Sun May 01, 2005 8:51 pm
Ok then! Pavel is a project player... so there might not be much to cheer about!
Sun May 01, 2005 11:28 pm
Pero Cameron, the 6'4", 300lb(?!?) PF/SF
Damn, I remember that guy from the Olympics... talk about the most un-athletic basketball player on t eface of the planet...
good player though 
Nice dynasty Sit, great recap format and write ups. Man, you're way better than me and I've been studying and reading texts, reports amd articles for the past 8 years...
Mon May 02, 2005 3:21 am
Hmm, maybe he is the next Shaq stopper, even though he is way too short
Mon May 02, 2005 10:42 am
DISCLAIMER: PLEASE CLICK ON THE AD TO VIEW CLEARLY
LOS ANGELES LAKERS: PREVIEW OF THE SECOND HALF OF THE SEASON
The Los Angeles Lakers' record is 9-4 as they embark on the second half of their 2005-06 season. Kobe Bryant is injured for two months with an ankle injury and the Lakers will need to rely on their young guns in Ron artest, Carlos Boozer, Kwame Brown, Kareem Rush and Fredrick Ratchuk to lead the way. How will the team fair? We're going to look at all of the players on the roster and see what they will need to do!
Games to Watch:
2/2 - @ Orl - Steve Francis and Dwight Howard lead the Magic who are Southeast Division leaders and 2nd best in the Eastern Conference
9/2 - Ind - Lamar Odom and Caron Butler return to the STAPLES Centre and are supported by All-star Jermaine O'neal, star scorer Stephen Jackson and plamaker Jammal Tinsley*
21/2 - @ Det - The most anticipated game on the Lakers' remaining schedule, the Pistons are the best team in the NBA thus far
6/3 - @ Min - KG and the Wolves are always a challenge and if the Lakers want to stay atop the Western Conference standings, they musn't falter against them
11/3 - Uth - Luke Walton and Chris Mihm return to LA in another game. The Jazz's playoff hopes may well be decided by this game also as they have hung around the middle of the standings all season**
3/4 - Den - Third in the West, Division Leaders of the Northwest, Carmelo Anthony leads his team aginst LA whom return from a game against the other young team; the Cavs, the night before (2/4)
* Lamar Odom (IND) 05-06 Stats: 18 ppg, 7 rpg, 3.5 apg, 1.2 spg
Caron Butler (IND) 05-06 Stats: 14 ppg, 8 rpg, 2.6 apg, 1.5 spg
** Luke Walton (UTH) 05-06 Stats: 5.4 ppg, 2 rpg, 2 apg in 11 mpg (56 FG%, 40 3PT%, 83 FT%)
STARTING FIVE
KOBE BRYANT: LAKERS CAPTAIN, STAR GUARD
31.5 ppg | 6.9 rpg | 6.5 apg | 3.91 spg | 11 GP 11 GS | 38 mpg
Kobe isn't shooting as efficiently this season as his FG% has dropped from 54% to 48% but his 3pt% has taken a huge increase from the dismal sub 20% range up to 30%. He has taken his fair share of free throws by attempting 8 per night. Bryant's statistics have all dipped a bit due to Carlos Boozer and Ron Artest's presences on the team however, everyone around the League are still agreeing that Bryant is undoubtedly one of the best players in the game after last season's MVP campaign.
His season has taken a hit after another injury haunts the young star. The team's future in the playoffs rely on Bryant's status and availability. Lakers fans don't want to see another 04-05 playoffs!
What Bryant gives: Leadership, Solid scoring option, MVP Presence
When will he return? 15 March
CARLOS BOOZER: THE INSIDE MAN
17.9 ppg | 12.0 rpg | 48 FG% | 14 GP 14 GS | 38 mpg
Carlos Boozer, accquired at the beggining of the season has been a valuable addition to the team. His inside scoring ability and strength on the boards has really helped fill the void left by Shaquille O'neal after he moved to Miami. As Jerry West stated last week, "Noone will ever be as dominant as Shaq but Carlos and Kwame (Brown) have done the most they can to combine to form that dominance as best as they can. And they are the only two who have gotten as close to Shaq, closer than anyone else has!"
With Kobe out, Boozer needs to play his best defence, something he was criticised for in Utah last season. He will need to limit players such as Tim Duncan and Kevin Garnett in the playoffs and the regular season should be his training ground!
What Boozer gives: Inside scorer, Defensive Stopper, Aggresiveness
Will he make the All-star team? Not likely
RON ARTEST: ALL HEART
17.5 ppg | 6.4 rpg | 3.9 apg | 1.64 spg | 11 GP 11 GS | 40.2 mpg
On any other team, Artest may well be the first or second option. On this team he comes in at fourth! The former Pacer had trouble adjusting to the team's fast paced offence but GM Will Sit knew that Artest's defensive intensity and one-on-one defensive skill would be useful in Head Coach's Magic Johnson's team strategy. Artest's all-around skill has really fitted into the team's mould and has come in more handy than ever after Bryant went down to the injury bug.
