Dawn of the Dragon, Goran Dragic as a Purple and Gold?

Goran Dragic, aka the Dragon, is the dynamic combo guard for the Phoenix Suns who will also be a free agent by the end of this year. Basketball experts and enthusiasts, like yours truly, can't get enough of the Dragon since he is highly capable at running a squad. Not only that, but he's a dangerous scorer whose unbelievably efficient, and most importantly he has an extremely high basketball IQ. With the prospects of Jeremy Lin slowly fading away in Los Angeles, fans should look for the Dragon to hopefully address our point guard misfortunes.

Dragic is averaging 16.5 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 4 assists per game while shooting 49.9% from the field. That stat line is insane when you consider that he's playing with Eric Bledsoe and Isaiah Thomas, both of whom are ball dominant scoring point guards. But, in case you're still unimpressed by those numbers let me throw out some more numbers at you. Since 2011 till now Dragic's numbers have escalated drastically in all categories, most notably his field goal % and points per game.

Season	Age	Tm	Lg	Pos	G	GS	MP	FG	FGA	FG%	3P	3PA	3P%	2P	2PA	2P%	FT	FTA	FT%	ORB	DRB	TRB	AST	STL	BLK	TOV	PF	PTS
2011-12	25	HOU	NBA	PG	66	28	26.5	4.2	9.1	.462	1.0	3.1	.337	3.2	6.0	.525	2.3	2.9	.805	0.8	1.7	2.5	5.3	1.3	0.2	2.4	2.5	11.7
2012-13	26	PHO	NBA	PG	77	77	33.5	5.2	11.8	.443	1.1	3.6	.319	4.1	8.2	.497	3.2	4.2	.748	0.8	2.3	3.1	7.4	1.6	0.3	2.8	2.8	14.7
2013-14	27	PHO	NBA	SG	76	75	35.1	7.3	14.4	.505	1.6	3.9	.408	5.7	10.4	.542	4.2	5.5	.760	0.9	2.3	3.2	5.9	1.4	0.3	2.8	2.7	20.3
2014-15	28	PHO	NBA	SG	49	49	33.4	6.6	13.2	.499	1.3	3.7	.346	5.3	9.6	.558	1.9	2.5	.762	1.0	2.6	3.6	4.0	1.0	0.2	2.2	2.3	16.3

Dragic's statistics from 2011-present

http://www.basketball-reference.com/players/d/dragigo01.html#per_game::none

Considering if Dragic does decide to sign with the Lakers, fans should not be concerned about consistency, particularly because Dragic has become accustomed to playing off the ball. Meaning he can still remain efficient while Kobe has the ball in his hands. However, the biggest hurdle that Dragic will have to encounter while playing with Bryant is his tendency to improvise plays rather than adhering to traditional half-court sets, which is why Phil Jackson's triangle offense was so lethal with Bryant as the focal point. 

Earlier this season analysts questioned the addition of Isaiah Thomas to the Phoenix Suns, foreshadowing that having 3 ball dominant point guards on one team would disrupt the Suns exciting fast action play. Although the team had a bumpy start in their first 26 games, with 12 wins and 14 losses, since mid-December the Suns have teared through their competition earning themselves a coveted 8th seed in a highly competitive Western Conference, which has the top 7 teams playing above .600% (teams will complete roughly 41 games mid-point through the season, a season has total of 82 games).

Throughout this season the Lakers have reported that they were interested in Dragic. By the end of the year the Lakers will have an estimated $27 million to spend during the 2015-16 off-season, which will be more than enough to sign Dragic. It's unlikely that the Lakers can trade for Dragic, especially since they do not have viable trading assets; the trade deadline will end on Feb 19th at 3PM EST.

