A look back at better times...Pau's tremendous impact for the Purple and Gold.

This season the Los Angeles Lakers have played their way to the bottom as they have easily secured the the second worst record in the Western Conference. But let us remember a time when our fortunes were slightly better, and when Kobe Bryant had Pau Gasol to be the Robin to his Batman. Laker fans are now probably realizing just how big of an impact Pau had on the team, especially with the misfortunes of this season. Pau was never fully appreciated by casual fans, but true fans knew just how great a player Pau was.

Bryant would find out just how incredible Pau's basketball IQ would be, as the two former teammates instantly had a deep connection soon after Pau was traded to the Lakers in one of the most greatest trades in franchise history. 

Pau made his arrival official when the Lakers visited the formerly named New Jersey Nets, now Brooklyn Nets, on Feburary 5th, 2008. Pau impressed Laker Nation by recording an outstanding stat line of 24 points, 12 rebounds, 4 assists, and 1 steal. After the game an enthusiastic Kobe, seen below at 2:36, was grinning from ear to ear, pleased with the idea of playing with such a versatile and intelligent player. 

Before the blockbuster trade the Lakers were already playing extremely well, with a record of 30 wins and 16 losses. By then Kobe Bryant was considered to be the best player in the NBA, Lamar Odom was finally settling in to his role as the facilitator, Derek Fisher was the leader of the locker room, and the remaining role players were becoming adjusted into their supplemental positions. 

But even with the addition of Pau, the Lakers would ultimately fall short in the NBA Finals to the Boston Celtics, who at the time had a star studded squad, featuring Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, Ray Allen, and an improving young point guard named Rajon Rondo. 

After the heart-breaking lost to their greatest rival, the Lakers looked to avenge their championship defeat, and return to the NBA Finals to claim what was rightfully theirs. During the off-season Kobe made it his mission to show the big Spainard what he needed from him in order for the team to make it back to the Finals. In response, Pau registered a consistent 18.9 points per game(ppg), grabbed 9.6 rebounds, and shot an amazing 56.7% from the field during the 2008-09 regular season. But he wasn't done there. Once the playoffs commenced Pau improved his play and helped carry the Lakers back to the NBA Finals against an overly matched Orlando Magic team that had the Defensive Player of the Year in Dwight Howard leading the team.

The Lakers would ultimately defeat the Magic in 5 games, and Pau would finally earn his first NBA championship. 

But with Kobe running the team the Lakers had little room to celebrate as they were already preparing for another championship run. Both Kobe and Pau looked unstoppable during the 2009-10 season, and the Lakers would yet again make their third consecutive appearance to the NBA Finals. This time the Lakers would be matched up, once again, versus their long-time hated rival the Boston Celtics. 

The Celtics looked ready to steal yet another championship from the Lakers, and the series would reach a climatic game 7. Even though Pau struggled with his offense, he still made his presence known. He finished the game with 19 points, 18 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 blocks, ultimately leading the Lakers to back-to-back championships. 

Highlights of Game 7, seen above:

***

After the Lakers won their second straight title, the once dominant squad began to look fatigued and surprisingly old. The following season, the Lakers would fall short in the 2nd round of the Western Conference Playoffs against the Dallas Mavericks. 

Pau Gasol, who averaged yet another solid season of 18.8 ppg, 10.2 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 1.6 blocks per game looked distraught and unfocused during the 2010-2011 playoffs. With rumors swirling about his girlfriend -- Sylvia Lopez Castro -- breaking the big Spainard's heart during the Playoffs, Laker fans were left to watch the Dallas Mavericks and Dirk Nowitzki dismantle the former champs. Pau appeared as though he had already checked-out, long before the series even started against the Mavs, and even Phil Jackson tried to slap some sense into Pau, seen in this clip below.

After the Lakers were humiliated by the Mavericks, speculations of Phil Jackson's retirement flooded the news wire. Soon after Phil Jackson's departure the Lakers found themselves hiring the former 2008-09 Coach of the Year winner Mike Brown to lead the team. But under Mike Brown's leadership the team struggled to find that cohesion that propelled them to the top a few years prior. However, being the ever present professional, Pau maintained a solid statistical year of 17.4 ppg, 10.4 rebounds, 3.6 assists and 1.4 blocks per game. But again, the Lakers would fall short in the playoffs and speculations of possible Pau trades began to surface. 