"My aim is to help the team win. Individual acolades can come later!" Artest said. And Larry Bird stated it clearly, "Ever since Ron left Indiana, he has become even less selfish. Beats me why!"
What Boozer gives: Team player attitude, Hustle, One-on-one defence
How will his role increase with Kobe's absence? Artest has become the team's number one scoring option
KWAME BROWN: COMING BACK DOWN TO EARTH
15.2 ppg | 13.1 rpg | 2.3 apg | 1.23 spg | 13 GP 13 GS | 36 mpg
Talk about coming back to reality! Kwame's stats have dropped alot mainly due to his diminished role on the Lakers' squad. However, the former Washington player has accepted his role with gratitude after the Lakers took a gamble on the 7'0" former Draft Bust of three seasons. It's not as if he isn't playing well though as the underrated star is shooting on 56% from the field!
"I thought I'd be number two behind kobe but this year I'm probably at four or even five!" Kwame told ESPN reporter Marc Stein, "But it's good that the team is still winning!"
What Brown gives: Leads team in rebounding, Low post presence, Started all of the Lakers' games this season
How is Brown the Lakers' X-factor? Kwame has the ability to dominate in games. His time will come in the playoffs when his legs will be the freshest of all of the Lakers starting five!
FREDRICK RATCHUK: SOLID CONTRIBUTER
10.6 ppg | 4.5 apg | 1.36 spg | 14 GP 13 GS | 32 mpg
His height was always a liability. But this little tank has really set the Lakers engine going! The NBA's third overall draft pick has impressed supporters with his quickness and vision. His unselfish play is often praised as the young player keeps improving every night. He has shown he is able to be a clutch performer and also a leader of the team.
Ratchuk's upside is undeniable and unlimited. His future seems bright and the 5'10" PG has landed in the perfect place and situation to start his career.
What Ratchuk gives: Smart player, Passing ability, Unselfish play
Is Ratchuk the best rookie this season? As of now, he is the most talented. We haven't seen Priest Askins, Phoenix play enough to judge so Ratchuk gets the nod here!
___________________________________________________________________________________________
THE BENCH:
KAREEM RUSH: SIXTH MAN
9.6 ppg | 1.6 rpg | 1.3 apg | 12 GP 3 GS | 19 mpg
Phil Jackson labelled this kid as the best shooter on his 03-04 Lakers team. Three years later, he is still the Lakers best shooter. The number one option in any tight game, Rush has shown everyone he can shoot with FG% of 47% from the field and 43% from behind the arc, his only weakness is at the charity stripe where he has only hit 8/12 (67%). Kobe Bryant's injury has allowed Rush to shine as he had a breakthrough 32 point game against Memphis and showed the NBA his clutch ability with 10 points in the final minute of regulation.
Rush needs to stay on top of his shooting game for the Lakers to continue to roll. His ability to fill in for his injured captain will translate into the team record.
What Rush gives: Shooting touch, Energy off the bench
Can Rush average 20 ppg? It seems unrealistic that he would as the second option after Ron Artest but I guess anything can happen in the NBA!
THE BEST OF THE REST
Juan Dixon, PG - 'Poor Man's Iverson'
5.3 ppg | 1.8 rpg | 2.8 apg | 1.69 spg | 13 GP
In 15 mpg, and shooting at 48% from the field and 38% from behind the arc, Juan plays very solid basketball. The stats with all of this in mind makes people think about how'd he do with a more consistent role. The young 6'3" PG has shown his quickness and speed on court and his pick pocketing ability but will he ever shine on this team?
Brian Grant, C/F - 'The Workhorse'
4.4 ppg | 6.9 rpg | 13 GP 2 GS | 18 mpg | 51 FG% 85 FT%
Grant has fallen out of the Lakers' rotation. Rudy T loved the player's work ethic and Magic still admires it however Magic is going with the young guys more this season. Maybe it isn't a bad idea as Grant should be fresh for the postseason. He has still shown that he has got game by grabbing close to 20 rebounds per 48 minutes!
Kyle Korver, SF/SG - 'Birdman'
4.2 ppg | 9 GP | 10 mpg
When Korver was signed, he knew he wasn't going to get a sufficient role so his play isn't surprising. What has been is that his minutes are continually falling due to his poor shooting. "He's in a slump right now," Bryant stated on Korver's behalf, "Kyle will get more time in due time!"
Jared Randall, PF | Pavel Janssens, SF - "Rookie Twin Towers"
Randall: 1.8 ppg | 1.9 rpg | 1.2 apg | 10 GP | 8.5 mpg
Janssens: 2.1 ppg | 1 rpg | 1 apg | 7 GP | 7.4 mpg
These two giants who are the tallest guys on the Lakers team are slowly making the transition into the NBA game. Pavel found it hardest out of the two as the Swede was overwhelmed by the speed of the game. Both are very gifted players as they have the athleticism of players who are half their sizes but do lack the basic fundamentals of the game.
