Lakers Need to Revamp, After Embarrassing Downfall

Together, they were soft, feeble and spongy, whether it was overconfidence or tiredness, ignoring Andrew Bynum's insightful remarks on the lack of chemistry, cohesiveness and trust after Game 2 of the Western Conference Finals. What's so easy to forget, when blinded by the invincibility as if the Los Angeles Lakers weren't vulnerable for attack and couldn't collapse in the postseason, a season featuring much unpredictability and astonishing events, is that the Lakers were on decline and requires an extreme makeover.


It's vital to the Lakers' stagnant personality that the front office handles the offseason with urgency and revamps the roster for the betterment of the future, within a franchise built with mystique and megastars. What did Kobe Bryant think of the fatality, an embarrassing demolition, which clinched the series for the Dallas Mavericks and ended the triumph for the Lakers to remind the Los Angeles' folks of the latest demise pulverizing a storied franchise?

It marked the first time in quite a while, wearing a towel with a depressing gaze on his face not having his usual intimidating facial features, that Bryant walked out of the shower dazed and frustrated, stepped onto the podium in the conference room somberly and walked off in tremendous shock. He was stronger and matured in a way, loaded with five championship rings in an era the Lakers preserved triumphant feats. While before the press, addressing a swarm of reporters sitting cramped in the room, he did not whine about the loss and acknowledged the winners, discussing the lack of dominance and effort to crowd and disrupt the Mavs.

Either Dallas was too much to disrupt or either the Lakers were too apathetic, lethargic and doltish. Seems it's clearly hard to intrude the minds of the erratic Lakers, a perplexing riddle in the NBA as the majority try to figure out what happened with the defending champs, collapsing in the postseason by not fighting efficiently or playing as a composed unit. So what's the problem for a team that cannot defy the odds of defending its title when the team isn't fierce or intimidating for the opposing opponent?

Nobody is afraid of the two-time defending champs with the intangibles to match the Lakers' firepower, durability and strength, unevenly outplaying and bullying Team Hollywood. But for some reason, probably because the Lakers were too pompous and comfortable as L.A. continued to reign as the most prominent franchise in the NBA, the well-respected basketball team in Los Angeles wasn't focused and failed to fiercely battle and allowed the Mavs to slaughter them. The face of the Lakers, for the rare defeat that sent a wakeup call to the Busses, is anything but flawless and hopeful. It would be convenient for the Lakers to clean house and seek a rebuilding plan to rebuild by surrounding Bryant with youth and athleticism.

This offseason, the Busses need to bring in explosive guards and a physique seven-foot center. So now, the Lakers should have Orlando's potent seven-footer Dwight Howard in mind and target Superman, given his maximized skills and capacity to rule the paint with his tallness that creates a sublime post presence. That's all the more reason the Lakers must consider proposing a trade offer, a package deal sending Pau Gasol aka Paula Gasoft and Ron Artest to Orlando for Howard and Jason Richardson.

It's not such a bad suggestion, but a shrewd conception for a franchise in desperate need of a severe transition to inevitably bypass the torture of staggering postseason debacles that produces horror with all the misgivings. No matter what, in retrospect, the NBA is a business and it is cruel at times, compelling a legion of teams to listen to trade offers and reach a consensus for a player that blends in with the rest of the players and its depleted roster. And so it should come as no surprise that the Lakers could send Steve Blake, Derek Fisher, Matt Barnes, Shannon Brown and Artest packing.

For that matter, any player other than Kobe, the centerpiece in the Lakers future. Meanwhile, for the most accomplished coach all-time, Phil Jackson can drift into the sunset on strong terms, despite a heartbreaking exit in the semifinals of the weirdest postseason seen in a long time. In his glamorous coaching career, he migrated from New York where he was a hippie in the 70s and played ball, then fled to the Windy City in Chicago where he was fortunate in mentoring arguably the greatest player all-time Michael Jordan and then left for the beaches in Southern California to guide Kobe and the Lakers to five NBA titles.


The perfect ending for a historic legacy would be this summer after he earned his 11th title last June when the Lakers won back-to-back titles in his spectacular career, cemented by Los Angeles' wonderful journey before the era approached a rare closure. In his tenure, he established a legacy in L.A. and had been the proudest symbol of modern coaches in pro sports best known for teaching the fundamentals of basketball with his psychological mind games, which had a strong impact on the Lakers in recent memory. This was, above all, a surprising series for the Lakers, a series of devastation and it showed signs of deterioration for the dysfunctional two-time defending champs.

If nothing else, given the painful relapses in the horrifying series against the Mavs, the Lakers three-peat and Kobe's pursuit of his sixth title were endangered by Game 2 of the horrid series. By the time it was over, for the 65-year-old coach who is the most decorated legend in NBA history, he walked off the court with a widened smile, acknowledging and congratulating his antagonist while accepting praise by others, ready to call it a career and decided to depart with the most successful odyssey by any NBA coach in history.

As for the amazing pursuit of procuring his sixth title to tie Jordan in championships, Bryant gave all his effort but the Lakers dwindled in an embarrassing sweep and disintegrated under the burden of enormous disgrace and surrendered to the Mavs. It's one thing to respond with no energy or bitterness down 3-0 in a series. It's another when the team refuses to attack, recover and stay alive in the best-of-seven series with faith that a historic comeback is probable. The absolute laziness and unwillingness to defend the value of a title, not avoiding the sweep by the Mavs to reduce the humiliation and derision over the next couple of weeks, creates a publicity disaster for the Lakers. And in the upcoming weeks, L.A. will be bashed for such paltry responses against the hungrier and mightier Mavs.

Aside from it all, the next coach in line?

Well, if you prefer to keep Bryant content and want creativity and resiliency, then Brian Shaw, a favorable candidate to fill in the vacancy when Jackson announces his retirement and forges his signature on the documents, is the man worth hiring for the job. It was pitiful and entirely dispirited the way the Lakers played, revealing signs of oldness and fatigue in their sudden demise.

Mortals, anyone?

The Lakers can use a roster upgrade, revamping not only the starters but the bench players as well. When the Lakers are devoid of respect and a championship, when Team Hollywood is subjected to destruction and stands on the brink of elimination, the specifics normally are that the Lakers consists of an old and attenuated roster. Now that the generation has ended for the Lakers and unleashed ignominy, with rants from people on what future plans L.A. might want to consider down the road, it's imperative they retool before returning to prominence.

And after observing the Lakers lose in the semifinals to the Mavs, unable to survive the series by keeping it alive, the priority for Los Angeles should be remodeling the whole roster and surrounding Bryant with younger and explosive talent. The vanity of heart and guts destroyed the Lakers faith when L.A. erroneously blew a 16-point lead in Game 1, the one contest in the series that dictated the momentum and shifted the sense of belief. From there, the Mavs hijacked each game of the stunning series.

If the Lakers fail to renovate in the offseason, primarily because the Buss family is too stubborn-minded or too egomaniacal in spending massively on a megastar, then it won't ever be resolved and they'll continue to behave like punks and utterly be blown out in an uncompetitive match up. As long as the Lakers lineup is old and motionless -- almost ineffective in protecting sharpshooters from beyond the arc -- they'll have trouble defending the pick-and-roll or setting up to run the triangle efficiently.

In other words, the Lakers will never, ever be a sufficient defensive-minded unit, particularly with old, soft and slow depth in the lineup. Near the ending, and near the beginning of an annihilation, aging heavyweights lost composure and self-esteem by their body language in the final quarter. When it all ended, putting aside the debate of a potential repeat in June, it was grisly as the Lakers had poor sportsmanlike conduct with their bad actions on the court.


The nightmarish episodes were frustrating and despicable for the Lakers to bear, as the team was awfully routed in a demoralizing 122-86 loss. That led to the wretched behavior, when Lamar Odom stupidly sent Dirk Nowitzki to the floor on his cheap shot and later was ejected. Then, moments later, there was Andrew Bynum delivering a hard blow to Dallas' J.J. Barea.

It was outrageous and uncalled for.

At the very top level is Jackson, for a coach who achieved a legion of greatness. This is a permanent exit, realizing he has accomplished enough to leave wearing a smile, evidently calm and proud, even if he has fallen short of his fourth three-peat. Years from now the Lakers will reflect on the final game in their powerful regime and recall Jackson's unparalleled coaching achievements. It turned ugly rapidly and midway in the second quarter, the Lakers trailed by 18 and they were very incompetent, enough to force Jackson in calling two full timeouts. At that point the Lakers were done when Jason Terry and Peja Stojakovic fired three-point shots and dismantled the defense, which made a baffled Barnes' afternoon miserable and exhausted a drained Fisher.

What is shockingly mind-blowing is that the Lakers abandoned their throne, succumbing to the Mavs, who were successful in dethroning the Lakers and sending an influential statement.

"I don't think we played bad to start the game," Jackson said. "But in that second quarter, the roof fell in on us."

No, the Lakers played horribly and were outscored a staggering 36-16 in the second quarter. Not once did they seem hungry or feisty in challenging and battling with the Mavs to keep their championship dreams alive. It kind of brought back the dreadful memories where the Lakers dropped Game 6 in the 2008 NBA Finals by 39 points to Boston for vividly the most humiliating letdown in franchise history. And now a 36-point margin of victory, the largest of the game.

Alas, it sadly ended for the Lakers in such a dreaded cessation.

