NBA 2008-2009 Season Thread

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

I kinda wanted the Cavs to win but now that the Lakers are going to the Finals think I am shifting to the Magic. I want to see Howard poo all over Pau and Bynum

[SammyG]

lol @ all the hate.

[SammyG]

Also K-Mart is straight up stupid.

"I think we're better than them, actually, to be honest," said Martin, still stubborn. "But we didn't prove that. That's obvious, cause they're moving on and we're not. But I think we have a better team than they do, no doubt about it."

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

Still think Phil Jackson is a bad coach?

[VonErichLives]

lol @ all the hate.

:wtf:

[SammyG]

I do think he made some horrible coaching errors in games 1-4, yes. But he really picked it up games 5-6. Shortened the rotation. Hope he does a good job in the Finals.

[Savio]

I would say denver was the better teamin games 3-4.
However Lakers were better in 5-6

(I didn't see 1-2)

[IC Champion]

Kenyon Martin is retarded, the better team doesn't lose a series in game 6 AT HOME. Come on.

[HeartBreakMan2k]

Come on Orlando! Time to shut this thing out.

[Juan]

Seems like every single one of Orlando's processions have been pretty much the same.

[HeartBreakMan2k]

It's working, stick with it right?

[HeartBreakMan2k]

Magic vs Lakers final. Hellllll yeah.

[Juan]

It's working, stick with it right?

Yeah, no doubt.

[Jeritron]

So glad David Stern's Lebron vs Kobe pipe-dream is for not

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

Lakers probably going to smash the Magic, however I thought the same thing about the Cavs so we'll see.

I think Howard will go off but that's about it, Lakers have better perimeter defenders than the Cavs plus the Lakers also have a much larger inside presence (granted soft as shit but still) so the double teaming won't need to be as frequent. I think this will hurt Orlando's ability to drain 3's, hopefully I'm wrong though.

[Triple Naitch]

Nike jinxed the LeBron/Kobe final.

[Triple Naitch]

http://www.cavfanatic.com/hugez/go/video/view?vid_id=741139&pref_tab=videos

[DaveWadding]

I bet David Stern cried himself to sleep last night.

GO MAGIC

[IC Champion]

I bet Pheonex won't make the playoffs next year.

[SammyG]

lol Wadding.

All their 3 point shooters will cause a problem. Rashard Lewis will draw Pau out of the paint a lot with his 3 point shooting ability.

[SammyG]

We need to start Fish, Kobe, Ariza, Odom, Pau.

Odom will match up better with Rashard on the perimeter, Pau can't chase him around there. Plus, if we start Pau at the 4 and Bynum at the 5, it creates way too many problems with Bynum guarding Howard in the paint, getting destroyed.

If we start Pau at the 5, he can draw Howard outta the paint, with his jump-shooting ability. Really gotta match up with these guys.

[SammyG]

So, I wanted to go catch a game in Staples. Game 1, prolly. Cheapest ticket I can find in the nosebleeds is like 292 dollars. Come on

[Fignuts]

What the fuck did you expect?

[SammyG]

Considering I got my ex a pretty good ticket in Denver for 125 dollars, I was hoping for something near there, or 200 dollars max.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

My Superbowl 39 ticket cost 500 dollars

Granted its a lil' different since there is only the possibility for one game, I figured 300 would be around the price for a nosebleed seat at the NBA Finals

[SammyG]

Where were your seats at the game, Stima?

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

In the corner of the end zone. In the 200's, I wanna say 227 but I don't remember exactly

http://www.tailgatewvu.com/alltel_stadium.gif

[SammyG]

Was that Pats/Panthers?

[Triple Naitch]

Pats/Eagles

[SammyG]

oh yeah

[Loose Cannon]

one day I will go to one Championship game. It will have to be the Yankees or actually, defnately the Jets because if they ever make it, that may be thier only one

[Savio]

Lebron is a prick

[The Gold Standard]

I bet David Stern cried himself to sleep last night.

GO MAGIC

and ESPN and ABC and all of the sports websites and magazines.

[Splaya]

I’m a winner, King James proclaimed. So, there you go. That’s his reason for rushing out of the conference finals without so much as a nod to Dwight Howard (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/players/3818/;_ylt=Ajt4xc8HLSbbQrOd4cNM0_zTjdIF)(notes) (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/players/3818/news;_ylt=AryAJu4fkleFDjQAE5LHAfjTjdIF) and the Orlando Magic (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/teams/orl/;_ylt=AqysAsBdHvIJO.1qF9M3PrbTjdIF). That’s his reason for marching to the bus and letting the Cleveland Cavaliers (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/teams/cle/;_ylt=AixALvSuWQd697kX6ihDc43TjdIF)’ spare parts take care of his responsibilities in the interview room.
Funny, but James stayed on the court to make sure the Detroit Pistons (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/teams/det/;_ylt=Aohtp.pec.ohnUXnc1.OemrTjdIF) and Atlanta Hawks (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/teams/atl/;_ylt=Ai_7gh9w5oMpWcwhma9mrsfTjdIF) paid respect to him. As it turns out, there’s one thing allowed to happen at the end of a playoff series: Everyone bows down and kisses the King’s ring. Only, LeBron doesn’t have a ring. He’s never won a game in the NBA Finals.
So, yes, maybe they just have to kiss his ass.

