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Closing a team out is always difficult. This is especially true on the road, where desperation and the opponent’s home crowd can give a team that extra boost to survive to fight another day. And understand that the Jazz are not going to roll over now – not with their season on the line. Sure, after a difficult game 3 loss, their spirits are likely cracked but they’re surely not yet broken. So it’s now the Lakers job to finish them off and twist the knife. Do they have it in them? Tonight we find out.
The X’s and O’s are clearly established at this point, but it will be interesting to see if the Lakers can make any adjustments to better get the ball inside. Despite the Jazz losing game 3, that was the closest game of the bunch and the Lakers needed standout shooting performances from both Artest and Fisher to keep the game close and ultimately win. You would think that the Jazz are content to make the Lakers “shooters” prove again that they are capable of hitting from the outside while continuing their effort to limit the Lakers’ bigs. So, can the Lakers figure out a way to beat the sagging and doubling Jazz D to better take advantage of Gasol and Bynum on the inside?
In order to accomplish this, I hope to see quicker and more decisive ball movement from the Lakers – especially in reversing the ball. The Lakers wings can’t settle for the outside shot simply because they were effective from deep in the last game. Instead, if their defender is sagging down and taking away the entry pass, they should be aggressive with the ball and look to change the balance of the floor in order to get the Jazz defense moving from side to side. This motion will free up the weak side and hopefully create easier post entries to the backside big man.
I’d also like to see the Lakers penetrate more against this sagging defense. Much like in the series against OKC, the Lakers need to discover that the 3 feet of room that the defender is giving is also space that can be gobbled up off the dribble. And by (intelligently) penetrating into the defense, the other Jazz defenders will be forced to help or give up a lane all the way to the basket. We’ve already seen how a lack of respect for the Jazz shot blocking has influenced the Lakers (especially Kobe’s) drives to the hoop. This is a technique that should be continued tonight to make the Jazz choose if they want to stay glued to the Gasol/Bynum or help on penetration.
From a defensive standpoint, the Lakers must improve on their game 3 performance if they expect to win. Though the Lakers only surrendered 22 first quarter points, they gave up 88 over the final three periods and that is entirely too many. I understand the shootout nature of the game fueled some of the Lakers relaxed D. However, better recognition on the P&R and on the off-ball screen actions will be needed from our guys tonight. I mean how many times did Boozer find himself wide open on dives to the rim after setting that screen for Korver at the weak side elbow? How many other times did the interior passing of the Jazz completely break down the Lakers defense in the paint? Tightening up how the Lakers play that action and how they recover to Boozer/Milsap/AK47 in the paint will be important to the overall success of the defense. And since I mentioned Korver, marking him more closely should be another point of emphasis. I don’t think anyone (even Korver) expects a repeat of the blazing shooting performance that Kyle put together in the last game. However, marking him better when running off screens and not getting caught watching the ball on the strong side will be important in not giving him the space that he needs to get his shots off (I’m looking at you Shannon and Ron).
Lastly, I really would like to see a better effort on the defensive glass. In the first three games the Lakers have surrendered 13, 19, and 11 offensive rebounds respectively. I’d like to see that number drop to single digits tonight. By keeping the Jazz off the offensive glass the Lakers can get out and run the ball back and force them to play more transition D against Kobe and our hustling bigs. This isn’t something the Jazz excel at and will ultimately cause them problems that they won’t be able to overcome.
On the other side of the bracket, the Lakers already know that Phoenix has advanced and so the opponent in the next round is already set. But the Lakers can’t let this distract them or allow their minds to wander to the next round. The only thing that should be on the Lakers’ collective minds is getting that sweep. And as with closing out OKC, this game will come down to focus and effort. The Lakers have proven that they have enough diversity in their game plan to beat the Jazz with an inside oriented attack as well as by working primarily from the perimeter. So the Lakers must stick to their plans, make the proper adjustments to ensure that they are not so reliant on the outside shot, and then follow through and play hard for the entire contest. If they can do these things they’ll be able to break out the brooms. But if they allow the Jazz to dictate the terms of this game, this series will be needlessly extended.
Warren says
This is for me!
Craig W. says
Welcome Warren,
Now go back to bed.
Mimsy says
For Warren!!
Mimsy says
Heh, that’s funny! I didn’t see your posts before I made my comment.
Now we have double Warren mojo! 🙂
MannyP13 says
Let’s go Lakers. Let’s put a nail on the Jazz coffin tonight! Do it for the classless and *allegedly* racist comments the crowd used on Fish. Do it for Kobe’s knees. Do it for RonRon’s shoulder. Do it for Warren.
Zephid says
Hate to be the turd in the toilet, but #1 is a fake Warren.
Mimsy says
Well, now we know whose fault it will be if we lose….
tsuwm says
oh no! what if he comes back for games 5, 6, and 7?!