Lakers Still Govern the Throne With Decisive Victory Over Celtics

If you thought they weren't too villainous for the average franchise in the NBA, an unmatched team denied of defending their pride and reign and basically vulnerable to their imminent demise, well, the Lakers awakened to withdraw from the fiascoes.

The timeless calamity almost terrified the faithful in Hollywood, many of whom were scared for the Lakers, an elusive franchise in the NBA with a lackadaisical and inert mentality that has terrified a diverse community, in a territory where basketball is lauded and a large part of conventional aspects. And so after a lengthy week that contained rumors of trade talks, endless fuss heard all week, the Lakers sent a statement at perfect timing and affirmed to be championship-caliber.

It's fairly clear the Lakers still dominate the throne, shortly after rallying past their archenemies in a hostile territory, salvaging a substantial victory over one of the finest opponents in the league and lastly climbing over the Celtics ideal-like with a 92-86 win in a rematch Thursday night. Only the Lakers can endure plenty of scrutiny, engulfed in a midseason crisis that remains a mystery until the trade deadline comes to an end.

After all, with all the drama that has created a ruckus nowadays, it was inevitable to avoid the ongoing criticism with the Lakers. Before we ridicule the professional team in Los Angeles, which is pampered for stockpiling championship banners over the years with incredible history to polish in the league, the Lakers finally validated a title drive and rectified the struggles to some degree. The debate boils in regards of potential trades for Andrew Bynum in exchange for Carmelo Anthony, a boneheaded deal that would mean suicide for the Lakers and could even add to the hysteria, shakiness and disaster, even if the pursuit seems like a brilliant idea for a three-peat.

There were the Lakers, who arrived in town to rejuvenate a rivalry among two of the most hated franchises in professional basketball. There were the Celtics, who were at home, ready to encounter a dynamic event and anxiously tried to sweep the Lakers this time at home. There weren't any skirmishes or verbal confrontations, or even any in-your-face trash talk or uncontrollable brawls, but only friendliness in what has been defined as one of the most loathed rivalries.


It was no Hollywood drama with the way the night turned out, with probably a victory that resolved tension, healed painful lapses in recent weeks and soothed the souls and minds of thousands. Finally, in the sweetest date against their archrival to reduce nightmares from clouding an entire season, the Lakers capitalized, played with fortitude, determination and alertness. Relatively speaking, the Lakers are fueled, mentally and physically prepared to rise to the occasion in a remarkable attempt that allows Los Angeles to hoist another shiny prize.

It was, no doubt, one of the most respectable finishes to uplift the team's psyche and taper grisly situations that almost doomed the Lakers this season, almost ruined a promising title pursuit and almost destroyed self-assurance. There are, after all, a majority who believe the Lakers are vulnerable and not intimidating. For much of the season, though, the Lakers have played soft and uninspiring, and couldn't care less about the magnitude of a possible three-peat to add to a large collection of titles in franchise history.

Truth is, if the Lakers can bully the Celtics, similar to a hefty high school senior teasing a freshman and outweigh the San Antonio Spurs in the playoffs then they'll probably qualify for another NBA Finals appearance and earn their third championship in three years.

"We executed our game plan, we definitely did," Shannon Brown said. "You couldn't ask for more. We definitely played like a team. We played together and that's the only way we're going to win. Playing together as a team, offense and on defense, moving the ball, being collective on defense, being one, that's the way we're going to get it done."

This game, however, requires a total team effort. And it seems on this particular night, the Lakers had unity, cohesiveness and unselfishness. Then, of course, they had excellent ball movement to spread the floor and create opportunities for each other. All of a sudden, the Lakers were playing efficiently with the assistance of a unified defense.

For once, at last, it was a different team that had revived from the madness and lack of success of late. It wasn't long ago, just as the frustration and humiliation increasingly outraged the ownership, players and coaches that darkened the spirit of the defending champs, when Magic Johnson publicly lobbied for the Lakers to make a culture transition to improve the team by bringing aboard younger talent.

"It's a good game," Johnson tweeted in the second half, "but if the @Lakers are going to win Kobe has to take over."

Really? The Black Mamba has to take over? Are you sure?

This all makes perfect sense, perhaps rightfully so, given that Kobe Bryant is the fiercest shooter on earth, an unstoppable assassin on the count with all types of strategies when he has possession of the ball. His talent is unprecedented, but he does play in games where he's quiet and doesn't pose a threat. Then again, if he really desires to take over in critical moments, already verified as the greatest finisher, he can easily bury an array of shots. But apart from the popular show in Hollywood, which would be the Kobe Show, airing on the day of a Lakers event, he wasn't much of a factor in the first half. By halftime, he merely had three points on 1-of-3 shooting and the Lakers, of course, trailed by eight.

"[In the first half] they surrounded me, so I hit the open man," Bryant said. "I wanted to be more aggressive in the first half, but I didn't want to force it too much. I wanted to keep my guys in their game a little bit. Start of the second half I just forced it. The game wasn't coming to me so I took it."

Incredibly, in the first quarter, thousands of Celtics faithful at the TD Garden were fueled and madly erupted when Celtics guard Ray Allen shattered Reggie Miller's all-time three-point record with his 2,561st three. The story here, in the meantime, is that Bryant attempted only three shots in the first half, clearly to minimize the criticism and be an unselfish hero. The glaring notion of his approach is to be a facilitator and ensure that his teammates are involved, unselfishly creating easy shots for his teammates and being a floor general, not a shooter regularly.

This was a signature win the Lakers truly needed, to erase the horrid letdowns this season. Before this game, in the five previous games, the Lakers were 0-5 and had been badly outscored by an average of 11 points against the league's top four teams. By his body language and facial expressions, Bryant is aging in the late point of his prime, becoming exhausted faster as his body is unable to handle the energy or endure the stress, but he has still survived.

When it ended so nicely, Bryant scored 20 of his game-high 23 points in the second half and shot an effective 9-of-17 for the game. In fairness, he was reinforced by the seven-footers early on, with Andrew Bynum and Pau Gasol scoring a dozen of points combined. He's not Paula Gasoft, but he's Pau Gasol again, finally. The wildest takeover in basketball happens on one team and naturally, and eventually it came to life on Thursday when Bryant granted Johnson his wish.

He calmly sat on the bench for the first seven minutes of the fourth, he watched the second unit build a nine-point lead, then he later walked to the score table to return with 5:04 left. It looks like he's not so old after all, slaughtering Boston with a 6-0 run in less than two minutes remaining that added to the finishing touches. To this day, he's basketball's best shooter, clearly. He's a wild animal when it comes to shooting and had the same type of intensity late in the fourth, nailing his turnaround jumper and driving to the rim on his spectacular layup.

Here were the Lakers making another statement. This reminded us that the Lakers are still elite, with a reputation for winning games but also fooling us like a perplexing riddle.

The Lakers Are Anything but Intimidating

If someone utters one word about the possibility of the Lakers capturing a three-peat, please let them know the Lakers aren't even close. It wasn't long ago when Kobe Bryant, wearing another championship T-shirt, gazing upwards to watch the confetti fall in his hair or caressing the trophy, collected his fifth ring to cement a dignified legacy.

If the Lakers aren't nervous of the sudden demise, from a perpetual drought to erase the memories of an indelible back-to-back journey and diminish the traditional perception of a team in Hollywood, the motionless fans are hysterical of the undermined calamity.

So now, the gist of the annual Christmas Day appearance for the Lakers, in theory, perished over the years and has been the one day that the team humiliates itself by crumbling in a signature game. There are times, such as Saturday night in which the Lakers were embarrassed and taken to school by the Miami Heat, when the Staples Center is the equivalent of a mortuary—as if the demise of the untouchable Lakers is slowly materializing. Wasn't it pathetic...so devastating??

"This is serious stuff," Bryant said after he posted only 17 points on 6-for-16 shooting. "You don't just have two rings and say we're satisfied with what we've got and let it slide. I am not rolling with that."

Looks as if Team Hollywood quit. Looks as if the brainless, inactive fans observed spongy and incompetent superstars and the most talented franchise in the NBA staggered. As it is, the torpid fans are incapable of inspiring the dispirited defending champs, not loud or cheerful enough of uplifting a diverse town or even one of the most popular franchises. With all the hype of this marquee matchup, a long-awaited LeBron-Kobe show every devotee had been anticipating so anxiously, the timing couldn't be better for the Heat to awaken in the most dynamic test this season.

For once, he was a benefactor and settled for a triple-double. And so it ended when LeBron James had 27 points, to accompany 10 rebounds and 10 assists as the self-proclaimed King James had his best game this season against the defending champs to lead the Heat to a throbbing 96-80 win over the Lakers Saturday. But if the Lakers ever were to move forward, sustain three consecutive championships that amazingly send Los Angeles into a tie with its nemesis the Boston Celtics as the franchise with the most NBA titles ever, they'd have to purge the apathy, softness and weaknesses.

Otherwise, it's the prelude to futility and alters into plights, even if the Lakers consist of the greatest closer in the game—Kobe Bryant—or Phil Jackson, maybe the most respected coach for winning his 11th title.

A few minutes into the game, the Lakers rode a 7-2 run and had the crowd, not only in the Christmas spirit, but electrified and screaming to jolt the building with an alley-oop from Bryant to Lamar Odom.

