After losing to the shorthanded Timberwolves, the Lakers are at the low-point of their early season. As I mentioned in the game preview, that was a game that the Lakers needed to win simply from the standpoint of them seeing themselves are better than their record. By losing, however, it is much easier to say that the Lakers are what their record says they are: one of the worst teams in the league. Their star shooting guard may not like that and their head coach might not either but, again, you are what your record says you are.
Speaking of the head coach, after the game several reporters on site tweeted that Byron Scott was as upset as he’s been all season. He spoke of “boneheaded mistakes” and “players not ready to play” while using an expletive (or two) to emphasize his point. On the one hand, I can understand Scott’s frustration. His team just lost to one of the lesser teams in the league — a team missing three key rotation players — and did so by giving up an astonishing number of points considering the circumstances. If I were him, I’d be mad too.
On the other hand, this is at least the third time that Scott has used these adjectives to describe his team and one has to wonder when he will acknowledge his role in getting them ready to play or making some adjustments to get players on the floor who won’t be “boneheaded” and that are, actually, “ready to play”. After all, as the head coach one of his job descriptions is to get them “ready to play” and to manage players’ minutes in a manner that promotes what he wants to see from his team on the floor. In other words, maybe Scott should start to look in the mirror after some of these losses rather than consistently calling out his players. Because a team doesn’t get to 3-13 with only the players doing poorly.
As for tonight, the Lakers host an excellent Raptors team who boasts the eastern conference’s best record. Their 13 wins to only three losses is the inverse of the Lakers’ horrid beginning to the campaign and they really have been the class of the conference. And while they will be without (and miss) starting shooting guard (and L.A. native) DeMar DeRozan, they still have plenty of good players to give the Lakers fits. It starts, of course, with point guard Kyle Lowry. The bulldog of a lead guard has finally found a home in “The 6” and his game is flourishing. Not only is he still able to score and set up his teammates while defending his position well, but his game has found that maturity that allows him to recognize when it is time for him to put his foot on the pedal and take over.
Beyond Lowry, and with DeRozan sidelined, the Raptors will turn to several of their role players and look for them to step up. Prime candidates are Lou Williams and Terrance Ross. Both are capable of picking up some of the scoring load and both can give the Lakers’ fits with their ability to hit shots from deep and then use the threat of that shot to get into the paint where they can score or draw fouls. Beyond that backcourt duo, the Lakers must also look out for big men Amir Johnson (another Los Angeles product) and Jonas Valanciunas. Johnson’s ability to play 18 feet and in while running the floor for easy baskets is a skill set the Lakers have had trouble with all year. And Jonas is just a massive man who can be a real threat in the P&R and can do good work in the paint as a finisher both as a roll man or in straight post ups. His size will also need to be managed on the offensive glass so Hill and Ed Davis will have their hands full.
The Raptors go even deeper than these players, however, and on any given night any of the above can be outshined by Grevis Vasquez or Patrick Patterson or even James Johnson should they have a good night. This is why this team has only lost three games all year and why the Lakers will be lucky to be in this game by halftime. Their depth can devastate good teams whose benches can’t keep up and against a Lakers’ team who consistently has trouble keeping defenses honest when Lin and Kobe go to the bench, tonight will be extra difficult when substitutes from both sides are on the floor.
From the Lakers’ end, then, the best they can hope for is that their offense finds enough of a groove to keep the game close and that their defense can put the Raptors into end of clock situations where they have to over-rely on Lowry to create a shot against a defense that is gearing up to stop him. This, of course, is a bit of a long shot. But in a season where the Lakers aren’t very good, long shots is all they have against top notch opponents.