___________________________________________________________________________________________
INJURED RESERVES:
Alexander Palmer, PG - Former North Carolina State standout averaged 8.2 apg in college hasn't really made an impact but should get some playing time in the future
Corliss Williamson, SF - Veteran player isn't likely to step on court for the Lakers this season
Shane Heal, G - The Australian signning is rumoured to be given a large role during the playoffs that will make the Lakers locker room erupt
___________________________________________________________________________________________
SEASON OUTLOOK:
Everything looks fine in Laker land. As long as Head coach Magic johnson can handle the now non-existent egos of Artest, Boozer and Brown along with Kobe's return, the Lakers may well be in the running for the Larry O'Brien trophy.
As former head coach Rudy Tomjanovich said, "The Lakers rely heavily on Kobe. But they also rely on each other's individual skills. If everyone can mesh peacefully, they are a force to be dealt with!"
What stands in LA's way? Detroit Pistons, Egos and Kobe Bryant
Last edited by Fresh8 on Mon May 02, 2005 12:32 pm, edited 8 times in total.
Mon May 02, 2005 10:47 am
Mark Webber?!? he not only drives F1 cars but is Lakers' official photographer?!? 
talented guy I guess 
I think I will jump back on Freddie's bandwagon....it appears his parents are not actually English but Scottish so his blood is true
talented guy I guess
I think I will jump back on Freddie's bandwagon....it appears his parents are not actually English but Scottish so his blood is true
Mon May 02, 2005 10:49 am
Mark Webber?!?
Another Aussie... Hooray!!!
I think I will jump back on Freddie's bandwagon....
Okay, now i'm going to read thi sdynasty from th etop because I have no idea who Freddie is...
Mon May 02, 2005 10:58 am
Capt. DWeaver99027 wrote:I think I will jump back on Freddie's bandwagon....
Okay, now i'm going to read thi sdynasty from th etop because I have no idea who Freddie is...
rookie PG Fred Ratchuk (sp?)....his name sounds an aweful lot like "Eddie" Jones, the great chant that the Lakers' fans use to put up in their glory days when Ced donned the purple and gold
Mon May 02, 2005 11:17 am
Check back later for the Preview of the rest of the season! Hope you guys enjoy the coverage!
Mon May 02, 2005 11:36 am
X wrote:Mark Webber?!? he not only drives F1 cars but is Lakers' official photographer?!? talented guy I guess
- yeah, hes still an idiot for leaving Jaguar... retard!
X wrote:I think I will jump back on Freddie's bandwagon....it appears his parents are not actually English but Scottish so his blood is true
- Good choice... hes playing really well atm! And his limited role really lets everyone think about why he was the third overall pick! BTW, his counterpart, Number 1 pick Priest Askins still hasnt started in PHX!
Captain Dweaver wrote:Another Aussie... Hooray!!!
- Dont u love it? They keep popping up!
Captain Dweaver wrote:Okay, now i'm going to read thi sdynasty from th etop because I have no idea who Freddie is...
- How many times have u actually visited the dynasty?
Mon May 02, 2005 12:42 pm
It's just like reading something from an ESPN insider. Great all around view of the team and Ratchuk has provided alot of good things for the Lakers and I guarentee that if you are to do anything, it will be because of him stepping his game up.
Mon May 02, 2005 2:33 pm
LOS ANGELES LAKERS BLOG
The second installment of the Lakers blog has veteran Brian Grant discussing the latest happenings in LA! Brian Grant, Lakers big man writes in the second edition of the LA Lakers Blog...
15 Jan 2005
How are you Laker fans?
This is my first time on the blog and just want to let all of my friends, family and fans to know that I'm still here! The team is so hard right now, practises are full out hard. Everyone puts in so much effort and its very competitive!
The schedule is very short and sometimes we go without a agme for two weeks. We train 5 times a week and every makes their best effort in order to win playing time from Magic. He's a great coach but doctors telling him now that he may not be able to coach next season, his health is catching up with him. Talk about job instability... three different coaches in three seasons!
But I guess it's life and you got to move on! There are many positives for playing with the Lakers and the big thing for most of the team... doughnuts! GM Sit spent half the budget on team doughnuts and boy do we lvoe them! I love the jam and cream ones, I know that Booze shoves his face full of the chocolate dinosaurs!
Enough on random ramblings, time for the real deal. You all know that Kobe is out until mid March. this ain't great for us! Not at all! We've been through it before. Last playoffs was our time to shine but without Kobe, we freefell from the top of the League to be swept by Sac-town. Not to say that the Kings weren't good and not to say that we weren't good. We already beat the Spurs and Wolves but Kobe is our man and he would have gotten us to the finals.
Kobe's a brilliant leader, I never praise many guys and trust me, I've seen a lot of jerks in the world. That's how old I am! I see that the kid is in his prime. Maybe nearly as good as MJ but he still lacks one thing. That aura!
Teams used to be scared of MJ, teams aren't scared of Kobe. They're ready to take all they got at him and that's how Kobe keeps getting injured. The physical wear and tear of opposition defences swarming in for the kill and continual pushing around.
Oh well, what can you do? Maybe once Kobe starts to become even more dangerous, the rest of the NBA may be scared of him. Right now, it isn't the case!