He looked stylish in his new shoe, the unique footwear known as the Nike Kobe Zoom 6 Green Mamba Grinch Christmas Shoe, crazily sporting the shoe just as Odom and Pau Gasol. And there was James revealing his trendy shoe as well—the red ones he wore on the floor. But this wasn't about who had the better shoe. Instead this was about which player had the better outing. It's been horrid, for sure—plenty of nightmares in a town where the celebrities come out to see the Lakers in their courtside seats.


Because of the hype that centered Kobe and LeBron, a pair of puppets and marketers for producing their animated Nike ads, the Heat-Lakers had been defined as the prime-time event on Christmas. And it really was a physical battle as the refs allowed a pair of top-notch teams to play without blowing the whistles. It was so awful, for much of the night, that the Lakers couldn't survive a critical bout when it served as motivation against the toughest opponent with an ambition ever since forming the deepest trio in pro basketball of all time.

Most of the disgust that had shifted on Bryant's face was an expression of frustration, not the normal facial feature of him scowling or grinding his teeth as if he's ready to devour his opponent’s blood. After suffering a Christmas whooping for the second straight year, Kobe wouldn't lash out as much in the news conference, practically humiliated with the ugliest rout on a national holiday when the average populace paid close attention to the Lakers. As we all know, they are playing like confused kids on a playground, scared to attack the rim or penetrate to dominate in the interior.

"We need to play with more focus and put more importance on these games," an irritable Bryant said. "I don't like it."

He wasn't too merry.

"I think these games mean more to our opponent than they do us," he said.

It wasn't amusing to see the Lakers miss shots, fail to defend brilliantly and collect rebounds, but it was painful for a lot of people, many of whom purchased expensive tickets as high as $900 for non-courtside seats. But then with the poor performance of the Lakers, fans walked towards the exits early, and couldn't bear the devastation of trailing by 19 points. From here on out, as long as the Lakers play carelessly and uninspired, it simply won't become easier for Los Angeles.

"That was embarrassing," Magic Johnson said on ABC. "It really was."

There is apparently no sense of pride for the Lakers, lifeless in a must-have. Gasol remained scoreless until midway in the second quarter with an air-ball on one possession, not taking advantage of his upper body strength and had been beaten or tormented in the paint to finish with 17 points.

"I sensed anger in Kobe, obviously, but I didn't sense a lot of anger in our team," Lakers coach Phil Jackson. "I didn't sense that kind of anger that rises in a team when they know that they really disappointed themselves."

Until the Lakers overcome struggles, they won't beat the much-deeper Spurs or Mavericks. That is just something to think about.

Lakers Wild-Swinging Block Party Provokes Dynasty

LOS ANGELES--As a glamorous parade crowded and journeyed through Figueroa Street, on an overcastted afternoon that suddenly brightened into sunny skies, the Lakers superstars rode down the street, waving and expressing their appreciation with thousands of Lakers faithful.

There were vibes wandering in the players, coaching staff, and rabid fans' minds that Team Hollywood can repeat.

There's a probable chance that the Lakers can return to prominence and win back-to-back-to-back trophies. Confetti would fall from the rafters at Staples Center, the team would loft a gleaming trophy and add a 17th banner inside the much-publicized scene in Los Angeles.

Wearing a stylish Black Mamba T-shirt, Kobe Bryant waved and gestured genially and lifted the Larry O’Brien trophy, delighted and impressed with the turnaround. He shared a memorable day and a piece of historic masterpieces with the gracious populace who jubilated in peace and unity.

It’s always a surreal dream to witness Bryant, whose hospitable smile warmed the emotions of lifelong Lakers fans who've never had the privilege of seeing the greatest player on earth in person.


For all the heart and talent they showed, the Lakers were discovered Monday afternoon touring the town in a well-deserving joyride, maneuvering in two flat-bed trucks that hijacked most of the streets in downtown to give way to the festivities.

In the wake of sustaining back-to-back triumphs after winning their 16th title in franchise history, pulling closer to their nemesis the Boston Celtics 17 championships, the most among any NBA franchise, the Lakers are focusing on repeating again.

Judging by the depth, size and talent, Team LA can remain famous in a town where celebrities are embraced and overexposed at times.

And of course, we want to disconnect from all the shame and heartless idiots who are spiritless in a community where dumbasses riot the town instead of celebrating with pride and dignity.

If the hardest thing in sports is to win three times in a row, then the Lakers are stuck with high expectations. They're already predicted as next year's team to beat.

It surely was an indicator last week, when Bryant had an abysmal shooting night, missing numerous jumpers in a particularly poor performance.

But with the contributions from his lofty supporting cast, the Lakers survived and outlived the reinforced Celtics with perseverance and stamina, strengthening all blemishes to erase frailty that almost devastated a promising season.

This could have been the season that the defending champions were dethroned for apathy and botches during an obscure playoff run.

Fact is, if the Lakers blueprint is to avoid another season of fiascoes and remain in the postseason picture without suffering the early ouster, the Buss family may want to persuade Phil Jackson to remain Lakers head coach and would be wise to retain the Zen Master.

As we know, he’s the most accomplished coach in sports history, owning 11 championship rings, more than any professional coach throughout history. In his exquisite career, he has been fortunate to mold and cultivate big-name superstars with incredible talent and unparalleled achievements, in the legendary Michael Jordan and now the intellectual Bryant.

The Lakers are assembling a dynasty during an era where stars are burgeoning as primer megastars and competition is steeper than ever. In reality, it’s common to believe that the Lakers are the favorites entering next season, and are bound to repeat glory as top contenders with Bryant looking for another ring.

If so, he’ll become the most decorated player in the NBA among a unique core that is recognized for the number of championships and superlative competitors who never back down without a hard-fought battle in the postseason.

For those adoring the Lakers, a franchise with mystique and fame because of its purity and astounding wins over the years, realistically tells us that they are contending at the highest level, starving and energized to add another prize to a beautiful collection of hardware.

It's true that Bryant and Pau Gasol are under contracts for a long time, and a flourishing supporting cast continues to develop and mellow, thriving as an invincible and uncontrollable core, finally releasing the softness and inactiveness conscience.

Yet there’s no other team in the league with a pair of skyscrapers in Gasol and Andrew Bynum, a seven-foot center who has been hindered a bit with injuries, but has come on strong for the Lakers in the postseason by establishing as a dominant post player in the middle.

He blocked shots, bullied opposing players and grabbed rebounds, making the contest easier for Gasol, who seemed more efficacious whenever Bynum had a stellar performance. The issue is whether Jackson will return next season or sign a deal elsewhere or even retire and call it a career after accomplishing more than the average coach.

Before he announces a return, he’ll take a couple of months to ponder his decision and monitor his health status. His natural motive would be to care for his health issues, which have battered him mentally and physically as his age and body language plays a role.

If he decides to retire, he’d depart on top, a rare scene transpiring in sports. Jackson is proving to be ailing and fatigued from an 82-game regular-season. But he’s accustomed to all the road travel and would strangely miss coaching or sharpening the minds of players with his psychological mind games.


By his presence, it motivates his players and helps controls Ron Artest, the weirdest and funniest man on the roster, leaving us with memories of his indelible press conference after clinching Game Seven of the NBA Finals.

More than any other Lakers’ megastar, he was excited to soak in his first championship and partake in a parade while flaunting his silliness during the celebration. This was arguably Jackson’s greatest season ever, one year folks will never forget, accomplishing the most accolades by grabbing 11 titles all-time.

You sense another celebration at the end of next season. But today alone, the Lakers shared the gratifying moment with well-behaved and delighted fans, witnessing the greatest player amid an exciting generation in Bryant, who wore his sunglasses with a knowledgeable persona.

“They’ve been fantastic,” Bryant said Monday following the parade. “I had a chance to relax and enjoy these old bones.”

He can recall hearing undying “Thank yous” for avenging the devastating 2008 Finals loss to their foes Boston. The screaming fans were filled with happiness and really touched Bryant.

“It was more emotion,” Bryant said.

One fan lofted a sign that read “This is Kobe’s Town!” “Back 2 Back Without Shaq!”

If the Lakers anticipate more emotion and unforgettable moments, then bringing back Jackson is in the cards.

Lakers Fall, but Kobe Bryant Isn't to Blame

Kobe Bryant, who walked into the conference room flustered from another outraging defeat, sat gloomily in the midst of an elimination game answering the unassuming questions at postgame interviews sarcastically and angrily. Later, he emerged from the interview room speechless with a bitter stare, then down the hallway reflected on a 92-86 loss in Game Five of the NBA Finals.

If there’s a petulant superstar irritated in an unpredictable and startling series that the Lakers are bearing unfamiliarity by being on the verge of elimination, it’s Bryant losing his swagger and composure, despite shooting from the field brilliantly without faltering.

The Black Mamba, as we call the greatest finisher and scoring menace with four rings and the most frighten facial expression in sports, is very indignant following a loss that was considered a much-needed win, traveling back home to potentially close out an alluring series.


As the season winds down for the Los Angeles Lakers and a winner will very well soon be crowned the champs, the main feature of the Lakers is calmly representing much optimism in Game Six on Tuesday, ready to harass the Boston Celtics with his distributions and selfish ethics to score as a dictator and unstoppable force.