*<8^)
Joel B. says
1. some poser trying to jinx the Lakers, won’t happened. Warren normally puts his full name right?
The Lakers just can’t look ahead to Phoenix. The Jazz are going to try to make it a shoot out like last game. It was nice to see the Lakers beat them at their own game and look like the offensive juggernaut they were the last two years, but they are a different team this year. The lakers are a much more defensive oriented team and their best bet tonight is to execute on the offensive end in order to get their defense set and make this a half court game as much as possible.
Key player to me is Lamar. Lamar usually has big games against the Jazz and he’s been decent so far, but I hope he can carry over his clutch performance and make an impact from the start. That means cleaning up the offensive boards when Kobe is the game, be aggressive and look to score when he’s with the second unit and dominate the defensive glass. I predicting 14, 12 and 3 assist from Odom tonight. If he can be effective from the start, he can take the pressure off of Bynum to produce big and play a lot of minutes.
Funky Chicken says
Darius makes excellent points, and what tonight offers is the chance to both close out this series AND prepare for the next one.
The undersized Suns are likely to model their defense strategy after the Jazz game 3 approach. The Lakers would do well to learn and employ a game plan to attack that style of defense in a way besides launching 29 three pointers. Worked great last game, but we’re not going to win 4 games against the Suns with outside shooting.
So, make the adjustments, swing the ball with a purpose and attack off the dribble. If they do so, they’ll sweep the Jazz and be nice and ready to attack the Suns in game 1.
Burgundy says
I feel like the key to tonight’s game is to get the bigs going (and that doesn’t necessarily mean “scoring,” just involved), which I realize is trite, but that doesn’t make it less true.
Game 3 was exciting and wonderful, but ultimately, it was an aberration. When have the Lakers ever shot the 3 ball that well in a game? They were on fire, and they won by 1 point.
They lived by the 3, but more often than not, you die by the three.
The Lakers made an excellent adjustment in the OKC series with their bigs (receiving the ball at the pinch post, rather than on the block), and they need to go back to that.
The Jazz made a really simple adjustment in Game 3 – doubling the bigs on the block on the catch.
The Lakers were just taking the path of least resistance by shooting the open three when the ball got kicked out.
The counter is actually much simpler (and more effective): CUTTERS.
The Jazz don’t have Ibaka and Durant protecting the rim.
As soon as the pass goes into the post, an off-ball Laker cuts to the rim. This action results in one of two things happening:
1) A quick pass to the cutter and an open layup (Kobe hit the cutters in Game 2 when the Jazz doubled him in the post with great success – Gasol just needs to do the same thing).
2) The Jazz defender who was going to double the post player has to hedge on the cutter, leaving the Laker post player (Gasol or Bynum) room to operate and get their shot.
That’s how the Lakers beat the Thunder, and Thunder are an excellent defensive team with great shot blockers.
The Jazz are no where near the Thunder in terms of defense.
Tra says
Time to break out the Janitorial Equipment. Even though we already know what’s ahead for us in the WCF, we’re too experienced of a team to be caught looking ahead. No excuses. When there’s blood in the water, it’s only right to go for the kill. Lets make this the 4th straight series (dating back to last year) in which we close out on the opponents home court. Silence their Racist fans (acknowledging Fisher as “boy”). Wow! That’s the equivalent of being called “A N…..”. And basically reassemble the Jazz because I do not believe that Boozer will be back next year. I believe 2night Kobe will show Utah (up close & personal) why he’s considered the best closer in the game. LETS GET IT!
Snoopy2006 says
Jerry Sloan calls Kobe “Miss America.” Interesting strategic choice.
I’ll be curious to see if Kobe comes out in Mamba mode to go for the jugular, or if he’ll defer so that the team can establish Drew much earlier this game. Should be a fun one tonight.
BJ says
OOOOOOOOoooo….the President wore a Laker Purple tie today! Hmmm…Bulls are gone, and we now know his 2nd favorite team! Haha…GO LAKERS!!!
wil says
Our game will start on time again, thanks ATL “no heart” hawks.
han says
agree w/ darius’ points as always.
the jazz are a foul-prone (foul-y? foulful? foul-ified?) team, yet in game 3 we out-fouled them 25-21 and they ended up getting 31 FTs to our 19. would love to see penetration / interior passing like we had in game 5 against OKC, to balance this out some more.
MannyP13 says
Folks.. I was the Warren impostor. Just trying to give us some luck… not trying to jinx. I was also trying to be funny – but clearly that failed. My bad.
Sedale says
Does anyone have any news on Bynum? Last I heard he didn’t practice yesterday (I think) and was receiving treatment. I assume he’s a go, but I didn’t realize a “small” tear in a meniscus could actually receive treatment aside from surgery and/or rest.
Mimsy says
@Manny
You realize we’re still going to blame you if we lose, right? 🙂
I’m looking forward to see what Fisher will do, actually. He always plays well in Utah.
