we match up better against – los suns or los spurs? I can’t decide who to root for other than whoever is down (the spurs now) so the series goes for a while.
ray says
kaveh, you really think farmar is playing better than fisher in the post season? seriously?
40%+ shooting is a great statistic for a wing player.
Josh says
The BS article is fantastic- the Jack Nicholson anecdote at the end is priceless.
This brings to mind a philosophical conundrum I’m sure we’re all dealing with…
Is it ok to want the Celtics to beat the Cavs and Magic if it means the Lakers get the opportunity to take revenge for 08? I feel sort of dirty…but I want to see that series avenged. I want to see Artest check Pierce. I want to see Gasol and Bynum put the hurt on Garnett and Perkins. I want to see Odom flush one on Garnett and do the Odom dance back up the court. I want to see Kobe, shoulders squared, raised in the air, dropping a beautiful J in Ray Allen’s face…
And I want to see Lebron go ringless and Shaq go home, knowing that Kobe has the chance to get #5 before he does…
sT says
I like this stock post, great idea. It is to bad Artest did not make a defensive team this season, his play, game to game has been great, and he has single handedly won us some games with his defense and attitude. Fisher’s game came around at just the right time this year, the second season, good timing Fish.
Anonymous says
Very well done and I have to agree with all/ Except Ammo who’s stock is way up due to his major cheerleading and being the 1st one off the bench to slap hands.
I like the whole stock consept.
Aaron says
Kaveh,
I love your point on Fisher… and as you know I would be the first to bring up the realities of Derek’s deficiencies. Having said that…. although his PER is less than those of Brown and Farmar some of that can be explained by the fact that Brown and Farmar carry more of the load when in the game with the 2nd unit as opposed to Fisher’s role of spot up shooting with the starting squad. But yes… people are thinking Fisher is playing better than he is mostly because they are comparing his playoff performances of the last 8 games to the embarrassment that was his regular season tour de farce. But it could be worse.
Justin N. says
I think a lot of people don’t understand what Darius is doing here. He’s grading the Lakers based on their performance now compared to earlier in the season.
In that case, Fisher’s stock is WAY WAY up. Not only is he knocking down shots but his overall shot selection is much better.
sperm whale says
darius,
just an observation, take it as you will: you have this writing tic where you describe something by negating an exaggeration or a straw-man. i find it really annoying and i know i’m not the only one. i suspect that you write this way because you want to come across as a reasonable fan, which is fine. and i generally like your content; i just don’t like the way you often express yourself.
for example: bynum? all-star? no.
or in the comments you had something like: sasha a savior? no.
if you read this, please don’t respond with “am i hemingway? no.” or some variation of that.
John Morris says
Sasha needs to go. Bottom line. I don’t care if he’s had inconsistent playing time. There’s another guy that gets that named Josh Powell who almost always brings something, if not positive, at least stable to the floor. The Lakers are paying a guy as much as some starters make in the NBA to sit at the end of the bench. He hasn’t contributed all season and I want him gone.
As far as the team we see on the floor. I am so pleased. Pau is so efficient on offense right now and that 15 footer he’s starting to make will force the defense out on him. This will make it easier for Bynum to score when they are on the floor together.
Craig W. says
Taylor,
Farmar may be in a contract year, but his performance in the triangle has been going downhill for the last 2 years. I was a really big fan of Farmar in the beginning, but I started to turn last year and I see further degradation this year. He is fighting the system, not trying to find his place in it. For this reason I don’t put this down to a contract year issue.
Perhaps he is just a 2 year guy. He was with Ben Howland for 2yrs and left; he was improving with the Lakers for 2yrs, then downhill for 2yrs – most likely leaving.
Zephid says
49, I would agree with you, if it weren’t actual commenters who bring up most of those “straw men” arguments that Darius knocks down.
Jane says
@49
I highly doubt that Darius needs any kind of defender, but this is his blog and he has the right to write anything he wants in any way he wants. As has been often stated here, there are plenty of other blogs out there for those who don’t like it. I understand you were just expressing your opinion, but that kind of criticism (a writing tic, really?) really isn’t necessary in a public forum. Send the guy an email.