By meeting with the media lately, he proffers merely short-answered and dissatisfying remarks about the culminating results. As anticipated, the Lakers place any road woes in perspective at home, greeted by the celebrities and non-celebs as the cast emerge from the tunnel and are introduced by the PA announcer during the players’ introduction.

It’s apparent they like the savory taste of home cooking, instead of room service. It’s obvious they are comfortable sleeping in their own beds, instead of sleeping in a luxurious suite in Boston, a hostile environment where the Lakers are insulted and disliked.

For the first time in the postseason, L.A. trails 3-2 in a series and needs to survive in the next two games in order to host another parade on Figueroa Ave., a crowded street with the craziest activity.

In a sense, the Lakers could miss out in all the festivities, without staring skyward at the rafters to glance at purple and gold confetti fall from Staples Center. The finest scorer on earth, I suspect, is only a loss away from missing out on one objective in a series when the focal point is surrounding his legacy as he has an opportunity, a viable chance to strengthen his legacy by winning his fifth title.

With a lingering scare, as the Lakers are faced in an unfamiliar scene, the supporting cast is outworked by the Celtics' raw bench, outplayed by a hungrier and coveted starting unit, and more passive and softer than Boston. If there is a bigger letdown in sports, it's the lethargic sporting cast of the Lakers, considering that Kobe’s teammates have relied and comfortably watched the public airing of the Kobe Show, not realizing much is at stake.

It’s unfortunate that the Celtics are manipulating the tone with resourceful method, downsizing the style of a vintage Bryant. Unlike ever before, he’s hesitating on every attempt and draws defenders, frustrating his mentality and minimizing shots from the field on a night he scored a game-high 38 points in Game Five while the four other starters had 34 points combined and scored 19 in the third quarter alone.

There’s one thing certain about the esoteric Lakers previously discovered in Game One, a night the tenacious unit seemed worthy of winning a consecutive title with the fearless size, powerful depth, and a talented roster.


But now the Lakers are simply not championship-caliber, needing adjustments to rise above the Celtics’ superiority recently, with an incompetent supporting cast deteriorating and deranging at the moment a championship is on the line.

And this time, he’s not to blame for such collapses or back-to-back road losses in a significant showdown, putting on a shooting clinic and keeping the Lakers within a double-digit deficit.

While he’s ostensibly faulted for disrupting the chemistry and incapacitating the elements, selfishly taking over without involving his teammates into the offensive groove, he’s getting criticized for being too selfish and overly occupied. Early on, he wasn’t a facilitator, but an unconscious shooter.

Early on, he failed to spread the floor and share the ball with teammates, but realized his supporting cast has been shaky. So again, it’s damned if he does or damned if he doesn’t. For the time being, no one simply can dismiss the Lakers having a clutch finisher who seems helpless, even when he’s the most lethal superstar since Michael Jordan.

Near the end, Bryant screamed angrily and Ron Artest was befuddled and complained, and Pau Gasol was softer than ever, all bringing back the dreadful memories of two years ago when the Lakers were murdered badly by the Celtics in a 39-point loss, the worst blowout in NBA Finals history.

At this point, Kobe’s teammates are no longer the scariest one, nor are they the favorites to win the series for all the defensive lapses and lack of productivity.

The Celtics are a well-rounded squad coached by Doc Rivers, who utilizes his deeper bench, a second unit that has outworked and pestered the Lakers. It’s fair to say the Celtics are scoring on second-chance points, out-rebounding a taller frontcourt, neutralizing confused defenders, and badgering a perturbed Bryant.

The strongest heavyweights are the C’s, demonstrating toughness and potent balance. It wasn’t until late in the game when Rajon Rondo slashed the lane and levitated over Lamar Odom and Bryant for a tip-in. Even though he was born and raised in Los Angeles, Paul Pierce, who overly worked his defensive nemesis Artest, has no sympathy in beating down his childhood team, the Lakers, finishing the night with 27 points.

In the meantime, the L.A. team is still optimistic heading back home, realizing the series is sudden death and that a helpless Bryant needs team contribution if they expect to force a Game Seven at home. And without a sense of urgency or a stronger mindset, the Lakers won’t survive the potency of the Celtics. Asked about the fear of elimination, Bryant once again had a short answer and responded in sarcasm.

“I’m not very confident at all,” he said, laughing.

He is fearless, I’m sure. But he’s also earnest about winning a fifth title.

This is no longer the same Lakers, demoralized with injuries, softness, and passiveness. This is no longer the same Lakers grabbing rebounds or loose balls.

This is no longer the same Lakers pushing and sending bodies to the floor. And this is no longer the same Lakers with enough fight or heart, coming back home where the heart is, but certainly not for the purple and gold team, unless they turn things around. Now is the time Phil Jackson may want to make minor adjustments and escape the softness that destroyed aspiration two years ago.

Perhaps, the supporting cast could use extra practice and adjustments very quickly.

It’s very apparent that Kobe doesn’t need the practice or adjustments, just as he is not to blame.

Lakers Were Soft, Feeble Before Delivering Knockout Punch to Celtics

It happens instantly and inexplicably, on a pleasant evening at Staples Center, a locale nearly exploding on every possession and forced a fuming Doc Rivers to signal for a timeout when the rabid crowd exploded amid an energized frenzy. The Lakers survived on a night the celebrities and non-celebs attended to witness Team Hollywood avenge an embarrassing 39-point loss two years ago in what was the worst elimination defeat in NBA history.

He wasn’t scowling or grinding his teeth like a vampire anxious to devour the Boston Celtics blood, but he was fiercely the dictator on the floor for setting the tone early in an onslaught against his archenemies. He seemed much too enraged in his home gold uniform, willing to secure his legacy and establish redemption, but more importantly beat down the Celtics to direct the Lakers to its 16th title and pull one shy of Boston.

Rather than acknowledging that the Lakers aren’t soft, undermined or relapsing, the everlasting misgivings allows a cynical individual to disregard the much-improved toughness of a core once ridiculed for softness and a feeble-minded mindset. At one point, the Lakers were insulted for perishing in the regular-season, in which the lords of basketball began to downplay the mental toughness and shrewd efficiency.

There is, believe it or not, a reason not to dismiss Bryant and his teammates. Finally diminishing lethargy and imprudence, realizing much is at stake. It’s clearly evident that the blueprint in resounding pride and polishing in a win over the despised rivals is to disclose the Celtics blemishes. If you haven’t noticed the Lakers are tougher and more potent, unlike two years ago when they were manhandled and shoved around by the much physical and aggressive Boston.

But this season alone, the aging Celtics were sabotaged at times and the slowness in matching the intensity of younger and faster teams revealed flaws in the transition and defensive schemes. Once described as the softest and harmless franchise, suddenly evaded all the instabilities and converted into a physical heavyweight. In other words, the Lakers would have lasted in the Octagon, exchanging a brutal knock out punch.

What we desired was an NBA Finals rematch between two of the greatest bitter rivals in sports, wishing for a physical showdown after the Lakers were unemotional and lackadaisical in initiating minor skirmishes and dominating inside. But no longer are the Lakers fearful or reluctant, empowered to outweigh the older and sluggish Celtics.

For instance, it turned into a physical match in the early minutes when Ron Artest and Paul Pierce were tangled with their elbows underneath the basket before the forwards crashed to the floor in a scuffled that led to a pair of technical fouls. It’s an indicator that we are glancing at a physical and aggressive series, probably one of the greatest in NBA history and could extend to a seven game series if the Celtics pull off a win in Game 2 Sunday.

During the season, the Lakers were doomed in repeating for a title, but now the loudest crowd on Thursday night believes they’ll win a second straight championship and amass title No. 16. It’s very overwhelming to see the Lakers rebound after coasting to a breezy 102-89 demolition to take Game One of the NBA Finals, assuring doubters and disbelievers.

After all, the fiercest of them all resides in L.A., and seems unbeatable and invincible as Pau Gasol moved the ball inside, as Artest taunted and heckled Pierce with his stellar defensive effort, forcing the veteran forward to accumulate fouls, and as Bryant weaved through the uncontested lane dominating the paint. It was a shaky night in which Pierce finished with 24-points on 6 for 13 shooting and appeared frustrated while in foul trouble.

But the Lakers were determined and hardly forgotten about the dreadful disappointment two years ago, ready to erase the ghastly afterthoughts. On a flawless night, the hostile Lakers faithful chanted unpleasantly at Boston. It’s a team they truly loathe, dating back to the ‘60s-‘80s era. When the Lakers blew open a large deficit late, fans started chanting, “BOSTON SUCKS, BOSTON SUCKS!”

For nearly two years, Bryant has waited for a moment to seek vengeance after it all ended so humiliatingly in the NBA Finals. What a difference a year makes, watching the Lakers grow and mellow into a physical and forceful core, which now isn’t an easy out. Because Los Angeles is more experience, angrier and vigorous, the fiercest competitors are playing with urgency and approach a game with a believable mindset.

With all the chemistry and reinforcements, Phil Jackson strongly believes the Lakers can beat their nemesis, delighted to have another shot at the Celtics and expunge sorrow and heartbreaking memories, presumably by winning it again. In the meantime, Kevin Garnett disappeared and tried to dunk, but failed to convert twice on uncontested attempts.

Most can recall when he used to be the renowned forward in the league and was clearly known for his turnaround jumpers and defensive force, but now is gradually declining in touches and making shots. He stands on wobbly knees, wearing ankle weights and obviously looks slower than two seasons ago when he shouted to the heavens after winning his first championship that “ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE!”

