Thriller Ron might be gone, but there's video evidence to the contrary
Most of you have probably heard by now that Lakers forward Ron Artest has changed to jersey No. 15. That's right, his ode to Michael Jackson -- wearing No. 37 in honor of "Thriller" being No. 1 on the charts for 37 weeks -- lasted one season. Well, one very important championship season, mind you.
Although some were thrilled when Artest joined the Lakers' ranks, bringing hard-nosed defense, a supernatural intensity and at times otherworldly three-point shooting, many thought keeping Trevor Ariza might be better in the long run. And in the short term for team chemistry. Although time will tell if Artest wears out his welcome or his usefulness, such as getting into Twitter wars or missing a vast majority of his long-range shots, the Lakers have him to thank, in part, for another championship and some thrilling highlights.
So, in homage to Ron-Ron, MJ (the original, not Logoman 23) and the wonders of video editing and YouTube, I bring you "Thriller Ron," a video put together by a friend of mine, Matt Shaffer. He posted it during the NBA Finals in the spring. Some of you might have seen it. If so, I hope you enjoy it the second time around. For the rest of you Laker-holics, experience the transformation:
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The New Orleans Saints Recruiting NBA's Derek Fisher
So what does the NFL defending world champions want with the NBA star guard? Derek Fisher is the only member of the Los Angeles Lakers team that shares all five championships with Kobe Bryant and Phil Jackson. The five titles that Kobe Bryant and Derek Fisher have won together include two sets of back-to-back titles. The New Orleans Saints have successfully recruited Derek Fisher to give a motivational talk to the Saints before their opening home game on September 9th (2010). The main purpose of Derek Fisher's presence is to discuss what it takes to win consecutive championships on a professional level in sports.
Do you think they chose Derek Fisher instead of Kobe Bryant because of Kobe's tainted image or was Derek cheaper?
Do you think they chose Derek Fisher instead of Kobe Bryant because of Kobe's tainted image or was Derek cheaper?
Derek Caracter Changes Number
Lakers roster update: rookie Derrick Caracter has decided to wear jersey # 45 instead of originally planned # 58.
Lakers catch a break in their 2010-11 schedule
According to number-crunching BasketballProspectus.com, the Chicago Bulls, Milwaukee Bucks and Atlanta Hawks each got stuck with 23 back-to-backs in 2010-11, topping the dreaded B2B list. It's the second straight season the Bulls have led the NBA in this grind-it-out category.
Meanwhile, the Lakers will play the fewest, with 15 sets of back-to-backs.
Does this matter? Yes, given that the Lakers have nine thirtysomethings on their roster (Ron Artest, Matt Barnes, Steve Blake, Kobe Bryant, Derek Fisher, Pau Gasol, Lamar Odom, Theo Ratliff and Luke Walton); this schedule should give them a little breather as they try for a three-peat.
Kevin Durant MVP favorite over Kobe Bryant?
It’s only a gambling site, but Bodog.com says Kevin Durant, who turns 22 in September, is the favorite to lay money on to win the regular-season MVP award in 2010-11, with odds of 5/2.Remember the Rolling Stone story last spring that declared Kobe Bryant had dropped to the third-best player in the NBA, behind LeBron James and "Durantula"?
Well, the gambling site’s MVP odds mix that up a bit.
They make old man Kobe, who just turned 32, the second favorite in the MVP chase at 3/1 odds. And LeBron James, who is 26 but is going for a three-peat this season in his collection of MVP awards, is pegged at a 9/2 favorite. Perhaps James isn’t listed any higher because this season he will have to share the ball in Miami with Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh.
Rounding out Bodog's top five MVP candidates are D-Wade (9/1) and Carmelo Anthony (at 12/1).
Meanwhile, the site pegs Kentucky point guard John Wall, who was picked No. 1 by the Washington Wizards in June, as the leading NBA rookie of the year candidate at 5/4 odds.
Guess who’s No. 2? Clippers forward Blake Griffin, who should be entering his second NBA season, except he didn’t play in a regular season game in 2009-10 after having surgery on his kneecap. So, Griffin is an 11/4 favorite to nab the rookie award.
All-time Lakers versus all-time Celtics ... guess who wins?
The Celtics may have a slight lead over the Lakers in NBA championships, 17-16, but which of the two storied franchises would win if their all-time best players and coaches squared off?According to the Bleacher Report, it's the Lakers.
