Lakers Playoff thread!

[electrochemical]

That playoffs are upon us. They Play Utah in round 1 and probably Portland in Round 2 and Denver in round 3 and Cleveland in the finals.

The toughest of those teams is Portland. If they can get past Portland they will win the championship. I think that series goes to 7 games with the home teams winning those games.

The easiest will be Denver and Utah is the second easiest. Cleveland will be tough, they will have to steal 1 game in cleveland in the first 2 games then win all 3 games at home. That series is 5 games for the Lakers or nothing.

last year the lakers won 14 games and had a horrible series in the finals. The finals has not been kind to the lakers in their last 2 trips there.

I hope this is the year they win again, it has been too long!

[CowboyzAdam]

Let the games begin! Now is where I really get into it all.

[electrochemical]

The only time of the year that really matters in the NBA. I have waited a year for this!

[DCfan60]

We can take Utah ok. we beat them by 12 the other nite with Kobe, Gasol only plying like 25 minutes.

[electrochemical]

I think it will take 6 games like last year. The Lakers cant beat Utah in Utah.

[Haynie]

Here are my first round predictions:

Lakers vs Jazz: In three matchups this season the Lakers went 2-1, dropping the one road game played in Utah. Both teams scored over a hundred points in all three games, meaning that neither team is very good at defending the other. The Lakers always let opposing point guards run wild and Deron Williams can score with the best of them. The hope here for Los Angeles is that homecourt advantage and Bynum's return will give them enough of an edge. This has been one of the more inconsistent Jazz teams in recent memory, so the outlook isn't good. However, they're very tough at home and should put up a couple wins.
Lakers in 6

Hornets vs Nuggets: They split their season series 2-2 with each team winning one of the other's floor. The most recent game was in late March with the Nuggets winning 101-88 on the road. That's a pretty big statement and indicative of how this one probably goes. Denver's playing their best ball right now and the Hornets as a team can't seem to find any consistency. Chris Paul is amazing, but he just doesn't have the help right now. David West has taken a backward step this season and Tyson Chandler is out. This one will be over quick.
Nuggets in 5

Spurs vs Mavericks: The Mavs still won 50 games this year despite their 2-7 start. That's pretty awesome. The Spurs lost Ginobili and Duncan is way more banged up than is being advertised. That's not good. If you can see an "upset" coming from a mile away, is it really still an upset? Dallas will drop a few games because they don't travel well and Tony Parker will run wild on Jason Kidd, but ultimately they'll handle business.
Mavs in 6

Blazers vs Rockets: Two teams seperated by one ONE GAME in their regular season record. The good news for Portland is that they have homecourt advantage, which is big since they lost both their games in Houston this year. They just played on April 5th and Houston won 102-88. The storybook ending to this one for the Blazers would be Greg Oden stepping up big on defense and holding Yao Ming down. They'll need a way to counter Yao as the Rockets certainly have an answer for Brandon Roy in the great man defense of Ron Artest. I like the veteran experience and the matchup advantages of Houston here. Either way, this will be a great series.
Rockets in 7


Cavaliers vs Pistons: The Pistons are only in the playoffs by default. To say that they're "limping into the tournament" would be merciful. It's sad because they have one of the few guys in the league who can defend LeBron in Tayshaun Prince. Detroit killed their dynasty the minute they traded away Billips. The Cavs are just coming to dance on the grave.
Cavaliers in 4

Celtics vs Bulls: The Rajon Rondo--Derrick Rose matchup will be really fun to watch. Rondo isn't even close to Rose on offense, but he may be the best defensive point guard in the league. The Bulls have nice momentum coming into the playoffs and Celtic-land is more than a little worried about Garnett's health. This is a big series for Paul Pierce to step up and be the franchise player. This one may be similar to the Celtics-Hawks series from last season's playoffs. However, if Garnett shows up healtheir than expected then I doubt there will be much drama.
Celtics in 6

Hawks vs Heat: This is a tough one for me. Dwayne Wade has reached that level where you're scared to bet against him in almost any scenario. However, the Hawks quietly had a 47-win season and went 3-1 against the Heat this year. They also have their own superstar in Joe Johnson who is one of the most underrated players in the league. Wade may make me pay for this one, but I just don't see it.
Hawks in 6

Magic vs 76ers: Since this series won't be much to talk about, let me take this opportunity to discuss something else. How stupid was the Elton Brand signing? Let's forget about the fact that he got injured. Even when healthy, the Sixers were never as good with Brand as they've been since he went down. Why the heck would you build your team around young athletes like Igoudala and Young and then throw a big plodding anchor like Brand in the middle of everything? It's obvious what style of ball works for these guys. It was obvious last year. Now they're going to be stuck paying Brand a ton of money to make them a worse team. Nobody will take that contract off their hands unless Brand bounces back next year and looks like a solid player again. No guarantees there.
Magic in 5

[CowboyzAdam]

No Haynie. Don't bet against my heat team Bro. I am all about the Heat and the Lakers. I'm just giving you a hard time. It could go down exactly the way you said but I think the Heat take it. Why? Because I REALLY want them too! LOL

[The Rattler]

Being a hard core Phoenix Suns fan, I say anybody but LA...

As much as I hate to admit it, I think the Lakers will beat the Cavs in five games in the NBA Finals...

[DCfan60]

I can see the Lakers winning in 6. I can dig that.

[Haynie]

Celtics vs Bulls: The Rajon Rondo--Derrick Rose matchup will be really fun to watch. Rondo isn't even close to Rose on offense, but he may be the best defensive point guard in the league. The Bulls have nice momentum coming into the playoffs and Celtic-land is more than a little worried about Garnett's health. This is a big series for Paul Pierce to step up and be the franchise player. This one may be similar to the Celtics-Hawks series from last season's playoffs. However, if Garnett shows up healtheir than expected then I doubt there will be much drama.
Celtics in 6



Now that Garnett's health is reportedly worse that realized, this series got even tougher to predict. Pierce and Allen are better than anyone on the Bulls' roster, but Chicago goes much deeper in the bench than Boston. I'm going to stick to my prediction with the Celtics and take it up to a seven-game series, but I wouldn't be shocked at all if the Bulls take it.