Buttas says
The BS article was classic. I know that he gets very little love here, but that was def. one of his best.
I think that we should appreciate that Fish is showing up when it matters most, and that he has seemingly found his stroke from beyond the arc. Let’s hope that he keeps it up!
10 to go…
Darius says
Spermwhale,
Who is this Hemingway person? Does he write good?
Since you said I can take your observation any way I want, I’ll take it as a compliment that despite only “generally liking” the content and being “really annoyed” by my writing that you still visit, read, and comment. Thanks for the support.
Buttas says
Classy response as always Darius…
Anders says
@ Kaveh and others bashing Fish. I get the point about the PER (still rurprisingly low), but my impression from watching the games is very different.
I really think Fish provides that shooting threat and veteran proves the team needs. He has been solid when attacking the basket, he has knocked down a great clip of threes… and, he is filling in the gaps in the triangle.
His defense is limited, though smart at times. But otherwise, I do not wish for more from our PG (since we are SO loaded on the other positions).
tsuwm says
I was browsing at my corner library a couple weeks ago and stumbled upon (one could literally do that) BS’s epic basketball tome (The Book of Basketball, 736p) his style doesn’t work too well in epic tome form; I grew quickly annoyed.
Simonoid says
sperm/Darius:
Actually, the person who does that the most is probably Dwyer over at BDL. I don’t think Darius’ writing reminds me of that…
inwit says
700 hundred pages of Simmons is like watching an Andy Rooney marathon.
tsuwm says
inwit.. perzactly!
Chownoir says
Simmons is like cotton candy. It’s light, fluffy and in small doses can be fun in the right situations. In the wrong context or large amounts it’s kind of sickening.
Anyone noticing how well Grant Hill has been playing in playoffs so far? He’s been a solid contributor. Great blend of veteran savvy, hustle and physical skills. He’s still got some athleticism after all the injuries and age.
Funny how things twist and change. I vaguely remember Lakers courting him after his Orlando stint in 06. Thought he’d be a great fit in the triangle and with Kobe. Supposedly Hill was intrigued but decided to sign with Phx for less money because they were a championship contender.
If Lakers meet Suns in WCF, hope his play doesn’t bite Lakers in the behind.
flip says
Re: Rambis at game 1. He was there with Kevin Love and another Wolves player whose name escapes me. They were sitting with Jeanie Buss, who usually sits 2 rows up from courtside, directly across from PJ. Rambis’ wife is close to Jeanie. Did anyone catch Popovich at his post game conference last night? Man, he was brutal towards the reporters. I know he’s an ornery dude, but he was just slicing and dicing.
81 Witness says
Burgundy’s analysis of Farmar is spot on. Farmar knows the system, knows his role in the triangle, but is too stubborn to play within his role.
In high school and in college, he’s had his way, but not in the pros. He would be a great off the bench guy in NY and/or in Sac.
Zephid says
62, to quote Charles Barkley, Grant Hill has found the Hot Tub Time Machine and gone back to 1997.
Clean Cut Media says
I agree with one of the above posters in that most comments here about Sasha is based on last season. This season when Sasha has played he has displayed a much better sense of control, picking his shots within the system, and has become a much better passer. He still isn’t where we want him to be – but did you see farmar play the last few games?…. having sasha around (assuming he gets into playing form) would be a great addition to this team. We would benefit from his 3pt shooting, defense and better team play.
I also second fisher’s awesomeness. I think farmars tendency to play out of system and take too many shots and drives has made my appreciation for fisher grow even more. Slow, steady, gets the job done.
Anonymous says
If anything, the fact that both brown and farmar have a higher (per) than fisher, in my opinion, discredits the feeble foundation where this system stands.
Wondahbap says
Haha. I see Simmons getting some love today. I enjoyed the article too, but tread lightly. A “favorable” post towards Lakers or their fans is always followed by a post or comments completely bashing them. Then you all will hate him again. Yo-yo.
Me? I have a love/hate feeling towards him. I enjoy reading his stuff, And listening to his podcasts, but also he’s a bandwagoner and wrong a lot. No matter the team. Even his favorites. But once in a while he’ll hit something on the head and make you chuckle, then remember what made him popular in the first place.