Where you can watch: 6:30pm start time on TWC Sportsnet. Also listen on ESPN Radio 710AM.
agree says
Yeah, I agree with the posting’s assessment. Its certainly a long shot. The raptors have a great bench and can easily make runs on the 2nd unit, or increase the lead if they are already winning. I think Lin/Kobe can definitely do some damage if they play well tonight. I’ve seen Lin eat up Lowry before, despite his tough defense–he’s short and doesn’t jump to contest shots much. If Lin/Kobe do a bit of PnR that could be a big help, since Kobe will tower over Lowry and could get some good looks.
I don’t like Byron Scott’s public comments at all from the very get go this season. Lately they have just been public whining, as if he’s just a fan in the audience with no control over the rotations or strategies. Byron’s love affair with Ronnie Price’s game is off putting to me. Ronnie is a guy who should only be playing 10mins a game. He has had a couple real good games, a few good back-up games, and a bunch of really bad shooting games. Despite his slight outburst last game, if its not a layup/dunk he seriously needs to NOT shoot. I pray that Byron’s “line-up changes” doesn’t involve having Price be the starter and play 30mins a game, and have Lin become the 7th man or something. But Byron’s rotations with Lin have me worried. Hopefully its just Ed Davis being the 30min guy, and Boozer spends more time yelling from the bench.
EM says
I would get three players some minutes off the bench. Clarkson, Sacre and Ellington. These guys are sleepers that can get us going. Need to allow Clarkson to be a bit free and allow him a few mistakes. Add Swaggy and Clark. Let’s take a look at that group while the starters rest. We need a change in perspective.
Chearn says
Terrence Ross can get sneaky hot if not contained. At least, he did all last season. I admit I have yet to see him play this season.
What, still no Earl Clark? Don’t tell me he’s snubbed the Lakers for another team. He’s not going to help this squad but at least he plays a modicum of defense and can hit the occasional shot.
Robert says
Kobe Alert: KB did indeed move by MJ in Total Rebounds, he has already eclipsed MJ in Dimes, 3 pointers, and free throws. Total points and field goals are still on the to do list (and rings of course). Kobes needs just 9 more dimes to have 6,000 for his career (only 30 others have done that). KB will be the only player in the top 10 in league scoring history, that has 6,000 helpers. What was up with the 5 steals last game? Kobes needs only 4 more to cruise by Isiah for 14th. This one is for BCS: KB needs only 13 more three point attempts to have 5,000 for his career. I wonder how many of those were fadeaways? The greatest Laker needs just 170 points to take move by MJ and take over 3rd all time.
Aaron says
Robert,
It doesn’t take any intelgincene to know its better to tank if you aren’t a talented basketball team. That’s where we disagree. The FO isn’t smart for knowing its better to have a worse record to keep their draft pick or to get a better pick.
R says
Byron’s caterpillar must go!
R says
” Because a team doesn’t get to 3-13 with only the players doing poorly.”
Darius, I see your point, I do.
However, this Lakers squad is remarkably inept. I doubt PJ in his prime could do much with them.
That said, Byron is a very good match for the talent level we see here …..
Chearn says
Maybe Byron grows his mustache until the Lakers win a game.
Anonymous says
@ Chearn
“Maybe Byron grows his mustache until the Lakers win a game.”
In which case we may be facing this:
http://www.twopretzels.com/2006/08/i-hate-mustaches.html
karen says
Finally others are saying what i said, scott throws players under the bus. And he has been doing that all along. Why would any player want to put out for him. When mda was coach scott trashed mda for not teaching defense. How is that working out for you scott
harold says
I think we should start looking for a franchise coach. Somebody that can handle Los Angeles while having the trust of both the players and the FO. Somebody that could stick around for 20 years if need be…
Tim says
Lakers surprising the Raptors lead at the half. Kobe having an efficient game, 4-4 from the field for 10 points, 4 rebounds and 8 assists. Nick Young with 10 points and Wayne Ellington with 8 leading the bench. A very good half by the Lakers.
Chearn says
No, I have faith in my Lakers. But that was funny.
Ko says
Thought Scott
Get Wes and Boozze out of the game unless you want another crap 3rd. They are your problem.
Is he blind or clueless?
Robert says
Odd that we chose a game we are playing well to completely focus on Scott. That said, everything needs to be measured against expectations. This goes for Byron and it goes for fans. What realistically is Byron expecting from his team? Are they playing that bad or are they just bad? And what are we realistically expecting from the team? The team is 3-13. With a different coach, what would the record be? If you think it would be significantly better – I think you are wrong, but hey let’s go ahead and fire Scott, and then we will have our 4th coach in less than 4 years, which by definition suggests the problem lie elsewhere.
Ko says
Now you see what BS has worst record the last 3 plus years in history. Make a darn change!
Tim says
6,000 career assists for Kobe, the first member of the 30,000 point/6,000 assist club.
Robert says
Kobe 6k dimes; Going for triple double.
jerke says
Love how commentators are stating that the Lakers have taken away the 3 when TO has just plainly missed wide open look after wide open look. That’s the only reason la is in the game and has the lead
jerke says
GS might have the best backcourt duo in the league but Toronto has the best backcourt in the league being able to roll 4 deep w Lowry, derozan, vasquez, and Williams. Derozan going down isn’t going to hurt them as much as it would other teams
Ko says
Robert
When game after game Lakers get smoked in 3rd quarters is it not possible they other coach is making adjustments?
I have yet to see one from BScott.
Ko says
Once again. No time outs and no adjustments by the coach.
Ko says
Why is boozer out there? Good coaching Robert?
Ko says
Please take no D Booz put.
Tim says
Kobe finds Nick Young who drains the 3. Lakers lead by 4 with 1:24 left in the game.
KenOak says
@ Tim
“6,000 career assists for Kobe, the first member of the 30,000 point/6,000 assist club.”
Yeah but they are selfish ball-hoggin’ assists.
/s
Nice game by Kobe tonight! Lovin’ some Swaggy P!
Ko says
Really? Same Kobe vs 5 offense. How has that worked this year?
He has chocked 4 FT last 2 games.
Hale says
Hook in the middle of the court. Please no OT. No!!!
Tim says
Apparently Byron Scott does not believe in timeouts or knows that he had timeouts left. Why not call a timeout to set up a play.
Tra says
Hopefully, those missed free throws down the stretch doesn’t cost us this game. Good no call by the ref on that last drive by Kobe.
Ko says
Again Kobe blowing FT and going 1 on 5 tell me that is a good coach? Stupid stupid he is just Kobe servant. 6 games list with that 1 on 5 crap.
Terrible he has not made one winning shot this year.
Wake up he has missed 5 clutch FT last 2 games. Shooting under 25% last 2 minutes in games. Terrible coaching.
Agree says
The end of the 4th quarter hero ball stuff gets old. Young was the only person who took a shot besides Kobe the last 5 1/2 minutes of the game. He basically doesn’t let anyone else shoot. Even though he shot well earlier, that’s just dumb basketball, they are lucky they made overtime.
Everclear says
One more rebound, Kobe.
Anonymous says
Please stop the hero ball. Other guys scared to death to shoot. Only gonna win one out of ever 10 games doing that.
Do they have any other plays other then 24? You have a lead now move the ball,
Robert says
Kobe ! Triple Double
Anonymous says
The end of the 4th quarter hero ball stuff gets old
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So do your posts. Kobe is 36 years old, in his 19th year, coming off two major injuries, and right now he has a 31/12/9 in 41 minutes of play in what is probably about to be an OT win over a better team. Give the bashing a rest until the next loss, at least.
Ko says
Why would you let Ross make 2 three’s in a row.
And he went to Harvard? Funny
Chearn says
Messed around and had a triple double in the win! Have to say that’s a hell-of-a stat line for a 36 year old with his miles. Impressive.
Six players in double digits, that’s what it’s going to take to win a few games.
Tim says
Lakers win and Kobe gets a triple double 31/11/12.