[electrochemical]

Pretty much as I expected. They will win 2 in LA then lose 2 in Utah (I hate to say it will be tied at 2) then the Lakers will finish it off like last year.

[DCfan60]

good start. made it look easy.

[CowboyzAdam]

Hey that is exactly how you want to do it. Lets just hope we can take one over in Utah.

[electrochemical]

Yea, It would be great to see them take 1 in Utah. The Jazz are good, but not as good as they where last year, and the Lakers are better than they where last year.

[DCfan60]

I see us at 3-1 when they return from Utah.

[electrochemical]

They played horrible today. I have a bed feeling right now. They don't look sharp.

[Haynie]

Dude, they're fine. They were rompin' and stompin' in the first quarter and chilled out too much as a result. They won't do that on the road.

[electrochemical]

That is true. Hopefully they can go up 3-1 after being in Utah.

[DCfan60]

yeah baby.. 2-0 just the way they need to be.. now to at least split on the road. We will be fine.

[electrochemical]

NBA is rigged. They want the Jazz to win the series. What a piece of shit league. The NBA is a joke! The refs are clearly being payed by the league to rig the series. I am done with this joke league. NBA I hate you!

Sending hate mail to NBA.com now!

[electrochemical]

I cant watch this shitty product that the NBA gives. I sent an email to the NBA that they wont send an reply back because they are trying to cover up the set up. Pathetic rigged league. I hate the NBA now.

Cavs will win the championship because that is what the turtle David Stern. What a pathetic league.

[electrochemical]

Lakers win series. Which is great and I am happy. However how ,any times must this team build leads and lose them. 19 point lead cut to 8 in the 4th quarter again. That will not cut it later on. They continue to stop trying when they are leading, but if they continued to try then they would not get into these situations. Right now Cleveland looks like the team to beat, not the Lakers.

[CowboyzAdam]

Lakers win series. Which is great and I am happy. However how ,any times must this team build leads and lose them. 19 point lead cut to 8 in the 4th quarter again. That will not cut it later on. They continue to stop trying when they are leading, but if they continued to try then they would not get into these situations. Right now Cleveland looks like the team to beat, not the Lakers.


Electro...Have you ever really gone back and read your past posts as the playoff games move along? You are a trip bro. If I did not know any better I would swear you were an escaped patient from a loony bin that had way to much electric shock therapy. LOL

I think your Username fits you perfectly.

[DCfan60]

with a 19 point lead you can rest the starts if you wanted too and only need about 15 at most to win.. Lakers played very smart I thought.. I watched it .. it really was an easy win. I mean it went from alike a one point lead to 3 then lik 12 in no time. It was an easy win.

[DCfan60]

Well game 1 against HOustan didnt go so well. It got ugly.

[Haynie]

The refs were ridiculous that game. They took Bynum out of the game with cheap fouls and let our guys get mugged on the drive. Throw in that Kobe was sick and the other guys were just not shooting, and it's impressive we were even in the game in the 4th quarter. We'll be fine.

[DCfan60]

very true Haynie. for all the things that were involved to keep us off our game. we were still in it. but that was ugly. Need to play as a team pick up Kobe if he is down or out.. Teams only get stronger from here on out.

[Haynie]

Well, last night's game confirmed that the Rockets are no joke. We punched them right in the mouth in the first quarter but they didn't back down. They have a really nice team.

It's just too bad they don't have Kobe! :)

[DCfan60]

yeah man , they came roaring back.. they took what we gave them in the first and returned it in the second plus some. In the end it was Kobe.

[electrochemical]

I am back, decent win last night. This series is going to be tough.

lol Adam! That is why I chose that name.

[DCfan60]

wb, Kobe did a head job on Artest and the team.. loved it.

[Enlightened27]

Ive hear that the elbow to Artest was dirty. In all honesty I dont think it was on purpose. I think they were just going for the ball and Artest's throat was just in the wrong place :D

If Artest had more class he could have stayed in that game, but his temper let him down again, lol.

Kobe has now thrown down 72 points in these two games, Im loving it.

[CowboyzAdam]

Ive hear that the elbow to Artest was dirty. In all honesty I dont think it was on purpose. I think they were just going for the ball and Artest's throat was just in the wrong place :D

If Artest had more class he could have stayed in that game, but his temper let him down again, lol.

Kobe has now thrown down 72 points in these two games, Im loving it.

Kobe is a Beast when he wants to be.

[Enlightened27]

I know, I finally get to see my Lakers play, :D Without having TV Ive waited til the playoffs.

BTW, that damn PG for Houston is a speedy lil thing :(

[DCfan60]

Kobe is at the point where he needs to take over more often and control the game. James for Cleveland is doing it as well..

I just hope we make it to the final. I want to win it.

[electrochemical]

Good game last night. Lakers took control in the second half. Artest got kicked out again! FT% for both teams was okay and FG% for the Lakers was okay. Kobe as usual was great.

Also I want to see more of Brown. He has played great all post-season.

[CowboyzAdam]

Artest is a mess. He has to get control of himself. He is no good to anybody when he keeps losing his cool like he does. He is a basket case IMO.

[Enlightened27]

Adam, thats better for LA, I say keep losing your head dumbass, lol.

[electrochemical]

Now Yao is out.

[electrochemical]

Well even without Yao the Rockets are still the better team. The Lakers will go to LA with the series tied at 2. At this point I dont care what else happens in this series. The Lakers clearly will not win the championship. I have doubts that they will get out of round 2. This season is over.

Rockets in 6. Phil will retire, finally.

