The Raiders are 4-3 at their bye week, a half game back of the Chargers, a half game in front of KC.
The NBA might have a new CBA by the end of the week.
My NFL picks of the week:
BALT
CAROLINA
JACKSONVILLE
NYG
NO
TE'NN
DET
BUFF
CINN
SF
PITT
PHIL
KC
The MLB World Series is tied 3-3 after STL fought off being 1 out away
from losing the championship to the Texas Rangers. A 2 out triple in the bottem of the ninth, and
a "walkoff", leadoff homerun to dead center by the Cardinals' David Freese, makes Game 7 a reality.
Friday, October 28, 2011
Thursday, June 23, 2011
June 2011 - Dallas is the NBA champs.
Congratulations to the Dallas Mavericks. They took out the 2 time defending champion Los Angeles Lakers in 4 straight games, and eventually went on to slay the "big 3" of the hated Miami Heat in 7 games.
That said, it amazes me how fickle fans can be. The phrase, "What have you done for me lately", couldn't be more applicable then now. After appearing in 3 straight NBA Finals (winning 2), and favored to defend their championship for the third straight year, the Lakers were swep in 4 games by Dallas, in the second round. The "die hard " Laker fans, started calling for changes. Major changes. I've heard everything from "blow up the club", trade Gasol, trade Bynum, trade Artest, a host of trade combinations. Its just wrong. Most fans don't get it. The team needs to be tweaked, that's true, but not to the extent "these" fans are calling for. The team is still a force to be dealt with, without changes. But , consideration isn't being given to the fact that the voice of a new coach/coaching staff, with new defensive schemes, maybe a good part of the soluton.
Also, the fans must realize, that being over the salary cap, not having a "1st round pick" in the Draft, and not having a lot of players coveted by other teams, limits the Lakers' for aquiring new players. So, even though it might be theoretically possible,
Fans need to have a realistic view. Without gutting the team, no team is going to help the Lakers out and trade them Chris Paul, Dwight Howard, Russell Westbrook, Steve Nash, Tony Parker, etc...
That said, it amazes me how fickle fans can be. The phrase, "What have you done for me lately", couldn't be more applicable then now. After appearing in 3 straight NBA Finals (winning 2), and favored to defend their championship for the third straight year, the Lakers were swep in 4 games by Dallas, in the second round. The "die hard " Laker fans, started calling for changes. Major changes. I've heard everything from "blow up the club", trade Gasol, trade Bynum, trade Artest, a host of trade combinations. Its just wrong. Most fans don't get it. The team needs to be tweaked, that's true, but not to the extent "these" fans are calling for. The team is still a force to be dealt with, without changes. But , consideration isn't being given to the fact that the voice of a new coach/coaching staff, with new defensive schemes, maybe a good part of the soluton.
Also, the fans must realize, that being over the salary cap, not having a "1st round pick" in the Draft, and not having a lot of players coveted by other teams, limits the Lakers' for aquiring new players. So, even though it might be theoretically possible,
Fans need to have a realistic view. Without gutting the team, no team is going to help the Lakers out and trade them Chris Paul, Dwight Howard, Russell Westbrook, Steve Nash, Tony Parker, etc...
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
0-2 going to Dallas
93 - 81 final score. Advantage Dallas. Wow.
Mark Cuban must think he's finally caught a break, or (for you conspiracy theorist) the "boys club" (aka David Stern and the other NBA owners, who don't like him, have finally let him sit at the big table and play with everyone else.
Give Rick Carlyle a hand for the plan of attack he and his staff prepared to go against the Lakers. The game remained close throughout the first half. Dallas leading at halftime 51-49. Dallas' zone defense seemed to confuse and stymie the Lakers' offense, which gave way to poor shot selection (again), which led to an ugly 13 point 3rd quarter. That said, the Lakers still only trailed by 6 points to begin the 4th quarter. Then,
the 4th quarter became the 'J.J. Barea show'. In 17 minutes of play, Barea looked like the second coming
of either Chris Paul or Steve Nash. Barea shredded the Lakers' defense, working off of the high "pick and roll'. Either scoring on layups, or penetrating the lane, and dishing the ball to open shooters. Barea finished with 12 pts, 4 assist, while only committing 2 turnovers.
Whenever the Lakers tried to make a push, the Mavericks were able meet the challenge and stave off the attack.
The body of this loss, lays at feet of the bench, again (Mavericks outscore the Lakers' bench 30-12), As well, Lamar's(again) and Pau Gasol's (again). Both have not played good consistent basketball during the playoffs. The Lakers don't win without them. Also, its time for that 'MIA' known as Steve Blake to show up, and start earning his paycheck. "Tonight he looked confused, and very apprehensive, like he was totally lacking confidence in his shot, and his ability to play at all.
Down 0-2, going to Dallas. The questions are already casting a pall over the city. 'Is this the end of the run?'
"Is the party over?' "Are the Lakers too old? Are they too slow?
Well I'm not ready to concede. A close look at both games reveals that the Lakers could just as easily be
1-1, 2-0, given more consistent, precise play, that's expected of a 2 time defending Champion.
They just have to run the offense through the post, pound the boards, limit the turnovers and questionable shot selection, defend the outside shooters better, and make their free throws. That's all!! They can beat the Mavericks. They now, just have to do it starting in Dallas. One game at a time.
Deja vu - An impression of having seen or experienced something before.
I'm sure Mark Cuban will be praying that history doesn't repeat itself. Seeing that the Mavericks are 1 of only 3 NBA teams to come back to win a best-of-seven series after losing the first two at home.
Down 0-2, going to Dallas.
Only three NBA teams have come back to win a best-of-seven series after losing the first two at home.
1971- Lakers defeat San Francisco Warriors
1994- Houston defeats the Phoenix Suns
2005-Dallas defeats the Houston Rockets
If the Lakers win game 3 Friday, Mark Cuban will start wondering whether the first 2 games were just a dream or is it "Deja vu all over again'.
The situation is not terminal, but its not good.
Mark Cuban must think he's finally caught a break, or (for you conspiracy theorist) the "boys club" (aka David Stern and the other NBA owners, who don't like him, have finally let him sit at the big table and play with everyone else.
Give Rick Carlyle a hand for the plan of attack he and his staff prepared to go against the Lakers. The game remained close throughout the first half. Dallas leading at halftime 51-49. Dallas' zone defense seemed to confuse and stymie the Lakers' offense, which gave way to poor shot selection (again), which led to an ugly 13 point 3rd quarter. That said, the Lakers still only trailed by 6 points to begin the 4th quarter. Then,
the 4th quarter became the 'J.J. Barea show'. In 17 minutes of play, Barea looked like the second coming
of either Chris Paul or Steve Nash. Barea shredded the Lakers' defense, working off of the high "pick and roll'. Either scoring on layups, or penetrating the lane, and dishing the ball to open shooters. Barea finished with 12 pts, 4 assist, while only committing 2 turnovers.
Whenever the Lakers tried to make a push, the Mavericks were able meet the challenge and stave off the attack.
The body of this loss, lays at feet of the bench, again (Mavericks outscore the Lakers' bench 30-12), As well, Lamar's(again) and Pau Gasol's (again). Both have not played good consistent basketball during the playoffs. The Lakers don't win without them. Also, its time for that 'MIA' known as Steve Blake to show up, and start earning his paycheck. "Tonight he looked confused, and very apprehensive, like he was totally lacking confidence in his shot, and his ability to play at all.
Down 0-2, going to Dallas. The questions are already casting a pall over the city. 'Is this the end of the run?'
"Is the party over?' "Are the Lakers too old? Are they too slow?
Well I'm not ready to concede. A close look at both games reveals that the Lakers could just as easily be
1-1, 2-0, given more consistent, precise play, that's expected of a 2 time defending Champion.
They just have to run the offense through the post, pound the boards, limit the turnovers and questionable shot selection, defend the outside shooters better, and make their free throws. That's all!! They can beat the Mavericks. They now, just have to do it starting in Dallas. One game at a time.
Deja vu - An impression of having seen or experienced something before.
I'm sure Mark Cuban will be praying that history doesn't repeat itself. Seeing that the Mavericks are 1 of only 3 NBA teams to come back to win a best-of-seven series after losing the first two at home.
Down 0-2, going to Dallas.
Only three NBA teams have come back to win a best-of-seven series after losing the first two at home.
1971- Lakers defeat San Francisco Warriors
1994- Houston defeats the Phoenix Suns
2005-Dallas defeats the Houston Rockets
If the Lakers win game 3 Friday, Mark Cuban will start wondering whether the first 2 games were just a dream or is it "Deja vu all over again'.
The situation is not terminal, but its not good.
Lakers down 0-1 to Dallas
As expected, the Lakers finished off the Hornets, with a 99-80 win in the 6th game of the opening round.
Chris" Little Cesar" Paul wasn't able to spark and inspire the young Hornet team. With all hope relying on another stellar performance, Paul was limited to 10pts, 8 rebs, 11 asst. The Lakers applied a strong "playoff" style of defense, allowing Chris Paul only 9 shots in 43 minutes. The Lakers' bench, led by Lamar Odom's 14, outscored the Hornets bench 30-21. The Lakers' length and size caused the Hornets additional headaches, in the areas of rebounding and blocked shots. The Lakers out rebounded the Hornets 43 - 30 (14-7 on the offensive boards), and out blocked their shots 6 shots to 2. The Hornets had no answer for Andrew Bynums's 18 pts/12 reb night. The steady defense, the lack of Chris Paul heroics, and no one else other than Carl Landry having a good scoring game tallied up to a Lakers' series clenching win (4games to 2). The Lakers still aren't the well oiled machine yet, but they did look better. Next stop........Dallas.
Dallas, Mark Cuban's team came out the gate acting like a team who doesn't know its not suppose to beat the defending Champion Los Angeles Lakers. And on the Lakers' home floor no less. well the Mavericks came away from game 1 of the Western Conference Semifinals with a stunning 96-94 victory over the 2 time defending NBA Champs. Lack luster, uninspired play along poor shot selection by the both the bench and starters down the stretch, lead to the Maverick overcoming a 16 pt deficit and dodging a last second 3 point attempt by Kobe Bryant for the win from the top of the key, as time expired. What do they need for game 2? Well, its time for Steve Blake to earn some money. Its time for more interest, better bench play, better shot selection across the board ( do you here me Shannon) , get the ball to Bynum, Gasol, and Lamar down low (the Mavericks have no one to stop them down low), and "normal" games, I said "normal" games (not great, not superhuman, but normal games) from Pau Gasol, Andrew Bynum, Kobe, and Lamar, the Lakers win not only game 2 (tonight). They win the series, they win the Championship. Everyone hoped that game 4 of the Hornets series was the "Wake up call". I guess, after game 6, the Lakers hit the snooze button. So, have the Lakers finally gotten the "wake up call" again. . Are they ready to show theLaker "swagger" we know. Are they ready to show us that 17 -1 team we saw after the All-Star break. I think the Lakers are ready to show up and get the final 12 wins they need to complete the "3-pete". As for the impending Laker death and doom, I thing the quote from Mark Twain best applies, "The reports of my death are greatly exaggerated". Also, I might add, Yogi Berra's quote , it's not over till it's over", and its only game 2! Relax. No time to panic. Not time to worry. It time to play some ball.
"
Chris" Little Cesar" Paul wasn't able to spark and inspire the young Hornet team. With all hope relying on another stellar performance, Paul was limited to 10pts, 8 rebs, 11 asst. The Lakers applied a strong "playoff" style of defense, allowing Chris Paul only 9 shots in 43 minutes. The Lakers' bench, led by Lamar Odom's 14, outscored the Hornets bench 30-21. The Lakers' length and size caused the Hornets additional headaches, in the areas of rebounding and blocked shots. The Lakers out rebounded the Hornets 43 - 30 (14-7 on the offensive boards), and out blocked their shots 6 shots to 2. The Hornets had no answer for Andrew Bynums's 18 pts/12 reb night. The steady defense, the lack of Chris Paul heroics, and no one else other than Carl Landry having a good scoring game tallied up to a Lakers' series clenching win (4games to 2). The Lakers still aren't the well oiled machine yet, but they did look better. Next stop........Dallas.
Dallas, Mark Cuban's team came out the gate acting like a team who doesn't know its not suppose to beat the defending Champion Los Angeles Lakers. And on the Lakers' home floor no less. well the Mavericks came away from game 1 of the Western Conference Semifinals with a stunning 96-94 victory over the 2 time defending NBA Champs. Lack luster, uninspired play along poor shot selection by the both the bench and starters down the stretch, lead to the Maverick overcoming a 16 pt deficit and dodging a last second 3 point attempt by Kobe Bryant for the win from the top of the key, as time expired. What do they need for game 2? Well, its time for Steve Blake to earn some money. Its time for more interest, better bench play, better shot selection across the board ( do you here me Shannon) , get the ball to Bynum, Gasol, and Lamar down low (the Mavericks have no one to stop them down low), and "normal" games, I said "normal" games (not great, not superhuman, but normal games) from Pau Gasol, Andrew Bynum, Kobe, and Lamar, the Lakers win not only game 2 (tonight). They win the series, they win the Championship. Everyone hoped that game 4 of the Hornets series was the "Wake up call". I guess, after game 6, the Lakers hit the snooze button. So, have the Lakers finally gotten the "wake up call" again. . Are they ready to show theLaker "swagger" we know. Are they ready to show us that 17 -1 team we saw after the All-Star break. I think the Lakers are ready to show up and get the final 12 wins they need to complete the "3-pete". As for the impending Laker death and doom, I thing the quote from Mark Twain best applies, "The reports of my death are greatly exaggerated". Also, I might add, Yogi Berra's quote , it's not over till it's over", and its only game 2! Relax. No time to panic. Not time to worry. It time to play some ball.
"
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Lakers - Back to the "old ways"
106 - 90 Lakers.
To paraphrase Manny Ramirez, the Lakers went back to the "Lakers being the Lakers".
Let's start with the "Bench". The non productive bench of recent history, featuring the "Killer Bees" (Barnes, Brown, Blake) and Lamar "Mr. Kardashian" Odom, earned their paycheck for the week by outscoring the Hornets bench 29-14.
Points in the paint.
Finally, the Lakers decided to go inside to their big men and take advantage of their height. The Lakers outscored the Hornets 42-30 in the paint.
Balanced scoring.
Lamar put up his "Sixth Man of the Year" stats (13pts, 7rebs, 2 asst) Pau and
Andrew pounded the inside, combining for 34pts, 18 rebs, 6 asst, and 5 block shots.
Fisher finished with 13pt, and Ron Artest 11.
Kobe being Kobe.
Speculation about Kobe Bryant's injured left foot/ankle remained in the air throughout the first quarter. He removed all doubt with a massive drive and dunk on Emeka Okafor in the second quarter, followed by an array of acrobatic shots , bring back images of years past. He finished with 19 pts, 2 reb, and 4 assist.
Chris Paul is human. His by line - 20pts, 4 reb, 12 assist wasn't enough to overcome the lack of offensive production by most of the team. Paul, Trevor Ariza (his 22 pts, tied his playoff career high), and Marco Belinellli's 21, combined for 63 of their 90 pts. In the end, the lack of additional weapons made it impossible to overcome Kobe and the rest of the Lakers' balanced attack.
Hopefully, their play last night points to the Lakers finally starting to round into their championship form rather than it being anomaly.
A win Thursday in New Orleans, and the Lakers move on to the second round.
To paraphrase Manny Ramirez, the Lakers went back to the "Lakers being the Lakers".
Let's start with the "Bench". The non productive bench of recent history, featuring the "Killer Bees" (Barnes, Brown, Blake) and Lamar "Mr. Kardashian" Odom, earned their paycheck for the week by outscoring the Hornets bench 29-14.
Points in the paint.
Finally, the Lakers decided to go inside to their big men and take advantage of their height. The Lakers outscored the Hornets 42-30 in the paint.
Balanced scoring.
Lamar put up his "Sixth Man of the Year" stats (13pts, 7rebs, 2 asst) Pau and
Andrew pounded the inside, combining for 34pts, 18 rebs, 6 asst, and 5 block shots.
Fisher finished with 13pt, and Ron Artest 11.
Kobe being Kobe.
Speculation about Kobe Bryant's injured left foot/ankle remained in the air throughout the first quarter. He removed all doubt with a massive drive and dunk on Emeka Okafor in the second quarter, followed by an array of acrobatic shots , bring back images of years past. He finished with 19 pts, 2 reb, and 4 assist.
Chris Paul is human. His by line - 20pts, 4 reb, 12 assist wasn't enough to overcome the lack of offensive production by most of the team. Paul, Trevor Ariza (his 22 pts, tied his playoff career high), and Marco Belinellli's 21, combined for 63 of their 90 pts. In the end, the lack of additional weapons made it impossible to overcome Kobe and the rest of the Lakers' balanced attack.
Hopefully, their play last night points to the Lakers finally starting to round into their championship form rather than it being anomaly.
A win Thursday in New Orleans, and the Lakers move on to the second round.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Lakers
93-88 Hornets! Series tied 2-2. Back to Los Angeles
The return of Chris Paul. "Little Cesare" commanded his band of under sized teammates to their second victory against the Lakers, evening the series 2-2.
The Lakers once again had trouble trying to control Chris Paul. Inspite of 2 defensive wins in games 2 and 3, the Lakers are still playing a very inconsistent brand of offensive basketball. That as well as New Orlean's zone defense continues to frustrate the offense,
by affecting the rhythm and spacing of the Lakers. The zone defense takes away the height advantage the Lakers enjoy. Throughout the year, the Lakers have struggled at times against teams who have employed a traditional or modified zone defense. In the past, the Lakers have show little patient when working against a zone defense, and start to take lower percentage jump shots (long 2's, and 3's). The misses on those long shots help fuel the Hornets early offense, and puts extreame pressure on the Lakers'
transition defense.
And now, Kobe is hurt. How serious? We'll find out tuesday. Now that being said,
the big question is "Where's Lamar?"
During the year, the "Sixth Man of the Year" award winner averaged 14.4 pts, 8.7 reb, 3 asst. In the 2 losses, Lamar is averaging 8, 2.5, and 1. Not going to win too many games like that. The up side is, had the Lakers gotten just "average" games from Lamar, Pau, and Kobe, the Lakers most likely sweep.
The return of Chris Paul. "Little Cesare" commanded his band of under sized teammates to their second victory against the Lakers, evening the series 2-2.
The Lakers once again had trouble trying to control Chris Paul. Inspite of 2 defensive wins in games 2 and 3, the Lakers are still playing a very inconsistent brand of offensive basketball. That as well as New Orlean's zone defense continues to frustrate the offense,
by affecting the rhythm and spacing of the Lakers. The zone defense takes away the height advantage the Lakers enjoy. Throughout the year, the Lakers have struggled at times against teams who have employed a traditional or modified zone defense. In the past, the Lakers have show little patient when working against a zone defense, and start to take lower percentage jump shots (long 2's, and 3's). The misses on those long shots help fuel the Hornets early offense, and puts extreame pressure on the Lakers'
transition defense.
And now, Kobe is hurt. How serious? We'll find out tuesday. Now that being said,
the big question is "Where's Lamar?"
During the year, the "Sixth Man of the Year" award winner averaged 14.4 pts, 8.7 reb, 3 asst. In the 2 losses, Lamar is averaging 8, 2.5, and 1. Not going to win too many games like that. The up side is, had the Lakers gotten just "average" games from Lamar, Pau, and Kobe, the Lakers most likely sweep.
Kings slain in 6
Well, as I predicted, the Sharks vs Kings series went 6 games. Also, as I predicted, it was a close hard fought series (3 games went into overtime.). Unfortunately for King's fans, the Sharks, not the Kings won the series 4 games to 2. The Kingdom's hopes
of a Game 7, were dashed when Joe Thornton backhanded a rebound at the side of the net passed goalie Jonathan Quick at 2:22 of overtime. Though the Kings were an overtime goal away from forcing a Game 7, their fate may have been cemented earlier in the series.
Without a doubt, game 3 was the turning point in the series. With the series tied 1-1, after a 4-0 shutout of the Sharks in game 2, the Kings processed a 3-0 lead at the end of the first period, and at one point a 5-3 lead in the second period. But the Sharks fought back to tie the game 5-5. The score remained that way at end of both the second and third periods, forcing "sudden death" overtime In overtime,
the Kings pressured the Sharks defense early, with the game shifting to a fast "up and down" pace (not good for the Kings) , leaving a lot of room to operate. At 3:09 of overtime, Devin Setoguchi took a pass in the slot from Patrick Marleau , beating Jonathan Quick on his glove side for the game winner. That game was the catalyst for the Kings ultimately losing the series. Instead of leading 2-1 and building momentum, the "comeback"/win in overtime was followed by the Sharks' the 6-3 win in Game 4. Give the Kings credit, they didn't "fold up shop" in Game 5. Facing elimination, and on the road, a lot of teams in the exact situation have "laid down" and died with very little effort. But the Kings, brought a composed, steady 3-1 win to Game 5. Forcing Game 6.
Unfortunately, the "Hockey Gods" smiled on the Kings no more this season.
My hats off to Terry Murray and his staff. Under his guidance, this year has been a big growth year for a young team, with a very positive upside. They gave a valiant effort, and reaped the rewards of hard work. With another year of playoff experience under their belt, the continued growth of Jonathan Quick in goal, and either the acquisition of , or the development of a "big time" scorer, the Kings, as the Isley Brothers said , look ready to "take it to the next phase". Look out everyone, the Kings look like they might ready to play with the big boys.
ready to climb.
of a Game 7, were dashed when Joe Thornton backhanded a rebound at the side of the net passed goalie Jonathan Quick at 2:22 of overtime. Though the Kings were an overtime goal away from forcing a Game 7, their fate may have been cemented earlier in the series.
Without a doubt, game 3 was the turning point in the series. With the series tied 1-1, after a 4-0 shutout of the Sharks in game 2, the Kings processed a 3-0 lead at the end of the first period, and at one point a 5-3 lead in the second period. But the Sharks fought back to tie the game 5-5. The score remained that way at end of both the second and third periods, forcing "sudden death" overtime In overtime,
the Kings pressured the Sharks defense early, with the game shifting to a fast "up and down" pace (not good for the Kings) , leaving a lot of room to operate. At 3:09 of overtime, Devin Setoguchi took a pass in the slot from Patrick Marleau , beating Jonathan Quick on his glove side for the game winner. That game was the catalyst for the Kings ultimately losing the series. Instead of leading 2-1 and building momentum, the "comeback"/win in overtime was followed by the Sharks' the 6-3 win in Game 4. Give the Kings credit, they didn't "fold up shop" in Game 5. Facing elimination, and on the road, a lot of teams in the exact situation have "laid down" and died with very little effort. But the Kings, brought a composed, steady 3-1 win to Game 5. Forcing Game 6.
Unfortunately, the "Hockey Gods" smiled on the Kings no more this season.
My hats off to Terry Murray and his staff. Under his guidance, this year has been a big growth year for a young team, with a very positive upside. They gave a valiant effort, and reaped the rewards of hard work. With another year of playoff experience under their belt, the continued growth of Jonathan Quick in goal, and either the acquisition of , or the development of a "big time" scorer, the Kings, as the Isley Brothers said , look ready to "take it to the next phase". Look out everyone, the Kings look like they might ready to play with the big boys.
ready to climb.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Wakeup call
Well, either the Lakers overslep sunday morning and couldn't get the sleep out of their eyes, or they thought they were going to cruise easily to the next round. What ever they thought, the Defending Champions didn't bring their "A" game. Maybe the New Orlean Hornets gave them a "wakeup call". If not, the talkof the Lakers hitting "crash and burn time " starts to take on truth.
Friday, April 15, 2011
Day 2
Headlines
Lakers beat Spurs, lose Bynum to another knee injury. Dodgers lose to Giants The Kings prepare to open Stanley Cup Playoffs on thursday in San Jose versus the Sharks. The Lakers game versus the Sacramento Kings tonight, might be the last time the Kings (Sacramento) play at Arco Arena.
The Lakers struggled, but finally won against a downsized San Antoino Spurs team, 102-93.
Following their morning practice at Santa Monica College, the Spurs decieded to rest Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili, and Tony Parker. The much needed win stopped a 5 game losing but didn't come without price. With 8:11 remaining in the second quarter, center Andrew Bynum hyperextended his surgically repaired right knee, when stepped on the foot of Spurs forward Dejaun Blair. A hush fell over the crowd of 18,997, as Bynum layed on the court, clutching his right knee. After a few minutes of holding their breath, the crowd watched Bynum walked off court to the locker room under his own power. He did not return to the game. A MRI was scheduled for wednesday morning. As for the game, the Lakers, who also played shorthanded (Blake has chicken pox, Barnes was resting his sore right knee) won, but still played a inconsistent and at times uninspired looking brand of basketball. A far cry from two weeks ago. They need to flip the "mythical" switch, and start playing playoff basketball. On to game #82.
The Dodgers lost a one run game to the Giants, 5-4. After tying the game in the top of the 7th on a Marcus Thames' solo homerun to. Dodger's right hander, Blake Hawksworth's wild pitched the wining run home from third base in the bottom half of the 7th.
Lakers beat Spurs, lose Bynum to another knee injury. Dodgers lose to Giants The Kings prepare to open Stanley Cup Playoffs on thursday in San Jose versus the Sharks. The Lakers game versus the Sacramento Kings tonight, might be the last time the Kings (Sacramento) play at Arco Arena.
The Lakers struggled, but finally won against a downsized San Antoino Spurs team, 102-93.
The Dodgers lost a one run game to the Giants, 5-4. After tying the game in the top of the 7th on a Marcus Thames' solo homerun to. Dodger's right hander, Blake Hawksworth's wild pitched the wining run home from third base in the bottom half of the 7th.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
NHL PLAYOFFS - Round 1
Tonight the Los Angeles Kings travel to San Jose to face the Sharks in the first round.
Should be evenly matched series. I expect a tough 6 game series, dominated by defense and strong goaltending. The 2 teams split 6 games, each going 2-1 on their home ice. Both earning a shutout.
Defensively, the 2 teams are a perfect match. I expect a hard fought , head to head battle between the to goalies, Jonathan Quick for the Kings and Anhi Niemi for the Sharks. Their stats are almost "I--dentical:"
Jonathan Quick - 2.24 GAA, 91.8 Save% , 6 Shutouts Team gave up 196 goals.
Anhi Niemi - 2.38 GAA, 92.0 Save%, 6 Shutouts Team gave up 208 goals.
The question is, whether the Kings pedestrian offense has enough ammunition to out score the Sharks, plain and simple. One thing in their favor, is that the Kings were built with the idea of playing low scoring, tough
defensive games. And without Allstar center Anzi Kopitar ( torn ankle ligaments), and questions about the effectiveness of returning winger Justin Williams (dislocated shoulder), this is exactly how they'll have to play.
The experts are asking the question, "Is this finally the Sharks year?" I think not! I think the Kings in 6.
Let's go Kings...
*Hi Bu
Tonight the Los Angeles Kings travel to San Jose to face the Sharks in the first round.
Should be evenly matched series. I expect a tough 6 game series, dominated by defense and strong goaltending. The 2 teams split 6 games, each going 2-1 on their home ice. Both earning a shutout.
Defensively, the 2 teams are a perfect match. I expect a hard fought , head to head battle between the to goalies, Jonathan Quick for the Kings and Anhi Niemi for the Sharks. Their stats are almost "I--dentical:"
Jonathan Quick - 2.24 GAA, 91.8 Save% , 6 Shutouts Team gave up 196 goals.
Anhi Niemi - 2.38 GAA, 92.0 Save%, 6 Shutouts Team gave up 208 goals.
The question is, whether the Kings pedestrian offense has enough ammunition to out score the Sharks, plain and simple. One thing in their favor, is that the Kings were built with the idea of playing low scoring, tough
defensive games. And without Allstar center Anzi Kopitar ( torn ankle ligaments), and questions about the effectiveness of returning winger Justin Williams (dislocated shoulder), this is exactly how they'll have to play.
The experts are asking the question, "Is this finally the Sharks year?" I think not! I think the Kings in 6.
Let's go Kings...
*Hi Bu
Game 82
Did the basketball Gods smile on the Lakers again or did they show us their "Houdini" imitation. The Lakers dodged not one but two bullets. The first bullet came in the form of the MRI results on Andrew Bynum's right knee. With the prospect of not having their starting center for the playoffs a real possibility, it was determined that Bynum had only suffered a bone bruise on his right knee. He should be ready for game 1 versus Chris Paul and the New Orlean Hornets sunday at 12:30 p.m. at the Staple Center. The second bullet came in the form of the Sacramento Kings, at Arco Arena.
The Lakers looked more like characters from a Robert Louis Stevenson book (Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde) then a 2 time defending champion last night against the Sacramento Kings. Needing a win to secure the number 2 spot behind the Spurs, a depleted Lakers team (Blake, Barnes,Bynum out due to illness/injury) built up a 22 point lead in the 3rd quarter, only to need a 3 pointer with 4.8 seconds remaining in the game from who else but Kobe Bryant to send the game into overtime, where the Lakers ultimately won 116-108. I glad, but I can't understand how anyone, let alone, Kobe Bryant can be allowed to take the inbound pass and get a clean look at a three point shot with the Lakers trailing by 3 points. It just defies logic and common sense. Yet teams have done it time and time again. But that's one of things that seperate winning clubs from losing clubs. In addition to this agonizing loss being the last game of the season, this game was most likely the last game played by the Kings at the Arco Arena.The Maloof brothers have already set in motion the move from Sacramento to Orange County. Good bye Sacramento Kings, Hello Anaheim Royals.
So, on to the Playoffs. Next up, Chris Paul and the New Orleans Hornets.
*Hi Jacki
Did the basketball Gods smile on the Lakers again or did they show us their "Houdini" imitation. The Lakers dodged not one but two bullets. The first bullet came in the form of the MRI results on Andrew Bynum's right knee. With the prospect of not having their starting center for the playoffs a real possibility, it was determined that Bynum had only suffered a bone bruise on his right knee. He should be ready for game 1 versus Chris Paul and the New Orlean Hornets sunday at 12:30 p.m. at the Staple Center. The second bullet came in the form of the Sacramento Kings, at Arco Arena.
The Lakers looked more like characters from a Robert Louis Stevenson book (Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde) then a 2 time defending champion last night against the Sacramento Kings. Needing a win to secure the number 2 spot behind the Spurs, a depleted Lakers team (Blake, Barnes,Bynum out due to illness/injury) built up a 22 point lead in the 3rd quarter, only to need a 3 pointer with 4.8 seconds remaining in the game from who else but Kobe Bryant to send the game into overtime, where the Lakers ultimately won 116-108. I glad, but I can't understand how anyone, let alone, Kobe Bryant can be allowed to take the inbound pass and get a clean look at a three point shot with the Lakers trailing by 3 points. It just defies logic and common sense. Yet teams have done it time and time again. But that's one of things that seperate winning clubs from losing clubs. In addition to this agonizing loss being the last game of the season, this game was most likely the last game played by the Kings at the Arco Arena.The Maloof brothers have already set in motion the move from Sacramento to Orange County. Good bye Sacramento Kings, Hello Anaheim Royals.
So, on to the Playoffs. Next up, Chris Paul and the New Orleans Hornets.
*Hi Jacki
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
First day at work
Welcome to "Another L.A. sports fan"
Born out of my morning discussions with my friend Cecil Godbold.
Hopefully you'll find this to be a usually fact based, logically inspired, intelligent rants and ravings of a long time Lakers,Dodgers,Raiders,Kings fan, and sports fan in general. A place to rehash, examine, dissect, and if necessary complain about my teams ,sports in general. And Before I start, I know, the Raiders are no longer in Los Angeles (for now), but when they were, they gave us our lone Superbowl victory in 1984 (Superbowl XVIII vs the Redskins). That said, a lot of us still consider them our team. If you don't, too bad. This is my blog!
So with that said, let the fun begin.
HEADLINES
Its playoff time for the Kings (versus the San Jose Sharks). It will soon be playoff time for The Lakers. The Dodgers beat the Defending Champion San Fransisco Giants for the 4th time in 5 games. The NFL and the Players Association still without a CBA. The Barry Bonds trial goes into its 3rd day of deliberation(looking better for Barry). An reward for information leading to the arrest of the trash who assaulted a Giant fan after the Dodger/Giant game has grown to $100,000.
Lakers
Game 80 of 82 finds the Lakers trailing the Dallas Mavericks by a 1/2 a game in the race for the number 2 spot in the conference standings. Tonight we play the team with the best record in the league, the San Antonio Spurs. With a 5 game losing streak, the Lakers need to win this game. After winning 17 of 18 games since the All-Star break, and looking poised to win their 18th Larry O'Brien NBA Championship Trophy, their current 5 game losing streak has them looking more like a first round casualty rather than a "three-peat" champion. Correction must be made now, or the boys in "Forum Blue and Gold" will be leaving the playoffs real quick. five things that need to happen to make this playoff run successful.
1. Get back to playing strong defense. During this 5 game losing streak, the Lakers' defense is up from averaging 95.2 ppg ((8th best) to 97.8 ppg. Not a lot, but worth mentioning.
2. The offense, like the defense, has to be more consistent. Prior the losing streak, the Lakers were averaging 101.3 ppg (9th best). During the streak their averaging 90.8 ppg. Not good at all.
3. Andrew Bynum has to dominate the paint at both ends. Period!
4. The Bench has got come and play. They have to bring energy, tough defense, and protect leads(when they have them). Not just shoot a lot of ill advised 3 pointers, commit turnovers, and give away leads.
5. And of course, Kobe, has to be Kobe. Enough said.
Minus these corrections, no 3-peat, no champagne, no parade.!!!!!
Now that's the "half glass empty " mentality. I'm a "half glass full" person myself. You don't win championships in the regular season. That's what the playoffs are for. Last year the Lakers finished the season 4-11. Doom was predicted everywhere. At that time, Jackson said "We're disappointed in our team's effort at the end of the season," We know how that turned out. So with that being said, let's hope Yogi Berra was right when he said, "Looks like Deja vu all over again.
I still think we'll be alright. Go Lakers!!!!!
*Hi Robin and Evette
Born out of my morning discussions with my friend Cecil Godbold.
Hopefully you'll find this to be a usually fact based, logically inspired, intelligent rants and ravings of a long time Lakers,Dodgers,Raiders,Kings fan, and sports fan in general. A place to rehash, examine, dissect, and if necessary complain about my teams ,sports in general. And Before I start, I know, the Raiders are no longer in Los Angeles (for now), but when they were, they gave us our lone Superbowl victory in 1984 (Superbowl XVIII vs the Redskins). That said, a lot of us still consider them our team. If you don't, too bad. This is my blog!
So with that said, let the fun begin.
HEADLINES
Its playoff time for the Kings (versus the San Jose Sharks). It will soon be playoff time for The Lakers. The Dodgers beat the Defending Champion San Fransisco Giants for the 4th time in 5 games. The NFL and the Players Association still without a CBA. The Barry Bonds trial goes into its 3rd day of deliberation(looking better for Barry). An reward for information leading to the arrest of the trash who assaulted a Giant fan after the Dodger/Giant game has grown to $100,000.
Lakers
Game 80 of 82 finds the Lakers trailing the Dallas Mavericks by a 1/2 a game in the race for the number 2 spot in the conference standings. Tonight we play the team with the best record in the league, the San Antonio Spurs. With a 5 game losing streak, the Lakers need to win this game. After winning 17 of 18 games since the All-Star break, and looking poised to win their 18th Larry O'Brien NBA Championship Trophy, their current 5 game losing streak has them looking more like a first round casualty rather than a "three-peat" champion. Correction must be made now, or the boys in "Forum Blue and Gold" will be leaving the playoffs real quick. five things that need to happen to make this playoff run successful.
1. Get back to playing strong defense. During this 5 game losing streak, the Lakers' defense is up from averaging 95.2 ppg ((8th best) to 97.8 ppg. Not a lot, but worth mentioning.
2. The offense, like the defense, has to be more consistent. Prior the losing streak, the Lakers were averaging 101.3 ppg (9th best). During the streak their averaging 90.8 ppg. Not good at all.
3. Andrew Bynum has to dominate the paint at both ends. Period!
4. The Bench has got come and play. They have to bring energy, tough defense, and protect leads(when they have them). Not just shoot a lot of ill advised 3 pointers, commit turnovers, and give away leads.
5. And of course, Kobe, has to be Kobe. Enough said.
Minus these corrections, no 3-peat, no champagne, no parade.!!!!!
Now that's the "half glass empty " mentality. I'm a "half glass full" person myself. You don't win championships in the regular season. That's what the playoffs are for. Last year the Lakers finished the season 4-11. Doom was predicted everywhere. At that time, Jackson said "We're disappointed in our team's effort at the end of the season," We know how that turned out. So with that being said, let's hope Yogi Berra was right when he said, "Looks like Deja vu all over again.
I still think we'll be alright. Go Lakers!!!!!
*Hi Robin and Evette
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