***

The following season the Lakers acquired both Steve Nash and Dwight Howard via trades, and the 2012-13 Lakers were heavily favored to win the championship. Unfortunately with the firing of Mike Brown after 5 games, and the hiring of Mike D'antoni over Phil Jackson, the Lakers once again found themselves struggling to find the chemistry that had once led them to three straight championship runs. 

Plagued with injuries and a sour relationship with coach Mike D'antoni, Pau would finish the season with his worst statistical averages, listing a measly 13.7 ppg, 8.6 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 1.2 blocks per game. 

The star-studded Lakers looked discontent and their locker room issues made the headlines as Kobe and Dwight's relationship became the focal point, and Pau was consistently dragged through the mud with trade rumors. However, being the classy professional he is, Pau remained realistic and focused on helping the Lakers to another Playoff run. 

***

The 2013-14 season had Pau leading the team all on his own, as Dwight Howard fled to join the Houston Rockets, and Kobe Bryant struggled to recovery from his career altering Achilles injury. Under another year with D'antoni, Pau would butt heads with the heavily small ball, offensive minded coach. But Pau saw his numbers bounce back as he would finish the year off with 17.4 ppg, 9.7 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 1.5 blocks per game. 

Nonetheless, Pau's efforts led the lack luster 2013-14 Lakers squad to finish with 27 wins and 55 losses. 

After years of trade rumors and a lack of smart strategic moves from the Lakers front office, Pau decided to decline the Lakers formidable offer and decided to play for another contending team in the Chicago Bulls. 

Pau's departure was a somber yet cheerful day, as the incredible Spainard had given Laker fans some of the best years of his career. In his last final years with the purple and gold, Laker fans expressed their displeasure with Pau's lack of aggression and so called "soft" demeanor. But like any relationship, there are the highs and than there are the lows, yet Pau remained true to the Lakers organization, to the fans, and to the city of Los Angeles. Throughout his tenure with the Lakers Pau's contributions to multiple charities and organizations revealed how big of an impact he had here in la la land. Not only was he a fantastic ball player, but he was also an amazing human being. Now that Pau's playing for the Bulls, die hard Laker fans, like myself, can't help but smile for the Laker great that helped bring two championships and 6 1/2 great seasons to our organization.

Thank you Pau for all your years, and hopefully we'll see you back when your jersey is hoisted up with the other great Lakers that have donned the purple and gold. To PAU GASOL!!! Cheers!!!

Lakers vs Pistons Game recap.

The Los Angeles Lakers start off their three game road trip on the right foot, as they easily defeat the Detroit Pistons in a runaway game of 106-96. Kobe Bryant looked to continue his passive yet effective style of play as he ended the game with a staggering 13 assists, although he did fork up 10 turnovers. By the end of the game the Lakers had 6 players scoring in double figures, with Jordan Hill leading the way with 22 points and 13 rebounds, shooting 10-15 from the field, while Nick Young led the Lakers bench with 19 points and making 3 of his 6 three-point attempts, and Wesley Johnson continues to improve his game as he ended the game with 13 points, shooting a perfect 3 for 3 from behind the arc and causing a ruckus for the Pistons with his 4 blocked shots.

It appears that the Lakers have stumbled upon a winning formula that, on the surface, appears to work. The Lakers improved ball movement has drastically elevated the offense, and their scrappy tough defense, although inconsistent, was pleasing to watch.

The Detroit Pistons is an incredibly athletic team, but the Pistons have struggled to work their three big-man rotation of Andre Drummond, Josh Smith and Greg Monroe. Nevertheless, it was satisfying to see the Lakers control the Pistons big men from dominating the boards, keeping the Pistons to only 33 team rebounds compared to the Lakers 35. However, the Lakers were fortunate that the Pistons struggled to score inside as the Pistons had grabbed 16 offensive rebounds compared to the Lakers 12.