As it turns out, it seems highly impossible to win, especially when Gasol is defending and contesting every shot. He’s quicker than Garnett, establishing a post presence and becoming a shot blocker in the middle, no longer described as GaSoft. Remember, he was the scapegoat when the Lakers collapsed miserably to the Celtics two years ago, and condemned for his softness and incertitude. There’s no doubt that Gasol was the difference in Garnett’s faltering, coming in a competition Bryant scored 30 points and defensive specialist Artest handled the truth.

But as the spectators viewed from the stands, Boston’s sensational and mellowing point guard Rajon Rondo was a non-factor, and never really was involved in the offense. Whether it was rust or just a poor night, the Celtics will need the floor general to bring the intensity and return to regular form in Game 2.

He’s an essential piece to Boston’s functional offense, but whenever he has an off night the entire team tends to frail. It’s obvious that he creates and inspires the offense with his exceptional pocket passes and drives to the basket, setting up the brilliant offensive play. As for the Lakers, Gasol was the ripple-effect, scoring 28 points on 8 for 14 shooting and earned a trip to the foul line 10 times and led with 14 rebounds.

“Pau is the guy that has to be part of the scoring combo with Kobe. So he has to provide some of that for us in this series against probably one of the top defenders in the game,” said Jackson.

If the Lakers continue to play physical and assertively, then they’ll win the series. Turns out we were skeptical of the Lakers’ tenacity.

Kobe Tries to Cement Legacy As Lakers Pursue Revenge Over Archenemies

If he amasses his fifth ring in an infatuating postseason, the franchise that turned Kobe Bryant famous may want to dedicate and unveil a bronze statue of either the admirable or scorned superstar. If so, the self-proclaimed Black Mamba will stand tall accompanied by the late Los Angeles Lakers announcer Chick Hearn, hockey great Wayne Gretzky, former guard Magic Johnson and legendary boxer Oscar De La Hoya outside of Staples Center.

A couple of months ago, he became the greatest scorer in Lakers history, surpassing Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar with his unstoppable and fierce scoring as the most dominant finisher in the game. Ever since capturing 25,193 points in his remarkable career, he surpassed (Mr. Clutch) Jerry West, the former architect of the Lakers during two dynasties, who traded for Bryant in 1996 and revamped a prominent franchise around currently the most competitive shooting guard in the league.


He is a rare guard and clutch performer in a competitive game, when an influx of NBA stars has emerged within a fascinating league, to eschew an uneventful and inert era.

Now, he’s en route of accumulating his fifth championship, all in a town where he’s declared the renowned icon as opposed to the despised villain, derided and condemned for his arrogance and self-centered psyche.

But he has matured over the years, becoming a charismatic leader and a MVP-type player for his unselfishness and ability to control the leadership role. He’s a tougher player and more focused on winning championships, rather than being awarded individual accomplishments and conducts himself as a mentor, grooming the younger players as he passes his prime.

In a society that either loves or loathes the heroics of Bryant, we are persisting an endless debate on whether he’s more savvy or greater than Michael Jordan, who he is compared to frequently for the parallels with his pump-fake jumpers or turnaround jump shots. It’s simple to assume that he’s examined in contrast to MJ for owning four rings and leading a mini-dynasty in the prelude of a new decade.

For all those critics who dislike a special player, arguably in a generation when competition is steeper and engrosses the viewers minds, why would Kobe pay any mind to the negativity after rekindling and monopolizing the league by his captivating buzzer-beaters and non-stop thrilling shots? In comparison, he’s not similar to Jordan, but very close.

Honestly, there will never be another MJ. But if Kobe wins another ring, it would cement his legacy and place him in the company of Jordan.

With four rings, he needs two more to tie Jordan in the ring category and only three shy in owning seven rings. And a palatable explanation as to why critics hate Kobe so much is because the average critic is envious or detects arrogant vibes from a star player once in trouble for unlawful issues when he was accused of rape in Colorado.

Shortly after, he reclaimed popularity, managing to intrigue the game of basketball with his awe-inspiring finishes and unbelievable achievements. Relatively speaking, he has the No. 1 selling jersey in the league among all NBA players and at nearly every venue he receives mixed emotions from a hostile or compassionate crowd, overshadowing the talented and emerging stars in pro basketball.


Since he’s an impact player and considered as an elite guard because of his high performance level, he’s credited as one of the most unique guards to ever play the game. Kobe’s presence alone makes the NBA unique, defined as the game’s best finisher and unstoppable competitor, selling out a capacity crowd at Staples Center, a mum site unless he hijacks the final desperation moments with his successive shot making in an extravaganza known as the Kobe Show.

And if there’s one celebrity to witness the wildest event happening on Figueroa, it’s Jack Nicholson, the famous celeb who has a personalized seat on the sideline and scolds at officials whenever there’s a no-call or a bad call. While Bryant is the star and maestro of the Lakers, Nicholson is the team mascot and inspires the speechless crowd to cheer on L.A.

Nicholson loves L.A. and so does Kobe, who truly aims for a win every time he takes the court and buoys his teammates to have a prevailing mindset and play with toughness.

It’s acceptable to give the nod to Kobe, but just not on the same scale as MJ, until No. 24 wins seven or eight rings. Keep in mind, he’s on pace to win multiple titles in the next few years as long as the Lakers have a functional nucleus to remain championship destined.

Earlier in his career, he won three championships with Shaquille O’Neal as the most dynamic tandem in sports, until his feud with Shaq engendered a controversy and impaired an eternal dynasty in sports history, as well as his heated disputes with 10-time champ head coach Phil Jackson

When he walked away from the Lakers to take a hiatus, he wrote a book and ripped Kobe by stating that he was “uncoachable” and also mentioned that he tried to coax the egomaniacal Buss Family to trade the problematic guard.

As he’s on the verge of adding to his incredible ring collection, he’s amazingly revered for bringing in much revenue and triumph to a city that prides itself on basketball. Is he the most dominant ever? Who exactly knows?

Throughout his prosperous career, Jackson has been fortunate to coach a pair of the greatest players of all time. It’s suitable to describe Bryant as a G.O.A.T—the greatest of all time, given his 40 and 50-point games, his 81-point spectacle, becoming the youngest player to average a certain amount in points scored, and lastly surpassing West in the most points scored as a Laker.

If he never wins a championship again, what more is there to accomplished?


He’s already the most accomplished athlete, and should be focused on avenging an embarrassing 39-point loss to his archenemies and hated rivals the Boston Celtics in the NBA Finals. More than ever, he’s still furious and disgusted over the way it ended so painfully, ready to secure revenge against Boston in the best-of-seven series with Game One beginning Thursday night in Los Angeles.

If he was to write a journal on his agenda amid an unbridled quest, he’ll be strictly focused on returning the favor to the Celtics, wearing his brutal game face by scowling and grinding his teeth. What’s more appealing about Kobe "Bean" Bryant is that he played the last few seasons with fractured index fingers, banged up knees and ankles, but still managed to score and average an outrageous amount in the point ratio.

He’s playing with insulting negligence, fueling the overlooked Kobe to endure incredible performances by capping an incomparable scoring average.

That alone justifies that he’s the greatest playing in the game during a generation when an abundance of players are ignored as marketers airing silly commercial ads of Kobe as a puppet or photos of him embarrassingly wearing a top hat and bow tie. Even if his teammates are flaky and enigmatic on numerous occasions, Bryant will have that frightening stare, the scariest and evilest facial expression in sports.

After all, the Black Mamba is the equivalent of the fiercest scorer on earth.

Lakers-Celtics Rivalry Renewed: You Wished Upon a Rivalry and Got It

The fiercest scorer in basketball wasn’t wearing a scowl on his face, one of the most formidable facial expressions in sports, but he was ultimately instrumental in a critical Game Six on the road.

He seemed much too earnest in a hostile environment, the atmosphere where inhospitable fans chanted unpleasantly at Kobe Bryant.

It wasn’t long ago when the Los Angeles Lakers were discombobulated and nearly delayed of returning to the NBA Finals for a rematch against the bitter rivals the Boston Celtics.

A few days ago, the defending champs were dysfunctional and portrayed as an elusive unit, gradually faltering against the competent Phoenix Suns.

In two games, the Suns embarrassingly sent a statement, smearing a reputation of the Lakers, a franchise wrapped in mystique and built with the most talent.

The second unit outplayed and outhustled Team Hollywood, the core with the greatest superstar in a modern generation since the Michael Jordan regime, were vulnerable of unsettlingly losing in an alarming upset to the Suns.

Even when the majority anointed the Lakers, putting pressure on the defending champs to repeat back-to-back resiliency, the optimist forgot and ignored the strength and heart of the Suns, never realizing that the hottest team in the desert had L.A. on the brink of elimination in a 2-2 tie.

Suddenly, the Lakers bring nothing but perseverance, energy and emotion, avoiding the ideas of futility and lapses in a moment the most admirable franchise in L.A., normally wins a championship to fortify eminence and mystique.

A town that prides itself on basketball is intrigued to witness a fascinating and intense rematch against its long-time rivals, the Boston Celtics, an antagonist the Lakers faithful loathes greatly.