Back to our team, we need to play pur best in the absence of our captain. Kwame has really shown everyone that he can ball! He is so underrated, his athleticism is unreal for someoen of his size. He is a great guy too and to think of what he ahd gone through before coming here, he's lucky he's in Hollywood!
Ron and Carlos have given us a huge boost. Both can put up 20 points any night and still contribute with defence, rebounding and team play. They make everyone's job easier and always take the pressure away from everyone.
Fred is a little beast. He can rip it up and let me tell you a secret... he can dunk! He did it in training and is yet to prove that he can do it... wait for the Rookie-Soph game and he'll show you all. RIght now, it's only a rumour started by me!
Well, the rest of the year will be tough! So wish us luck! I'm just doing my thing and playing my part!
Brian Grant.
Send your questions into Lakers Headquarters at GM Will Sit's PM system and they will be answered in the next entry on the Lakers Blog Page. Next Entry will be made by Jerry West, Manager of Lakers Operation
The second installment of the Lakers blog has veteran Brian Grant discussing the latest happenings in LA! Brian Grant, Lakers big man writes in the second edition of the LA Lakers Blog...
15 Jan 2005
How are you Laker fans?
This is my first time on the blog and just want to let all of my friends, family and fans to know that I'm still here! The team is so hard right now, practises are full out hard. Everyone puts in so much effort and its very competitive!
The schedule is very short and sometimes we go without a agme for two weeks. We train 5 times a week and every makes their best effort in order to win playing time from Magic. He's a great coach but doctors telling him now that he may not be able to coach next season, his health is catching up with him. Talk about job instability... three different coaches in three seasons!
But I guess it's life and you got to move on! There are many positives for playing with the Lakers and the big thing for most of the team... doughnuts! GM Sit spent half the budget on team doughnuts and boy do we lvoe them! I love the jam and cream ones, I know that Booze shoves his face full of the chocolate dinosaurs!
Enough on random ramblings, time for the real deal. You all know that Kobe is out until mid March. this ain't great for us! Not at all! We've been through it before. Last playoffs was our time to shine but without Kobe, we freefell from the top of the League to be swept by Sac-town. Not to say that the Kings weren't good and not to say that we weren't good. We already beat the Spurs and Wolves but Kobe is our man and he would have gotten us to the finals.
Kobe's a brilliant leader, I never praise many guys and trust me, I've seen a lot of jerks in the world. That's how old I am! I see that the kid is in his prime. Maybe nearly as good as MJ but he still lacks one thing. That aura!
Teams used to be scared of MJ, teams aren't scared of Kobe. They're ready to take all they got at him and that's how Kobe keeps getting injured. The physical wear and tear of opposition defences swarming in for the kill and continual pushing around.
Oh well, what can you do? Maybe once Kobe starts to become even more dangerous, the rest of the NBA may be scared of him. Right now, it isn't the case!
Back to our team, we need to play pur best in the absence of our captain. Kwame has really shown everyone that he can ball! He is so underrated, his athleticism is unreal for someoen of his size. He is a great guy too and to think of what he ahd gone through before coming here, he's lucky he's in Hollywood!
Ron and Carlos have given us a huge boost. Both can put up 20 points any night and still contribute with defence, rebounding and team play. They make everyone's job easier and always take the pressure away from everyone.
Fred is a little beast. He can rip it up and let me tell you a secret... he can dunk! He did it in training and is yet to prove that he can do it... wait for the Rookie-Soph game and he'll show you all. RIght now, it's only a rumour started by me!
Well, the rest of the year will be tough! So wish us luck! I'm just doing my thing and playing my part!
Brian Grant.
Send your questions into Lakers Headquarters at GM Will Sit's PM system and they will be answered in the next entry on the Lakers Blog Page. Next Entry will be made by Jerry West, Manager of Lakers Operation
Mon May 02, 2005 2:53 pm
I think I've started the Freddie fan club right here in the NLSC
edit: nice blog and article....keep it up....good to see "The Workhorse" not only contributing, but getting his own blog
edit: nice blog and article....keep it up....good to see "The Workhorse" not only contributing, but getting his own blog
Mon May 02, 2005 4:43 pm
Lakers Thrash Nets with Assist Fever
Los Angeles Lakers 129 @ New Jersey Nets 93
Jan 20, New Jersey - Rookie point guard Fredrick Ratchuk broke another four career highs, in fact he's looking liek he's having a career month! The 5'10" Englishman scored career highs 30 points, 15 assists, 6 steals and played a career high 48 minutes.
"What a magnificient night from him," Assistant coach Kurt Rambis stated as he, along with the crowd stood and clapped the rookie off the court with 55.5 seconds left in the game, straight after the rookie scored a free throw to reach 30. "Ratchuk will be a star one day!"
Not only did Ratchuk break his own career high but he helped the Lakers storm past the Nets in dominant fashion and the team tallied 40 assists in total. "I have never seen any team play with such flow and intesnsity from start to finish," Nets guard Jason Kidd exclaimed, "Amazing. That's all I can say!"