<!--Vendor: Turner Inc, Format: IFRAME --><!-- ADSPACE: news/bottom.160x600 --><iframe src="http://ads.nba.com/html.ng/site=ynba&ynba_pos=160x600_bot&ynba_rollup=news&params.styles=html_tags&tile=1243915382540111" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" style="██████████ relative; top: 0px; left: 0px;" name="683598" id="683598" frameborder="0" height="600" scrolling="no" width="160"></iframe>
<!-- /SIG=15pusab9e/M=698984.13038616.13242944.12597757/D=sports/S=97684947:SKY/_ylt=Ajf0Ti.QiEa.Z6m6BXXHzLLTjdIF/Y=YAHOO/EXP=1243922582/L=m8l7tdG_bvF.YV1dSg.L5QD_R.MoeEokpHYABz3D/B=QEoZDdj8Ynk-/J=1243915382540111/K=gHD5yFc4VlrITj6ig_Wspw/A=5515690/R=0 --><script language="javascript"> if(window.yzq_d==null)window.yzq_d=new Object(); window.yzq_d['QEoZDdj8Ynk-']='&U=13ff9hsm0%2fN%3dQEoZDdj8Ynk-%2fC%3d698984.13038616.13242944.12597757%2fD%3dSKY%2fB%3d5515690%2fV%3d1'; </script><noscript>http://us.bc.yahoo.com/b?P=m8l7tdG_bvF.YV1dSg.L5QD_R.MoeEokpHYABz3D&T=14vu8bse4%2fX%3d1243915382%2fE%3d97684947%2fR%3dsports%2fK%3d5%2fV%3d2.1%2fW%3dH%2fY%3dYAHOO%2fF%3 d3135514779%2fH%3dY29udGVudD0ibGVhZ3VlPW5iYQ--%2fQ%3d-1%2fS%3d1%2fJ%3d156FBFD1&U=13ff9hsm0%2fN%3dQEoZDdj8Ynk-%2fC%3d698984.13038616.13242944.12597757%2fD%3dSKY%2fB%3d5515690%2fV%3d1</noscript>
“It’s not being a poor sport or anything like that,” James said.
No, nothing like that. Yes, James cares so much that it isn’t possible to be gracious and humbled.
You know me, he told the reporters in Cleveland on Sunday. I’m a competitor. “If somebody beats you up, you’re not going to congratulate them,” James said. “It doesn’t make sense for me to go over and shake somebody’s hand.”
Here’s the question: Who has the guts to tell him that he sounds like an immature, self-absorbed brat?
Here’s the problem for the Cavaliers and James: No one.
It won’t be Cleveland Cavaliers ownership, front office and coaches. It won’t be the NBA. It won’t be Nike. And it sure won’t be those childhood sycophants who surround James and tell everyone what a brilliant businessman LeBron is because they can answer the phone when corporations call for a famous pitchman.
LeBron doesn’t want to win more than Michael Jordan did, but Jordan could stop and shake a winner’s hand. Magic Johnson and Larry Bird could, too. Julius Erving did. Kobe Bryant (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/players/3118/;_ylt=Ag1OHNQlb_84OCwwUtsoRCXTjdIF)(notes) (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/players/3118/news;_ylt=AsUFypDH0PU7HfYAJm7enPHTjdIF). Isiah Thomas led a walkout after losing to the Chicago Bulls (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/teams/chi/;_ylt=AoJVxQAqf8NvFTtgvRT.HmbTjdIF) after winning two NBA titles, but Joe Dumars never followed him. He stayed and shook Jordan’s hand, the way Jordan had always shook his when the Pistons had beaten him.
“M.J. had stopped, shook my hand and hugged me three straight years that we had beaten them in the playoffs,” Dumars once told me. “There was no way I was walking off the court without shaking the Bulls’ hands.”
Within the Cavs, someone needed to tell James that he embarrassed himself and the franchise, but that won’t happen. They’re too scared of him. Most league executives with knowledge of Cleveland’s operation believe it’s far more of an ownership issue, than basketball operations.
If general manager Danny Ferry and coach Mike Brown privately disdain the ridiculous posing for pictures that James started with his teammates on a 13-game winning streak, the owner is believed to see the foolishness as a marketing dream.
Someone should’ve told James that the pregame Polaroid act was belittling and beneath a championship contender, but it never happened.
All season, the Cavaliers acted too entitled, too arrogant for a team that’s won nothing. They ran out demanding that Mo Williams (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/players/3750/;_ylt=Ak0puI2lMr.PVmHZ.TZSE2LTjdIF)(notes) (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/players/3750/news;_ylt=ArtO2NxQmvsKGKlTVrg2BXXTjdIF) be made an All-Star, when the truth bore itself out in the playoffs: Cleveland has one All-Star. Nevertheless, Williams still embarrassed the Cavs with foolish proclamations and guarantees his middling talent couldn’t deliver.
“If you believe in karma with that nonsense,” one Western Conference executive said, “then Cleveland got what was coming to them.”
The Cavaliers are terrified of James. When you’re around them, it’s sometimes embarrassing to watch the way they tip-toe and grovel with him. In their defense, that’s how James wants it. As a childhood prodigy, that’s all LeBron’s ever known. The Cavs are at his mercy until he becomes a free agent in July of 2010, and that isn’t going to change. There’s no chance that he signs an extension this summer, because that would be the end of the drama, the intrigue and LeBron James (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/players/3704/;_ylt=As2GJY7NlIuNp2hi6.RU7IrTjdIF)(notes) (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/players/3704/news;_ylt=AnWEgdEEFLKmbC.4yKaaocDTjdIF) isn’t letting that go away.
Now, Ferry goes back to the phones and starts work on surrounding James with championship talent. Cleveland is sure to revisit the Shaquille O’Neal (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/players/847/;_ylt=AjRfiQVPnnxxqhJdg6BUv.DTjdIF)(notes) (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/players/847/news;_ylt=AudOaUjcsZNgbbg0.J0kKjfTjdIF) talks with the Phoenix Suns (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/teams/pho/;_ylt=AnaXd6SfisIC0iYls.RTXHLTjdIF), and James and his associates will send out word that, hey, we’ll go to New York unless the Cavs deliver him his title. Well, they’ve reached the NBA Finals and had the best record in the NBA within the past three seasons, so they must have surrounded James with something that works there.
Nevertheless, James distanced himself in losing again, after a season in which he sold himself as all for one, and one for all. James had been an MVP until the very final moments of the basketball season, and then, he embarrassed himself and acted like a petulant kid. In a world where everyone in his life is too fearful or too dependent, LeBron James goes into the summer believing his own nonsense that he walked out of this season a winner.
As usual, there’s no one to tell him.
Except maybe now, Kobe’s puppet.