As the All-Star weekend approaches we should expect to see teams move and tinker their rosters. Particularly this year, since there are no heavy favorites to win the championship, although the Golden State Warriors, Memphis Grizzles, and the Cleveland Cavaliers may argue otherwise. With that said, Lakernation is desperately hoping to maintain their draft pick (Lakers can only obtain their pick if it is a top 5 pick, otherwise the pick would go to the Phoenix Suns via the Steve Nash trade). Until then, we'll have to wait and see. Brace yourself, this is going to be a wild race to the finish.

Jeremy Lin and Linsanity...is it over? According to Byron Scott it is.

This past off-season when the Lakers acquired Jeremy Lin from the Houston Rockets, Laker fans assumed Lin would address the point guard inefficiencies that had plagued the Lakers for far too long. Lin is a proven point guard who excels at driving to the rim, can dish out assists, can shoot beyond the perimeter, and most importantly he's a true team player and all-around good guy on and off the court. Recently, however, Byron Scott's statements in regards to the end of Linsanity had me questioning some of his coaching methods, considering that Scott hasn't given Lin a fair shot to showcase his skill set.

Scott was displeased with Lin's lack of consistency when he started alongside Kobe Bryant and the rest of the starters. Not only that, Lin's defense has been virtually non-existent. As a result, Scott relegated Lin to the bench, having Ronnie Price take over his starting minutes. Since the switch Lin's confidence and value has plummeted, and several times throughout the season Lin had vented his frustrations in accordance to the changes.

Having Price start over Lin was a questionable move that left me wondering why Scott had such an affinity for Price. Although Price was a slightly better defender he provided no spark offensively, and his high-risk, high-reward style of play normally ended with the opposition gaining the upper hand.

Lin's ability to get to the hole and get the Lakers' big men involved was his greatest strength, and he performed well enough when he led the squad. Unfortunately when Bryant was on the court Lin's main weapons were taken away, forcing him to become a catch and shoot player. To make matters worst Lin's minutes have been horrendously erratic; some games he'll play 20-25 minutes, other nights he'll only log 10-14 minutes, and there have been a handful of games where Lin was listed on the DNP list ("did not play").

I understand Scott's frustrations with Lin, especially since Lin is the second highest paid player on the roster, making a cool 14.9 million dollars. It's interesting to consider whether or not Scott would have treated Lin differently if he was payed less. Perhaps Scott's expectations would be more reasonable. Nonetheless, Scott appears content with leaving Lin on the bench. Now, Lin's new replacement is the rookie guard, Jordan Clarkson, who has shown tremendous potential.

What does the future have in store for Lin? Lin spoke with the media expressing that his options are still "open" and that it's too "early" to make any decisions. However, I'm confident that Lin will pursue another team that will cater to his skill set. Maybe Lin can revive his career in San Antonio! Playing behind Tony Parker would be a monumental opportunity. Or we might see Lin as a Clipper. The Clippers have struggled to find a note-worthy replacement for Darren Collison, who now starts for the Sacramento Kings.

Undoubtedly, Scott's opinions in regards to Lin have been bold, proclaiming that the days of Linsanity are over. Personally I do not agree with Scott, given that he never trusted Lin to take on the starting role. Since the beginning Scott has kept Lin on a very short leash, and as a result their relationship has become toxic, similar to how D'Antoni mistreated Gasol. Consequently, the Laker fan base may never get a chance to experience the phenomena known as Linsanity, but I can guarantee that Lin will carry his talents and his fan base else where next season.

The battle of two Legends: Lakers vs Cavs 1/15/15

On this day, NBA fans had the joy and pleasure to experience two of the greatest NBA players of all-time go mono y mono as the Los Angeles Lakers (12-28) challenged the struggling Cleveland Cavaliers (20-20) in Staples Center. Unfortunately the Lakers would fall short, 109-102, as Lebron ultimately closed out the game and secured the win.


Unlike other games this particular night had a special flare that captivated Staples Center and those watching around the nation. Kobe and Lebron playfully exchanged some funny and light-hearted banter, and without a doubt moments like those made you wish that ESPN courtside correspondent Rachel Nichols would stick a microphone in between the two future hall of famers. But that's not all, as the game had moments that showcased just why Kobe and Lebron make such captivating television.