Carlos Boozer added to the Net's shock by registering a triple double of 21, 20 and 11. Kwame Brown's double double of 23 and 16, Ron Artest's 18 points and Kareem Rush's 29 points and season high 8 assists helped the Lakers win too convincingly.
All five starters played over 40 minutes each and the team logged 9 treys out of 13 attempts. It was clearly their best game of the season without Kobe Byrant and may have been their best even with Bryant.
"The way these guys are going, Kobe may not be needed as much as they say he is!" Alonzo Mourning said.
Jason Kidd tried his best to help his team out with 26 points and 4 assists however received little help from his teammates as the starting five were inefficient in the first half while the players coming off the bench played even worse. None of the Nets could get a shot up and fell victum to numerous eight second violations after the Lakers applied it's best defensive pressure of the season.
"The 1-2-2 full court press really shut the Nets down," Ratchuk stated, "How else did I get six steals?"
Head coach Magic Johnson was pleased for the first time this season or so he made it seem, "For the first time this season I can smile about a win! It was great, our players played great defence and really broke the Net's running game down! We were knocking our shots and really dominated from start to finish!"
The Lakers at many times extended the lead throughout every quarter with 10-0 sputs, twice in the first quarter, once in the second and had a huge 15-2 run in the third period. The Nets crowd even gave a standing ovation as the players left for the intervention period at the end of the thrid period. It came after the Lakers scored another basket which was started by Kwame Brown's block, a pass to Boozer who sent it to Rush standing at halfway whom dribbled up to the three point line and dished it off to an open Ratchuk. Ratchuk drove to the hoop only to pass behind his back to Ron Artest for a thunderous dunk.
"The basket shook so hard and loud man," Brian Grant screamed from the bench, "That was cool!"
The final period had the Nets bringing the lead back down to 15 though as it looked like they could make the game closer. Richard Jefferson helped reignite the Nets but the attempt failed after he went cold in the final 8 minutes of regulation. Jefferson scored 14 of his 14 fourth quarter points in the first 3 minutes of the fourth period and seemed unstoppable. He finished with 18.
The bright spot for New Jersey though was the play of rookie Adam Otter and Kosi Rayner. Otter, a 6'2" SG; the Net's 14th overall pick from Creighton scored 10 points and showed his fans how good his shooting is. "His touch is beautiful! I would compare him to Ray Allen," a fan told a reporter courtside. However the even brighter spot was 44th overall pick Kosi Rayner. The 6'9 225 lbs PF from Stanford finished with 12 and 14 and has quickly established himself as one of the steals of the Draft.
"Kosi has potential. What sets him apart from other players is his strength and stamina. He's one mean machine," Alonzo Mourning said of his young teammate.
NOTES:
The Lakers made triple figures off a Carlos Boozer free throw with 10:45 left in the final quarter... Kwame Brown appeared to have pushed Mourning on a play but no call was given. The Nets bench jumped up in disapproval and were then booed by the home crowd... SG Kobe Bryant has received great news as he has gotten off his crutches early. He was in attendence for this game... Current Record: 10-4 (5-0, 5-4)
BOXSCORE:
Los Angeles Lakers 129 @ New Jersey Nets 93
Jan 20, New Jersey - Rookie point guard Fredrick Ratchuk broke another four career highs, in fact he's looking liek he's having a career month! The 5'10" Englishman scored career highs 30 points, 15 assists, 6 steals and played a career high 48 minutes.
"What a magnificient night from him," Assistant coach Kurt Rambis stated as he, along with the crowd stood and clapped the rookie off the court with 55.5 seconds left in the game, straight after the rookie scored a free throw to reach 30. "Ratchuk will be a star one day!"
Not only did Ratchuk break his own career high but he helped the Lakers storm past the Nets in dominant fashion and the team tallied 40 assists in total. "I have never seen any team play with such flow and intesnsity from start to finish," Nets guard Jason Kidd exclaimed, "Amazing. That's all I can say!"
Carlos Boozer added to the Net's shock by registering a triple double of 21, 20 and 11. Kwame Brown's double double of 23 and 16, Ron Artest's 18 points and Kareem Rush's 29 points and season high 8 assists helped the Lakers win too convincingly.
All five starters played over 40 minutes each and the team logged 9 treys out of 13 attempts. It was clearly their best game of the season without Kobe Byrant and may have been their best even with Bryant.
"The way these guys are going, Kobe may not be needed as much as they say he is!" Alonzo Mourning said.
Jason Kidd tried his best to help his team out with 26 points and 4 assists however received little help from his teammates as the starting five were inefficient in the first half while the players coming off the bench played even worse. None of the Nets could get a shot up and fell victum to numerous eight second violations after the Lakers applied it's best defensive pressure of the season.
"The 1-2-2 full court press really shut the Nets down," Ratchuk stated, "How else did I get six steals?"
Head coach Magic Johnson was pleased for the first time this season or so he made it seem, "For the first time this season I can smile about a win! It was great, our players played great defence and really broke the Net's running game down! We were knocking our shots and really dominated from start to finish!"