Asbolutely outstanding article by Adrian Wojnarowski.

[Loose Cannon]

most athletes are like that though. your on top of the world when you win and when you lose, you don't want to deal with anybody. you just want to walk away. I've been there and am much like that. I know to some people, it may come off as being a soar loser or being an asshole, but for me personally, it's just being frustrated with yourself as you always think you could of done more to get the job done. dunno, anybody else like that?

[SammyG]

Yeah, I am.

[McLegend]

I hate Joe Dumars.

[RatedGSuperstar]

The fact that this is such a big story is ridiculous. LeBron's still like 24 or 25 years old. He's a young guy whose emotions got the best of him after the biggest challenge of his career, and he didn't respond well. End of discussion. He's not some kind of primadonna that thinks he's better than the game.

I also think it's laughable that the article above paints Michael Jordan and Larry Bird as gracious and respectful losers. There may be isolated incidents where they stuck around to shake some hands, but history pretty much says that they were two of the most competitive people to ever play the game and absolutely hated congratulating people when they got beat. LeBron's stuck around for postgame comments and congratulations a hell of a lot more than he's bolted off the court, but that fact would ruin a good story, wouldn't it?


Edit: On the topic of the actual Finals, I think Orlando will pose a much bigger challenge to the Lakers than Cleveland could have. If LA tries to get away with playing half-assed for most of the series like they have in the past two rounds, they're going to get beat...and fast. Really, I think the Lakers need to win Game 1, otherwise they'll be in trouble. Lewis could cause a lot of problems by drawing Gasol out, leaving Howard to beat up on Bynum..Jackson needs to figure out how he's going to stop Lewis and Hedo at the same time. Orlando's really a match up nightmare for anyone.

[SammyG]

Yeah this is retarded how blown outta proportion the LeBron thing is. Give him a break.

Seriously, if that was Kobe who did that, the media would be all over that 10 times worse.

[Hanso Amore]

Yeah this is retarded how blown outta proportion the LeBron thing is. Give him a break.

Seriously, if that was Kobe who did that, the media would be all over that 10 times worse.

Yeah, because he is a rapist.

For real though, i think it would be the same if not less. Lebron is this years MVP, and the Chosen one.

[Fignuts]

I've done this type of thing a few times too. Not saying it's right, but at the same time, it's an understandable response, and blowing it way out of proportion like this is ridiculous.

[SammyG]

Stern might fine him he just said.

also Nelson practiced today apparently and looked amazing. Fuck. Dude carved us up.

[Loose Cannon]

sweet. hopefully he plays some minutes

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

I think it's dumb he just bounced. I am competitive as anyone else but I still don't see that as excuse, it's poor sportsmanship. His reasoning was garbage too, surprised his PR people couldn't come up with something better than that.

It's tradition in the NBA to give respect at the end of a series, even in series where there's issues you still see dudes (like Kobe/Artest) at least shaking each other's hands at the completion of the series. I don't call when he did competitive, I think it's sour grapes and just being salty. Don't really think they need to make this big of a deal of it though, but LeBron's very popular so they want to keep him in the sporting news.