3ThreeIII says
Sedale, there are very few injuries that don’t benefit from ice and hydrotherapy, at the very least…
Add in massage, and rest, and maybe we will see a Bynum who is back on track, or at least more energized.
Go Lakers!
3ThreeIII says
Re: The Orlando – Atlanta “game”…
Not sure how much of it is how great Orlando is versus how horrible the Hawks are, but damn… the Magic look unstoppable at the moment.
Great spacing, great ball movement, stunningly good shooting and tough defense.
Hopefully the long rest they are about to earn won’t throw off their rhythm. I would love to see a rematch.
Craig W. says
When we talk about an Orlando – Laker finals we are getting ahead of ourselves. Let’s not jinx ourselves against an improving and very good Phoenix team.
Mimsy says
Lakers.com BasketBlog says Phil hinted that Sasha may be back in the next game. Not tonight, but either in Game 5 against the Jazz or in the series against the Suns.
He’s not my favorite, but I know a lot of people here like him, so I thought I’d share it. (Link.)
sperm whale says
22,
Yes. And how about that Phoenix bench. Some fantastic role-players.
Gabriel R. says
Orlando looking unstoppable is possibly this year’s version of the way Cleveland just blew threw their opponents and looked unstoppable too until they were defeated.
Well….Orlando and Cleveland swapped roles, but neither mattered because the Lakers won the title last year.
Hopefully the Lakers repeat that trend.
That’s the only point that really matters to me. 😉
Bye.
tsig says
I actually find myself rooting for the leprechauns for the finals showdown. I picture sweet vengeance for our next two series, we owe beatdowns to both PHO and BOS.
Rondo is really turning into the franchise guy, found myself daydreaming about him running alongside KB24 next year…
Mimsy says
And I now leave you to go watch the game… see you in half time! 🙂
Taylor says
It will be really interesting to see the Magic next series. Regardless of who it is, don’t expect a game of 20+ points anymore. That will be the true test to what they have gained thus far in the playoffs.
Me? I’d much rather have played (and beat) OKC in the first round than have had the first two rounds the Magic have. Playoff skin. Earn it.
thisisweaksauce says
Links anyone?
Glove says
Go Lakers, get the sweep and the extra rest that will come with the win tonight.
Jaybird says
Anyone else been seeing some similarities between Boozer and Odom in this series? They both seem to not be totally locked in or focused at times. Both are capable of playing at a higher level than they’ve shown, so I’m curious to see if either of them show up tonight.
Mark says
I am offended really that Williams is guarding Kobe.
Ashok says
I don’t like how Boozer is making that jump shot. Pau has the length to block low-post shots and I was hoping forcing him to take jump shots would be good.
Ashok says
Too many points in the paint by Deron…
harold says
Well, Artest and Fisher seem to have their bio rhythm in sync.
Not a good thing… at least not yet.
Mark says
Last thing we need is a tentative Bynum. Use your length young fella! Offense and Defense are missin’! A tentative Bynum is worse than a no-Bynum. Play hard or go to that bench.
Ashok says
They need to get their 3-point shot going. Seems to me like, if this Laker defense continues, the Jazz will hoist up a lot of 3s.
ken says
Andrew is playing weak again. When is he going to start playing like a man?
han says
matthews getting corner 3 looks with jazz’s extra pass. 1-3.
lakergirl says
38. As soon as you give him your knees
Tyler says
On that Williams reverse layup Bynum felt the need to stay glued to Fesenko instead of contesting the layup. Not sure what was going through his head.
Ashok says
Jazz have “never been swept in a 7-game series”. Wow, thats ridiculous!
Looks like Lamar is in already.
AusPhil says
In the penalty with 4.30 left. I like that. And zero fouls committed.
Jaybird says
33 Ashok, that’s what made Stoudemire so difficult for the Spurs to guard last night.
han says
korver’s in, ron!
Ashok says
44. Very true.
One more foul on Jazz for the bonus!!
han says
since AK’s not really looking to score, should we put LO on korver once in awhile?
Ashok says
47. AK will probably just shoot over Ron in the post and Lamar guarding Korver in the perimeter will be out of position for rebounding.
Tyler says
Marv: The Lakers have no one who can really stop Williams.
Reggie: Speed kills.
Marv: Gasol has been unstoppable here early.
Reggie: SIze kills.
Classic
sT says
Pau Gasol will carry the Lakers tonight it appears. Fine with me, bye the way.
EDIT: ShanWOW takes it to the hole…
Mark says
I guess this one’s over. WOW-pow already done!
Ashok says
So far so good, doesn’t feel like Jazz are doing anything noticeably different. Lakers need to keep up their swagger for the rest of the game. Lamar in foul trouble means Luke will play more I suppose.
Jaybird says
Kobe and Pau are a combined 9/11 from the floor. Me likey!
