http://www.nba.com/video/channels/playoffs/2009/04/22/nba_uta_lal_gm3_lookahead.nba/index.html
Thursday, April 23, 2009
3-0?
Tonight is game three of round one against the Utah Jazz and so far, so good. The first two games have been in the Lakers favor with the first game ending at 113-100 L.A. and the second game bringing another victory with 119-109. Both games have been relatively close with the number 8 Jazz trailing not too far behind the number 1 ranked Lakers.
Game three will bring a change of scenery as the Lakers head to Utah to face the Jazz at the Energy Solutions Arena. Los Angeles had the privilege of hosting the first two of the games of the first round which besides their strong team, was no doubt an attribute to their success. Almost any team plays better on their home court than they would on the road, as we may see tonight when the Jazz are given the opportunity to be back home.
Utah is known for having extra loud and supportive fans who have recently been giving the team a hard time for their two losses against L.A. The Jazz is just as hungry for the win as L.A. is so this game may prove to be a bit more challenging for the Lakers than the first two.
Here are a few things that L.A. needs to do tonight in order to secure another victory: This season they have been pretty consistent with hitting three pointers with 51.4%. This could be key in tonight’s game. The Lakers will have no time to relax during the first quarter tonight, but instead need to go into the game looking strong, giving the Jazz no chance of hope. Their defense will also need to be spot on as the Jazz with most likely be fired up and ready to win.
The key to winning round one is to break the opposing team as early as possible, winning the first three games in a row could easily give L.A. the momentum that they need to break the hopes for the Jazz for game four.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Post Practice Interview with Bynum
Bynum talks about practice and getting back on the court soon.
Bynum is Back!
Its been about two and a half months since Bynum’s MCL injury, but with news of his recent steps towards recovery, many are hoping that the center will be back on the court for the last few games of the seasons. It could happen as early as tonight when the Lakers face the Denver Nuggets at the Staples Center.
“I’m just excited, I really can’t wait”, says the twenty-one year old. “I’m ready to go. Just waiting on my release...I think tomorrow is possible.”
For the past few weeks Bynum has been exercising, regaining strength, and rebuilding his game with the help and encouragement of the Lakers coaches and staff. Practicing with full contact with D.J. Mbenga for the past week has also helped. “It just gets you ready and in the mindset of playing with contact,” said Bynum.
Teammates are also looking forward to Bynum’s return as he is such a valuable asset to the team.
In recent team practice Odom said Bynum looked “Awesome.” And that he just has to “go out there and play with energy and effort.”
Although the Lakers have still kept their number one spot in the Western Conference even with the absence of one of their star players, the team could no doubt use some extra help and Bynum’s return would be just the help they need. Before the injury, the Lakers were 37-9 and since then have gone 25-7. Bynum averaged 26.2 points a game and was a key defensive player.
Coach Phil Jackson isn’t as eager to let the young player back on the court and is being more cautious and not as forthcoming with information.
“We’ll probably asses how he feels tomorrow after todays practice, and then make a judgement on that,” said Jackson.
"He's doing pretty good, we're pleased with his progress. I don't know how much more he can get out of the activity level that he's doing right now. He's got to get playing here pretty soon,” Jackson concluded.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
The Lakers continue on their seven game road trip as they prepare to face the Detroit Pistons tonight. With the best record in the West, but second to best record in the entire league after Cleveland, these next few games could seriously help their standing.
This is not looking to be one their best games this season. The Lakers have lost all nine of their previous games to Detroit, but many are hoping this time will be different.
Visit this blog to get more of the Detroit/Lakers history and a preview for tonight.
http://thelakersnation.com/blog/2009/03/26/tln’s-game-preview-lakers-pistons/#more-10068
Andrew Bynum is slowly, but surely continuing to make improvements to his health. Just last week the center was able to start exercising on a treadmill to regain strength in his injured right knee. Two weeks ago Bynum began doing cardio and is continuing to grow stronger.
Although he is still not able to play or practice, this is a big step from his serious injury last month during a game against Memphis. All of this comes as good news to the Lakers and a bit of a surprise to fans. Just a few weeks ago coach Phil Jackson made a statement saying that he was not interested in making comments about Bynum’s progress, which led many to believe that the injury was more serious than previously thought.