[SammyG]

If Nelson starts, I dunno about this series. He is seriously amazing.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

Nelson isn't gonna be ready to play

[Juan]

Even if Nelson plays, no way he'll be the same player he was in the regular season. You just can't insert someone back in after an injury and expect them to perform at the level they did before the injury.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

That's what I meant, he might suit and play a bit but he's not gonna be ready to contribute very much I don't think. He hasn't played in a game since what February?

[Juan]

Yeah February.

[SammyG]

He is still insanely good but yeah you guys are right.

[SammyG]

http://www.nba.com/media/lakers/09poD_wallpaper_1024a.jpg

sexy ass wallpaper

[RP]

He is still insanely good but yeah you guys are right.

He's not insanely good. WTF . Such a Laker fan comment right there.

I really hope the Lakers lose so every dumb Laker fan will kill themselves.

[RP]

Stern might fine him he just said.

also Nelson practiced today apparently and looked amazing. Fuck. Dude carved us up.

If i was Lebron and Stern fined me for that junk , i'd go on television and tell David Stern he can go fuck himself. And what will Stern do? Seriously? Lebron is the guy Stern is banking on for the next 15 years.

Lebron > Stern

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

Only made the All-Star team this year so the Magic could have another player since they had such a good record. Still a pretty good player though, like 15 & 5 a night - insanely good is a little much.

[SammyG]

I know that when he played against LA he could not miss a shot and averaged like 27.5 points. If you are a good slasher, and Derek Fisher is guarding you, you're insanely good. Derek Fisher is worse at defense than Steve Nash.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

Yeah Aaron Brooks definitely displayed that for the whole World to see. Really hope Nelson can contribute but I highly doubt it.

[SammyG]

WASHINGTON -- OK, Mr. President, let's see how you do picking the pro game.

Barack Obama was on his way to the Marine One helicopter on the South Lawn on Tuesday when a reporter shouted a question. The topic: Who is going to win the NBA championship, the Los Angeles Lakers or the Orlando Magic?

Said the smiling president of the best-of-seven series: "Lakers in six, I think." The series begins Thursday.

So far so good this year for Obama. A huge basketball fan, he correctly predicted that that the University of North Carolina men's basketball team would win the NCAA championship.

Obama was leaving Tuesday for an overnight trip to the Middle East.


Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press


BARACK OMAMBA

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

Luckily he didn't fill out a NBA playoff bracket though, haven't had it shoved down my throat by ESPN like his NCAA bracket

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

<object width="560" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/2HfXjAmeq40&hl=en&fs=1&color1=0xe1600f&color2=0xfebd01"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/2HfXjAmeq40&hl=en&fs=1&color1=0xe1600f&color2=0xfebd01" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="560" height="340"></embed></object>

Just heard Nelson isn't playing tonight

[SammyG]

lol come on @ that video.

Also yeah, Nelson out, sweet.

[McLegend]

This series has potential to suck.

[Juan]

NO MERCY

[SammyG]

1. LeBron fined 25,000 dollars.

2. MAMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

[Testicle]

Kobe is definitly wining this one, first without shaq.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

Wow, only positive is that the Magic went ice cold from 3 so they can maybe have a shot if they get hot? Doubtful though

[HeartBreakMan2k]

Unreal. I haven't seen the Magic play that poorly in a while. Absolutely frozen for 3 straight quarters. LA's length seemed to be a nightmare for them. I still have faith but wow, terrible game for them.

[SammyG]

http://i43.tinypic.com/30lnbxx.jpg



http://img218.imageshack.us/img218/764/mambalick1.gif

[RP]

You want your balls licked by Kobe Bryant dont you Sammy? I bet that wouldnt even be a tad bit awkward to you.

[Loose Cannon]

yea, I was thinking all throughout the Cleveland series that if the Magic make it they were going to go cold for the first few games or so against LA. I've seen it happen so many times.

Look, the Magic are going to live and die at the 3 point line. That's thier series. They knock down 3's, they create opportunities for Howard inside. They don't knock those down, it's going to be a quick series. Also, Orlando has a lot of problems crashing the boards right now. They don't seem to be a gritty team like the Rockets, so they are going to have to make up for that as well.

[Krimzon7]

http://i43.tinypic.com/30lnbxx.jpg

Kobe is this the same face you made when you raped that white girl?



http://img218.imageshack.us/img218/764/mambalick1.gif

Kobe stop looking at my dick!

[Icess]

Contradict much?

[Testicle]

Wow, only positive is that the Magic went ice cold from 3 so they can maybe have a shot if they get hot? Doubtful though

Even if they do get hot from 3, they gotta do something about the paint, they are getting crushed on the inside.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

Yeah after I posted that I was surprised to find out they shot 35% from 3 and just 30% overall. I really don't know what they are going to do to win this series, need Howard and Lewis (especially Lewis) to really step up their scoring.

[SammyG]

I think the only real question is whether the Lakers will sweep, or win in 5... It'd be kinda gay to win it in Orlando though...

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

Really hope Orlando wins game 2 now just to see your over dramatic reaction lol

[SammyG]

lol not gonna happen

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

They got blown out in a game in the Boston series too, anything can happen.