So what we’re about to witness is exactly what the average basketball loyalist desired, a Lakers-Celtics rematch. All the celebrities are in for a dramatic and physical showdown between a two hostile rivals.

Life in California revolves around the glamorous lifestyle of Hollywood, but also revolves around the breathtaking finishes of Bryant’s clutch shots and the purple and gold topping the NBA in amazing feats.

It’s fair to suggest that we are glancing at a postseason of blood, massacres and mortals, so fittingly the Lakers vs. Celtics is the greatest rivalry in sports, publicizing an event once again in existence to magnetize a series that will likely be decided in seven games.

All the people wished for the dream series, and now are fortunate to relive a storied rivalry in sports. When the Lakers won 111-103 over the Suns Saturday night clinching the Western Conference championship and advanced to its 31st finals appearance, it’s also the 12th meeting against the Celtics in the NBA Finals.

Once again, the Lakers are enduring a rematch to redeem a heartbreaker two seasons ago, woefully humiliated and dismantled in the formidable 39-point loss in Game Six of the finals in Boston.

That year, the Celtics earned its 17th banner. That year, the Lakers suffered an egregious letdown, departing a town disgusted and embarrassed.

For a long awaited Lakers-Celtics series, we can only expect it to be physical and vigorous, a ripple effect that advertises tradition and appealing basketball in the next couple weeks.

So now, the Lakers realizes much is at stake after winning to advance to the finals for the third consecutive season to meet the villains of the Eastern Conference and the most hated team in Southern California.

For weeks the Lakers have made adjustments and enhanced the level of performance by executing and upgrading the game plan, surviving on the heroics of Bryant’s ability to seize a game with his successive shot making and mental capacity.


The ultimate goal, of course, is to win the 16th championship in franchise history and move inches closer of tying the Celtics at 17 titles, but will need the essentials to unhinge Boston.

Even if The Big Three are older, aging and past the prime years, the Lakers will have to produce and raise the intensity level.

The blueprint is to avenge a disastrous loss, without having a sluggish mindset for apathy and very little soundness.

Throughout the postseason, the Lakers deteriorated on a numerous occasions before returning to normalcy late in the series, riddled by the younger and faster Oklahoma City Thunder and outplayed and outhustled convincingly against the Suns.

And it wasn’t long ago when Figueroa Avenue was hopeless and deprived of pouring the streets to celebrate a Lakers victory, distraught about an unfavorable letdown faltering against its assassin.

If you are willing to erase any agonizing afterthoughts of the awful ending to a momentous season two years ago, then you are probably wishes for the ultimate beat down.

It’s a team on the East Coast that die hard Lakers fans love to hate, realizing the home team has a shot at redemption and owns home court advantage in the 2-3-2 format.

The pressure is clearly on the Lakers, losers of nine of the 11 Finals during the 51-year rivalry. It’s amazing how they have been to 10 more finals, but the C’s have won two more titles, labeled as the winningest franchise in pro basketball.

Flirting with the possibility of winning it all over the most hated rivals, the Lakers refused to suffer, yet, another heartbreaker, more matured and prepared for the biggest series.

It’s impossible to predict a winner, but easy to admit that the Lakers seeks revenge, looking to take down their longtime foes. Of all the hype and hearsay on the upcoming series, the Lakers are faster and younger than the aging Celtics.

Unlike a year ago, they are hungrier and have strengthened the roster and style within the triangle offense.

The difference is that Bryant is still disappointed with the devastating loss that sabotaged spirit, and even greater, Pau Gasol isn’t as soft in the middle, now attacking with much stamina and heart.

And let’s not forget about Ron Artest, the defensive-minded forward who will make it miserable and difficult for Paul Pierce to score.

“We’ll see…we’ll see how much we matured,” Kobe Bryant said after scoring a mere 37 points to drive the Lakers to a win. “The Celtics challenged us two years ago…now it’s a test to see how much we’ve grown.”

Had he not taken over in the fourth quarter to stop the Lakers from blowing a comfortable lead, the Suns might have forced a Game Seven Monday at Staples Center.

But as usual, Bryant came close to a triple-double three times, and more importantly, knocked down a desperation jumper from the right side with 34.2 seconds.

Nonetheless, this is what each avid fan base expected, a Lakers-Celtics rematch, and a long-awaited match. The other night Boston fans chanted blatantly “Beat L.A.”

Feelings are mutual as the Lakers fans chanted friendlier “We want Boston” repeatedly.

“They’re physical,” Jackson said.

In short, Artest is physical too, and began surging on offense. Ever since going from goat to hero, he has scored by making mid-range jumpers and hitting the shots inside.

He made 10 of 16 shots, four of seven from three-point range and led all scorers in the first half. Remember, his miraculous game-winning put back on Bryant’s miss as the clock expired in Game 5 shifted the dynamic of the series.

Most importantly, the Lakers are as balanced as Boston and may even be slightly better. No longer are they soft or intimidated by the Celtics’ Kevin Garnett trotting in the line to collect rebounds or fire a shot.

No longer will they allow an unstoppable and older Paul Pierce to drive inside to draw fouls or score on the well-executed layup, not if he’s shut down by Artest.

It’s a defensive advantage, given that Artest is known for frustrating and getting in the face of his opponent. And no longer will Rajon Rondo undeniably speed by the Lakers defense, only if Bryant is assigned to guard the explosive guard.

He’s the one star player who may actually scowl and frown, becoming the Black Mamba, still anxious on seeking revenge.

Now is the time since Andrew Bynum’s defensive presence is factor and could stand as a tandem with Gasol, two seven-footers who match the size of Kendrick Perkins and Garnett.

He missed all the action two years ago, while struggling with a knee injury, but his oversized body could outweigh the Celtics if he doesn’t perform like a bust.

It’s interesting to see which team comprises of more willpower and heart. Expect it to be really bloody and physical, but expect the stronger team to win the series.

Maybe that’s the Lakers or even the Celtics. What we’re presumably witnessing is the most epic classics in sports of all time.

Lakers-Celtics relives.

Ron Artest Salvages Must-Needed Win for Lakers, Overshadows Any Tumults

There are times, such as moments when someone needs a wondrous moment to avoid doubts and ongoing criticism, realizing that he was viewed as a narcissistic nutcase with problematic outbursts throughout his troubling seasons in the NBA.

Labeled as a miserable thug for initiating bizarre melees during games by losing it on the floor and throwing tantrums and provoking altercations with a blatant crowd, Ron Artest is no longer perceived as the problem-child. He’s no longer a psychotic goon for his stupidity and absurd madness in previous seasons, but a savior at the right time.

By the end of a disappointing and fluctuate Game Four loss, Kobe Bryant was asked during a postgame interview about his feelings while in despair over a disengaging defeat and he said sarcastically that he was “jovial.”

If he was filled with euphoria, he indeed was on a night a noiseless and a motionless Staples Center exploded when Artest put back Bryant’s miss as time expired to beat the buzzer in a breathtaking 103-101 win over the Phoenix Suns.

This was the portrait of an underachieving superstar salvaging a must-needed win, protecting home-court advantage and taking a commanding 3-2 lead in the Western Conference Finals, now one win away from returning to the NBA Finals for the third straight season to defend its title.

So now, before critics berate and ridicule a defensive-minded player with the resemblance of Dennis Rodman, understand that his heroics may have saved the Los Angeles Lakers in facing potential doom.

Before critics affirm any doubt in his disappointing and awful performances since signing with the Lakers, understand that his inconceivable game-winning shot will always be remembered in franchise history, especially if the Lakers win its second consecutive championship.

All the celebrities and season-ticket holders witness a jovial night and celebrated once Artest’s awkward layup dropped in. Then, at the end of a miraculous finish, Bryant pumped his fist and wrapped Artest in a bear hug as the nerve-racking crowd roared, relived of a potential relapse and meltdown in what may have extended into a thrilling overtime.

His teammates heckled the forward who seemed lost in the series and struggled to find the intended target from beyond the perimeter, celebrating a miracle to alleviate tense emotions and the notion of elimination.

Unwisely, he attempted an ill-advised three-pointer with 56.9 seconds remaining and possessed a fresh shot clock. He often committed foolish blunders, but none as fatuous as taking an execrable shot with much at stake.


Moments later, he walked slowly and embarrassingly to the bench when the Suns called a timeout. It’s apparent that he had to redeem himself of nearly costing the Lakers a loss at home for selfishly shooting, instead of burning time or finding his teammates, knowing his inconsistency in shot making lately.

Leading by three points, barely holding on against the vintage Suns, he ended up with the ball and foolishly fired. It nearly endangered the Lakers season after he missed woefully and gave the Suns a chance to steal a road game, before traveling back to Phoenix.

Long ago, Artest was the dumbest thug and migrated to Hollywood in hopes to win his first championship alongside Bryant, but he was scolded by Phil Jackson near the bench and described as the dumbest clown in the league for launching one as a prayer.

That almost doomed the Lakers when Suns sharpshooting guard Jason Richardson banked in a three-pointer. Over the years, Artest has mellowed, but no one has forgotten the Malice at the Palace, the most devastating brawl in NBA history, when he charged the stands and attacked a fan.

Never has it been easy to understand his mind, a peculiar and weird dude declared a psycho for all his poor judgments and anger outbursts, becoming a greater nuisance than Brett Favre begging to comeback, Terrell Owens weeping about fewer touches, or Manny Ramirez performing his ridiculous antics.