Robert says
And another rebound just in case ESPN takes one away on instant replay.
Triple Double – Is that a first for a 19th year player?
Robert says
could be first for a 19 year guy
Robert says
that was likely the game of the year – incredible
jerke says
Great game by kobe if they manage to hang on to win this. They caught TO on a bad shooting night from outside and managed to ride kobe in the last min or so. Couple instances where TO couldve pushed it’s lead to double digits and it didn’t happen. This just illustrates how hard it is for this team though when kobe has to get a legit triple double plus score 31 and the other team shoots bad to have a chance to win in over time. Defense was horrible tonight again – aside from a couple timely blocks by hill at the end there was zero rim protection and every wing player including kobe was basically a matador out there. Kobe looks more tired and dead legged this early in the season than I’ve ever seen him before.
Ko says
Ok I just couldn’t take another last 5 minute mess. We know who he is but you can’t put it on his back with the history you listed. Call some plays. Move the ball. I put it on Bryon nit Kibe.
harold says
Well, I’m sure Aaron is glad that we’re not in the Eastern Conference… although granted Toronto shot themselves in the foot a bit.
Also, for what it’s worth, Boozer was +11? +12 in this game…
Everclear says
Love him or hate him, he just got a triple double in a win against the best team in the East, and is leading the league in points as a 36-year old after a year off and a busted Achilles. He may not be what he once was (as haters like to point out), but if you love the game of basketball or respect it at all, you have to respect that commitment. Much like when Boston gave a nod to the Yankee’s Jeter, even if you hate them, you gotta admit greatness when you see it.
I can’t think of any player now that could sustain those injuries at that age with that much time away and still come back this strong. He’s doing insane things.
Robert says
Kidd is the only other player to get triple double in his 19th year
Well said Everclear
J C says
On this night, Kobe lived up to the hype and then some.
Superb passing brought the team to victory.
This game was a Kobe masterpiece.
One of the best games ever played by a 36-year old in league history.
I tip my hat to #24.
harold says
Just realized that his triple double was almost guaranteed as Kobe MUST have been aware that he was close to the 6k mark. The rebounds were just gravy (probably due to Toronto’s unexpected challenge to the Lakers in the ‘worst 3pt shooting team’ category).
Anyway, if we really have to go 6-76, I hope each win is as unexpected as this one…
gene says
BTW Darius..a Team CAN go 3 and 13 by the players themselves….
R says
@ Robert “With a different coach, what would the record be? If you think it would be significantly better – I think you are wrong, but hey let’s go ahead and fire Scott, and then we will have our 4th coach in less than 4 years, which by definition suggests the problem lies elsewhere.”
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Robert, you are a very wise man.
JohnnyP says
Can it be done? It can be done, it must be done, and it will be done! Doubters doubt no more! The LAKERS CAN WIN !!!
GOooooooOOOO LAKERS !!
LKK says
It wasn’t 81, but it was still another special night for Kobe vs. Toronto. Good contributions from the rest of the team. But Lord, the Lakers’ defense is terrible. Every team takes it straight to the rim with no fear or second thought. 6K assist for a ball hog! Amazing. Congrats to the Mamba on being the first player with 30K+ points and 6K+ assists!
Oldtimer says
Kobe’s night against the Raftors again, he sets the 81 pts when he was a little bit younger and sets the 30,000 pts and 6,000 assist when he is now a little bit older. It seldom rains in LA and coincides with Lakers 4th W in a hard way!
I was imagining suppose the Lakers had the last season’s roster with Meeks, Farmar, Gasol, Kaman, Hill, Williams, Young, Marshall, Blake plus Kobe, are they better or worse than this year’s roster? I think last year was a better roster so where is the rebuild coming from, in this season? Will you still blame it on Scott when your PG could not stop Lowry?
PurpleBlood says
This game was a Kobe masterpiece.
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no better way to say it; & coming off that missed three to win it against the Twolves, it´s just that much more sweeter