The Lakers at many times extended the lead throughout every quarter with 10-0 sputs, twice in the first quarter, once in the second and had a huge 15-2 run in the third period. The Nets crowd even gave a standing ovation as the players left for the intervention period at the end of the thrid period. It came after the Lakers scored another basket which was started by Kwame Brown's block, a pass to Boozer who sent it to Rush standing at halfway whom dribbled up to the three point line and dished it off to an open Ratchuk. Ratchuk drove to the hoop only to pass behind his back to Ron Artest for a thunderous dunk.
"The basket shook so hard and loud man," Brian Grant screamed from the bench, "That was cool!"
The final period had the Nets bringing the lead back down to 15 though as it looked like they could make the game closer. Richard Jefferson helped reignite the Nets but the attempt failed after he went cold in the final 8 minutes of regulation. Jefferson scored 14 of his 14 fourth quarter points in the first 3 minutes of the fourth period and seemed unstoppable. He finished with 18.
The bright spot for New Jersey though was the play of rookie Adam Otter and Kosi Rayner. Otter, a 6'2" SG; the Net's 14th overall pick from Creighton scored 10 points and showed his fans how good his shooting is. "His touch is beautiful! I would compare him to Ray Allen," a fan told a reporter courtside. However the even brighter spot was 44th overall pick Kosi Rayner. The 6'9 225 lbs PF from Stanford finished with 12 and 14 and has quickly established himself as one of the steals of the Draft.
"Kosi has potential. What sets him apart from other players is his strength and stamina. He's one mean machine," Alonzo Mourning said of his young teammate.
NOTES:
The Lakers made triple figures off a Carlos Boozer free throw with 10:45 left in the final quarter... Kwame Brown appeared to have pushed Mourning on a play but no call was given. The Nets bench jumped up in disapproval and were then booed by the home crowd... SG Kobe Bryant has received great news as he has gotten off his crutches early. He was in attendence for this game... Current Record: 10-4 (5-0, 5-4)
BOXSCORE:
Mon May 02, 2005 4:50 pm
How many times have u actually visited the dynasty?
I've read the last page and a half, Don't worry Sit, I'm going to do my homework now...
Mon May 02, 2005 4:52 pm
Greek with flailing elbows wrote:I've read the last page and a half, Don't worry Sit, I'm going to do my homework now...
you better man! keep up to date! And tell me what you think of my roster! lol
just kidding but I would advise you read from page one! Tell me if it keeps you interested!
Mon May 02, 2005 4:55 pm
Greek with flailing elbows wrote
I see you get the picture.... literally I would advise you read from page one! Tell me if it keeps you interested!
I will, I will... and give feedback when I'm done....
Mon May 02, 2005 5:03 pm
Greek Guy wrote:I see you get the picture.... literally
- Of course I have!
same guy as above wrote:I will, I will... and give feedback when I'm done....
- That would be the best!
X wrote:I think I've started the Freddie fan club right here in the NLSC
- your support helped him win! lol
Mon May 02, 2005 5:33 pm
NBA INSIDE STUFF: 24 Seconds with Kevin Garnett
Kevin Garnett of the Minnesota Timberwolves is having another MVP worthy season. He took time to be with our Lakers appointed sportswriter Keiran Perkins to answer some questions:
1.
KP: So Kevin, what was it like to be beaten out of the playoffs again by the Lakers last season?
KG: It was dissapointing because Kobe wasn't playing in that series but I cannot deny that the Lakers were the better team
2.
KP: So Kobe makes his team that much better?
KG: I can't say no to that question. You can see it in how they play, his teammates relax when he's around. Now they are scrambling!
3.
KP: Would you rank yourself as the best player in the NBA?
KG: I would. Not being cocky but I beieve I am better than Kobe Bryant and I would rank Shaq ahead of him. It goes me, then Shaq then Kobe
4.
KP: At Inside Stuff, we are amazed with your all-around talent Kevin. Tell me what have you done to improve your game?
KG: During the offseason, I tried to improve my strength by pumping a lot of iron. I can see how it's helped, I am way stronger now and it's easier to outplay your opposition!
5.
KP: So who are the hardest guys you will matchup against this season?
KG: Timmy Duncan is definitely the hardest. Period.
6.
KP: Do you think Tim's still in his prime?
KG: He's up there but he will drop fast soon enough, I don't see him getting better at least! Me and Kobe and Tracy Mcgrady are the guys who are getting into our primes, not Tim or Shaq!
7.
KP: And you still say those two guys are good?
KG: Yes, they are still part of my NBA Top 5
8.
KP: There were rumours that you wanted out this season
KG: That is true
9.
KP: Please explain
KG: Well, noone wants to be stuck in the first and second rounds of the playoffs. The team is old, unless we win soon, I want to move to another place where I can definitely win in the future. Rebuilding takes too long!
10.
KP: Why haven't you demanded a trade?
KG: I noticed that the franchise is still loyal to me and I feel that I am loyal to them. It's a return the favour thing. I don't want to dtich them!
11.
KP: How is your team now?
KG: We are doing good. But we could play better! Wally is doing very well in fact
12.
KP: What about your play?
KG: I can only do what I can. it's not only up to me
13.
KP: You think it's a general misconception that you lead the team?
KG: Of course! It's not only me. It's me and Wally!
14.
KP: You're averaging 22, 11, 3, 3 and 2. Is this your best?
KG: No way! You watch me! I'm going to get 25, 14, 5, 3 and 2. I will show everyone I can do it. Plus a few wins would make it even better!
15.
KP: What do you think your team needs to finally get to the NBA Finals?
KG: Fresh legs. All season I've been asking the managment to bring in some young ones. We need to run!
16.
KP: So who do you want to see in the NBA Finals?
KG: I want to see us. And Detroit
17.
KP: Other than the Wolves
KG: Then I would pick the Spurs. Not the Lakers. For some reason, I don't want to see Kobe get there
18.
KP: Then why do you choose Detroit?
KG: You crazy? The number one team in the NBA! They are just awesome!
19.
KP: What about Sacramento?
KG: Yeah, them too! And even Denver. We got such a strong conference. Wish we were over out East!
20.
KP: Doesn't everyone else? Anyway, why would you choose Tim over Kobe?
KG: Maybe it's respect. Kobe and me are nearly the same age, high school kids and all. Duncan is a veteran, an old guy!
21.
KP: Amare Stoudamire over in Phoenix styled his game after yours. A few nights ago he had a triple double of 24, 12, 10. What tips can you give to him?
KG: You just said he got a triple double! What else does he need? The kid has potential... just tell him to keep working!
22.
KP: So, any interesting stories from this season?
KG: Not that I can remember off the top off my head. Except for talking to Yao in Houston. The guy can't speak too well. I thought he learnt already, I thought he called me wank until T-mac said he said yank. Still, the guy needs more english classes!
23.
KP: We heard you're a fan of LeBron!
KG: Yes, the only guy I'd play with! Apart from Jason Kidd, LeBron is good and has done alot for the Cavs!
24.
KP: The Cavs are losing... and the Nuggets are excelling!
KG: So, if Bron comes to Minnesota, we'd win alot. Denver has a deep deep team. Plus Carmelo isn't that bad either, I'd rather play with Bron though!
KP: Thanks for your time Kevin Garnett. Wishing you luck for the playoffs and playing with LeBron James. Hope Shaq doesn't try to smack you after you said you were better than him!
KG: Thanks man. I'll keep it all in mind!
Kevin Garnett of the Minnesota Timberwolves is having another MVP worthy season. He took time to be with our Lakers appointed sportswriter Keiran Perkins to answer some questions:
1.
KP: So Kevin, what was it like to be beaten out of the playoffs again by the Lakers last season?
KG: It was dissapointing because Kobe wasn't playing in that series but I cannot deny that the Lakers were the better team
2.
KP: So Kobe makes his team that much better?
KG: I can't say no to that question. You can see it in how they play, his teammates relax when he's around. Now they are scrambling!
3.
KP: Would you rank yourself as the best player in the NBA?
KG: I would. Not being cocky but I beieve I am better than Kobe Bryant and I would rank Shaq ahead of him. It goes me, then Shaq then Kobe
4.
KP: At Inside Stuff, we are amazed with your all-around talent Kevin. Tell me what have you done to improve your game?
KG: During the offseason, I tried to improve my strength by pumping a lot of iron. I can see how it's helped, I am way stronger now and it's easier to outplay your opposition!
5.
KP: So who are the hardest guys you will matchup against this season?
KG: Timmy Duncan is definitely the hardest. Period.
6.
KP: Do you think Tim's still in his prime?
KG: He's up there but he will drop fast soon enough, I don't see him getting better at least! Me and Kobe and Tracy Mcgrady are the guys who are getting into our primes, not Tim or Shaq!
7.
KP: And you still say those two guys are good?
KG: Yes, they are still part of my NBA Top 5
8.
KP: There were rumours that you wanted out this season
KG: That is true
9.
KP: Please explain
KG: Well, noone wants to be stuck in the first and second rounds of the playoffs. The team is old, unless we win soon, I want to move to another place where I can definitely win in the future. Rebuilding takes too long!
10.
KP: Why haven't you demanded a trade?
KG: I noticed that the franchise is still loyal to me and I feel that I am loyal to them. It's a return the favour thing. I don't want to dtich them!
11.
KP: How is your team now?
KG: We are doing good. But we could play better! Wally is doing very well in fact
12.
KP: What about your play?
KG: I can only do what I can. it's not only up to me
13.
KP: You think it's a general misconception that you lead the team?
KG: Of course! It's not only me. It's me and Wally!
14.
KP: You're averaging 22, 11, 3, 3 and 2. Is this your best?
KG: No way! You watch me! I'm going to get 25, 14, 5, 3 and 2. I will show everyone I can do it. Plus a few wins would make it even better!
15.
KP: What do you think your team needs to finally get to the NBA Finals?