Shan with some WOW to close the quarter.
Taylor says
Correct me if I’m wrong, this has the feel of Game 1…sort of unappealing, I’m sitting surfing the internet, half-interested…
Ashok says
The Jazz seem very vulnerable right now… Lakers ought to push the lead to 15 soon.
james says
bynums knees looking not so great
Zephid says
C’mon Boozer, say it! Say it! I wanna hear me a “GOD DAMN!”
AusPhil says
Should it worry me that Shannon’s taken as many shots as Kobe, in 1/3 of the minutes?
Mark says
Atta boy Bynum! That’s how you play!
Mark says
58, AusPhil
I’d take what he shot today anytime, the shots are rimmin’ out, can’t blame the kid.
Ashok says
As long as Drew’s meniscus doesn’t tear anymore, I am fine with his production for now. Also, Shannon should drive more on 1 on 1 opportunities (not settle for jumper).
AusPhil says
#60 Mark – Thanks for the insight. At work watching on GameCast doesn’t exactly give me a feel for the flow of the game! Obviously if he’s in the offense, he should take them when they’re there.
sT says
Shannon needs to stop shooting J’s and ‘settle’ for taking it to the hole the rest of the night.
Mark says
63, sT
Amen! He’s dunkin’ perfect tonight!
Zephid says
Odom has dribbled to his right twice this game. Something weird is going on.
Ashok says
Lakers got the momentum going and Jazz look flat!! Keep it up LA!
Tyler says
Shannon changed his facial expresson! First time in 2 season.
AusPhil says
Zephid, I hope you’re not trying to suggest that LO finally “gets it”?!?
But seriously, good to see the team firing tonight. This is the kind of game where a statement can be made (and rest can be earned).
Ashok says
65. Still used the left hand though!
Mark says
Karma’s a bitch, Jazz fans!
james says
farmar and brown running offense and making smart desicions, am i dreaming?
Zephid says
68, baby steps, baby steps.
Ashok says
Pau for 3, that was interesting 😀
Glove says
WOW Fisher with the strong layup
magic days says
what is going on? gasol shoots a 3 and then fish drives into a crowd and makes his layup? the jazz are doomed.
Mark says
Ok, it’s not yet the end. Stop bitchin’ around!
james says
OH GASOL WITH THE DREAM SHAKE
sT says
Yeah Zephid, I want a sweep more than ever now, you reap what you sow, right?
pep007 says
If Gasol keep this level is Final s time all over again¡¡¡
Ashok says
Lakers have 1 turnover in the game and the Jazz have scored 10 with 2:25 left in the second! Lakers seem unstoppable but they can’t forget that what they gain in one half, they could lose in another.
ken says
So now you see what happens Utah fans when you rip our Fisher King. As Shaq would say “taste my Kobe”.
Love it! Classless fans should start booing Booooooooooooozer.
mikeinchitown says
wow, these playoffs are gasol’s coming out party.
next year’s all stars lineup: tim duncan out, pau gasol in. he’s showcasing the entire package.
Zephid says
wow, Gasol with the Kobe-esque rip through.
Mark says
83,
Zephid
Correct me if I’m wrong, but is that Kobe’s original? Because as I can remember, I saw it first used by him.
Josh says
This is exactly what I hoped would be happening after reading some of the stuff geared at Fisher on one of the Jazz forums.
No ill will toward the Jazz players, but I want the Jazz fans to be embarrassed.
Mimsy says
Half-time observations:
Ron can still shoot the 3! Give him the ball and give him some space.
Fisher is the King. You’d think the Utah fans would have put two and two together by now… the more they heckle and boo him, the more he produces.
Pau is a beast down low. On both ends, just a beast.
Kobe is Kobe. No more needs to be said.
GO LAKERS!!!!
Taylor says
We have had trouble holding leads like this before, though for some reason, I have no faith in a Jazz comeback. When the spirit has died, the body will not be far behind. It’s great to see us come out tonight and perform. I really would have put it at even odds that we boot tonight’s game and finish it off Game 5. It’s more than a win tonight; it’s a really good mindset.
Is there anything interesting to talk about? ; )
Darius, if this isn’t allowed, pull it…how much does the new SCOTUS (Supreme Court) nominee look like Kevin James??..Like seriously?!
Bobji says
Great half.
Keep up the level of intensity because Utah can still make this interesting.
What was up with the “Fish” “Lied” shirts…? are they referring to his statement regarding the “infamous OKC wafflehouse brawl” or about the fact his kid has eye cancer?
and i’m just curious, does anybody else have poor audio on TNT? I basically just get the sounds of the crowd with the commentary as background noise (not such a bad thing really).
Mimsy says
@Bobji
I’m so glad you have that problem! I was starting to think my piteously expensive HDTV was about to fail on me!