More recently, Bynum has been open with reports, telling them that he is growing stronger each day and is eager to get back on the court.
Jackson has started to open up a little more recently and made this statement after a game against Golden State. “Right now Andrew is, it looks like, a month away, and that’s like the end of the season. This is a from a guy who has been watching players recover and not a trainer, and certainly not a physical therapist, but I think he’s still a month away from being a player.”
Throughout the entire process, Bynum has been nothing but positive, and looking forward to rejoining the team as he is a big asset.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Good First Impression
Newly acquired Shannon Brown made his Staples Center debut and made a lasting impression with Lakers fans everywhere. During a recent game against the Atlanta Hawks, Brown made a defensive block on Mario West that had everyone on their feet, including his teammates.
Click on the link below to see Shannon's reaction.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JbdtNfd7Vxk&eurl=http://my.lakers.com/blogs/2009/02/23/shannon-brown-block-talk/&feature=player_embedded
Click on the link below to see Shannon's reaction.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JbdtNfd7Vxk&eurl=http://my.lakers.com/blogs/2009/02/23/shannon-brown-block-talk/&feature=player_embedded
Lakers vs. Recession
With our economy in recession, many have had to make some changes to their lifestyles nationwide and it’s no different in the NBA. Many teams have had to induce major pay cuts in order to balance their economy. It seems that some of the budget changes have been made solely for economic purposes, but when it comes to the Lakers, their choices are based around the game and what will benefit the team.
The Lakers definitely acknowledge the need to make a few changes in order to stay within their particular economic standing. In an interview on Lakers.com, Lakers General Manager Mitch Kupchack had this to say about the hard economic times, “It is obviously a tough economic environment right now with a lot of uncertainty going forward. It is essential that all NBA teams and the NBA in New York pay close attention to the economy and how it may affect this great game in the short term so as to ensure its success in the long term.”
The Lakers have decided not to cut all salaries, but to make some specific adjustments with the salaries of those players who have not been “contributing in a major way,” says Kupchack.
Two examples of this are the recent trades of Chris Mihm to the Memphis Grizzlies and Vladimir Radmanovic to the Charlotte Bobcats.
“We did a couple of deals that we think solidifies our roster a little bit and gives us some flexibility down the road,” Kupchak said. “For obvious reasons, we’re very comfortable with our team and we didn’t look to tinker with the core.”
Although it may seem that these trades were made only to save the Lakers some money, they insist that their first priority is the benefit of the team. It is true however that money has helped make some decisions as with the example of Mihm and Radmanovic. Such trades were made in order to relieve the Lakers from giving major paychecks to players who have not had a lot of playing time.
Kupchack explained that, “Players that play will continue to be paid, and paid accordingly to how they’re valued in the league. If you have players that aren’t playing and you feel comfortable with your depth situation, then you may look to make a move with those players.”
The ultimate goal of the Lakers is to build and maintain a strong winning team and while our struggling economy will be remembered when important decisions are being made, the Lakers will strive to uphold the Los Angeles legacy.
“Dr. Buss has always fielded the best possible teams within reason,” said Kupchak. “He wants to win. I think his record as the owner of the Lakers speaks for itself.”
The Lakers definitely acknowledge the need to make a few changes in order to stay within their particular economic standing. In an interview on Lakers.com, Lakers General Manager Mitch Kupchack had this to say about the hard economic times, “It is obviously a tough economic environment right now with a lot of uncertainty going forward. It is essential that all NBA teams and the NBA in New York pay close attention to the economy and how it may affect this great game in the short term so as to ensure its success in the long term.”
The Lakers have decided not to cut all salaries, but to make some specific adjustments with the salaries of those players who have not been “contributing in a major way,” says Kupchack.
Two examples of this are the recent trades of Chris Mihm to the Memphis Grizzlies and Vladimir Radmanovic to the Charlotte Bobcats.
“We did a couple of deals that we think solidifies our roster a little bit and gives us some flexibility down the road,” Kupchak said. “For obvious reasons, we’re very comfortable with our team and we didn’t look to tinker with the core.”
Although it may seem that these trades were made only to save the Lakers some money, they insist that their first priority is the benefit of the team. It is true however that money has helped make some decisions as with the example of Mihm and Radmanovic. Such trades were made in order to relieve the Lakers from giving major paychecks to players who have not had a lot of playing time.