NBA finals: Denver vs Cleveland

[Haynie]

God, that was awful to watch. Classic case of a team not taking their opponent seriously. Assuming Yao's absence would hurt Houston is fine, because it should. But not taking them seriously as a result is just stupid. Great defense can carry any team and they still have that even without Yao. Fortunately we still have homecourt advantage, but the Lakers had better start respecting this team really quick.

[CowboyzAdam]

Adam, thats better for LA, I say keep losing your head dumbass, lol.

Of course it is better for the Lakers. I was just saying that Artest is an idiot IMO. He is his own worse enemy.

[DCfan60]

Haynie, that was painful.. and very ugly.. i agree tho.. better get our heads right.

[Haynie]

I wasn't thrilled with the roster management in the last game, either. With Yao out, I'd have started Bynum and worked the Bynum/Gasol size advantage. I might have even left Fisher on the bench and started Bryant, Odom, and Ariza and let Kobe or Odom run point. We lost that game in the first six minutes because we let them set the tone. We should have shoved our size right down their throats and demoralized them quickly.

Sometimes I think Phil is too quick to turn on certain players and holds it against them more than he should. Bynum is only 21 years old and coming back from a long absence. He's not going to find his rhythm sitting on the bench. I'm not saying you give 30 minutes a game, but put him out there in some pressure situations and see how he responds. He can physically dominate anyone on Houston's roster.

[Deztroyer88]

Sorry lakers are garbage..... James and Cleveland will destroy them.....

[CowboyzAdam]

Sorry lakers are garbage..... James and Cleveland will destroy them.....

Well I will agree that if the Lakers don't get back on track and turn it on the rest of the way that Cleveland could and probably would hand them their arses. But It is obvious you are not a fan of the Lakers and that is cool but just because your not a fan does not mean they are garbage. LOL

[Deztroyer88]

See Im not a fan of basketball at all. If I had to pull for a team it would be Cleveland or Boston. James and Garnett are my favorite players.

The lakers of back then weren't garbage no... They played ball offensive and defensive. Todays laker team isn't like that. They show lil hints of defense. So to me yes I think they are. You shouldn't get man handled by a team without 2 of it's best players in Yao and Tracy. Just shouldn't happen defentily when lakers have such depth. Just really really sad.

[Haynie]

There are wins, there are big wins, and then there are 40-point wins! WHOO!!!

[Enlightened27]

Where are the naysayers now? I call that a statement game :D

[Deztroyer88]

The naysayer is still here...... That is the way a decent team is suppose to play a team with no star players. Cleveland will shut ur mouth.... then you will look like this :mad:

[Haynie]

For someone who is "not a fan of basketball at all," you sure seem to have a strong opinion. Your ignorance shows.

[Enlightened27]

For someone who is "not a fan of basketball at all," you sure seem to have a strong opinion. Your ignorance shows.
LMAO Haynie.

[Deztroyer88]

Thanks Haynie....... I wouldn't say it is a strong opinion but when nothing else is on tv I do watch it. Just not my first option.

[DCfan60]

^ have you tried the Nature channel? you might like it better then watching the Lakers, since you dont like them.

[CowboyzAdam]

It's all good DC...I can respect HaleyWare's opinion. I just don't like it when fans or non-fans call my team garbage. I know it's nothing persoanl towards me at all. LOL It just feels that way sometimes.

[Enlightened27]

^ have you tried the Nature channel? you might like it better then watching the Lakers, since you dont like them.
There is also the History channel, :D

[Haynie]

I think he'd prefer Lifetime or Oxygen.

[Enlightened27]

Haynie, thats great :D

[electrochemical]

I have no doubt this team is awful. They will not make it to the Western Finals. I hope Phil does not come back. I hope they tell him not to come back if he wants to. Pau is a piece of shit. So is Kobe and the rest of the team. Call me a band wagon jumper. I hate this team now. I cant be a fan. Screw this team I am done! I am done with this thread to. I wont comment in this thread because this team is garbage. Screw them!

I could not be more upset in my life! Take what I say with a grain of salt right now. But in all honesty this team is horrible. What a waste of a season!

[Enlightened27]

Electro, what I dont get is it seems that Kobe is the only one out there trying. I keep hearing about this supporting cast that he has and Im just not seeing it.

[Haynie]

Okay, here are the problems from last night's game:

1. They won by 40 points just 48 hours ago. "Let-down games" are common in sports, and it's even more likely to happen when you switch venues from your house to the opponent's.

2. They played the opening of the game as if they'd totally forgot how they won Game 5. Kobe and Fisher were hoisting stupid jumpshots and not going in to Gasol or Bynum. Last game they did exactly what I said they needed to do; set an early tone with superior size and attack Houston's will to compete. They did the opposite this game. Stupid.

3. Derek Fisher is worthless in this series. He's not hitting shots and he can't guard anybody. Farmar comes in the game and knocks down two 3's but suddenly Phil takes him back out. Instead of letting him stay in while he's hot, they ice him again on the bench and then try and bring him back out in the 4th quarter only to see he's lost the touch. Phil is really screwing up Farmar and Bynum right now with his rotation handling.

4. Defensively, the Lakers have a "caught between a rock and a hard place" thing going. When they go big with Gasol and Bynum, they're not fast enough to get out to the perimeter to stop long-range shots. When they go smaller with Gasol at center and Odom at the four, they're not tough enough inside. When Houston is shooting well, I think their best lineup is actually Bynum, Odom, Ariza, Bryant, and Farmar.

5. I'm not blaming the officials for losing, but they certainly made it harder. What a bunch of idiots! That technical foul on Kobe was complete garbage. The ref closest to them doesn't call it, but rather a guy who's on the other sideline and is looking at Kobe's back. The league had better review and dismiss that crap. Aside from that, they also called a ton of weak stuff which has no place in a playoff game.