These past two Laker victories should be one of the highlights of the season as the Lakers have played with an energy level that was missing for the majority of the season. The Lakers next game will be against the Washington Wizards, which will be an extremely difficult match-up, due to the lightening quick combination of John Wall and Bradley Beal, and the veteran leadership of Paul Pierce.

Stay tuned for my next post and have a great night! I'll leave this Wesley Johnson slam for all you Laker heads to enjoy!

Why the Lakers need to continue to look for Wesley Johnson.

Although the Lakers suffered a crushing lost against the Denver Nuggets, losing 101-94 in overtime, the Lakers had a solid outing from most of their main contributors, most notably Wesley Johnson. After Johnson's tremendous defensive stop against James Harden of the Houston Rockets, it appeared as though a new Johnson had emerged, a Johnson with swagger, confidence, and a competitive gear that Laker fans have not seen since, ever.

During the Dallas Mavericks game, which the Lakers lost by 140-106, Wesley Johnson appeared to carry over that same level of confidence, throwing down a powerful dunk and posing like a wrestler who just landed his finishing move.

However, that was the only notable highlight from Johnson, who only attempted 5 field goal and converted 3 of those shots.

It's difficult to determine, just from one play, whether or not a player can become that go to guy, especially since the NBA is filled with incredible athletes. But for Laker fans who've watched Johnson throughout his tenure, it was undoubtedly refreshing and satisfying to finally see Johnson unleash his tremendous athleticism. Before his game against the Rockets, Laker fans were accustomed to watching Johnson play cautiously, as though he was afraid to make mistakes. But let's not forget Johnson, who was the 4th pick of the 2010 draft, impressed scouts with his unbelievable athleticism, his impressive length and most importantly his willingness to play within a team structure and be an all-around solid teammate. But since he's entered the NBA Johnson has played for franchises that utilize incorrectly which ultimately affected his confidence.

Johnson's performance against the Denver Nuggets appeared to be his homecoming game, as Johnson's tenacious defense caused several problems for the Nuggets speedy back court, with Johnson racking up 2 steals, 3 blocks and disrupting all sorts of shots and passes. Although Johnson's defense helped the Lakers contain the explosive Nuggets team, his spotty shooting performance hurt the Lakers in the long run, shooting 3-10 from the field and missing all three of his 3 point attempts. But even though Johnson had a poor shooting performance the majority of his looks were good shots that simply did not go in, and based off his performance, Laker fans should remain optimistic as Johnson's shooting will be the easiest to address.

Johnson's confidence appeared to be soaring, especially after his thunderous jam over the Nuggets small forward Danilo Gallinari seen here in this video.

After Johnson's jam you'll notice that he looks out to the crowd with that same level of certainty and swagger that should make all Laker fans giddy with joy as his future looks brighter than it's ever been.

Johnson's defense will be his greatest asset. With his length and athleticism, Johnson should be able to guard most elite players in the NBA. But in order for Johnson to succeed he needs to continue to play with that same unwavering confidence that he's shown the last 3 games. Byron Scott needs to be willing to give Johnson more opportunities and feed his confidence so that it remains sky high. Johnson shooting will be inconsistent, but it's only a matter of time until Johnson figures out how to use his physical skills to his advantage. If Johnson continues to impress than the Lakers might have found their permanent defensive stopper, possibly Michael Cooper 2.0?

Even if the Lakers continue to lose, Wesley Johnson's career should be one highlight that makes every Laker fan hopeful for a better tomorrow. We'll just have to wait and see whether or not Johnson will finally be able to step out of the draft bust category and enter a new stage in his career that will hopefully lead the purple and gold to more championships.

Glaring issues that plague the Lakers.

After last night's abysmal performance against the Golden State Warriors, the overwhelming issues continue to mount as the Lakers were humiliated on their home court. Stephen Curry had an electrifying performance, shooting 10-19 from the field and dishing out 15 assists, with only 3 turnovers, leading his team with 30 points. As for the rest of the Warriors squad, 7 of their 13 players had 10 or more points against the Lakers defense.