Zephid says
84, I have no clue. I don’t remember seeing it in the 90s, mostly because they probably wouldn’t have called it. It’s probably either Kobe or Richard Hamilton, who are the two oldest guys who use it.
Mark says
Well, they should name that move! Many players are now using it!
Tra says
Lets Keep Attacking In The 2nd Half. No Let Up. And To Use An Old Quote From Kobe In The 2001 Finals: “We’re Going To Cut Out Their Hearts.”
Darius says
At the half, the Lakers offensive efficiency is 126.1 and the Jazz is at 89.1.
Utah just looks sunk and are playing with no fire. Their double teams are soft – likely the result of games 3’s made jumpers. Pau’s offensive game looks as refined as ever and everyone of the players looks locked in. I couldn’t have hoped for a better performance in a closeout game.
Ashok says
I wonder how the Jazz are going to come out… Deron is probably going to look to run and get th crowd involved.
LostJello says
I bet a million jillion dollars right now the Lakers do something to make this (needlessly) interesting.
Ashok says
95. I wish I could disagree 🙁
mikeinchitown says
@88.
pretty sure that is the cancer reference. sure most of you saw the yahoo article where the fan covered his left eye in reference to fisher’s daughter.
human trash.
ken says
Taylor I thought the same thing. Which is mean to Kevin James.
harold says
At least Deron’s still balling.
If Boozer had half Deron’s heart, this would be a scary team.
Zephid says
Howsabout we stop taking jump shots and get something going inside.
Ashok says
Uh oh, momentum switching sides…
Mark says
Make this game interesting!
harold says
Tonight KF is on a roll; too bad the rest of the Jazz aren’t there with him.
Gamecast-wise, looks like we’re being a bit sloppy and Kobe is getting impatient…
what’s the actual game like?
ken says
This game is going to get real ruff
james says
remember about defense guys?
Ashok says
Aww man… Lakers need to stop the drive and get the energy back! Jazz have been forcing Kobe is shoot so Lakers also need to slow the game down on both sides.
e. joel says
a bit too much kobe this 3rd qtr so far
he and gasol missed a couple of easy ones too
ken says
well looks like Fisher is back to clunking.
Guess he needs the game to be closer.
Which the Lakers are trying to do with bad shot selection.
BH says
This has happened with this Laker team for years. Only 2 major common factors: Kobe and Phil. So which one is to blame, because at this point it has to be one of them.
Taylor says
“Jazz are right back in it” Marv?
It’s a 10-pt game. They’re closer, they’re not in it. This game is not in contention. From where I’m sitting, if the Lakers want, this game is done.
Burgundy says
Kobe’s need to single-handedly destroy the Jazz is overwhelming the whole Laker offense.
They’re totally discombobulated.
AusPhil says
Well, those of you who wanted it to get interesting certainly have their wish granted.
Mohan says
Why is Kobe so interested in going away from what works?
harold says
A couple TOs and now the Jazz are back.
Can’t let them smell hope, will make it a lot tougher on ourselves.
are they covering Kobe one-on-one? he’s shooting afwul often…
LostJello says
How many zeroes does a jillion have.
Dick Barnett says
Jazz look like they’re gonna catch em.
Lakers get too complacent. Don’t have the killer instinct.
Danny says
Trust the Lakers to give up a lead.
Zephid says
lol Fisher, pump fake and you get two foul shots.
james says
how on earth fish didnt see that coming i dont know
sT says
This is an elimination game for the Jazz, I was not be surprised with the way they came out after the half. I was surprised by the Lakers falling apart, but I guess I should not be, huh?
ken says
Does Fisher think he is taller then he is?
Taylor says
That WAS body contact though before the block…
Jazz fans feel vindicated now?
How ’bout them brooms?
3ThreeIII says
Wait…. that wasn’t a foul?
Miles was NOT called for a foul against Fisher just then?
What the!?!
NBA Referees are an absolute travesty.
(I wonder which Jazz player Fisher is going to “Scola”?)
Josh says
It’s not Kobe’s fault- he’s being aggressive and making some good plays. There’s been some unnecessary turnovers and a distinct drop-off in defensive intensity.
Still don’t see the Lakers throwing this game away, though.
Josh says
OOOODOOOOM!!!
Ashok says
Keep it up Lakers!! Game is getting testy…
Danny says
(I wonder which Jazz player Fisher is going to “Scola”?)
My money’s on Fesenko.
sT says
This game is getting physical…
Dex says
God be praised
Zephid says
127, I’d say Matt Harpring, oh wait…
ken says
Things appear to back to normal in the game.
Also the world.
Ron 2 for 8
Fisher 2 for 7
Taylor says
Poor Fesenko…after that “heave” he doesn’t deserve to be “Scola-ed”
Poor kid
Bobji says
Definitely body contact on that fisher layup…
but hey give the dogs a bone here. Zealous Utah fans can and probably will cheer about that block till the cows come home and Lakers fans can cheer about winning the game, that’s cool with me.