[electrochemical]

I think the season is over. Weather it was the refs fault or not. The season is over. If they win game 7 they can not beat Denver of Cleveland. I have seen them play 1 good game in the playoffs. I doubt Phil cares anymore so I wont care either. I will not watch game 7. Oh yea, time to get rid of Pau, he is weak. I think anyone could beat him in an arm wrestle. He is a pathetic little man. I have no time to support a team who does not care so I will not.

What a waste of a season like I said. I think it is time I take a long break from the NBA.

Enlightened I agree. This supporting cast is horrible. I have never liked Walton or Sasha. Both are horrible players. I think Phil wants this season to be over so he can retire and live in some tropical island and finally die from a heart attack.

[electrochemical]

I also do think Kobe should play more of a leader role. Lebron is doing it and Jordan did it. Kobe is not the leader. And Phil in his old age like most old people lost his mind to age. Simple.

[CowboyzAdam]

I have no doubt this team is awful. They will not make it to the Western Finals. I hope Phil does not come back. I hope they tell him not to come back if he wants to. Pau is a piece of shit. So is Kobe and the rest of the team. Call me a band wagon jumper. I hate this team now. I cant be a fan. Screw this team I am done! I am done with this thread to. I wont comment in this thread because this team is garbage. Screw them!

I could not be more upset in my life! Take what I say with a grain of salt right now. But in all honesty this team is horrible. What a waste of a season!


Oh Dear me...Mr. Hyde came out in that post. Next good win we will see Dr. Jekyll back. LMAO

[Enlightened27]

Oh Dear me...Mr. Hyde came out in that post. Next good win we will see Dr. Jekyll back. LMAO
No doubt, lmao.

[electrochemical]

http://www.gamewad.com/gw_images/worst_game_covers/drjekyll.jpg

[CowboyzAdam]

Yep that about wraps it up! LMAO

[Enlightened27]

Well, looks like its Denver and LA in the conference finals. :D

[Haynie]

Great way to handle business. Nice signs from Bynum going into the next round. I like the way we match-up with Denver, although they're a much better team now than they've were even when they first got Billups. Kobe versus Melo will be fun to watch.

[DCfan60]

Nice job to finish that series,, now on to the next.

[CowboyzAdam]

Lets just hope this time around we can get past the Finals. It will not be easy but I know they can do it if they put the hearts and minds to it. It should be a great finals to watch.

[Enlightened27]

Adam, dont get ahead of yourself, lets get past Denver before we talk finals :D

[electrochemical]

Denver is a better team than the team the Lakers played in the regular season. Tough series coming up.

[CowboyzAdam]

I meant the Conference Finals you Bozo.

[Enlightened27]

Look here, just cause I wear big shoes and a big red nose doesnt mean you can call me names. :(

[electrochemical]

I hope the Lakers try this time. As kobe said "we could have tried harder". I dont know why They did not try in this series. You dont lose 2 games against the Rockets whose 2 best players are out. They got blown out in 2 of the games. Against Denver they wont win if they played like they did in the Rockets series. If I where a Denver fan I would be excited.

[CowboyzAdam]

Look here, just cause I wear big shoes and a big red nose doesnt mean you can call me names. :(


LMAO. Loved the big shoes comment. Funny stuff.

[DCfan60]

series tied at 2-2... What is the deal with Kobe being so tired.. I mean.. I never heard any of the NBA greats talk about being tired and worn out from having to play extra.. I now some games are like that. but they never spoke about it.

[Enlightened27]

series tied at 2-2... What is the deal with Kobe being so tired.. I mean.. I never heard any of the NBA greats talk about being tired and worn out from having to play extra.. I now some games are like that. but they never spoke about it.
Nothing wrong with being honest.

[CowboyzAdam]

Strategy my friend...pure strategy.

[DCfan60]

lol it better be Adam.. at this time of the season.. I dont want no I was tired.. plain an simple.

[electrochemical]

This team sucks big time.

[CowboyzAdam]

Uh oh...Electro is pissed off again. LMAO

[DCfan60]

lol... beat we win tonight and then finish it 4-2

[Haynie]

Going to the Finals!!! WHOO!!!

What a great game. Gasol and Odom both stepped up to give Kobe the help he needs. Roleplayers like Ariza and Walton had nice games. They play like that, there's no stopping then.

[CowboyzAdam]

YEAH BABY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

That was a HUGE & GREAT game last night! My voice is tired today from yelling LMAO. I went over to my neighbors house last night and watched it on his Big screen TV. It was awesome. If we can play like that I feel we can win it all. Keep the faith Electro.

Odom was a beast! Gasol too! I am proud of those guys.

[electrochemical]

Great job by the Lakers! I never doubted this team for a second......right?

Anyway they are in the finals. 6th time in 9 years. Last 2 finals they are 3-8. It is a humble feeling I have right now. Other finals I was pumped and excited. Right now It is a good feeling but I know that making it to the finals in not a accomplishment for this team. I hope to see the Lakers play like they did in first 3 finals of 00, 01 and 02. Not they way they played in 04, and 08.

Finally I agree with you Adam, if they play like they did last night they will win it all.

[DCfan60]

ok.. now on we march to the championship... hard play and good defense should win it :)

[electrochemical]

I am worried about the fact that Orlando swept the season series against the Lakers. Much like how last year the Celtics swept the season series against the Lakers. That did not turn our too well.

[Enlightened27]

It was 2-0 though, Im not worried. If it were 4-0 that would be different.

[Haynie]

How come you guys only post when the Lakers lose? lol

That was some Game 1 of the Finals! Kobe has never looked better. I love what this series is going to do for Bynum's confidence going into next year. He's battling with Howard and even outplayed him Thursday night.

I'm gonna say Lakers in 5.

[Enlightened27]

The Lakers kicked ass the other night, no doubt about it.

[CowboyzAdam]

Honestly Haynie...I have watched all of the games in the playoffs up to the last one. I am a big Laker fan like you all are. But I mainly come in this thread to see what Electro is going to post up next. He totally cracks me up. If that boy does not have an ulcer yet...I don't know what will give him one.