On the other hand, Kobe dropped a whopping 44 points, shooting 15-34 from the field. The only other notable Laker performance was from Jordan Hill, who shot 4-9 from the field and ended the game with 15 points and 11 rebounds.

Surprisingly the Lakers out-shot the Warriors, attempting 99 field goals vs the Warriors 86 field goal attempts. However, while the Warriors made 46 out of their 86 attempts, the Lakers shot a horrible 39 out of 99 field goal attempts, averaging just a shy under 40% from the field.

Throughout the game the Lakers appeared to be outmatched. Jeremy Lin disappeared attempting only 2 field goals, and ended the night with 0 points 1 assist and 2 rebounds. Kobe Byrant looked to avenge his atrocious performance from the night before against the San Antonio Spurs, but as a result the team suffered from poor ball movement, a lack of interior scoring/penetration and complacency for too many jump shots.

But what was most appalling was the Lakers overall lack of effort. The Warriors ran the Lakers out of the building, consistently scoring easy buckets on transition layups and three-pointers.

If the Lakers want to have any chance at salvaging this season they must address their defensive mishaps. The Lakers interior defense is among the worst in the NBA and they continue to struggle against mid-level and top-tier big men. The perimeter defense has had moments however, the Lakers point guards still struggle with pick and roll plays and transition defense. The team as a whole still struggles with spacing, allowing wide open gaps to the paint and allowing excellent three point shooters to get wide-open looks. It will be up to Byron Scott and his staff to figure out a way to mask the weaknesses of the Lakers and utilize the Lakers length on the perimeter. Possibly a 2-3 zone defense?

On the other end the Lakers must figure out a way to play team basketball. Kobe is the main culprit, averaging over 20 field goal attempts every game, and he's already had 6 games where he's shot more than 25 field goal attempts. Jordan Hill plays as if he's the second best player on the team, hoisting up too many mid-range jumpers and completely detracting from what makes him so effective on the court, which is his tough tenacious rebounding and his quick put-backs. Jeremy Lin and Carlos Boozer both continue to put out inconsistent performances. Lastly Wesley Johnson appears to be playing hide and seek while he's on the court, with his offense coming and going too frequently.

The Lakers next opponent will be against the Atlanta Hawks this Tuesday. The Hawks are a solid team that likes to distribute the ball, attack the paint, and take high percentage shots. Furthermore the Hawks have two very good big men, in Paul Millsap and Al Horford to contend against the Lakers. This game should be competitive but it's a game that the Lakers should have a chance in winning. But if the Lakers cannot figure out how to trust one another and put as much effort on the defensive end as they do when they complain to the referees then expect the Lakers to go 1-10.

Randle WILL take the mantle.

Julius Randle, the Lakers coveted 7th pick of the 2014 draft, broke his tibia in his right leg during the first game of the 2014-15 season. A bad omen to start the season off, many Laker enthusiasts, including myself, cringed at the thought of losing Randle. Randle's explosive first step and NBA ready physique had me hopeful for this current season, and then it all crumbled within a few seconds. 

The lost of Randle meant that the already lack luster front court for the Lakers would have to pick up a lot of slack, and unfortunately, the last 5 games clearly showed that the Lakers big men are not good enough to stack up against the rest of the NBA's competitive front courts.

Now that the 2014-15 season seems to be lost, it's a matter of time for Randle to rehabilitate and make his triumphant comeback. And yes I said triumphant comeback, and here's why.

First and foremost, although Julius broke his primary leg (since he's left handed), he has shown that he is capable of lifting off both legs with equal explosiveness. Furthermore, Randle has never been a high flyer, his bread and butter is taking bigger defenders off the dribble and using his low post skills to his advantage. 

In college Randle showed some decent footwork, and luckily, since he's on the Lakers, he'll be able to learn from the greatest footwork artist in the NBA. Randle has also shown that he can stretch the floor, forcing his defender to come out toward the free throw line, then taking his defender off the dribble, and to the hole for a foul or an and-one. Randle's ball handling skills should not be ignored, and if you put that together with his explosive first step, then you'll realize just why he was such a highly praised pick. 

The most important thing to Randle's road to recovery will be his mental fortitude and his overall hunger to succeed. This will be the one thing that will dictate whether or not Randle will be able to become the great player that so many experts believe he'll be. But because no one is psychic it is impossible to guarantee that Randle will be able to have a huge comeback. However, I'm fully confident that he'll be back and better than ever mainly because of all the external forces that will help him during his recovery. 

Kobe has shown Randle his tough love approach, but judging off his response from Kobe's comments, it seems as if Randle respects and admires that, unlike another certain player...D12, cough cough. Randle also stated earlier in the season that he wanted to work his way to becoming a starter, and to have nothing handed to him.

These quotes shows just the type of person Randle is. He's a fighter, he's a warrior, he wants to become the best, and most importantly he wants to win championships; similar to someone else on the team. Many players say those exact same things, but very few actually keep their words. In the case of Randle, he's already shown that he can excel, which he proved during March Madness when he helped his Kentucky Wildcats advance through the NCAA tournament and reach the championship game. 

With all these factors it's hard to imagine Randle not coming back and making a huge impact. Unlike his other rookie peers Randle has learned first hand just how quickly one's career can take a turn, which will force him to mature much more quickly. Luckily for Randle, he has the full support of Kobe Bryant, and he's embraced Kobe's method of leading. Secondly, he's playing for a world class organization that not only expects him to comeback with a vengeance but to help them win championships. And finally, Randle has the talent, youth, and the right mindset to guide him through his road to recovery 

We all wish the best for you Randle! But remember, we expect nothing less but greatness, because Laker fans believe in your talents, and you will succeed, guaranteed. 

Point Guards that can help solidify the Lakers 2014-15 season.

With the recent news of Steve Nash's season ending injury, the Lakers are scrambling to find a legitimate replacement for the 2-time former MVP. Although Jeremy Lin is likely the potential starting point guard there are still plenty of stronger and better point guards that the Lakers should keep their eyes on. I've compiled a list of reputable starting point guards that would not only fit perfectly within the Lakers squad, but most importantly be a viable PG for the future.

Trade options:

Phoenix Suns have plenty of quality starting point guards, most notably Goran Dragic, who has come off a spectacular 2013-14 season. Dragic is entering his last year with the Suns, with a player option for the 2015-16 season. Dragic is making close to 8 million this year, and unfortunately in order for the Lakers to have any shot at the Dragon they'll most likely have to give up their coveted rookie, Julius Randle. However, the Lakers are in a dire situation at the PG position and Randle, who shows great potential, would be perfect to trade away, especially since he's a rookie. Whereas Dragic is a proven All-star caliber PG who will remain at the top of his game for at least 8 more seasons.


Boston Celtics and Rajon Rondo have reached the end and the Lakers will likely look to Rondo as a short term answer. The Celtics are in full rebuilding mode, furthermore, Rondo wants no part of the Celtics anymore. So with that in mind, a trade for Rondo might be easier than what most insiders believe. The Lakers have shown that they are not afraid to trade away their draft picks, and with their potential 2015-16 first round pick already going to the Suns (exempt are any top 5 picks) the Lakers will likely be willing to part with their other future draft picks because lets face it, the Lakers are going to shop for a big name free agent rather than find the next star in the draft. But Danny Ainge has a proven track record of demanding a lot for anyone on his roster. In the case of Randle, a trade for Rondo will likely be the worst option for the purple and gold, since resigning Rondo isn't guarenteed and furthermore, his injuries may be too much for the Lakers to handle, especially after the Nashcapades. However, the Celtics has shown interest in the past for Jordan Hill, and Jordan Clarkson with a potential first round pick would be enticing for Ainge and the Celtics.


Minnesota Timberwolves banked off the Kevin Love trade, and they've made it clear that they don't think Rubio is worth a max contract. Rubio would compliment most of the players on the roster, and he brings a much needed defensive presence out on the perimeter. But riding off the tail end of the Love trade, it'll be likely that the Timberwolves will request more assets then what Rubio is worth, particularly a first round pick, which the Lakers will not likely be willing to give up for a player of Rubio's talents. So who can the Lakers give up for Rubio? Well, Steve Nash's expiring contract may be appealing, and with his veteran presence that could be the last piece to turn their rookie filled roster to an actual competitive team. Throw in Ed Davis and that might very well be an enticing trade.