[Skippord]

god I fucking hate that stupid look Kobe does

it's irritating beyond belief

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

One of the best players in the NBA and dude has no swag at all

[RP]

http://i43.tinypic.com/30lnbxx.jpg

life tilt

[RP]

I kinda want to see Kobe average 50 points in the Finals tho.

[Juan]

So you can call him a ball hog?

[Testicle]

Yeah after I posted that I was surprised to find out they shot 35% from 3 and just 30% overall. I really don't know what they are going to do to win this series, need Howard and Lewis (especially Lewis) to really step up their scoring.


They gotta step up on the defensive side as well otherwise the Lakers bigs are gonna crush them again in game 2.

[SammyG]

http://www.nba.com/media/lakers/09poD1_wallpaper_1280.jpg

[RatedGSuperstar]

Still trying to figure out why there has to be two days between Games 1 and 2...no wonder this shit takes 2 weeks, even for a sweep.

[SammyG]

I know, it's retarded. Especially since games 2-3 only have 1 rest day, which is gonna be a travel day...

[SammyG]

This game is bad boring.

Lewis is the only reason they are in it

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

All about the TV ratings, people are more likely to watch on a Sunday instead of a Saturday

[McLegend]

I want JJ Reddick to hit this shot.

[HeartBreakMan2k]

WHOOO TURK!

[HeartBreakMan2k]

Damn good try, shame it didn't go..

[Juan]

Damn

[McLegend]

JJ Reddick is blowing this game now

[McLegend]

He'll have a shot at redemption though

[HeartBreakMan2k]

Two good looks, two misses.. sucks... :-\

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

What is the deal with the face Kobe keeps making? He looks like a retard

That's a 3 by Lewis

[HeartBreakMan2k]

Awesome shot. Having to run picture in picture right now. Uriah Faber/Brown fight in one, this game in the other.

[McLegend]

That was clearly a 3 in the replays.

[McLegend]

Miss these

[McLegend]

Damnit

[HeartBreakMan2k]

Fuck, good effort from Orlando... :-\

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

lol @ Kobe's kids and wife coming up to him right in the tunnel. What a way to use your kids as a prop for a PR move because you got caught banging a white bitch who isn't your wife in Denver. Must have picked that up from his Olympic teammate Jason Kidd

[road doggy dogg]

lol was just watching the game a bit, are the announcers like huge Lakers homers? That shot was obvs a 3, like why were they making it sound like it was "maybe" only 2? Tards.
crossrine

[Juan]

What is the deal with the face Kobe keeps making? He looks like a retard

lol @ Kobe's kids and wife coming up to him right in the tunnel. What a way to use your kids as a prop for a PR move because you got caught banging a white bitch who isn't your wife in Denver. Must have picked that up from his Olympic teammate Jason Kidd

lol nitpick much?

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

Don't like Kobe or the Lakers. Also don't like Jason Kidd for pulling the same shit, probably every guy on both team has kids yet I didn't see any of them running out

Magic need to take the home games or this shits over, it stays in Orlando for the next 3 though right? 2-3-2?

[SammyG]

lol, shut the fuck up Stima about the kids thing. That thing has been happening for a long time now. They always wait for him there.

Anyway. What a fucking game. Very glad we won. Lee is kicking himself right now definitely for missing that bunny alley-oop.

And yeah, Stima, it's 3 games in Orlando. All LA has to do is take 1 out of those 3. Feelin' pretty good about it.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

Oh I know its been happening for a while, I saw Kobe Doin' Work a Spike Lee Joint you feel me? Still think its hilarious he's using them cuz he got caught with a snow bunny.

Really don't see the Magic winning this series now, if they won tonight Lakers would have been at a huge disadvantage with 3 coming up in Orlando. Now Lakers just need 1 and its basically a wrap.

[McLegend]

If Lamar Odom plays like he did tonight then the Lakers will win.

However he's not going to. He has played well last 4 games hes due for a couple of bad games.

[SammyG]

So you're telling me that the Lakers are gonna lose all 3 in Orlando, McLegend?

Shit, i am thinking there's a good chance that the Lakers win in 5... however, I would prefer in 6, just to see a celebration in Staples.

[Juan]

Odom wants to be in a Lakers uniform next year, so if he wants that to happen, he needs to NOT have a bad game for the rest of the series.

[SammyG]

I think Lamar earned his contract today.

[Icess]

It depends a lot on Ariza as well. If they both took pay cuts it would be great, but I doubt it will happen. I think they'll keep Ariza if they have to make the choice between he and Odom.

[SammyG]

Nah, if I had to choose, I'd definitely go with Odom. His versatility is key.

[SammyG]

lol Kobe's presser.

"Kobe, what were you thinking when Lee went up for that alleyoop and had a good look?"

Kobe: "Shit"

[Icess]

Ariza's younger and plays better d.

Don't want to lose either, but I think I'd rather Ariza

[SammyG]

Ariza can't get you a double double, or bring the energy Lamar does. Don't get me wrong, I love Trev. But Odom is the X-Factor to this team. Not trevor.