Anyways I am more of a Football poster and more of a NBA/Lakers watcher. I do like the Lakers and the NBA but not anywhere as close as I do the NFL and the Cowboys. Being honest I do not have the same passion with Basketball like I do Football. So I will pop in here from time to time and say a few words but not after every game like I do with the Boys.

[electrochemical]

It will be tough in Orlando.

[Enlightened27]

Great series so far. Im loving it, just hope that LA pulls it out.

[DCfan60]

Lakers played tough and smart.. I wish Bynum would stay out of foul trouble.. but like the game last night.. if Odum continues to play like he has.. then all is good.

[DCfan60]

Tough game last night.. Orl. set an NBA finals record with like 75% shooting last nite. I was excited that we still have a chance to win so late in the game with them on fire like that. First game in their house and 2 down. I didnt think we would really have a chance to win but Kobe kept us in it..

Jackson always let the team just play ball in those situations where the other team has everything going for it and just ride it out. Those are so hard to win..
GAme 4 will be different.. Jackson will have the boys come out on fire and try to steal this one and get the crushing blow...

[DCfan60]

I think Lakers steal game 4.. close.. but in the end the Lakers win it.

[electrochemical]

This team does not have the stuff to win a championship. Phil will retire with 9 championships and Kobe will retire with 3.

[CowboyzAdam]

We will win it all Baby!

I BELIEVE!

[electrochemical]

I wish I could believe. This team truly does suck. 3 straight finals series loses. Pathetic!

[Enlightened27]

Well Im seeing us up 3-1, so there is no reason to lose the faith now. I dont see Orlando beating LA 3 games straight. Especially in the Staples Center.

[Enlightened27]

I wish I could believe. This team truly does suck. 3 straight finals series loses. Pathetic!
I love how you start complaining about a loss before the game is even over. A game in which we ended up winning 99-91 in OT.

Also the team sucks...........Ariza and Fisher were as clutch as you could be tonight. I dont know what more you could ask for. If the Lakers suck then I dont know what you call good, lol.

[electrochemical]

Can I apologize right now? Like I am always like that during a game. In order for me to stay alive I have to vent. At least i am keeping you guys entertained right?

Sorry, sorry, sorry! I felt like an idiot for posting that comment last night after the game.

[Enlightened27]

LMAO, its cool man, you keep us laughing around here.

[DCfan60]

I called that one.. tough game. close game.. an the Lakers stole a game in their house. I mean come on. down 12 at half and we put a 30-14 3rd qtr on them.. lol.. I love it.

Fisher nailed that 3 with 4.6 left on the clock.. woohoo.. awesome.
I though Gasol was going to go ape shit on that one dude for throwing both arms into his back there at the end of the game. That was total B.S. on. He should be ejected for the next game at least.

[CowboyzAdam]

I'm telling you. I just believe we are going to win it all. This is our year guys. Can you smell it? I can smell it? LMAO

[Enlightened27]

Lakers and Red Wings champs in the same year, IM LOVING IT!

[electrochemical]

game 7 tonight right Enlightened? Should be good!

[Enlightened27]

Yeah, were down 2-0 right now ><

[CowboyzAdam]

Yeah, were down 2-0 right now ><


Do you have to win tonight to win it all or can your Red Wings lose and still be in it? I'm not into Hockey at all but I hope your team wins.

[Enlightened27]

It was game 7 and Detroit lost :( at least the Lakers should get a championship.

[CowboyzAdam]

It was game 7 and Detroit lost :( at least the Lakers should get a championship.


Oh Boy...That means Electro is never going to watch Hockey again because they all suck and he is going to have to get drunk. LMAO

[Enlightened27]

Electro isnt a Red Wings fan, hes a New Jersey Devils fan. Which means he was already pissed off since they didnt make the finals :D

[CowboyzAdam]

Electro isnt a Red Wings fan, hes a New Jersey Devils fan. Which means he was already pissed off since they didnt make the finals :D


OK I have to ask. Since you are not from Detroit Eric...What made you a Red Wings fan?

[electrochemical]

Electro isnt a Red Wings fan, hes a New Jersey Devils fan. Which means he was already pissed off since they didnt make the finals :D

Yep, already smashed some windows over a pathetic first round exit to a 6th seed. Brodeur should retire, that guy had his time. :D

Hopefully the Lakers can do it so that at least one of our sports teams can win a championship. I cant take another playoffs exit without a championship. Or I may have to check myself into a mental institution.

[CowboyzAdam]

Yep, already smashed some windows over a pathetic first round exit to a 6th seed. Brodeur should retire, that guy had his time. :D

Hopefully the Lakers can do it so that at least one of our sports teams can win a championship. I cant take another playoffs exit without a championship. Or I may have to check myself into a mental institution.


Electro...isn't it cheaper to just buy more beer?

[Enlightened27]

OK I have to ask. Since you are not from Detroit Eric...What made you a Red Wings fan?
Sergei Federov, he was my favorite player at the time and I started following the team. Just like with the Lakers, Im a HUGE Kobe fan which in turn makes me a Lakers fan :D

[electrochemical]

Electro...isn't it cheaper to just buy more beer?

I would need to buy allot of beer. like 100 24 packs. I would need the amount of beer that would kill a man. I dont think I would want to kill myself....

[Enlightened27]

Go ahead and crown them, LAKERS 2009 NBA CHAMPS!

[CowboyzAdam]

Yeah BABY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We have had a few rough years and it is our time again. Our 15th Title. Unbelievable! Just think...How many people said the Lakers never had a chance at beating Orlando? I actually got tired of hearing it. Where are you now????

http://i.cdn.turner.com/nba/nba/2009/images/06/14/NBAStore_Finals09ChmpsLAL_ROS_608x303.jpg
http://i.cdn.turner.com/nba/nba/2009/images/06/14/kobe_happy.jpg http://i.cdn.turner.com/nba/nba/2009/images/06/14/0614_a_kobe_post_t1.jpg

I've got to get me one of those hats before they sell out!