Kupchack explained that, “Players that play will continue to be paid, and paid accordingly to how they’re valued in the league. If you have players that aren’t playing and you feel comfortable with your depth situation, then you may look to make a move with those players.”
The ultimate goal of the Lakers is to build and maintain a strong winning team and while our struggling economy will be remembered when important decisions are being made, the Lakers will strive to uphold the Los Angeles legacy.
“Dr. Buss has always fielded the best possible teams within reason,” said Kupchak. “He wants to win. I think his record as the owner of the Lakers speaks for itself.”
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Mihm Traded to Memphis
Chris Mihm will be saying good-bye Los Angeles and hello Memphis as the Grizzlies add some depth to their roster. According to reports released this Wednesday that announced that the Lakers and the Grizzlies have made a trade.
Lakers General Manager Mitch Kupchak announced that the Los Angeles Lakers have acquired a conditional second-round draft pick in 2013 from the Memphis Grizzles for the 7-0 center Chris Mihm.
Mihm who is now in his 5th season with L.A., has spent the past two years recovering from an ankle injury. “The past two years have been difficult and frustrating for Chris,” said Kupchak. “With the depth of our roster, especially at the center position, Chris has not had the opportunity to play that he deserves. At this point in his career, and especially as someone who will be a free agent this summer, we felt it was in his best interests to go to a team that would give him a chance to play. Chris has made significant contributions to our team over the past five years. We’d like to thank him and wish him the best of luck for the remainder of his career.”
With career averages of 7.5 points, and 5.3 rebounds in 20.1 minutes in eight seasons with the Cavaliers, the Celtics, and the Lakers since being drafted seventh overall in 2000, Mihm is sure to grow even more in Memphis as his playing time will certainly increase from this seasons 5.8 minute average.
Phil Jackson expressed how much Mihm was liked by staff and fellow teammates and will be missed but, “Hopefully it’s a chance for him to play.”
Lakers General Manager Mitch Kupchak announced that the Los Angeles Lakers have acquired a conditional second-round draft pick in 2013 from the Memphis Grizzles for the 7-0 center Chris Mihm.
Mihm who is now in his 5th season with L.A., has spent the past two years recovering from an ankle injury. “The past two years have been difficult and frustrating for Chris,” said Kupchak. “With the depth of our roster, especially at the center position, Chris has not had the opportunity to play that he deserves. At this point in his career, and especially as someone who will be a free agent this summer, we felt it was in his best interests to go to a team that would give him a chance to play. Chris has made significant contributions to our team over the past five years. We’d like to thank him and wish him the best of luck for the remainder of his career.”
With career averages of 7.5 points, and 5.3 rebounds in 20.1 minutes in eight seasons with the Cavaliers, the Celtics, and the Lakers since being drafted seventh overall in 2000, Mihm is sure to grow even more in Memphis as his playing time will certainly increase from this seasons 5.8 minute average.
Phil Jackson expressed how much Mihm was liked by staff and fellow teammates and will be missed but, “Hopefully it’s a chance for him to play.”
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Lakers victory in Toronto
Final score:
Los Angeles Lakers (39-9): 115
Toronto Raptors (19-31): 107
Lakers, No. 1 in the West, dominate Raptors who come in at No. 14 in the East in their 4th straight win.
Standout players include Bryant with 36 pts, Gasol with 31 pts and 15 rebounds, Odom with 13 pts, Fisher with 12 pts, and Walton with 5 assists.
Los Angeles Lakers (39-9): 115
Toronto Raptors (19-31): 107
Lakers, No. 1 in the West, dominate Raptors who come in at No. 14 in the East in their 4th straight win.
Standout players include Bryant with 36 pts, Gasol with 31 pts and 15 rebounds, Odom with 13 pts, Fisher with 12 pts, and Walton with 5 assists.
Bynum’s injury during game in Memphis
During last Saturday’s game against Memphis, Lakers center Andrew Bynum suffered a knee injury. With 6:55 left in the first quarter, Kobe Bryant was pushed into Bynum who fell to the floor with what was originally thought to be a sprained right knee. X-rays later revealed that Bynum’s knee was not sprained, but certainly was injured.