GO LAKERS!
Danny says
Looks like a good end to the quarter.
harold says
ken, I’m glad their shooting percentages are down; that way we may have them get hot once more sometime later 😉
this game, barring our trademark bench performance, seems to be taken care of.
now, the next opponent – absence of games!
Glove says
Looks like the Lakers survived the Jazz’s last run. Please do not sit Kobe or Gasol to start the 4th Q
Danny says
I’m still nervous though.
ken says
Does Sloan sound a little on the sloooow side?
Zephid says
Man, Fisher really wants to bury the Jazz.
harold says
Fisher makes a 3 pter (Bynum assists).
maybe the world isn’t going back to normal after all.
ken says
There is good Fish and there is bad Fish. just like my 5 year old son.
Good Fish is here.
No more excuses. Bynam is a 5th year rookie and just dosen’t get it.
Zephid says
three stupid plays by Shannon Brown consecutively. Pick up his dribble after crossing mid-court, pass to Fisher which goes into the backcourt, then waltzing back down the court hoping for a block which Williams easily evades and turns into an And1.
magic days says
Fish does good with his 3 FTs and then Shannon returns it with his and 1 on Deron.
harold says
Bynum picking up his 5th.
I guess this game just has to become interesting.
Ashok says
144. At least Pau comes in…
Dick Barnett says
The Jazz are not going to give this game to the Lakers. If they want it they better go get it!
3ThreeIII says
Kobe time!
I think he is simply going to drive and get to the line whenever the Jazz get within 10 points.
Love the way Kobe is playing this series.
Bynum has played well this game. He has 2 blocks, is boxing out, has made his fouls count (unlike Brown and that gift “and 1” for Williams), and he is altering shots.
His detractors spent the whole season bemoaning his “Offense first” and “Defense only if he is scoring” mentality, and now that he IS playing good defense, that is not enough, where is the offense?
*sighs*
Burgundy says
Phil pulled Shannon right away, which was smart. Shannon had just started a one man melt-down.
Ashok says
Kobe getting hammered out there and, judging by the game history, it is only going to get worse. In other words, the closer the Jazz get, the more gritty and ugly this game will get.
Tra says
@146 Dick Barnett: Agreed.
ken says
Man does Jack from Jack in the box have a hot wife.
Ashok says
148. Shannon back and a 3!!
Taylor says
It looks like Kobe will break the 30+pt mark tonight for the fifth straight game.
If we sweep this series, it will mean we’ve won 5 straight…
Just sayin.
james says
152. 6 straight
Taylor says
Wins – 6…yes, you’re right.
We’re seeing an angry, focused, dedicated Gasol…and it is glorious.
Zephid says
Championship-level flop by Fisher right there.
sT says
Fisher sold that foul, that is what he brings to this team, verteran stuff like that.
Ashok says
No Kobe right now with 4:26 left? He has played a lot and I guess Lakers are in good shape right now…
Pau doin’ work!
MannyP13 says
4 minutes left… time to manage the clock and slow the game down.
Gemmy says
wow, did gasol just shoot the technical FT?
AusPhil says
I’d have to say that I am quite happy with the team FT shooting this series. Much improved on the regular season. I don’t have numbers to back that up, but it certainly feels improved.
Tra says
IT’S A WRAP!
Ashok says
WHOO… glad that is over. Lakers need to recover for the series against the Suns. 6-8 days off until Game 1.
GO LAKERS!!
Josh says
This is Glorious. Pau and Kobe beasting.
sT says
“The game’s in the refrigerator. The door’s closed, the light’s out, the eggs are cooling, the butter’s getting hard, and the Jell-O’s jiggling.” – Chick Hearn
MannyP13 says
….. and the jello is jiggling!
Dick Barnett says
Game over man, game over…now whatta we gonna do? We’re in some pretty bad s… now man!
==================
Time to get ready for the Western Conference Finals.
Will the Lakers beat the Suns?
Can the Lakers beat the Suns?
Kenny says
I love it when Kobe was on the Bench.
That’s the only time Gasol gets to score the ball in the 4th quarter…and when the lakers finally pulled away.
Then Kobe came back…started to go Kobe-iso mode again…..Can’t believe he’s still immature like that.
Burgundy says
Wow. Great games from Kobe and Pau, but Shannon totally redeemed himself. Those back to back threes in the fourth broke Utah’s back.
Ashok says
168. Its also because of the Jazz’s defensive adjustments when Kobe is on the court. Pau is clearly the 1st option on offense with Kobe out.
harold says
This year’s playoffs has a symmetry that’s quite odd and intriguing.
we’ve got 3 sweeps among the 4 that will be in the semi finals now…
so if (when) we do get this sweep, when’s our next game? both us and the suns need rest, yes, but wow, are we going to have to wait until Cleveland and Boston duke it out?