[electrochemical]

Nice guys. Hell i love life soo much!!! 2009 nba champs!!!! I have never been happier!!!!!!!

[electrochemical]

Yes, yes, yes, yes, yes!!!!

JUST ordered the full pack!!!! T-SHIRT, HAT, DVD, TOWEL!!!

[Enlightened27]

Ok, I love the fact that LA are the champions, but those hats are ugly as hell. :D Ill wait til they have a white one or a yellow one. That grey just doesnt suit me.

[CowboyzAdam]

I love the hat! It is a gun metal grey. It's different. I will of course get the classic colors when they come out too.
OK, Question! Where the heck is Haynie in all of this??? I thought He would be in here jumping for Joy by now! DC too!

[Enlightened27]

Well Im really picky about the hats I get and that one looks like something youd get out of a truck stop. I dont know, I just dont like it, it looks cheap. Not what Id expect from a championship hat.

[CowboyzAdam]

Well Im really picky about the hats I get and that one looks like something youd get out of a truck stop. I dont know, I just dont like it, it looks cheap. Not what Id expect from a championship hat.


OK I see how it is...your saying I'm a non-picky Cheap Truck Driver. See how you are??? LMAO

[Haynie]

I am so proud of this team! They could have easily come out in Game 5, up 3-1, and let Orlando run all over them. They still would have won the series when it went back to L.A., but it wouldn't have displayed the same level of dominance. This was a statement game that changed the entire flavor of how I'll remember this team.

At the same time, I'm very sad knowing that either Odom or Ariza has played their last game as a Laker. That's a really tough decision they have to make about which guy they want to re-sign.

[DCfan60]

I didnt think they would win it last night.. I also thought it would go to game 6.. but..

We are the Champions.. what way to end the season..

You know I started watching the Lakers full time back after I got married in 79 for somethng to watch while there was no football.. and the Lakers have out preformed the Cowboys 3-1 in about that time.. the Cowboys need to start stepping up there game..

[CowboyzAdam]

I didnt think they would win it last night.. I also thought it would go to game 6.. but..

We are the Champions.. what way to end the season..

You know I started watching the Lakers full time back after I got married in 79 for somethng to watch while there was no football.. and the Lakers have out preformed the Cowboys 3-1 in about that time.. the Cowboys need to start stepping up there game..


Yep me too DC. I started watching the Lakers when I was 16 to help pass the time when Dallas was in the Offseason. Yeah Dallas is due for a Super Bowl win. That is an understatement.


Haynie I hate the fact that either Odom or Ariza are going to be gone. I love them both. Odom took a while to get his groove going with us but once he did he played great ball. I just can't pick which one I would rather see go because I want both of them to stay for obvious reasons. But in the end it is not going to happen. I think If I had to guess it will be Odom that goes but that is strictly a guess.

[electrochemical]

Odom and Ariza are both excellent players. I have come to really like both players. I wish that neither of them will leave the team. Without just one of those guys the Lakers would not have won the championship.

[Haynie]

I think you have to keep Ariza over Odom for a number of reasons. For one, Ariza will most likely be the cheaper of the two. He's also much younger (23 years old vs. 29 years for Odom) and is continuing to improve as a player. There's also the consideration of which guy is more replaceable. Ariza is a key component in the starting lineup. I'd rather have to replace a bench player than an important part of my first five. I would even make the case that Ariza is a more consistent player on a nightly basis. Odom has more talent and is capable of out-playing Ariza, but he doesn't show up every night.

I think that they should let Odom walk, re-sign Ariza, Shannon Brown, and Josh Powell, and then use their mid-level exception on a guy who can switch between the Power Forward and Center positions. One name I'm keeping an eye on is Rasheed Wallace.

[Enlightened27]

I think you have to keep Ariza over Odom for a number of reasons. For one, Ariza will most likely be the cheaper of the two. He's also much younger (23 years old vs. 29 years for Odom) and is continuing to improve as a player. There's also the consideration of which guy is more replaceable. Ariza is a key component in the starting lineup. I'd rather have to replace a bench player than an important part of my first five. I would even make the case that Ariza is a more consistent player on a nightly basis. Odom has more talent and is capable of out-playing Ariza, but he doesn't show up every night.

I think that they should let Odom walk, re-sign Ariza, Shannon Brown, and Josh Powell, and then use their mid-level exception on a guy who can switch between the Power Forward and Center positions. One name I'm keeping an eye on is Rasheed Wallace.
I agree on this post, but Im unsure about Wallace.

[Haynie]

Why not Wallace? He's done in Detroit and his days of being a troublemaker have been over for a long time. A guy with his skills would be an amazing fit in the triangle offense. He'd also give us a legitimate backup center, something we didn't have at all this year.

Here's are a few other free agent beg men to look at:

Chris Anderson (Nuggets... though probably too expensive after the year he had)
Charlie Villanueva (Bucks... a lot like Odom, also may be too much $$$)
Zaza Pachulia (Hawks)
Anderson Varejao (Cavs)
Drew Gooden (Spurs)
Channing Frye (Blazers)

[Enlightened27]

The only reason I said that I dont know about Wallace is because I dont know if hed sign here.

[CowboyzAdam]

Well Haynie after your very well thought out explanation as to why it will probably be Odom that is sent away over Ariza I feel much better about my guess. Dare I say great minds think alike...only you did all the explanation work and I just put in the guess work LOL

BTW...I do agree with you especially on the age factor. Ariza is only just starting and you are absolutely right about Odom. He does not show up every game. He is not going to change either because he has always been like that his whole career.

[DCfan60]

I think with Odom's age and reports of him being banged up a fair amount over the years that we should keep Ariza

[electrochemical]

I just wanted to say that us Laker fans are extremely spoiled. We just say 4 championships in 9 years. We have seen this team miss the playoffs once. We have seen 6 NBA finals with this team and in those 6 they have won 4 times. Even when their team was not good Kobe and Phil willed this team into the playoffs. Some fans may never see their team win a championship we will all die having seen our teams win many.

I was young when the Lakers win their first 3 championships and I enjoyed them. But I forgot what it felt like to lose games. After 7 years I remembered what it felt like to lose and that is why this one feels so sweet. Though 7 years is not long at all. This is why the Lakers are my favorite team of all my teams. I do not get nearly as passionate about any other team I like. The Lakers are the first sports team I watched, and they are the best sports team to ever exist.

I am enjoying this one, I hope you all are too. GO LAKERS!!!!

[Enlightened27]

Ok I feel like Ive had to explain this 1000 times this offseason.

AMERICA'S TEAM HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH CHAMPIONSHIPS!

Dallas is the most popular team in this nation, thats why its America's team. More fans tune into Cowboys games than any other sports franchise in this nation. Im so sick of people making it about championships. The name is exactly what it says, Americas Team, because America loves the Cowboys. The only way a team can steal this name away is to become more popular, have fun with that.

For more information about this go to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/America%27s_Team

[CowboyzAdam]

Electro. Have you lost your mind. This is not a Lakers Forum Board. This is a Dallas Cowboys Forum. Please don't come in here on our board and say the Cowboys should no longer be considered America's team and then say it should be given to a Basketball Team.

To me that is disrespecting the Star and our team to say that. Words like that is almost sacrilegious to Die Hard Cowboy Fans. We do not take kindly to that kind of talk. I know you probably did not mean it disrespectful wise but that's not cool to say that in here.

[electrochemical]

No, I am sorry, I did not mean any disrespect, I still love the Cowboys dearly. What I wanted to say was that is is more than time to see our football team win the big one. I have yet to see them win one in my time as a fan of them. I really want to see one soon. I know what it is like to see your fav team win an NBA, NHL, NCAA championship but not a football championship which I want to see really badly. That was a post more in frustration that I have not seen them win. I mean no disrespect. I still think they are Americas team, if I did not then I would not be a fan of them, which I am.

[Enlightened27]

Well Electro, Ive seen Dallas win a Super Bowl, but Ive never seen UGA win a NCAA title. So Im right there with you on that. Its frustrating, but youd have to kill me to get me to stop loving my Bulldogs. Im not even sure that would work, lol. Id probably ask God for a red and black mansion :D

[Haynie]

You can't deny the facts; the Lakers have been far more dominant in their sport than the Cowboys have. However, no basketball team can ever be considered "America's Team" when the sport itself is not the number-one sport in the country. We all know that football surpassed baseball a long time ago as America's passtime. Because of that, the fans' favorite NFL team will always hold rank over any NBA, MLB, NHL, NCAA, WWE, TNA, nWo, UFC, NACP, NAFTA, or NATO team in the national consciousness.

[CowboyzAdam]

No, I am sorry, I did not mean any disrespect, I still love the Cowboys dearly. What I wanted to say was that is is more than time to see our football team win the big one. I have yet to see them win one in my time as a fan of them. I really want to see one soon. I know what it is like to see your fav team win an NBA, NHL, NCAA championship but not a football championship which I want to see really badly. That was a post more in frustration that I have not seen them win. I mean no disrespect. I still think they are Americas team, if I did not then I would not be a fan of them, which I am.


Like I said...I knew you did not mean it disrespectfully. I know you and know you talk off the cuff of your sleeve. But the Die Hard Cowboy fan in me felt the need to come to the Defense of our team when I read what you wrote. It is a touchy topic with me. So many teams and non-Cowboy fans are constantly trying to attack our "America's Team" title it seems like every where I turn. It pisses me off. They are jealous so they have to attack it. I say to them get off our coat tails and go get your legacy and title. Quit trying to steal ours. It is lame IMO.

Haynie...You are right...you can't deny the success of the Lakers -vs- the Cowboys. It is what it is. I love both franchises a lot. I just don't think you can compare the two because of like you said. They are two totally different sports. And you shouldn't compare the two either IMO.

[Enlightened27]

See you cant really compare the Lakers to any NFL team. The Lakers have 15 championships and the most an NFL team has is 7. Now, if you count championships before the Super Bowl era then the Packers could be compared to the Lakers.

Then when you start to look at the 15 championships of the Lakers you automatically think about the 17 that that Celtics have. Now those 17 sound like a lot, but thats not the best mark in American sports. The team with the most championships in the US is the Yankees with 26.

Still no one is ever going to take the America's team title from the Cowboys.

[CowboyzAdam]

See you cant really compare the Lakers to any NFL team. The Lakers have 15 championships and the most an NFL team has is 7. Now, if you count championships before the Super Bowl era then the Packers could be compared to the Lakers.

Then when you start to look at the 15 championships of the Lakers you automatically think about the 17 that that Celtics have. Now those 17 sound like a lot, but thats not the best mark in American sports. The team with the most championships in the US is the Yankees with 26.

Still no one is ever going to take the America's team title from the Cowboys.


Yeah but they keep trying don't they?

[Enlightened27]

Yeah, and like you Adam, its pissing me off. I cant STAND the way that ESPN tried to give it to the damn Steelers.

[CowboyzAdam]

Yeah, and like you Adam, its pissing me off. I cant STAND the way that ESPN tried to give it to the damn Steelers.


Well a few years back it was the Patriots they were trying to give it to.

[Enlightened27]

Doesnt matter the ratings dont lie and the revenue doesnt either. No one is going to knock off the Cowboys. Not anytime soon. The one team that gets under my team more than anyone was when they said that the Yankees deserved it. Now look at them, the steroid kings of MLB, LMAO!

[DCfan60]

America's Team isnt something you can just give to another team.. dont know why the dumb a$$ media even try.

[electrochemical]

Next question we have not touched on. Will Phil Jackson come back, or is this his last year?

I dont know if we can answer that question yet, all I can say is I hope he comes back. I dont know if the Lakers would have won those 4 championships, probably some of those but not all.

I am glad to have become a fan of sports to have seen those championships, if only I would have become a fan of the Cowboys sooner, though it would have been hard as I was extremely young when the Cowboys won a title. I hate the fact the first year my friend gets into football his team (Giants) win the superbowl in one of the biggest upsets in sports history. DAMN HIM! But the only thing that makes me feel better is the fact he will never see any of his fav teams win back to back to back championships. Dont know if we will se the Lakers do that again, not out of the question though.

[Haynie]

The one team that gets under my team more than anyone was when they said that the Yankees deserved it. Now look at them, the steroid kings of MLB, LMAO!


How are the Yankees the steroid kings? Seems like almost everyone in baseball is guilty at this point.

[Enlightened27]

Name one team that has more guilty players on it. The Yankees have ARod, Giambi, Clemens, and Petite. Im sure there are more that just havent confessed yet.

BTW, seems like everyone is guilty? Try Ken Griffey Jr., I dont think youll find anything there. He is one of the last true good guys in baseball. Hes hit 615 HRs in his career without the help of ANY kind of drug. The messed up thing is hell never have a ring to show for it, while cheaters like the Yankees do. Thats what makes me sick. Ive been a Griffey fan for most of his career, and hes never had the chance to play in a World Series. Id take him over anyone in the Yankees organization. When he retires I dont even think Ill be able to stomach baseball anymore, cause all it has become is the game of who can cheat and not get caught.

[DCfan60]

depends on how Phil and his hip feels come mid offseason.

[CowboyzAdam]

Baseball Baseball Baseball. I respect the right for many Americans to enjoy it...but for the Love of God...That sport bores me to sleep every time It is on.

[Haynie]

Name one team that has more guilty players on it. The Yankees have ARod, Giambi, Clemens, and Petite. Im sure there are more that just havent confessed yet.

BTW, seems like everyone is guilty? Try Ken Griffey Jr...


A-Rod's steroid use was during his time with the Texas Rangers. Not a big deal, but still worth mentioning.

Part of the problem with the Yankees is that they have more star players who actually have been mentioned by name. These reports that include the names are said to have something like 150 players on them. Other teams no doubt have just as many, if not more, steroid users than the Yankees. New York just has the misfortune of having more recognizeable and newsworthy individuals to draw media attention.

Also, I said "SEEMS like ALMOST everyone is guilty," which I worded that way specifically because of the "good guys" like Griffey.

[Enlightened27]

A-Rod's steroid use was during his time with the Texas Rangers. Not a big deal, but still worth mentioning.

Part of the problem with the Yankees is that they have more star players who actually have been mentioned by name. These reports that include the names are said to have something like 150 players on them. Other teams no doubt have just as many, if not more, steroid users than the Yankees. New York just has the misfortune of having more recognizeable and newsworthy individuals to draw media attention.

Also, I said "SEEMS like ALMOST everyone is guilty," which I worded that way specifically because of the "good guys" like Griffey.
Oh I know, I just hate that Griffey will never see a ring while NY seems to buy one every few years. Ive said this for years, if the Yankees had to abide by a salary cap theyd never win another championship. I know thats not the point, but thats why I hate the Yankees. They are a traveling All-Star team and then we get them forced down our throats when they win. Of course they win, they should win 162 games with their roster. They should win every World Series with their roster. Losing isnt an option for them and in my opionion its an embarrassment. Sorry to go on a rant, but I cant stand that team. Im a Boston Red Sox fan just because they hate the Yankees as much as I do.

Now Adam, I have to agree with you. I used to love baseball but I cant stand to watch it anymore. There is no contact. I play fantasy baseball this year for the first time, but I havent watched one game. The only way youll get me to watch a game is if the Mariners make the playoffs and I dont see that happening.

[Enlightened27]

Now about the Phil Jackson issue, hes already expressed interest in coming back, whether he does or not is still up in the air.

[CowboyzAdam]

Now about the Phil Jackson issue, hes already expressed interest in coming back, whether he does or not is still up in the air.


He'll be back. He just has a real hard time walking away. He tried that once already and it did not last for very long. It is in his blood. When he does walk away again from the Lakers...I think it will be for good this time round.

[electrochemical]

Yea, I think he still wants to coach the Lakers. Like DC said it will depend on his health. If he feels healthy he will come back next year.

[electrochemical]

On baseball, I too dont see the fun in watching that sport. Too much down time with no action, and the action lasts seconds and is not too exciting either.

There was a time when I was 8-10 years old and I somewhat watched baseball, but never got into it and I could care less about baseball now. It is up there with NASCAR in terms of boringness. Cars going around in circles for 500 laps...Wow!

[barberforprez]

Yeah I just watch the braves when they come on TV, which is never. I can't watch an entire baseball game though. It just doesn't compare to football. With football I devote my entire sunday/monday to the games.

[Enlightened27]

On baseball, I too dont see the fun in watching that sport. Too much down time with no action, and the action lasts seconds and is not too exciting either.

There was a time when I was 8-10 years old and I somewhat watched baseball, but never got into it and I could care less about baseball now. It is up there with NASCAR in terms of boringness. Cars going around in circles for 500 laps...Wow!
NASCAR may be boring, but before you knock the sport, you get in a car that is 100+ degrees, stay in it for 4 hours, average a speed of 180 mph, and try not to wreck into 42 other cars that are inches away from you. There is a lot more involved in the sport than just going around in circles.

[DCfan60]

^ yeah as bubby J would say its an easy sport to watch when your hammered :)

[Enlightened27]

Ive never drank while watching it, :D I just love anything competitive.