Bynum left the court during the first quarter and was taken to the locker room for his injury to be examined. While in the locker room, Bynum was putting weight on his knee. “It just felt like he hit me on the side of the leg. No pops, I didn’t hear any pops. Basically, it just hurt the inside of the knee. It’s much better than last year, last year I couldn’t put any pressure on it or walk or anything like that. I really don’t need this crutch; they just want me to keep the weight off (the knee). No pops, no giving. It sucks to be injured again, but I can walk … I have to be optimistic. I definitely want to return and get back to the things I was doing out there. I have no idea (about time of return), we have to wait for the MRI. It feels a little bit better from (before), but that might be because of the ice.” http://my.lakers.com/blogs/2009/01/31/bynum-update-postgame-audio/
After the Lakers 115-98 victory in Memphis, assistant coach Kurt Rambis had this to say about Bynum’s knee injury, “There’s nothing we can do about it. What’s happened has happened and our team has to stay positive and move forward.”
Bynum, who was named Western Conference Player of the week a week prior to the injury, underwent an MRI Sunday morning in New York. A press release from the Lakers revealed that Bynum’s right knee showed a tear of the medial collateral ligament. Because of this serious injury Bynum is expected to “be out approximately 8-12 weeks.”
During this long absence from the team, Bynum will no doubt be missed as he is consistently a big scorer and a valued starter.
Bynum left the court during the first quarter and was taken to the locker room for his injury to be examined. While in the locker room, Bynum was putting weight on his knee. “It just felt like he hit me on the side of the leg. No pops, I didn’t hear any pops. Basically, it just hurt the inside of the knee. It’s much better than last year, last year I couldn’t put any pressure on it or walk or anything like that. I really don’t need this crutch; they just want me to keep the weight off (the knee). No pops, no giving. It sucks to be injured again, but I can walk … I have to be optimistic. I definitely want to return and get back to the things I was doing out there. I have no idea (about time of return), we have to wait for the MRI. It feels a little bit better from (before), but that might be because of the ice.” http://my.lakers.com/blogs/2009/01/31/bynum-update-postgame-audio/
After the Lakers 115-98 victory in Memphis, assistant coach Kurt Rambis had this to say about Bynum’s knee injury, “There’s nothing we can do about it. What’s happened has happened and our team has to stay positive and move forward.”
Bynum, who was named Western Conference Player of the week a week prior to the injury, underwent an MRI Sunday morning in New York. A press release from the Lakers revealed that Bynum’s right knee showed a tear of the medial collateral ligament. Because of this serious injury Bynum is expected to “be out approximately 8-12 weeks.”
During this long absence from the team, Bynum will no doubt be missed as he is consistently a big scorer and a valued starter.
Bryant jersey takes back No. 1 spot
After losing the most popular NBA jersey for a season to Boston Celtic’s Kevin Garnett and being placed in the No. 2 spot, Kobe once again has the top selling jersey.
In a recent press release from the NBA, the Lakers are credited with being at the top of Most Popular NBA Team Merchandise list. The Lakers have the highest amount of sales from NBA store in NYC and NBAStore.com.
Along with Kobe moving back up to No. 1, Lakers forward Pau Gasol moves up from No. 15 to No. 6 this season.
In a recent press release from the NBA, the Lakers are credited with being at the top of Most Popular NBA Team Merchandise list. The Lakers have the highest amount of sales from NBA store in NYC and NBAStore.com.
Along with Kobe moving back up to No. 1, Lakers forward Pau Gasol moves up from No. 15 to No. 6 this season.
More details on Kobe's #24 jersey, a list of the NBA's Most Popular Jersey and the Most Popular Team Merchandise lists can be found at http://my.lakers.com/blogs/2009/01/28/kobe-regains-nbas-top-selling-jersey/
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Welcome
This blog is dedicated to the Los Angeles Lakers and will provide the latest info on scores, stats, upcoming games, and news about the players and the team as a whole.
As a huge NBA fan and more specifically a huge Laker fan, I've decided to create a blog that will follow the team, provide inside stories about the players and discuss current topics surrounding the Lakers and their progression through the season.
As a huge NBA fan and more specifically a huge Laker fan, I've decided to create a blog that will follow the team, provide inside stories about the players and discuss current topics surrounding the Lakers and their progression through the season.
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