[RP]

THat play Van Gundy drew up for Lee at the end of the 4th was crazy good. I dont know if Lee jumped to early or if Hedo's pass was too long, or both, but I just watched it and Kobe had work done on him. Lee faked like he was headed right and went left towards the basket and Lewis faked like he was headed towards Hedo for the ball then stepped to the other side to screen Kobe off Lee as he bolted to the hoop, in doing so, he pulled his man behind him who had to defend Lewis incase he actually caught and shot the ball .Hedo threw it up. I think Lee just jumped too early.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

I'm surprised they got it that close to the rim. I bet nobody thought that Courtney Lee was going to get the ball though. Defense looking for a Hedo catch and shoot probably

[RP]

Lee was probably the last person they thought would get the ball, but Kobe was on him. Like i said, Kobe had work done on him that play. If you watch the replay, it was perfect. Lewis faked towards Hedo at the same time as Lee faked towards him, then Lee comes back the other way and bolts to the rim, Lewis steps back the other way ( with his defender still playing him as if he'll catch the inbounds ) and screens Kobe off Lee.

It was so pretty. If they would have finished that one. O M G. Would have been one of the best plays in NBA history tbh.

[SammyG]

Yeah, I agree. Hell of a play drawn up by the Master of Panic. Lee really blew a bunny there.

[SammyG]

ROFLLLL

http://thelakersnation.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/captde568eae657949d7bf29f972b24dcf5dnba_finals_magic_lakers_basketball_las120.jpg

[RP]

I still feel like Orlando will win the next two games. The Lakers havent done anything special. They still seem really beatable. If Orlando starts hitting 3's at home, they can win the next 3 games. I dont feel like the Lakers have an aura of dominance.

[SammyG]

RP. The Lakers really only need to win 1 out of these 3. The series is over dude.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

Just like the Magic winning game 2 was "not gonna happen," which I guess technically didn't - thanks to Courtney Lee missing a layup.

Think you are probably right but you never know. Magic already won a Game 7 on the road

[SammyG]

I understand this, but they are facing too many difficulties here. First off, the Lakers are better. Secondly, they are too inexperienced. Howard is lost out there. Thirdly, the Lakers only need one, Orlando is not good enough to sweep all 3 at home.

That is why I say it's over.

[SammyG]

http://estaticos03.marca.com/albumes/2009/06/08/gasol_howard_2/1244438289_extras_albumes_0.jpg


Howard: I will never call you soft again, Pau

[SammyG]

orlando shooting 76 percent... and losing

[McLegend]

Kobe started awesome, but I think he's gonna shoot them out of this game as goes on.

Especially in the 4th.

[SammyG]

Are you fucking kidding me? Orlando is shooting 75 percent with 9 seconds left in the first half.

[DaveWadding]

I see Paussy has been taking lesson from the Mamba.

[Loose Cannon]

it's great seeing Austin ball here. he's exploding.

[Loose Cannon]

lol wtf, they are hyping the 2010 NBA All Star game already

[McLegend]

Need to get 80,000 in there. Better start early.

[Juan]

I'm gonna run out of cigarettes watching this game

[SammyG]

Meh, not really too upset. Only need 1 in Orlando

[SammyG]

As much as I hate saying this... this one's on Kobe. HORRIBLE in the 4th

[McLegend]

Kobe started awesome, but I think he's gonna shoot them out of this game as goes on.

Especially in the 4th.

You are a prophet.

[Innovator]

Donovan wouldn't appreciate that attitude

[McLegend]

Donovan wouldn't appreciate that attitude

What coming through in the clutch?

[McLegend]

Ouch :(

[Juan]

Magic played a great game and still only won by 4. I'm not too worried.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

lol @ Gasol throwing his hands up in the air when they didn't stop the clock with 0.2 left before going to replay - did it really matter at that point?

Hopefully Lakers got the same attitude being not worried and end up losing all 3, doubtful though.

[SammyG]

Kobe's missed free throws... come ON. but yeah, what Juan said basically.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

That's how it happens tho, Magic are a missed lay up away from being up 2-1 right now. You never know what can happen, hopefully Magic rip off 2 more to make it interesting. I really can't see the Magic winning 2 in LA.

[SammyG]

That one time where Kobe split the double team, and got stripped. Pau grabs the ball, he shoulda just called timeout instead of trying to force a pass to Kobe.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

Game got real sloppy at that point

[Icess]

Magic played a great game and still only won by 4. I'm not too worried.

[Testicle]

As much as I hate saying this... this one's on Kobe. HORRIBLE in the 4th

When you're the superstar player the game is always on you.

I don't think anyone thought that the Lakers would sweep the Magic, if the Lakers can come back in game 4 and go up 3-1 this series is over.

[Juan]

wtf Lakers have like 8 fouls already.

[Testicle]

I don't know why, but I hate Terkoglu.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

Wonder if Dwight Howard is playing "too physical" for Pau Gasol's taste tonight?

http://www.dailynews.com/ci_12558446?source=rss

[Loose Cannon]

Hedo is ridiculous. I still maintain he's the best all around player on the team. Howard better start hitting free throws

[Testicle]

He's a good player for sure, I just hate his guts.