I had chills bolting down my spine as fans and players alike anticipated Kobe's last substitution for the game, with a little over 5 minutes remaining. Everybody knew that these last 5 minutes define why we as fans love seeing the greatest players play.

But besides the match-up between the two legends, both the Lakers, and especially the Cavaliers, have a lot of issues they must address.

The Lakers guard play is just too inconsistent, as Lin, Price, and Young barely make an impact during the game. Jordan Hill continues to establish himself as the second most consistent player on the team. Finally the rest of the Lakers must realize that they must play cohesive defens

On the other hand, the Cavaliers still appear to struggle as their players appear to suffer from chemistry issues. Kevin Love simply looks out of place and lost on the court, especially when Lebron and Kyrie Irving are playing. J.R. Smith is a gambler's dream, but he'll either pay-out extremely well or make you regret ever doubling down. And finally the Cavaliers defense is atrociously bad.


Overall this game met expectations, with Kobe and Lebron both having tremendous games. Byrant finished with a career high in assists, with 17, in addition he added 19 points, and 6 rebounds while Lebron finished the game with a solid 36 points, 5 assists, and 5 rebounds. The Lakers will have another chance to play against Cleveland on February 8th, which is a Sunday. Let's just hope that these two teams can replicate the same magic that they shared tonight.

I'll end this off with some highlights from the game, enjoy!

Lebron with the dagger in the final seconds.

First half highlights of the game.

Lebron's awesome no-look pass.

The Lakers, A Team Like No Other.

Laker fans have had to deal with yet another difficult season, full of inconsistent play, far too many blow-out games, and most notably a declining Kobe Bryant. While others are watching the electric "Splash Brothers" from the Golden State Warriors, or the MVP level of play from James Harden and the Houston Rockets, or even the Memphis Grizzles demolishing their opponents in the "Grind House", I, like many loyal Lakerheads, still find watching the purple and gold much more fulfilling. Now you may call me a masochist for watching mediocre basketball, but what can I say, Hollywood sure knows how to entertain it's fans, and unlike any other team, the Lakers 2014-15 season has been riddled with politics, drama, and most importantly Swaggy P.

Nick Young's hilarious post-game interview: Lakers vs Spurs Dec.12th

Much of the Lakers' woes can be attributed to some selfish play from none other than Kobe Bryant, as well as inconsistency from the rest of the Lakers' roster. However, Bryant's recent performances have shown some glimmers of hope, as number 24's field goal attempts have drastically dropped down, as well as his minutes. As a result, there have been more opportunities for other Lakers, such as Nick Young, Carlos Boozer, and Wesley Johnson, to prosper under the new system.

The Lakers record stands at 11 wins and 23 losses, but surprisingly, 5 of their 11 wins have come against teams with records far exceeding the .500% benchmark (Atlanta Hawks, Houston Rockets, Toronto Raptors, San Antonio Spurs, and the Golden State Warriors).

It's most likely that the Lakers will still see themselves lingering towards the bottom of the Western conference, but nobody can say that the Lakers are the worst team in NBA, that honor goes to both the New York Knicks and the Philadelphia 76ers.

As the season continues Laker fans should remain optimistic about this current Lakers squad. Byron Scott has given this team an edge that was obviously missing last year, under Mike D'Antoni, and if this team remains in tact next year, with the addition of key free agents, then the Lakers may very well be on their way to a successful rebuilding process.

Tonight we will see if the Lakers can carry on their gritty performance to the Rose Garden as they will face the Portland Trail Blazers, who are second in the Western conference with a record of 26 wins and 8 losses. Kobe Bryant (rest) and Wesley Johnson (hip flexor) will sit out this game and most likely we will see a start from Swaggy P, so expect some fireworks tonight from the purple and gold. 

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!!!