Philadelphia 76ers quietly put Michael Carter Williams on the trading block last year, and for good reason, they're team isn't very good and they are content with throwing away a season to find that one superstar in the draft. With that in mind, the Lakers can possibly get MCW for a lowly first round pick, which is a fantastic deal for the purple and gold. MCW would be the ideal fit for the Lakers as he brings much needed length to the back court, his defense is impeccable, and playing next to Kobe can possibly turn MCW into a legitimate All-star PG. In addition, the 76ers have shown that they aren't too picky with what they get back, so long as there are first-round draft picks in the mix.


Nash's injury shouldn't have surprised Laker fans, as he's been struggling with nagging injuries since he came to LA. But his injury may be a blessing in disguise. Nash still has his mind and his veteran presence will affect Lin and Clarkson for the better. But if the Lakers aren't confident in they're two young PG then the options I've listed would be great replacements. I for one would love to see MCW in a Lakers uniform, but until then, la la land will have to wait and see.

What Lakers need to address after the Warriors preseason game.

After reports of Byron Scott stating that he wanted the Lakers to attempt 10-15 3-pointers a game, one glaring issue came to mind, which is the Lakers ability to keep up with prolific scoring teams.

After watching the Lakers play against the Golden State Warriors one thing was certain, the Lakers are far from being a contender. The Warriors fired away against the Lakers, shooting 57.1% (12-21) from behind the arc, while the Lakers, who attempted only 11 3-pointers, shot an abysmal 9.1%. Although the Lakers had an overall poor shooting performance, a field-goal percentage of 43.8, it still should be noted that the Lakers will no doubt struggle against offensive power teams that shoot well behind the arc, for instance the Warriors, Rockets, Clippers, Spurs, Mavericks, and Suns. The aforementioned teams have a steady balance of shots behind the arc and inside the paint, but what those teams also have are guards who excel at penetrating the paint and play exceptional pick and roll offense. The Lakers unfortunately still struggle at defending the PG position and most concerning the pick and roll.

If the Lakers want any shot at competing against the loaded Western Conference then they must figure out a way to play like those teams, figuring out that perfect balance of shooting from the inside-out. However, the Lakers do not have much firepower from behind the arc. While Swaggy P is out. the Lakers must depend on Ellington, Lin, Nash, and Johnson to produce three's. In regards to penetration, Nash's health is always a concern, Lin struggles with finding the right person to pass to, Clarkson is still learning the ropes, and Kobe will ultimately have the biggest load to bear, which is the worst-case scenario for Bryant.

Another glaring issue that the Lakers must address immediately is their transitional defense. Under D'Antoni, the Lakers ignored the transitions, but with Scott running the team, one can only hope that the Lakers quickly address this issue, or it'll be another stressful season for Laker fans.

Laker fans should remain hopeful though. The Lakers did a great job on the offensive boards, out rebounding the Warriors 17 to 6 and also the Lakers committed fewer turnovers compared to the Warriors (10 vs 14). With a final box score of 120-105, the Lakers still have a lot to improve on, but it appears that the Lakers are moving toward the right direction. Solid performances from Ed Davis, Ronnie Price, and a late run by Julius Randle should keep Laker fans optimistic.

Lakers post-game analysis: OCT. 6th 2014

Los Angeles Lakers vs. Denver Nuggets [Preseason]

After several weeks of anticipation the 2014-15 Lakers finally took the court against the Denver Nuggets.

The Lakers starting line-up consisted of Steve Nash (PG), Kobe Bryant (SG), Wesley Johnson (SF), Carlos Boozer (PF), and Jordan Hill (C), and the Nuggets starting line-up had Ty Lawson (PG), Randy Foye (SG), Aaron Afflalo (SF), Kenneth Faried (PF), Timothy Mozgov (C).  

At tip-off the Lakers looked to feed Kobe the ball early, and in the first quarter Kobe shot 3-6 from the field. Steve Nash also had an impressive first quarter, looking healthy and sprite for a player entering his 19th season. Johnson played some solid defense, Hill imposed his presence with his tenacious rebounding and finally Boozer played some solid contributive minutes. Overall team defense looked strong, however there is still much improvement needed at the PG position, as Ty Lawson willingly got into the paint multiple trips down.

The second quarter consisted mainly of the second unit, with Jeremy Lin (PG), Jordan Clarkson (SG), Wayne Ellington (SF), Julius Randle (PF), and Robert Sacre (C). The second unit played well with they're up-tempo pace. Lin was effective at dishing out assists, Clarkson made a strong impression on the defensive side, Randle, although struggling at times, looked strong and essentially NBA ready and finally Ellington and Sacre played to their roles nicely. 

Overall the Lakers first preseason game was a close one, final box score of 95-98 going to the Lakers. The main highlights from the game was Kobe's performance, Lin's double-digit assists, Nash's impressive outing, and our rookies overall performances. In additional the improved defense, active hands, and strong hustle kept the Lakers on top.

Stay tuned next time for the Laker's next game. 

What the Lakers should expect this 2014 season and beyond.

After a disastrous campaign last year many of us Laker fans were left wondering, what will 2014 and the future have in store? Luckily reports of Kobe Byrant’s improved health, as well as a slew of new and hungry players have rekindled the hopes of many Lakers fans, however, be weary, this season will be an up and down rollercoaster.

Many should be concerned about the 2014-15 season, especially since the Lakers organization failed to attract any big name free agents, and don’t be surprised if Lakersnation experiences déjà vu. The fact that Kobe Bryant is on the team is both a blessing and a curse. Bryant’s presence will restrict the Lakers from attaining any notable big name free agents, but that may work to our advantage.

The 2015 free agent class lacks any headlining big names, aside from Lebron James, Kevin Love, and Lamarcus Aldridge, which we will assume all will be staying with their respective teams. Some notable unrestricted free-agents for 2015 are Marc Gasol, Paul Millsap, Rajon Rondo, Greg Monroe, and Rudy Gay. Out of the 5, Marc Gasol is probably the one pick that every Laker fan should fall in love with. Marc is Pau 2.0, stronger, tougher, and a proven contender, and by next year he’ll be exactly 30 years old, which isn’t too shabby. My next pick would be a tie between Millsap and Monroe, although I would prefer a Monroe-Gasol duo more so over a Millsap-Gasol pairing. Kobe’s past two championship runs had a solid foundation of two intimating interior presences, Bynum who was the bruiser, and Gasol who was the finesse fundamental specialist. Although Millsap and Gasol would present an interesting inside-outside tandem, the presence of Kobe will most likely cause some problems for Millsap, who thrives on mismatches. Furthermore, Kobe’s presence on the court will force Millsap to a traditional power forward position, eliminating Millsap’s strongest advantage. Whereas a Monroe-Gasol pairing would closely resemble the Bynum-Gasol duo that took the Lakers to 3 straight championship runs. Monroe and Gasol are above-average rim protectors, they give the Lakers tremendous length inside, both players are fundamentally sound, and neither player needs the ball in their hands to be effective. As the Lakers are positioned to keep Kobe until he retires, it only makes sense to surround him with players that play to his strengths. For instance, slow-paced half-court sets, solid pick and roll big men who can pass out of traffic, and lastly dependable wing defenders, which brings me to my least favorite choices, Rondo and Gay. Although many Laker fans have clamored to have the PG position addressed, realistically this position should be the Lakers least concern, again because of Kobe. Rondo with the Lakers just isn’t a good fit, and Rondo’s locker room disputes with coaches and players will undoubtedly cause unnecessary drama. As for Gay, his trigger happy shooting tendencies will not bode well with Bryant’s presence either. So who will address our PG woes? Well the jury is still out on Jeremy Lin, but I’m confident that Lin will be a serviceable starting PG who can guard the likes of elite PG such as Chris Paul, Russell Westbrook and Tony Parker, and let’s not forget that Lin is still very young and will only get better. I’m a fan of Wesley Johnson and what he brings to the table, and I’m in full support of Swaggy P. Furthermore, if Ed Davis somehow pans out then he’d be an outstanding back-up PF/C.

Laker fans should be hopeful for the 2015 free agency, even if they don’t attract any franchise changing players. As for the 2014-15 season, as predicated earlier, expect a lot of ups and downs. Lakersnation’s greatest concern is the Black Mamba’s health, and rightfully so, Bryant’s health will single-handedly dictate how the next 3-4 years will play out, so expect Scott to monitor Bryant’s minutes closely. But Laker fans should realize that this year isn’t so much about Kobe and his return. It closely resembles a season long try-out for the rest of the 14 guys on the roster. Expect to see a lot from Lin, who will be playing the last year of his contract. Furthermore, the rookies, Randle and Clarkson, have much to prove, mainly Randle. Bringing in Boozer was a smart decision by the Lakers front office; Randle can emulate Boozer’s success easily, but coming off the bench will be extremely important to build up his confidence and hopefully mold him into an outstanding undersized PF. As for our big men, I’d expect the Lakers to move Hill sometime this year, hopefully clearing some cap space for the 2015 free agency, or possibly a big game-changing trade? With Scott running the team and implementing a Princeton style offense, fans should expect lots of turnovers and erratic scores, while the defense is still left to the imagination. Although this Lakers squad isn’t a championship contender just yet, the team should do what is necessary to make it into the playoffs. Again, since this will be another year long try-out for the rest of the 14 guys on the roster, it should be of utmost priority to see how the rest of team can play in a playoff setting, remember only 4 of the 15 guys have played substantial meaningful playoff minutes (Boozer, Bryant, Lin and Nash).

It’ll be another year before Laker fans start seeing some real improvements, but there’s a shining light shimmering towards the 2015-16 season. Although the Lakers will most likely lose out on the big name free agents, it’s still a possibility that the purple and gold will end up on top. This year will have little room for error as the Lakers gear up for what looks to be a tough, nail-biting 2014-15 season. Let’s hope that the basketball gods shines brightly on the city of Angels. 

The Magical Sixth Ring

Dear Kobe Bryant,

As a fan who has grown up watching you and followed your entire career there's nothing more that I want then for you to get your 6th ring. You can say that I'm obsessive, especially since you're the one fighting day-in and day-out, but as a Laker fan, and more importantly a Byrant supporter, it's difficult for me not to be overly attached to the player and organization I've looked up to my entire life. Hearing the naysayers, the Laker haters, and the Jordan apostles saying that you'll never be the greatest adds fuels to my fiery passion, for you and the organization. But over the last years I've been disappointed to see how things have played out. Last year was a nightmare, the year prior was a circus, and the year before that was a bitter sweet and sad realization that everyone in the purple and gold was going to go through a rocky adventure.

Even then, when I knew our time on top of the mountain was ending I remained optimistic. The Lakers front office convinced me that adding Nash and Howard was going to bring us back to the promise land. But who would've known the hardships that awaited. Not only that, but the hiring of Mike D'antoni made me more concerned, however, I trusted KB24 and I hoped you would be able to bring that bunch together for a real shot a the title, which you almost did, before you season ending Achilles injury, which resulted in Queen Howard's sorry performance in the first-round of the playoffs against the San Antonio Spurs. I'm not bitter with how things ended, but I'm disappointed because I expected more from you!

For years I've been waiting to see you grow as a leader, unfortunately that hasn't been the case. The lack of trust for your teammates has never disappeared. Your judgement in according to the teams circumstances have been questionable. Most importantly your inability to make your teammates better has been your greatest weakness. All that said, I understand that those same deficiencies is what make you so beloved. But as you've been aging and the league has continually evolved, your once maniacal competitive nature is turning into your greatest handicap.

My only wish for this season is to see some changes within you, Mr. Bryant. After missing so much time I'd hope that you'd realize that you're not the same player that you used to be. Just like the many greats that came before you, and even one that still winning (aka Big Timmy), I'd hope to see you evolve your game as well. This years 2015-16 season will not be easy, but with you leading the way there's always hope. Hopefully, Mr. Bryant, we'll see a new Mamba that will take the league by storm.

Always and truly your number 1,

JS