[Juan]

This is going to be a long game

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

Why do guys get pissed when Hedo draws that foul? They call it every time, defenders need to stop jumping when he goes to take a jump shot - you aren't gonna block it anyway. I know they are trying to disturb it but if a guy is always drawing fouls with that it's not worth it, just put your hand up and stay on your feet.

I'm not totally sure how I feel about that call but it doesn't really matter how I feel or how anyone else feels - the refs call it almost every time.

[Juan]

At this rate, the whole team is going to foul out.

[HeartBreakMan2k]

Another awesome half from Orlando. Too many turnovers but good work on defense. Very happy with how they're playing and starting to get more comfortable with that bet I put on them at the beginning of the playoffs.

[Juan]

Holly hell. Derek FUCKING Fisher!

[Testicle]

Lakers win. This series is over.

[Testicle]

Holly hell. Derek FUCKING Fisher!


Pretty clutch 3 pointer by fisher, huh.

[jindrak]

Why do guys get pissed when Hedo draws that foul?

I wouldn't be pissed if you gave me a foul 'Golden Shower':naughty:

[Juan]

HUGE WIN

[Testicle]

Series over.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

Magic once again one play away from a win, shit just ain't gonna happen.

Not even gonna watch the rest probably, not interested in seeing the Lakers win a title

[McLegend]

Surprised to see Derek Fisher is still alive.

[McLegend]

O and huge choke by Orlando.

[SammyG]

Pretty awesome for the Lakers to win that game. Beat the Magic, and the refs.

Magic had like 20 free throws in the 4th and OT. Lakers had 2. And those were the 2 on the flagrant by Pietrus at the end. when the game was irrelevant at that point, it was over. HORRIBLE reffing. Outstanding win.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

I wish Pietrus punched Gasol in the face - he should have has nothing to lose now, no way they are winning 3 in a row. Guarantee he wants to punch Gasol, how could you not?

Worst time of the year for sports coming up, only baseball on TV now after tomorrow

[Juan]

What? Pietrus shoved Gasol hard from behind. I'm not trying to be "a Lakers fan" here, but if anything Pau should have punched Pietrus.

[Juan]

http://d.yimg.com/a/p/sp/getty/10/fullj.0758ae5c3e1945e3f455d2cd1c428a1d/0758ae5c3e1945e3f455d2cd1c428a1d-getty-88095585cc113_nba_finals_ga.jpg

[Loose Cannon]

yea, but Gasol just has that look where you want to punch him in the face. If he wasn't a Laker, you would understand. :)

Anyway, I actually fell asleep in the 4th and woke up when the game was over. I was tired I guess. I didn't realize it went to OT until this morning. I saw what happened.

Nelson must have bricks for brains because how are you going to be up by 3 with 6 seconds left and not either:

1) Foul (not on the shot obviously, unless it was a 2)

2) Stand on that 3 point line and DO NOT let Fisher take a shot from beyond the line.

come on, use your head. With all the turnovers, the missed free shots, terrible critical defense, The Magic beat themselves

[Savio]

I'm glad I keep missing these or else I would just end up pissed watching them

[SammyG]

LAAAAAKE SHOW BITCHES.

1 win away!

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

What? Pietrus shoved Gasol hard from behind. I'm not trying to be "a Lakers fan" here, but if anything Pau should have punched Pietrus.I'm not talking about that play, Pau is just a huge bitch and plays like a soccer player. Shaking his head constantly in "disbelief" over every call/non-call and crumbling to the floor like he just got shot when he got hit in the face on accident. Pau was right to be upset about that play but when he got in Pietrus's face Pietrus should have just decked him. They got nothing to lose really, I see them MAYBE winning Game 5 then losing in LA in a blow out. Same thing as last year

[Brujesino]

I wish Pietrus punched Gasol in the face - he should have has nothing to lose now, no way they are winning 3 in a row. Guarantee he wants to punch Gasol, how could you not?

Worst time of the year for sports coming up, only baseball on TV now after tomorrow

i agree what the hell is pau doing showing the magic up on thier own court mikeal should have punched him in the face

[Brujesino]

What? Pietrus shoved Gasol hard from behind. I'm not trying to be "a Lakers fan" here, but if anything Pau should have punched Pietrus.

for what? people get shoved during games all the time

but who the hell dunks on someone elses court while they have the game wrapped up pau should have layed it in

mikeal do us all a favor and start knocking bitches out the next game

[DaveWadding]

http://my.nba.com/servlet/JiveServlet/download/580003047-5800007278-5800117579-5800019700/Lakers-Gasol-LEFTmmmmmm.jpg

[Juan]

90% of NBA players are hideous, and yes Pau is one of them.

[Juan]

Also, Brujesino the Warriors suck ;)

[Brujesino]

Also, Brujesino the Warriors suck ;)

they are only beginning their dynasty every team starts off bad before they win championships

[Juan]

First step: fire Don Nelson.