I guess critics or people in general will think wisely before insisting that he doesn’t shoot, but strictly implement in-your-face, physical defense to counterbalance an opposing superstar, such as nemesis Paul Pierce of the Celtics, if the Lakers and Celtics advances to the NBA Finals.

“Everyone was saying, ‘Don’t shoot. Don’t shoot.’ You know, there was a point in time when I shot 40 percent on threes,” said Artest. “I’ve hit a lot of shots before.”


With 3.5 seconds remaining, Artest was the player least expected to score the game-winning shot and alarm a tense and terrified environment, realizing the Lakers were in trouble if they failed to win at home before traveling to Phoenix in a sudden death situation.

Like always, the play was designed for Bryant to hit the game-winning shot at the buzzer, but he was trapped on the sideline and double-teamed tightly by Steve Nash and Grant Hill.

As a result, he forced an off-balance pump-fake jump shot, only to fall short for an air ball. And moments later, there was Artest bailing out the Lakers by grabbing the rebound and hurling his unbelievable put back that initiated the biggest celebration at Staples Center and outside on Figueroa Ave.

“He has an uncanny knack of doing this, and sometimes it just works out,” Jackson said.

The Lakers have won 11 straight postseason games at home. Artest’s heroics installed much hopefulness, but they’ll need assertiveness and awareness in Phoenix to avoid a Game Seven. It seemed that Bryant, who had 30 points, 11 rebounds, and 9 assists, isn’t the only clutch shooter with Artest capping redemption.

In an unhappy ending, the heartbreaking loss has the Suns in a must-win situation, needing two more wins to survive a compelling series. For whatever reason, Phoenix abandoned the 2-3 zone defense, a successful formation that has offset the Lakers, who were fortunate to win after blowing an 18-point lead.

Despite all the talent and depth within a solid bench, the Suns vanished in all levels of the game. By the stellar performance, Nash and the Suns bench keep hopes alive, and Phoenix almost pulled off the stunning upset on the road Thursday. For much of the game, Alvin Gentry, the head coach of the Suns, was bothered by a sour stomach and suffered an illness on the sideline, needing a trash can to vomit on the bench.

But seemingly from out of nowhere, Artest knocked down a game-winner in clutch moments, merely scoring four points on 2 for 9 shooting and had five rebounds, two assists and three steals.

“I don’t know why I left him in the game,” Jackson said. “I actually questioned it myself,” he said, smiling.

Maybe his amazing shot answers the question. He can practically shoot.

If Phil Jackson Desires Coaching Please Ignore the Hearsay In Chicago

The entire world recognizes that Phil Jackson is one of the most decorated coaches in the history of the NBA by accomplishing more than the average coach. Aside from all the LeBron James melodrama that has captivated attention as he becomes a free agent this summer, the Chicago Bulls are pursuing an extreme makeover to revamp around a young and talented team.

It’s easy to forget that James, who is the biggest curiosity in sports, is the blockbuster name on the market this summer, when reportedly Phil Jackson, the greatest coach in sports history, is speculated to leave Los Angeles and return to Chicago.

While simultaneously applauding the hippie of the ‘70s era and perfectionist with 10 rings, he’s targeted by the Bulls if James signs with Chicago this summer. It’s understandable that his unique coaching trends are the genetics of a psychologist entertaining a mysterious patient with mind games.

There is rumor lingering that he’ll return to Chicago and rebuild a foundation among a turbulent franchise, operated by an embattled general manager, John Paxson. The maelstrom of an underachieving franchise is gently dismantling under Paxson’s poor personnel decisions.

And since the ending of the Michael Jordan reign in Chicago, the Bulls have collapsed and plunged, becoming inferior within the Eastern Conference and harmless in making a paramount playoff run, merely winning one playoff series in years.

The state of the Bulls, seemingly, illustrates a promising future when the franchise brings in a finesse head coach and a savvy superstar to join the growing tandem of Derrick Rose and Joakim Noah. However, if James was to sign with the Bulls, he’ll have a supporting cast with Rose, a priceless point guard who could dish the ball to LeBron as he levitates for one of his electrifying dunks.

It’s sensible to suggest that he’ll accept an offer sheet from the Bulls, despite playing in the shadows of the legendary guard of all-time Jordan. He realizes that he’ll have an easy task, sharing the ball with Noah, a flourishing post player energized to break out in conclusive moments.

It’s probably a mutual notion for Phil, the Zen Master as well, who has mettle that he could mold and develop a talented core in Chicago. As the President of the United States lobbies for James, some are persuading Jackson to come back and resuscitate the disoriented Bulls, with his well-respected coaching method.

Given his resume of amassing a total of 10 titles with two franchises, his name makes the most sense. But a reunion with Jackson isn’t such an ingenious conception and doesn’t seem realistic, simply for aiming closer towards retirement.

If he ever leaves the Lakers, Jackson would depart from coaching to hang up a miraculous career and avoid the unnecessary stress and burdens of rebuilding framework surrounding two top-tier players. The Lakers are amongst a back-to-back title run, but now are interrupted with all the hoopla and an ongoing saga of Jackson possibly eluding the Hollywood life to reside in a lively Chi-Town.

It was late Monday when ESPN reported that Jackson was inquired to return to an avid sports town, where most of his success was derived, winning six championships with Jordan amid NBA’s greatest dynasty. If anything, he remains the head coach of the Lakers and whistles from the sideline at Staples Center.

Even if he has a reputation in transforming a substandard team, owner Jerry Buss will encourage Jackson and do whatever it takes to retain the masterful mentor of staying a couple of years before leaving, though he has urged that he’ll reduce his salary from $12.5 million yearly to $5 million.

What this means for his future status is uncertain, but assuming that he’s in a relationship with Buss’ daughter, Jeanie, the Lakers’ executive president and the boss of Jackson, abandoning the fabulous celebrity life seems illogical. Last month, Jeanie admittedly informed her companion that Jerry wants Jackson to take an enormous pay cut and said she envisions him coaching elsewhere next season.

But if he does backtrack to the Bulls' turbulent organization, until owner Jerry Reinsdorf overcomes his stubborn ways or sell the franchise for the fans sake, he’ll run into unnecessary chaos and headaches, needless anxiety for a 64-year old attempting to reinforce aspiration within the mediocrity of the Bulls.

So this is suddenly what all the people are chatting about, Jackson’s next coaching position. I personally think he needs to retire after this season, especially if he surpasses Red Auerbach with the most championships all time.

There comes a point in life when he’ll venture off to other things, rather than coaching and amassing championships. In recent years, his health status has raised concerns after having hip replacement surgery and battling health complications away from the court.

For those who can recall, he strongly considered to coach the home games and avoid traveling with the team because of the wear and tear on his body a year ago. But he recently appeared on Fox Sports Radio and was asked to discuss retirement plans, acknowledging the significance of his health before addressing a possible return.

“Well, I think it’s pretty good. It’s really about how I feel about getting into another 82-game season. It’s a commitment,” he said.

This developing story stuck the news on the day the Cleveland Cavaliers canned Mike Brown after two consecutive 60-win seasons, but now Jackson is offered a deal to re-sign with a franchise he sustained much praise and won championships before coming to Los Angeles, where he won another three.

It’s more likely that he’ll retire and avoid the dire confusion, damaging a formerly winnable personality ever since Paxson stepped into the personnel role. Not long ago, he prompted a verbal altercation with Vinny Del Negro, who he recently fired after two inefficient seasons, even though he damn near led the Bulls pass the first round against the Boston Celtics last year.

Why accept a job offer with headaches? Phil’s best option is retiring as the greatest pro coach in sports history, accomplishing nearly the improbable as the crafty and winningest mastermind.

And if LeBron doesn’t sign with Chicago, maybe he’ll persuade the ownership to bring in good friend John Calipari, when he already told reporters that he’ll remain Kentucky’s head coach at the collegiate level. For the most part, Jackson departed on bad terms and had a bitter relationship with Reinsdorf, when his agent Todd Musburger lambasted the Bulls’ general manager Jerry Krause.

Realizing that he’s getting older, tired of traveling regularly, and earned his fair share of championships and wins, expect him to retire and call it quits for good. Of course, Obama wishes for a reunion, just as well as a LeBron welcoming, but as it turns out, none of this may actually come true.

At least, it’s not the Phil hearsay.

Lakers Keep Us Guessing, Kobe's Toughness Keeps Hope Alive

What, the team representing Hollywood has finally awakened?

If the Lakers establish the difference between a riddle and legitimacy, then maybe celebrities and non-celebs in L.A. will understand the minds of a defending champ.

So now, we are left in a mystery in a year the Lakers wilted and deteriorated to the younger and inexperienced Oklahoma City Thunder, a team that has broken down the Lakers' disoriented (of late) franchise with blazing speed, heart, and athleticism.

The image of the Lakers' erratic postseason has brainwashed our senses, awed and touched by Kevin Durant to suddenly become Durant-addicts and adore his shooting extravaganza.

In an unpredictable postseason, the Lakers have found ways to alleviate near-tragedy, and have recovered from humiliation. Mired in disarray, somehow the Lakers returned to championship form and rebounded by playing aggressively and energetically in Tuesday's Game Five.

Even if the Lakers survive the Thunder, a team with nothing to lose amid an inconceivable postseason run, Kobe Bryant, the man with the hideous facial expressions, will have to wear more than just a ferocious game face.