MannyP13 says
Ammo time is coming up.. I can feel it. I want a five consisting of Mbenga, Morrison, Sasha (in street clothes), Brian Shaw and Smush Parker to close this game out….
Dick Barnett says
sT wrote on May 10, 2010 at 10:05 pm
Fisher sold that foul, that is what he brings to this team, verteran stuff like that.
================
Exactly, and that is why, even with all his problems with defense, and offense, he is the kind of player you have to have to win it all.
It’s called moxie, and the Fish has it in spades.
J M says
Maybe the Jazz should have played Gaines more.
harold says
I know that the game’s all wrapped up and all, but…
our bench is horrible.
Taylor says
Maybe not if he shoots FTs like that!
Ashok says
My new nickname for Gaines is “Bron-beater”, haha. Anyway, rest up LA for the mysterious Suns.
I honestly can’t place my finger on how good that team actually is…
Glove says
Lakers sweep, up next Phoenix Suns. Half way to the repeat
Zephid says
Remember the OKC crowd that cheered their players off the court when their team got eliminated? Listen to the Utah fans booing at the end. Utterly, classless. I don’t remember losing more respect for a fan-base in a single series before this.
ken says
Great game by Kobe and Pau.
Andrew is a 2nd team player and should not start aganist the Suns.
Potential can only woek for so long.
Mimsy says
We won. I am happy. This is a good night. 🙂
And yes Zephid I do remember. And I fully agree.
J M says
When Sloan and PJ were shaking hands, Sloan said “I hope you win it all.” Classy man as always. I wish he could win a championship not at the expense of the Lakers, but that’s impossible so.. ah, well. Great coach.
Zephid, I’ve always felt that Utah fans are only bested by Portland fans in class.
Zephid says
Holy crap, Lamar Odom +30 for the game. Ridiculous.
james says
if gasol aint the best PF in the league im not sure who is, Bosh, Nowitzki? id rather have Pau
ken says
What in the world are we to do for 7-days?
Oh I guess I could work.
Na forget that idea.
Its Cancun and golf time.
By the way only one guy with negative numbers.
Andrew minus 13?
Dick Barnett says
Listen to the Utah fans booing at the end. Utterly, classless. I don’t remember losing more respect for a fan-base in a single series before this.
======================
I can’t watch the game (don’t have cable), but you’re right, that is bush league. I thought Utah fans were better than that. You can bet Jerry Sloan is fuming about it. He knows his guys played their butts off.
Taylor says
Cross another one off the mirror boys and girls…we’re halfway home.
Magic Number is 8.
Enjoy it…’night.
nimble says
@168
you will remember his name,get a life…
ken says
(edited for religious references)
Happy to be a Laker fan and live in SoCal.
Josh says
I always have felt bad for Sloan too…he’s one of the greatest coaches and a genuinely nice guy…I wanted the Jazz to defeat the Bulls during those two Finals trips.
Anyway…did I see SEVEN days until the next Laker game??? Oh no…
Dex says
“When Merlin had completed this he came to the court of Arthur at Carduel. And when Arthur saw him he rejoiced greatly, and his men asked Arthur to inquire of Merlin what the meaning was of the stone which had reunited at the Round Table. And the king said: ‘I pray him earnestly that he tell me of it if it pleases him.’ And Merlin answered: ‘Arthur, know that in your time was fulfilled the greatest prophecy ever made; for the Fisher King is cured, and glory restored to Albion.’”
–Robert de Boron, The Didot Perceval
Here’s to glory
harold says
This must be Stern’s dream scenario, in a way.
All eyes on LeBron.
No choice, really, as he’s the only one still playing.
Tra says
Now that’s how you close a series out. On the road. EMPHATICALLY.
Like I said b4 this series started, I’d be shocked if we lost a game to THIS COLLECTION OF JAZZ PLAYERS.
As the Jay Z Song goes: “On To The Next One.”
Game 4 Standing Ovations: Pau “The Big Spaniard” Gasol & Kobe “The Black Mamba” Bryant
Series MVP: Kobe “The Black Mamba” Bryant (He’s Baaaack Haters.)
Honorable Mention: Derek “The Veteran” Fisher (Take a bow D. Fish. You earned it.)
@179, Zephid: Agreed.
LAKER 4 LIFE ….. GO HARD OR GO HOME
Dex says
“Those with the Church can say or do anything they want.”
Eh, I don’t know about that. I was raised Mormon, served a mission, the whole shebang; lapsed now; but while I was in, the people were decent, consistent, and fiercely opposed to boorish crass racist assholes. Of course, in any large area where one religion dominates you’re going to see a higher number of religious idiots than in places where it’s in the minority, and the idiots will make enough noise that the non-idiots, though prevalent, aren’t nearly so conspicuous.