[SammyG]

Who fuckign cares about the fucking Warriors right now. I love all the Laker hate on this board. Keep it coming. 1 win away.

[Brujesino]

Who fuckign cares about the fucking Warriors right now. I love all the Laker hate on this board. Keep it coming. 1 win away.

fine kobe sucks cocks for dinner

pau fucks llamas to complete the last hybrid llama man

odom is black

farmar should be casted in the next chronicles of narnia

you happy

[SammyG]

... Not suprised by your stupidity.

[Brujesino]

... Not suprised by your stupidity.

i tried

lakers are gonna win this in game 6

[Juan]

Public Service Announcement:

The views and opinions shared by Mr. Samuel G do not necessarily reflect those of all Lakers fans.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

Who fuckign cares about the fucking Warriors right now. I love all the Laker hate on this board. Keep it coming. 1 win away.LOL I'm sorry but you are such a homo when it comes to sports its unreal

Everyone "talking shit" about the Lakers has come right out and said they don't like them - but at the same time has admitted they are going to win the title.

BUT THE HATE IS HEAVY DOG! 1 WIN! HOLLA!

[Skippord]

lol Stima

[SammyG]

HOLLA

Championship could be won today. Oh god. Soo excited. I am just trying to kill time. I fucking watched Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants, i was so bored. come on 6 o clock.

I dunno, I don't know if we will win it in Orlando. Would rather watch a celebration in Staples, tbh. But it's all good, don't matter where LA wins it.

[Brujesino]

iam gonna go ahead and say magic win tonight pretty good tonight 10 point win or something


then game 6 lakers spank the magic

[SammyG]

Yeah, kinda what I'm thinking too.

BTW.

<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/xxr2opJO420&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xcfcfcf&feature=player_embedded&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/xxr2opJO420&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xcfcfcf&feature=player_embedded&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>

[Juan]

Ariza for Finals MVP

[Icess]

Should have gotten a contract done before this game. He's gonna have a huge price tag on him now

[Brujesino]

congrats to the lakers for winning it all:mad:

[Triple Naitch]

Championssssssssssssssss.

[Jesus Shuttlesworth]

Kobe's kids right on the floor right away, what a PR genius

[McLegend]

So gay

[Juan]

Shaq tell me how my ass taste

[Krimzon7]

So gay
:y:

[IC Champion]

Kobe is the man. Fuck all the naysayers. and Dave Wadding.

[road doggy dogg]

THE_REAL_SHAQ
Congratualtions kobe, u deserve it. You played great . Enjoy it my man enjoy it. And I know what yur sayin rt now "Shaq how my ass taste "
23 minutes ago from TwitterBerry

[Supreme Olajuwon]

that LSU education is serving Shaq well

[SammyG]

WEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE ARE THE CHAAAAMPIONS, MY FRIIIIIIIIIIIIIIEEEEEEEEEEEND

AND WE'LL KEEEEEEEEEEEEEP ON FIIIIIIIIIIGHTING TO THE EEEEND

[SammyG]

Got pretty wasted. Good time. Ariza was awesome today. Same with LO.

[SammyG]

http://a323.yahoofs.com/ymg/ept_sports_nba_experts__26/ept_sports_nba_experts-277978250-1245037937.jpg?ymxl1aBDnTK5LAf4

[SammyG]

http://d.yimg.com/a/p/sp/getty/a7/fullj.2e56cca1f1569ab61c054ea04be1e912/2e56cca1f1569ab61c054ea04be1e912-getty-88095590cc119_nba_finals_ga.jpg

lol

[Juan]

Can't wait for November

[SammyG]

Back to back?

[Juan]

Oh hell yeah

[SammyG]

We can do it. Just gotta keep this team together. I don't want Odom or Ariza gone :(

[Juan]

Me either. Odom already said he'd take less money to stay. Let's just hope Ariza's price tag doesn't sky rocket

[SammyG]

That's awesome by LO. Yeah, Trev is gonna be targeted by a shitload of teams

[Brujesino]

how many times has a player said "oh ya ill take less money to stay on a team" and then go to another team

carlos boozer anyone

[Triple Naitch]

Does Pau Gasol have braces?

[Brujesino]

Does Pau Gasol have braces?

yes he does scroll up this page were hes holding the trophy

[Juan]

<object width="640" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/dOcrU9mWy1U&hl=en&fs=1&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/dOcrU9mWy1U&hl=en&fs=1&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="640" height="385"></embed></object>

[VonErichLives]

Sammy did you cry after the win?

Back to back?

If everyone stays healthy you have a good shot...

Clev will be good next year, not sure about getting rid of Z for Shaq.. but that should be an upgrade if shaq is healthy.

C's will be better if KG is back healthy and they resign Davis...

But yeah, if a championship team can stay together and healthy, there is no reason not to favor them to repeat unless someone else makes a huge move.

[The Gold Standard]

http://d.yimg.com/a/p/sp/getty/a7/fullj.2e56cca1f1569ab61c054ea04be1e912/2e56cca1f1569ab61c054ea04be1e912-getty-88095590cc119_nba_finals_ga.jpg

lol

:rofl::rofl::rofl: