Sit's Dynasty (NBA Live 06)

[Fresh8]

I might turn lighting off... but its so weird playing

lol

[The X]

I wouldn't turn lighting off, just when you take a pic just make sure to adjust angle to avoid the lighting conflict....they really have to fix lighting issue in Live '06....

I actually like pic more due to the Terminator Kings....

[brad feet]

yeah turn it off, for me it's better. if the lighting is on the players look different....
by the way nice post season so far...... and i must admit, you're one hell of a writer....

[Fresh8]

really.. thanks! I just hope i can get good grades in english.. im not at that level yet lol

It cut me when Bibby hit those two goddamn three pointers to knock me out of contention... i was so angry man.. but its good to lose a game...

[Micchy_boy]

well your only down 0-1, i konw you can still pull this series and go to the Finals....

As X saidm dont turn the lighting, just adjust your camera angle to get a better view or shots of the players...

Also, try giving Bryant some good image... at least in our dynasty
coz every where, every time we read about kobe its all bad things

[Fresh8]

lol.. i already gave him enough fame with his damn 55 ppg lol

[brad feet]

55 ppg? that's too much..... yeah but i think micchy's right... let's give kobe some props.....

[Fresh8]

Of course its too much! Thats only cause he played 2 games though

and he was awesome in both!

[AlwaysWhat,NeverWhy]

Nice write-ups Sit, I don't think you'll have a problem in English anytime soon...

Cheers

[Fresh8]

Thanks bro.

The next game is on tomoz morning.. i'll play it early in the morning. And then try to post a writeup... so good night to y'all!

[Fresh8]

LAKERS INEXPERIENCE SHOWS IN DYING SECONDS

LAL: 26 – 25 – 31 – 22 – 104
SAC: 37 – 18 – 25 – 27 - 107

16-13 Los Angeles Lakers trail series against 23-6 Sacramento Kings 0-2

Sacramento – Mike Bibby scored a three pointer and two crucial free throws in the last two minutes of Game 2 en route to a 29 point performance, as Sacramento edges one game closer to the NBA Finals. Kwame Brown and Kareem Rush both missed open opportunities to tie or even win the game for their team.

The Los Angeles Lakers; without injured captain Kobe Bryant have lost two in a row and risk elimination if they can’t win their next game at home. Stand-in coach Brian Shaw was disappointed in his team’s performance in crunch time, “We had it (the win) right there and we just didn’t capitalise on the opportunity! To say I am annoyed or angry is an understatement.”

Bibby lead his Kings from the start to finish as they led by as much as 17 points and didn’t trail the Lakers until late in the final period. The 6’2” point guard stepped up big time in the fourth quarter, scoring 15 points and basically beating LA single handily. Brad Miller provided ample support with 13 points, 14 rebounds, 3 blocks and 2 steals. Peja Stojakovic added 20 points and Bobby Jackson chipped in 16 first half points from off the pine in 14 minutes.

Bibby was ecstatic about his own performance, “Three years ago when we last played the Lakers in the Conference Finals and I scored that shot to win the game. It was special. But today’s game was unique... it won’t happen in a long time!” Kings coach Rick Adleman praised his guard’s maturity and leadership, “Mike presented himself well on the court. He’s done our franchise proud as he led us to the win tonight and closer to the Finals.”

The Kings have always had a horrible track record in terms of making the NBA Finals. In past years, they have lost to the Lakers; whom they call rivals and one other Western Conference team in the San Antonio Spurs. This season though, everyone has picked them to advance. Magic Johnson, a close spectator of the playoffs is pessimistic about the Lakers’ chances of surviving, “Sacramento is the better team right now. Los Angeles can’t win now, especially (winning) three games in a row.”

Lamar Odom delivered his best game of the postseason with a triple double. Odom had 22 points, 14 rebounds and 10 assists. He added a block and a steal for good measure in 37 minutes of game action. Kareem Rush added 23 and Caron Butler scored 22. Chucky Atkins and Juan Dixon both struggled shooting from the field and combined to make 6-21 from the field.

Shaw talked about the poor shooting performance, “The guards just weren’t taking smart shots tonight. We need to play smart ball. Not blind ball!”

The Kings led from the start as they easily took an easy double digit lead in the first 4 minutes of the game. The Lakers then made a small comeback to level the score at 22-22 before Sacramento let dynamo backup guard Bobby Jackson off the bench and the team went on a 15-4 spurt. Jackson scored 11 of his 16 first half points during the run.

“Bobby came off the bench and gave the Kings a boost,” Sixth man of the year Brian Grant exclaimed, “I tried to do that too after Kwame picked up two of his fouls early.” Grant finished the game with 8 points and 14 rebounds in 23 minutes as Brown was plagued by fouls to record 2 points and 3 rebounds in only 10 minutes.

The margin went higher until the Lakers decided to step up their game to fight back slowly. Juan Dixon forced too many shots as Brad Miller had three straight blocks on the guard in two minutes. However, the morale on the team never decreased as the Lakers’ fast paced offence was fuelled by their expert pick pocketing; as the team had 5 steals in the second quarter. By halftime, the Lakers only trailed by 4.

Sharpshooting by both teams created a spectacle for fans. The Lakers got back to back threes from both Chucky Atkins and Kareem Rush but the Kings received timely mid range jumpers from Peja and Bibby to counter the sudden fast flowing shooting game. Jumpers from left, right and centre were hitting their target and both teams reached 20 points in the quarter easily after 5 minutes. The pace slowed down though as the players got tired and defence returned to the match up.

The final quarter turned into a dog fight between the two team’s scorers. Caron Butler and Kareem Rush were brilliant with their slashing and passing ability however it was Mike Bibby’s floaters and finger rolls which brang the ‘oohs’ and ‘aahs’ from the crowd of Arco Arena.

Los Angeles managed to gain their first lead of the game at third quarter time. With 2:22 left in the game courtesy to Lamar Odom’s 10th assist and Rush’s 23rd point, the Lakers went up by 4. Rush fouled Brad Miller with 1:56 remaining and he sank both free shots. Bibby’s three point bucket with 1:28 gave the Kings a 1 point lead at 102-103. Kareem Rush then forced an air ball and received a chorus of boos.

Miller topped the score up to 102-105 with an off balance jumper with 58.2 remaining. Chris Webber denied Lamar Odom of any late heroics with a huge rejection, sending the ball into the stands. Caron Butler recovered the ball to successfully drive and score against Peja. The score was then 104-105 with 42.4 seconds left.

Atkins forced Bibby into a tough shot with 18.5 seconds left however, the Lakers couldn’t win it. With 8 seconds left, Kwame Brown missed an open lay up and the Lakers fouled Bibby. Bibby who was sent to the line made both shots and the Kings held onto the win. With 3.8 seconds, the Lakers failed to hit Atkins with the inbounds and instead threw it to Rush, three steps from outside of the arc. Rush’s shot hit the iron and rattled out at the buzzer as Sacramento’s fans all jumped into the air in celebration.

NOTES

SG Kobe Bryant has been banned by the NBA from ARCO Arena after causing trouble in game one… The Kings shot a scorching 50% from the field for the game and 80% in the first quarter… SG Eddie Robinson has been cut from the Lakers team… C Vlade Divac is enjoying the last few games of his career as he announced he would retire after the playoffs… In Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals, former Laker and Wizards’ SF Devean Geroge scored a fade away three pointer over Tayshaun Prince to clinch a 90-87 victory over the reigning NBA Champions Detroit Pistons… Laker Head Coach Rudy T was readmitted into hospital due to chest pains...

STATS

LAKERS

* PF Kwame Brown: 2 points (1/3 FG), 3 rebounds, 1 assists, 5 fouls in 10 minutes
* F Lamar Odom: 22 points (9/21 FG, 0/1 3PT, 4/5 FT), 14 rebounds, 10 assists, 1 steal, 1 block in 37 minutes
* F Caron Butler: 22 points (9/16 FG, 2/6 3PT, 2/2 FT), 1 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals in 37 minutes
* SG Kareem Rush: 23 points (10/25 FG, 3/9 3PT, 0/1 FT), 3 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal in 40 minutes
* PG Chucky Atkins: 12 points (4/13 FG, 4/9 3PT), 2 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steal in 34 minutes

PF Karl Malone: 5 points (2/4 FG, 1/2 FT), 7 rebounds, 1 steal in 15 minutes
C Vlade Divac: 2 points (1/5 FG, 0/1 3PT), 5 rebounds, 2 assist, 1 block in 19 minutes
PG Juan Dixon: 8 points (2/8 FG, 0/2 3PT, 4/4 FT), 1 rebound, 4 assists, 2 steal in 20 minutes
C Brian Grant: 8 points (4/7 FG), 14 rebounds, 2 assists in 23 minutes
SF Luke Walton: 0 points, 1 rebound in 9 minutes
C Chris Mihm: DNP (Coaches Decision)

Points: 104
Rebounds: 51
Assists: 26
Steals: 9
Blocks: 2

* denotes satarter

KINGS

* C Brad Miller: 13 points (5/13 FG, 0/1 3PT, 3/4 FT), 14 rebounds, 3 blocks, 2 steals in 42 minutes
* PF Chris Webber: 12 points (5/9 FG, 2/5 FT), 10 rebounds, 1 assist, 4 block, 2 steals in 36 minutes
* SF Peja Stojakovic: 20 points (9/17 FG, 2/10 3PT), 6 rebounds, 1 assist in 39 minutes
* SG Doug Christie: 6 points (3/13 FG, 0/3 3PT), 4 rebounds, 4 assists in 44 minutes
* PG Mike Bibby: 29 points (13/22 FG, 1/1 3PT, 2/2 FT), 4 assists in 36 minutes

PG Bobby Jackson: 16 points (7/11 FG, 1/2 3PT, 1/2 FT), 1 rebounds, 1 assists, 1 steal in 14 minutes
PG Kevin Martin: 3 points (1/1 FG, 1/1 3PT), 3 rebounds, 1 assist in 4 minutes
SF Erik Daniels: 4 points (2/5 FG, 0/1 3PT), 1 assist in 10 minutes
PF Darius Songalia: 4 points (2/4 FG), 7 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 block in 20 minutes
C Greg Ostertag: DNP (Coaches Decision)
F/G Maurice Evans: DNP (Coaches Decision)
SG Courtney Alexander: DNP (Coaches Decision)

Points: 107
Rebounds: 45
Assists: 15
Steals: 5
Blocks: 8

* denotes starter

[Fresh8]

SACRAMENTO SWEEPS RIVALS, ADVANCE TO FINALS

SAC: 20 – 35 – 26 – 23 - 107
LAL: 24 – 34 – 28 – 26 – 109

16-13 Los Angeles Lakers swept by 23-6 Sacramento Kings 0-3



ABOVE: Kwame Brown (5) slams down 2 of his 21 third quarter points

Los Angeles – Rudy Tomjanovich was back on the sideline last night; for the last time. Karl Malone had his last NBA double double with 12 and 18. Vlade Divac watched and cheered on his teammates in his last NBA match. The Lakers fell to the Sacramento Kings in what might be their last Western Conference Finals in the next two or three years.

Game 3 in the STAPLES Centre was a game of ‘last times’ and it was only fitting that Malone, Divac and Rudy T all received standing ovations from players, officials and spectators alike. The three gave speeches as Malone afterwards headed for a plane bound to Utah to open a press conference to officially announce his retirement.

Tears were shed as Malone spoke softly to the crowd on national television, “This season has been hard for everyone, I was injured at the start and the team wasn’t getting along. But as we progressed and meshed, you can see we have a great squad led by my good brtother Kobe (Bryant). This playoff run which ended early is for you kid and it was a pleasure to run alongside one of the best in the game. When I was in Utah I was able to play against Michael Jordan, I never knew I’d play with someone of similar skill and I am grateful!”

Malone, 42 who shot to fame alongside Hall of Fame bound point guard John Stockton played in Utah to combine with Stock as the best pick and roll duo ever in League history. Without each other, Stockton would never rank first all time on the steals and assists totals lists and Malone wouldn’t be the second highest all-time leading scorer. When Stockton retired in 2003, Malone joined the Lakers with Gary Payton in the quest for the championship which had eluded him. Unfortunately, Malone will not retire with a ring missing by 3 games in last season’s finals and missing it this year because of the team’s star player’s absence.

“It was a fun ride along the way. My career is over now but it is only the beginning of many new journeys I want to move on in. Good luck to the NBA with its new crop of youngsters and of course, good luck to Kobe Bryant. He has endured a lot of pain in the last two to three years but I have no doubt a Kobe-led Lakers Squad can win in the future. They could even one day become perennial NBA Champs. Good bye and thank you to the fans. The ‘Mailman’ won’t be delivering any more letters any time soon.”

Vlade Divac was a little bit more humorous in his farewell speech to the Los Angeles faithful. “It is good to finish my 14 years in the NBA. No actually it is 15, thank you to the people who have helped with the team. I would like to thank the ball boys, the water boys, the rookies who we always make fun of… I would like to thank the referees for letting me do, what do you people call it? Ah yes; my Vlade flop! Thank you to Michael Jordan for not putting me on poster and thank you for coach not letting me stand in paiont to be put on poster. This was a very good season for me and the team, although I am angry I could be going to NBA Finals now, I am happy for coming back home. So Mr Webber, what do you say about me and you switching team now? I also want to thanks Vanessa (Bryant) because you are beautiful to look at.”

Rudy Tomjanovic who has recently been in and out of hospital was coaching in his definite final NBA game. The head coach was crying as his team shook hands with the Kings players and as the crowd got to its feet as he was announced as retiring. He went to the middle of the court and bowed down on his knees to kiss the floor in a symbolic gesture of farewell. His players and coaching staff formed a circle around him, joined hands and said a prayer for Tomjanovic who has been suffering serious chest pains.

“I thought I was ready to be back as a coach but I was wrong,” Tomjanovic said, “But it has been worthwhile enough after this inspirational playoff run. The team knows its ability is defined by the sky being the limit and I know that I am leaving a team which can win and do big things in the future.”

General Manager Will Sit thanked the fans, staff and the players at the end of his first year as GM. “I am overwhelmed to stand here tonight even though we lost, we went down fighting. Karl, I wasn’t a big fan of yours but thank you for what you have provided to this team which includes your leadership and experience. It was great to have Vlade back because it is only fitting to have you playing for the team one last time. Aren’t you surprised that when you started here, we were also rebuilding and when you left we got better? I of course hope this happens next season. Just joking.”

Sit also thanked Tomjanovic with as much gratitude as he could muster, “Mr Tomjanovic, you have been an important part in this team’s development. Be proud and sure that if Michael Jordan’s presence in Washington three years ago has them as NBA contenders this year, you are the reason why we will be NBA champions in the near future. Your guidance throughout the season has always been followed and you having been here in LA will help our franchise only get better.”

Bryant who sat in the stands with fans limped on court at the end of the game to hug every player on the bench as he was overwhelmed by the effort his team mates put into trying to win a ring in ‘his name.’ “What can I say? To have guys like these; great mates who tried their best to do something for me,” Bryant stated, “I can only do my best to get back in form and deliver my best next season.”

Even though the celebrations for the finale of all of the careers stated above were ongoing, the game itself wasn’t any less exciting. The final minute of the game was tantalisingly exhilarating up to the finish. When the Lakers thought they could win the game with a lay up, a Brad Miller interception then a Brad Miller bank shot at the buzzer stole the win and sealed the series for the Kings. Their next destination; the NBA Finals.

Miller led Sacramento with 24 points, 8 rebounds and 5 blocks as he made mince out of the Lakers soft defence. Mike Bibby was equally impressive with 23, 4, 7 and Peja Stojakovic added 17 and 5. “We made the Finals baby! Number one!” Doug Christie screamed when Miller sank the improbable shot from the elbow.

“I think we may have lost to the NBA champions tonight,” Lakers guard Chucky Atkins told ESPN, “We lost to a far better team.”

Kwame Brown did his best to stop Sacramento with his 35, 11, 3 and 2 steals in 34 minutes. Malone came off the pine to record 12, 18, 5 and Caron Butler contributed 18, 6 and 3. Brian Grant agreed with Atkin’s evaluation of the victors, “Sacramento have been trying for so long since 2000 to make the Finals. Kudos for making it there, I think they can go all the way.”

The Kings came out hard at their opponents as they took an early 14-1 lead. However, the Lakers slowly fought back to take a 4 point advantage at first quarter time. A 7-0 run which included a Caron Butler long range bomb and a Butler reverse jam had the crowd on their feet. The second quarter started with both teams making 5 consecutive jump shots each, adding to the excitement in the atmosphere. ‘Hitch’ Actor Will Smith even started dancing for the scoreboard screen when he was introduced after Juan Dixon scored on a fast break. Dixon was impressive in the middle of the quarter as he stripped the ball off Mike Bibby on two consecutive occasions.

The third quarter was solely belonging to Kwame Brown. Brown savaged his way to 21 third quarter points, including making 8 shots in a row which showcased a selection of high flying dunks and hook shots. Brown rolled to the position of game high scorer but his team was never more than 4 points ahead of the Kings. Brad Miller did his best to keep his team in the game whenever the Lakers looked like they’d storm ahead as he scored 13 of his own 3rd quarter points.

The Lakers received a boost when Chucky Atkins came out of the break to score back to back three pointers and the team stayed ahead of their visitors for most of the duration of the final quarter. Bobby Jackson crashed the party as he scored 6 straight points to put the Kings ahead by 4 with 2:02 left. Lamar Odom’s dunk inside the paint with 59.4 seconds left tied the game at 103-103. Christie dunked to put the Kings up 105-103 but a baseline drive by Caron Butler locked the scores again with 37.7 seconds remaining. Kwame Brown’s lay up put Los Angeles up by 2 once more but with 12.6 on the clock, Mike Bibby’s running jump shot had both teams sitting level on 107. Juan Dixon panicked under the pressure as he fumbled a bad pass which was deflected by Brad Miller and the Kings shot up court with the ball. The revelling Laker defence couldn’t get back fast enough and allowed Brad Miller to drain the bank from the elbow.

“It was one of the best games I have ever played in,” Brad Miller exclaimed, “I can’t wait for the NBA Finals though!”

NOTES

The whole of Malone’s 97-98 Utah Jazz team was present at the game. Greg Ostertag and Karl Malone were the only two on court while the rest of the team which lost to the Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen led Chicago Bulls sat courtside… Vlade Divac has accepted a front office role as a player scout… Tomjanovic, head coach of the Olajuwan-led Houston Rockets in the 1990’s has accepted to join the Lakers front office too… The Kings; owners of the NAB’s best record are favourites to win the championship… In Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Finals, Detorit kept their season alive by thrashing Washignton 103-85 behind Rip Hamilton’s 37 point performance…

STATS

LAKERS

* PF Kwame Brown: 35 points (16/25 FG, 3/8 FT), 11 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals in 34 minutes
* F Lamar Odom: 14 points (6/18 FG, 2/6 3PT), 3 rebounds, 2 assists in 30 minutes
* F Caron Butler: 18 points (8/13 FG, 2/3 3PT), 6 rebounds, 3 assists in 39 minutes
* SG Kareem Rush: 9 points (4/18 FG, 1/8 3PT), 1 rebounds, 1 assists in 29 minutes
* PG Chucky Atkins: 8 points (3/14 FG, 2/9 3PT), 4 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal in 31 minutes

PF Karl Malone: 12 points (5/7 FG, 2/2 FT), 18 rebounds, 5 assists, 2 steals in 33 minutes
PG Juan Dixon: 11 points (5/10 FG, 1/2 3PT), 1 rebound, 11 assists, 2 steals in 27 minutes
C Brian Grant: 0 points (0/1 FG), 12 rebounds, 4 assists in 23 minutes
SF Luke Walton: DNP (Coaches Decision)
C Chris Mihm: DNP (Coaches Decision)
C Vlade Divac: DNP (Coaches Decision)

Points: 107
Rebounds: 56
Assists: 32
Steals: 7
Blocks: 0

* denotes satarter

KINGS

* C Brad Miller: 24 points (10/14 FG, 4/5 FT), 8 rebounds, 5 blocks, 2 steals in 38 minutes
* PF Chris Webber: 14 points (7/14 FG, 0/1 3PT), 11 rebounds, 2 block in 39 minutes
* SF Peja Stojakovic: 17 points (8/19 FG, 1/3 3PT), 5 rebounds, 3 steals in 40 minutes
* SG Doug Christie: 15 points (7/12 FG, 1/2 3PT), 5 rebounds, 3 assists in 37 minutes
* PG Mike Bibby: 23 points (9/21 FG, 3/6 3PT, 2/2 FT), 4 rebounds, 7 assists, 1 steal in 37 minutes

PG Bobby Jackson: 9 points (3/6 FG, 1/3 3PT, 2/2 FT), 1 rebound, 3 assists in 12 minutes
PG Kevin Martin: 4 points (1/2 FG), 3 rebounds, 1 assist in 12 minutes
SF Erik Daniels: 0 points (0/4 FG), 1 rebound, 2 assist in 9 minutes
PF Darius Songalia: 3 points (1/1 FG, 1/2 3PT), 5 rebounds in 20 minutes
C Greg Ostertag: DNP (Coaches Decision)
F/G Maurice Evans: DNP (Coaches Decision)
SG Courtney Alexander: DNP (Coaches Decision)

Points: 109
Rebounds: 43
Assists: 16
Steals: 6
Blocks: 7

* denotes starter

[HonorGlow]

SAC: 20 – 35 – 26 – 26 - 107
LAL: 24 – 34 – 28 – 23 – 109

Hmmm I must be doing old math...but doesn't that mean the Lakers won by two?

oh well...I'm hoping that at least it was a thrilling three game series. Sorry about the loss though, Sit. Kwame will get them next year when he's Team MVP for his Birdie Rating(hint hint hint) Good job on the recap...it's tough to see Malone go out with a loss

[Andrew]

Sorry to see your great playoff run come to an end, though if Kobe had been available I'm sure we'd be seeing a different result. Congrats on the run though...are you still thinking of starting a new Dynasty or do you plan on continuing this one for another season?

[Fresh8]

CONFERENCE FINALS RECAPS

The Los Angeles Lakers were swept by the Sacramento Kings in three tight games. Games 2 and 3 were nail biters as in both games, the Lakers failed to deliver in the clutch. Brad Miller and Mike Bibby were at the top of their games while Los Angeles clearly missed the presence of League MVP Kobe Bryant.

The series was very physical. In Game One, players from both teams were in the mood to take a swing at eachother. The kings ran out winners by double digits behind a strong performance from All-star Brad Miller. Game Two provided Arco Arena with a scare. A Lakers comeback and Lamar Odom triple double had spectators on the edge of their seats until Mike Bibby finished off the team with his clutch shooting. Kwame Brown's 21 thrid quarter points took his team into the running to keep the series alive however, interior defence let them down and their inexperence exposed the Lakers to a Conference Finals exit out of the playoffs.

Kobe Bryant was proud of his team, "I want to thank all of the guys on my team for what they have done. They did the city proud."

On the other side of the country, the Washington Wizards as the seventh seeded Eastern Conference team made the NBA Finals by beating the Detroit Pistons 3-2. The Pistons lost 89-87 in Game One as Rip Hamilton missed a potential game tying lay up at the buzzer. Game Two saw Devean Geroge drain a trey to win it for Washignton, 90-87.

Game Three definately helped boost the reigning champion's morale as Detroit won a lop sided contest behind Rip's 37 point production enroute to a scoreline of 103-85. Ben Wallace was in tune as he recorded a career high 23 points, a season high 20 rebounds and another career high 11 blocks to lead Detroit back into contention of reaching the NBA Finals. The scoreline 89-73 wasn't as bad as Game Five's blowout loss. The Pistons bowed out of the playoffs 100-64 and watched as all of the Wizards starters scored at least 10 points each.

SACRAMENTO: Kings of the Court

Brad Miller was crowned the king of kings as he averaged 18 ppg, 9.6 rpg and 1.7 bpg to lead a balanced Kings squad to the NBA Championshi pwhich has eluded them since Chris Webber helped make the team a contender. Miller's road to the NBA Championship has been hard as was Chris Webber's and the Kings in gerneral.

PG Mike Bibby couldn't believe his team had won and as Game Three was closed out by Gilbert Arena's brick, the Kings all ran over to their bench and just sat there in awe and amazement.

GAME ONE: 87-84
The Kings opened the series at home with a close encounter against a young Wizards team. A highlight of the game was Gilbert Arenas going coast to coast on three serperate occasions but it was Peja Stojakavic's killer threes which clinched the game for Sacramento. Peja scored three three pointers in the last minute and a half as Washignton was held scoreless.

GAME TWO: 93-85
The Kings never trailed in this game as the lead even soared up to the level of 32 points. The Wizards did try hard to bring the score back down but the closest they got was the final scoreline. Brad Miller scored 18, 12 and 6 blocks i nthis game as Mike bibby added 16 points and 12 assists.

GAME THREE: 81-78
After Doug Christie blocked Larry Hughes dunk attempt with 5 seonds left and Gilbert Arenas forced a brick. The Kings became NBA Champions. Mike Bibby scored 14 points, Miller had 12, Webber 10, Peja 9 and Bobby Jackson topscored off the bench with 15 as the Wizards crumbled under the pressure.

[Fresh8]

[Fresh8]

I already did Karl and Vlade's farwell article lol... so cant be stuffed writing anything else!

Yes, Andrew... I'm gonna continues with this one. I'm planning on a few changes to make it more exciting lol!

[-BHZMAFIA-]

great update...your writing is always good to read...glad that you going to keep the dynasty going for another season, even though i dont like the lakers sad to see malone and payton retire without a ring

[Fresh8]

LOS ANGELES LAKERS MAKEOVER

Jul 3, Los Angeles - After a surprisning playoff run, the Los Angeles Lakers have looked on to improve in the future. The club annoucne the signing of former Laker legend Magic Johnson as head coach of the Lakers team.

Despite his medical condition, doctors and medical staff have declared Johnson to be fit enough to coach. The decision has been taken down well by all of the Lakers front office and the players included. Star guard Kobe Bryant was excited with the move, "Finally showtime is back!"

The Lakers want to the team to play a fast paced full court game next season and if they get stuck in a half court game, they want to utilise a Phil Jackson like triangle offence. That is the reason for their team's coaching staff overhaul.

In addition to Magic Johnson's signing as the Head Coach for LA, the Lakers formed a new assistant coaching staff. Brian Shaw, a past Laker has been awarded with a spot on the bench. Shaw's experience with Phil Jackson's triangle offence will help the team in tthe times they need to get Bryant open.

Kurt Rambis and Michael Cooper have also been given permanant positions as assistants on the Lakers bench. The two who were part of the 80's Lakers teams are very aware of how they can utilise this current team in a full court attack.

However, the most surprising addition to the Lakers' new staff are the returns of Jerry West and Karl Malone. Malone rteturns to Los Angeles as a personal trainer for Kwame Brown while Jerry West returns to share duties with General Manager Will Sit in managing and operating decisions about the team's roster.

"Our new front office and coaching staff looks impressive to me," Will Sit said, "It's an exciting new time for the Lakers' franchise!"

New Staff Additions:

Earvin 'Magic' Johnson (Head Coach)
Brian Shaw (Assistant)
Kurt Rambis (Assistant)
Michael Cooper (Assistant)

Jerry West (Manager of Operations)
Karl Malone (Personal Trainer)
Rudy Tomjanovic (Director of Team Advertising)
Vlade Divac (Player Scout)

[Fresh8]

LAKERS RE-SIGN BROWN, WALTON

Jul 11, Los Angeles - Kwame Brown and Luke Walton were both re-signed by the Los Angeles Lakers yesterday. The two return to the team after a semi-successful 2004-05 season where the team made the Western Conference Finals and lost in a heartbreaking three game sweep.

"I am excited to be back in Los Angeles," Brown said, "They gave me a chance to play and I showed the NBA why I was chosen first 4 years ago." Kwame Brown was the first overall draft pick in the 2001 NBA Draft and experienced three years of mediocracy before he was traded to the Lakers in echange for Forward Devean Geroge.

In 20 games, 16 starts Kwame averaged 21.9 ppg and 11.1 rpg. It was also his arrival which truly allowed the Lakers to fill in Shaquille O'neal's void in the paint and catapulted LA into the Playoffs as the number seven seed.

Luke Walton, son of Bill Walton averaged 2.2 ppg, 1.1 rpg and 0.5 apg in 10 mpg of the bench in 23 games for the Lakers. It is his work ethic and court awareness which makes him so invaluable to the team and something that Coach Magic Johnson wants in his team. "We need someone who is unselfish as Luke to share the ball. He's a good kid."

In other news, PF Andrei Kirilenko signed a 90 million dollar contract for 7 years with the Utah Jazz.

Free Agency Details:

Luke Walton re-signed for one year at a contract worth $3 M

Kwame Brown signed 5 yerar contract worth $22 M

[Fresh8]

AROUND THE LEAGUE:

Jul 16, yahoo.com - Pau Gasol and Shareef Abdur Rahim are the only big free agents this Summer. Both forward decided not to sign extensions and are testing out the deep waters of Free Agency. Gasol, the Spanish National Team star felt that he could get a richer deal from another team while Abdur-Rahim has asked for a trade all season from the Blazers.

"I didn't want to be in Portland in the first place," Reef said.

Many players opted to stay with their current teams. Andrei Kirilenko was the first to do this and signed a lucrative deal with the Jazz. F Antoine Walker, after a MVP like season is back in Atlanta.

Other players who resigned with their former teams were: C/F Kwame Brown (LAL) PG Tony Parker (SAS), SG Cuttino Mobley (ORL), SG Jason Richardson (GSW), PF Donyell Marshall (TOR) and SG Larry Hughes (WAS).

[Fresh8]

KYLE KORVER'S LOCKS COMING TO CALIFORNIA

Jul 28, Philadelphia - 6'7" SG Kyle Korver announced that he would sign with the Los Angeles Lakers. Terms of the contract were not disclosed however, a Sixers spokesperseon announced, "Kyle feels it's time to move on."

The Lakers who have missed an outside player are pleased to have Korver join the team. "Kyle adds another scorer to our roster. We need someone of his status on our team to open up the court so that we can run," Magic Johnson said.

The Lakers who have decided to run a 'showtime' style full court offence hjave aimed to upgrade on their outside scoring because then opposing teams cannot stop playing defence due to the always moving and flowing offecne that LA is anticpated to play.

Korver is expected to play behind Kobe Bryant and compete with sharpshooter Kareem Rush for minutes at the shooting guard spot.

GM Will Sit was happy about the addition, "Kyle is another option for us. It is great to have him on board. We've never had a thre epoint threat and Kyle fulfils the criteria for one perfectly."

[Fresh8]

ROOKIES IN THE CITY OF ANGELS



ABOVE: Pavel Janssens (50) and Jared Randall (11); The Lakers’ rookies for the season ahead

Jul 31, New York - As a sophomore for Kentucky, Jared Randall averaged 14 ppg, 6 rpg but his strength is his lack of injuries in his playing days and his never give up attitude.

At 7'1" and 274 lbs, Randall isn't exactly strong but he is tall and he is young. A talented passer for his size, Randall helped his team to a Top 16 finish in the NCAA tourney this year.

"My aim with the Laker sis to fill up Shaq's shoes alongside Kwame Brown."

Pretty impressive that he knows what he's going to do off the top of his head. Randall is as cocky as youngsters can get but as most of his coaches and teammates, Jared usually proves himself correct all the time.

One instance was when Jared said his team could beat UCLA in an NCAA game. Kentucky was losing by 22 points at half time but Jared scored 17 second half points to lead his team to a 4 point win.

This was the game which drew Lakers scouts to the kid who was selected with the Lakers' 20th overall pick. The young man replied to his selection, "Mr Sit, I won't let you down."

---

The Lakers' second rookie is a lot different in terms of background. In fact, GM Sit doesn't know much about him except that he is a project player who has potential to flourish into something big.

Meet Pavel Janssens, a 7'0" small forward out of Denmark. He is a twig at 246 lbs but the 19 year old impressed coaches with his exceptional ball handling skills and passing. His defence is also at top notch quality and he does have a variety of post moves.

"Pavel is a mystery to me. We have him as a gamble on our team. I hope he turns out to be a jackpot!"

---

The Lakers played the Canadian National team in an exhbition game. Janssens was impressive notching up stats of 12 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists in 22 minutes. Randall had 11 points, 14 rebounds and 4 blocks in 32 minutes of game time. The duo look like a staple for the future of the Lakers.

Kareem Rush was the hero in that game with 36 points in 20 minutes.

---

The team will be relying on these two big bodies to use their size as an advantage in their respective positions. And in the future, maybe we will be hearing more of their names too! The season ahead will not give them any chance to show their skills to the NBA buit in the future, anything can happen!

[Fresh8]

ROOKIE RATCHUK TO FILL POSITION AT POINT

Aug 16, yahoo.com – Last season, the closest thing to a point guard the Lakers could find was shoot-first PG Juan Dixon and veteran PG Chucky Atkins. Things will be changing this season though.

The Lakers were able to land a deal which sends Forwards Slava Medvedenko, Brian Cook and PG Chucky Atkins to the Golden State Warriors. What Los Angeles receives I return is like hitting the bonanza. The 2005 3rd overall NBA draft pick, Fredrik Ratchuk and C Adonal Foyle are coming to Los Angeles. And Ratchuk is the centerpiece of the deal as he should be able to start straight away at the point and most importantly, contribute.

At 5’10” and 189 lbs, Ratchuk is tiny but makes up for height with his quickness and shooting ability. The 21 year old rookie was a star during the Summer Leagues as he averaged 22 ppg and 7 apg for the Warriors in Orlando last week.

“Ratchuk is a player that we’re pleased to have with us. He can shoot the rock and his skills as a ball handler are important to our team,” GM Sit said. Ratchuck has played in Europe for the past season and did well as he led his team with 26 ppg, 6 apg and 2 spg.

One of the reasons why Golden State were prepared to accept the deal was due to them having too many point guards on their roster. Seeing that they wanted to unload Foyle’s 8 million dollar contract with 5 years remaining on it, the only way to send him away was by including the young guard.

Foyle is a dependable rebounder but his days in the League seem numbered as he hasn’t made any bit of an impact with all of the teams he has played for. The Lakers aren’t looking for much in him as he will most likely sit on the IR for months to come.

5’11” Chucky Atkins who only spent one season in Los Angeles never got off to the start he wanted to as he shot a very low 20% from behind the arc and 30 % from the field at one stage last season. “It was just time to move on. I didn’t fit in the team’s game plan,” the veteran guard said. His inconsistency every night was what led to his dumping as coach Magic Johnson announced his displeasure with Atkins’ performance last season.

“If he’s going to play like (last year),” Magic stated, “I’d rather pay out his contract by myself then have him on my bench.”

The two forwards who were shipped to Golden State, 6’10” Medvedenko and 6’9” Brian Cook has had disappointing results last year. The two never cracked the rotation due to the presence of Brian Grant, Karl Malone and Lamar Odom. However, a much shallower roster in terms of depth would have given them a chance to shine but GM Sit wasn’t as keen in giving them another chance.

“It’s not fair to dump us when we didn’t even get a chance to play!” Medvedenko protested yesterday. Brian Cook was a little bit more reflective on the matter, “The Lakers want to win so I guess they should do the best deals they can. At least we get to be with Derek Fisher again!”

[Andrew]

Excellent offseason updates Sit! Sounds like you made the right choice to stick with this Dynasty, year two should be a lot of fun.