It’s like if you have 50 guys in a room, 42 of which are quietly reading, 8 of which are screaming and writing obscenities on the wall with their own excrement, you’re really gonna remember those 8 guys while the 42 may as well not have existed.
I formally apologize on behalf of the Church for those 8 guys, the stinky dicks.
ray says
I’m actually impressed with this blog today. The people didn’t fall off the bandwagon as hard as they usually do when the other team makes a fun.
And Ken, you jumped off of Fisher’s bandwagon fast.
haha.
Bring on the SUNS!!!
8
Q says
Lakers over Suns in 6!!!!!
lil' pau says
Hurray! It seems like a lifetime ago this team was tanking the end of the season. I will never doubt you again, Sir Phil!
ken says
No I didn’t Ray. I said he is best when the score gets close. That’s a good thing!
He just get bored when the score is out of wack.
He is the Fisher King!
Darius says
I’ve let a couple of these comments stand, but we’re going to get off the religious stuff now or all the comments are going to go away.
We should be focussing on the class of the Jazz players and their coach rather than some of the fans that have forgotten what it’s like to love the game rather than hate your opponent.
We should also be focussing on – even more so – the great play of the Lakers to beat a game Jazz team. Remember, this is a team that took out Denver, maybe the team that going into the playoffs people thought were the 2nd best team in the entire conference. And the Lakers just handled them to the tune of 4 wins and 0 losses. How about we celebrate that, shall we?
ray says
ken,
hahaha. no worries man. Suns is going to be FUN. running team but underrated defensively. But they don’t match up well with us. Bynum should come out crazy in game one with all this rest. Im so excited for the game to start…. ON SATURDAY!!!???
ken says
Thank you for your thoughts Dex. I guess if its only 8 out of 50 that is better then we will find walking down the streets of LA.
My first wife was Morman (Jensen) and I still remember our wedding when her family showed up from Utah. Talk about looks like could kill!
I still might be banned from Utah after that event.
ken says
I thought they said game starts NEXT MONDAY!
CONFIRMED its next Monday.
Funky Chicken says
What surprises me is that people on this blog are surprised by Utah’s fans. What they demonstrated with their vitriol towards Derek Fisher in this series merely draws attention to what has always been a lack of class. Virtually every out of town sports writer has a column on their resume expressing “shock” at how Utah’s fans are so much nastier than people think.
(edited)
What is NOT surprising is the class demonstrated by Jerry Sloan after the game (I actually thought Phil brushed him off a little too quickly). Sloan represents everything that is good about basketball, and it is a shame that he wasn’t able to get a title or two along the way. I can’t see him coaching anywhere else, but if the spot ever opened up, it would be a real catch for the Lakers to bring this guy.
Joe says
Great series win, and I certainly have more confidence in this Laker team but, is anyone else scared to death of this Suns team?
harold says
Anyone wanna bet on the +/- number of twitter-related articles in the coming week?
I’m guessing about 7~8 by ESPN alone…
sT says
Congratulations Lakers, good job and I had a lot of fun in this series, let’s have another series just like this, why don’t we?
Dex says
It’s amazing the love/hate relationship between a fan and his team. I find myself really expecting Fisher, Artest, Kobe, etc. to be flowing all the time, and, so long as they are, I love them, but the minute the tide starts creeping back, the minute the man or the team begins to ebb, I’m like a guy in a grease-spotted undershirt and pungent boxers screaming at his wife because his dinner isn’t ready.
I don’t take into account the fact that ebb and flow is necessary and inevitable, or that in spite of plenty of ebbing in the past few years the Lakers have ultimately flowed to the top; I forget the number of times Fisher has made my night, my week, my month; I forget that having a Kobe Bryant in my corner is a once-in-a-lifetime privilege; I rage, pout, sulk, swear, and whine like a little child.
This series, and the one before it, I hope will wake me up to reality for the series to come. We were down, crippled, the momentum all on the other side; a tired shot from Kobe, and an alert tip-in from Pau, turned the tide with a vengeance. Kobe missed the shot, but Pau doesn’t save it unless Kobe shoots it; shoot away, Kobe, shoot away. The ebb precedes the flow. Gotta remember this, or next year’s ring ceremony will find me slightly ashamed of myself.
Dick Barnett says
I’m hitting the hay now, but, I want to know why the Western Conf. Finals don’t start until next Monday.
Darius, can you do a little update on that on tomorrows post. I honestly cannot understand why they can’t start this on Friday or Saturday.
Is it television, or is it Stern?
Darius says
Game recap is up.
http://www.forumblueandgold.com/2010/05/11/lakersjazz-game-4-break-out-the-brooms/
Snoopy2006 says
So now we finally get our chance for 06-07 revenge, different Suns team or not.
Man, 1 full week? Let’s hope this Cavs-Celts series goes 7 games to keep us occupied.