He’ll have to orchestrate aggressive physical defense and find ways to slow down the explosiveness of the young and speedy Thunder.

And just when it seemed as though his body was breaking down, Kobe still executes and leads the Lakers almost as if in his prime. This isn’t the Black Mamba the world has grown accustomed to, though some may still loathe his one-man team playing and reckless jumpshots.

Even if he is arrogant and self-centered, the fact still remains that he could win multiple titles and surpass the legendary Michael Jordan with the most championship rings as an NBA superstar.

As Kobe enters the late stages of his accomplished career, he’s become notably less selfish, and has been setting up teammates for easy shots inside the paint.

It’s an atmosphere in which celebrities produce TV shows and movies.


If there’s ever been a captivating regular scene in Hollywood, it’s the Kobe Show, a dramatic, mesmerizing basketball spectacle. He always sets the tone, which has been a blueprint to championships during his remarkable career in Los Angeles.

With an injured Kobe, the question now becomes can the Lakers repeat for another NBA Championship?

Whether or not the decision to keep Kobe on the court with injuries in the postseason has backfired for Phil Jackson's Lakers is debatable. In this disappointing first round, he has been shooting under 40 percent, but has also been getting his teammates involved, limiting himself to 16-20 shots per game.

Kobe has so far withstood two broken fingers on his shooting hand, wobbly knees, a bruised elbow, hamstring issues, and back spasms. He has still played. He has still attempted shots.

He has still bailed the Lakers out of tough situations, such as drilling buzzer-beaters and hard-driving in the paint.

Like it or not, Kobe’s health status raises concern, even if he wants all people to believe that he's robust.

If he’s not healthy enough to be on the court in pivotal minutes of a tight game, then the Lakers chances of sustaining the back-to-back triumph could be tarnished.

With the way things have been going, it seems that Kobe is incapable of scoring 40-plus points. Just look at his performance in Game Four, when the Thunder pummeled the Lakers at the Ford Center in front of a delirious and rambunctious crowd. In that game, the Thunder kept Kobe from even getting a shot up in the first 15 minutes.

Not long ago, Kobe signed an $83.5 million extension that will pay him $30.4 million in 2013-14. As the years have progressed, he has matured and trusted in his teammates to produce.

This made for a markedly different Game Five, in which he was a playmaker and facilitator, passing the ball to teammates to create the better play, at times even in situations when he could have taken the open jumpshot.

Kobe may be a bit slower in his step and not as explosive as he used to be on the inside, but he’s still the determined and competitive superstar for Los Angeles.

By delivering on both ends of the court, Kobe held Russell Westbrook, the Thunder’s explosive guard, to 4-of-13 in field goals, and forced him to commit eight turnovers. This was enough to save the battered Lakers from doom.

They took a quick lead in the beginning of the game, and bounced back in a 111-87 rout to take a 3-2 lead in the Western Conference quarterfinals.

Kobe had once again saved the Lakers, and he is praised for accepting the challenge of shutting down Westbrook. His team even kept Kevin Durant, the youngest player ever to lead the league in scoring, to only 17 points.

The Lakers have gained more momentum with the impressive game of Paul Gasol, who had 25 points on 10-of-16 shooting, 11 rebounds, and five assists. Their gigantic center, Andrew Bynum, also had two dunks in the first five minutes.

We never know what to expect from the Lakers in the playoffs, but you certainly cannot rule L.A. out of the championship equation, especially if Kobe is healthy and ready to play.

Andrew Bynum Stands as Dominant Force, Lakers Are Alive, Dangerous

In any other city, any other basketball franchise or any other loyalist residing anywhere other than Los Angeles, are burnt out of the Lakers and inclined to see the biggest attraction under the bright lights in Hollywood descend.


Lately, the town has been obligated and worried about the Lakers, a common reaction in a community always trying to figure out an enigmatic franchise with arguably the most talent.

For all the weird and eccentric meltdowns, the primary major sporting franchise declined in previous weeks and all the relentless predictions of a potential back-to-back conquest tapered.

So there were the Lakers, in the finest win this season, brainwashing us with second thoughts to whether they can repeat, jubilate and gaze at a 17th championship banner rise to the rafters at Staples Center, and even partake in another parade on Figueroa Street.

Suddenly, the egomaniacal Buss Family can sleep tonight, Kobe Bryant can wipe the sweat from his head and relax, and a raucous crowd can believe in purple and gold.

A week ago, the Lakers scared the hell out of me. And it wasn’t always a soothing or wonderful outlook, when the Lakers barely won games in the regular-season with their lackadaisical and soft responses.

A week ago, the Lakers made me nauseated, but now they have alleviated my soul and convinced us that they are still the defending champs, until someone else pummels the hell out of them.

It’s no longer necessary to have Lakers flags at half mast on any vehicle, but hoist all flags high, flaunting team pride and support. It happened all so quickly, accustomed to the peculiar and perplexing reactions in basketball contest.

But suddenly the Lakers improved overnight, reducing shakiness and inactivity at least to some extent.

In a diverse town that comes together whenever the Lakers uplifts an entire community with entertaining hoops and breathtaking moments, courtesy of the Kobe Show, the Team of L.A. is still distinguished as a baffling riddle. The main event in L.A. percolated when the Lakers won a pivotal game, exhilarating a frenzied crowd and the team's mascot Jack Nicholson, a righteous supporter who inspires a dull crowd to maximize the volume as a blatant and inquisitive crowd.

The problem seems to be injuries and aging bodies, slowing down the Lakers as a potent and experienced team. It’s too often you hear that they are soft. It’s too often you hear that they are aging. It’s too often you hear that they aren’t a perennial force.

It’s too often you hear that Phil Jackson can’t win without his long-time consultant, Tex Winter. And it’s too often you hear that Kobe Bryant breaks down.

Earlier in the season forward Ron Artest, who the Lakers signed as a free agent and took advantage of his availability mainly for his persona defensively, said he’s worth blaming if Los Angeles humiliates itself and fails to sustain back-to-back exhilaration.

But considering all the injuries and softness, the Lakers were minorities in the playoffs and not even close to matching the starved Denver Nuggets or the active Dallas Mavericks.

Of all the craziness, up and down performances, the Lakers excelled in Game 1 of the first-round. The effulgent dynasty and Kobe’s regime isn’t completed, after the brilliant performance in front of a delirious crowd in a Sunday matinee.

And now, here we have Andrew Bynum on the rise, overcoming his frequent injuries and manipulating the interior with his height advantage over a much smaller team. It was embarrassing and agonizing when the Lakers barely survived the second half of the season without deteriorating.

That wasn’t a good sign nonetheless, to finish out the season just 16-12 since the All-Star break. That’s no longer imperative when the Lakers finally come alive.


Ever seen Bynum play the dominant role as an intimidating center? Not long ago, he was an overpaid bust, not measuring up to standards and spending quality games on the bench, nursing injuries.

The aura of the overrated seven-foot giant was fearless, inactive and unintimidating. But in a critical game when every player’s presence was felt, the only thing that stopped Bynum was his shortness of breath.

It’s about time he makes his name relevant, playing like the dominant force he’s supposed to be in the middle and making everyone else involved. He rendered signs of fatigued, but set the tone early and ignited the crowd with an electrifying one-handed dunk over a defenseless and smaller Nenad Krstic in the second quarter that extended the lead to 17.

Some will call this a nice win -- mind you -- not Kobe. Once time expired to end regulation, he met with ABC reporter Lisa Salters near the tunnel and told her “It wasn’t pretty.” No one ever said it was going to be pretty.

But if anything, it’s going to be competitive and challenging. He poured in 18 points, but wasn’t as impressive as the two seven-footers who played and seemed like the fiercest tandem, taller than the average player in a 87-79 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder, a young and inexperienced team.

He was simply missed and sidelined, wearing street clothes since March 19, but returned as a key component in good health from his 13-game absence and scored 13 points on 6-for-10 shooting.

He was exceptional on the boards, too. He’s a good man. And he has the knack to probably be one of the biggest centers in Lakers’ history, by growing and monitoring his health.

Ever since the Lakers have been in existence, they’ve had possession of dominant centers, such as Wilt Chamberlain, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Shaquille O’Neal, the Superman who is not the same dominant center.

If Bynum keeps bullying and scoring inside, he’ll fit within the category of a history of centers. He had a career high with 12 rebounds and four blocks, all while playing 31 minutes.

This takes much pressure off Kobe and Pau Gasol, making it easier for the seven-footer to knock down the midrange jump shot and amass 19 points, 13 rebounds and three blocks.

He’s the center and the center of focus. Most of the time, he was aggressive and earnest to produce in a decisive game.

And it benefited the Lakers, improving their recent progress. And now the boys from L.A., with the Giant of the West, are scary to face as long as Bynum dominates the interior.

“The more I keep playing with this aggressive nature, I think I’m going to get better at it and I think my teammates will trust me even more with the basketball and we’ll just keep building,” Bynum said.

The sensational Kevin Durant, who was contained efficiently by Ron Artest and Kobe, wasn’t a factor like most had foretold but it was Bynum.

They might not have all the juggernauts, but considering that their monstrous center has come alive, the Lakers can repeat after all. He’s not fully healthy, but he’s good enough to stand as a vital factor.

I wouldn’t put anything past the big fella.