KG: Fresh legs. All season I've been asking the managment to bring in some young ones. We need to run!
16.
KP: So who do you want to see in the NBA Finals?
KG: I want to see us. And Detroit
17.
KP: Other than the Wolves
KG: Then I would pick the Spurs. Not the Lakers. For some reason, I don't want to see Kobe get there
18.
KP: Then why do you choose Detroit?
KG: You crazy? The number one team in the NBA! They are just awesome!
19.
KP: What about Sacramento?
KG: Yeah, them too! And even Denver. We got such a strong conference. Wish we were over out East!
20.
KP: Doesn't everyone else? Anyway, why would you choose Tim over Kobe?
KG: Maybe it's respect. Kobe and me are nearly the same age, high school kids and all. Duncan is a veteran, an old guy!
21.
KP: Amare Stoudamire over in Phoenix styled his game after yours. A few nights ago he had a triple double of 24, 12, 10. What tips can you give to him?
KG: You just said he got a triple double! What else does he need? The kid has potential... just tell him to keep working!
22.
KP: So, any interesting stories from this season?
KG: Not that I can remember off the top off my head. Except for talking to Yao in Houston. The guy can't speak too well. I thought he learnt already, I thought he called me wank until T-mac said he said yank. Still, the guy needs more english classes!
23.
KP: We heard you're a fan of LeBron!
KG: Yes, the only guy I'd play with! Apart from Jason Kidd, LeBron is good and has done alot for the Cavs!
24.
KP: The Cavs are losing... and the Nuggets are excelling!
KG: So, if Bron comes to Minnesota, we'd win alot. Denver has a deep deep team. Plus Carmelo isn't that bad either, I'd rather play with Bron though!
KP: Thanks for your time Kevin Garnett. Wishing you luck for the playoffs and playing with LeBron James. Hope Shaq doesn't try to smack you after you said you were better than him!
KG: Thanks man. I'll keep it all in mind!
Last edited by Fresh8 on Tue May 03, 2005 1:39 pm, edited 1 time in total.
Tue May 03, 2005 3:58 am
Sit wrote:6.
KP: Do you think Tim's still in his prime?
KG: Not really, he's getting old. Me and Kobe and Tracy Macgrady are the guys who are in our primes, not Tim or Shaq!
Duncan's only a month older than Garnett. Nice concept, but some of them don't sound realistic at all.
Tue May 03, 2005 1:46 pm
Yeah man.. i tried to edit it.. lol
Tue May 03, 2005 4:17 pm
nice to see this Lakers dynasty still going strong....
Keep it up bro...
Nice interview with KG, just hoping the next time an interview with Kg his wearing a Lakers jersey
Keep it up bro...
Nice interview with KG, just hoping the next time an interview with Kg his wearing a Lakers jersey
Tue May 03, 2005 6:22 pm
Thanks for dropping in micchy!
Tue May 03, 2005 9:02 pm
LAKERS EFFICIENCY PER MINUTE
Look at this fellas and tell me what you think I should do with my starting lineup? Is it time for a reshuffle when Kobe returns?
FOR NOW:
- Should I start Juanny instead of Kareem or Ratchuk?
- Should Brian Grant get to start?
- Should the two rookies get more playing time?
- What startign lineup should I field?
LATER:
- Kobe will start, but who should I start with him?
- And which players deserve more touches?
Thanks to HonorGlow for the tool!
Look at this fellas and tell me what you think I should do with my starting lineup? Is it time for a reshuffle when Kobe returns?
FOR NOW:
- Should I start Juanny instead of Kareem or Ratchuk?
- Should Brian Grant get to start?
- Should the two rookies get more playing time?
- What startign lineup should I field?
LATER:
- Kobe will start, but who should I start with him?
- And which players deserve more touches?
Thanks to HonorGlow for the tool!
Tue May 03, 2005 11:21 pm
if you start Juanny Dixon beside Kobe, his efficiency will drop for sure....I like Dixon more as a super 6th man punch off the bench....as much as I like Grant, you should continue to start Boozer....
as for the 2 other rookies, they are in a similar predicament to Splitter in my dynasty....because they only play a few minutes and those minutes are usually in garbage time, they get a lot more shots than they normally would if they were playing in a normal game-time situation, so the stats there are skewed a little high (as Splitter is in mine)....
actually, just realised that you start Kwame Brown....I would dump him and start Grant
although I've noticed that Brown does seem to play well in your system....
as for the 2 other rookies, they are in a similar predicament to Splitter in my dynasty....because they only play a few minutes and those minutes are usually in garbage time, they get a lot more shots than they normally would if they were playing in a normal game-time situation, so the stats there are skewed a little high (as Splitter is in mine)....
actually, just realised that you start Kwame Brown....I would dump him and start Grant
although I've noticed that Brown does seem to play well in your system....
Tue May 03, 2005 11:25 pm
15 and 13 are good averages... i dunno.
We will see how the team goes! I'm surprised at Ron Ron!
We will see how the team goes! I'm surprised at Ron Ron!