After comparing each team's all-time best players (at their peak), position by position, and doing the same with the coaches, the site gave the Lakers a 4-2 advantage.
The Lakers edge the Celtics at center ("Shaq playing at his peak level would be the most dominant force. Boston would have no one that could effectively stop him one-on-one"), shooting guard ("Behind Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant and Jerry West are the best shooting guards in the league's history"), point guard ("A great aspect of the Lakers' backcourt is its versatility. Besides Goodrich and Magic, Kobe and West would be perfectly adept at running the point") and coach ("While Auerbach is one of the greatest coaches in NBA history, Phil Jackson is arguably the best. ... Perhaps right behind Jackson and Auerbach in the annals of NBA coaching greats is Pat Riley.").
Boston gets the edge at power forward ("The power forward position is one of the weaker areas on the all-time Lakers team. By default, Pau Gasol is the best pure power forward in the team's history") and small forward ("Although the talent on the Lakers' side is impressive, Boston has a better counter punch. Larry Bird may be the best premier shooter in NBA history. ... Paul Pierce is another excellent all-around player for the Celtics").
Ron Artest, Matt Barnes: Creating Order Out of Chaos For The LA Lakers
Try to imagine former Laker Trevor Ariza defending Oklahoma City's Kevin Durant or the Boston Celtics' Paul Pierce in the postseason, and you may get a clearer picture.
Artest had his moments on the offensive end for the Lakers, and none were bigger than his last second shot to defeat the Phoenix Suns in Game Five of the Western Conference Finals, or his three pointer in the closing minutes of Game Seven of the NBA Finals against Boston.
But Artest's offense was secondary to the stifling defense he played on Durant and Pierce, and the playoffs were an illustration of why he was so coveted by the Lakers.
Artest helped change the league's perception of the Lakers as a soft team, and the acquisition of Matt Barnes in the offseason looks like another step in that direction.
Many observers questioned whether or not the quirky Artest could blend in with the Lakers' precision-based scheme, and to be fair, there are merits in that line of thought.
Artest never appeared fully comfortable within the confines of the triangle offense, but as the season progressed it became apparent the Lakers didn't really need a lot of scoring from artest.
What they did need was Artest's rough edge and physical demeanor on the defensive end, and the enforcer mentality he conveys on the court.
The Lakers have a myriad of scoring options in Kobe Bryant, Pau Gasol, Andrew Bynum, and Lamar Odom. However, until Artest arrived there was no one who had the ability to physically dominate on the defensive end.
One of Artest's most attractive attributes is the chaos he creates by refusing to give ground on the defensive end, and his tendency to employ strategies which toe the line of thuggery.
Artest will reach, grab, bump, hold, or claw to gain an advantage over the opposition, and although those techniques would seem out of place with the Lakers' emphasis on rhythm, it was just what the team needed in the postseason.
It seems general manager Mitch Kupchak agrees, because his decision to sign Barnes may be based on the havoc Artest created on defense, and the potential to improve in that area.
Barnes gained notoriety for his willingness to physically engage Bryant while he was a member of the Orlando Magic last season, and although he may not be as accomplished as Artest, he brings a similar physical toughness to the Lakers.
Artest and Barnes symbolize the Lakers' dedication to defense, and even though the triangle offense will still be the image most associated with the team, it will be hard to ignore the defensive pressure the Lakers are capable of creating.
Los Angeles defended the three point line better than any team in the NBA last season, and they were second in rebounds behind the Chicago Bulls.
Opponents will find it difficult to gain an offensive advantage with Barnes, Bryant, and Artest patrolling the perimeter, and seven-footers Andrew Bynum and Pau Gasol roaming the paint.
In 2008, Los Angeles was physically abused by the Boston Celtics en route to a six game loss in the NBA Finals. Since that humiliating defeat an emphasis has been placed on getting tougher.
The Lakers victory over the Orlando Magic the following year proved they had made strides in reaching their goal, and last season' hard fought, physical victory over the Celtics showed they had finally arrived.
Next season the Lakers will be even more defensive-oriented as they try to win their third consecutive championship, and accomplish a second three-peat in a decade.
Artest and Barnes will be at the forefront of the Lakers' defensive efforts as they try to continue the trend that Artest began, by establishing order while creating chaos on the defensive end.
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How will Kobe Bryant spend his 32nd birthday?
It's a good thing Kobe Bryant's birthday is Monday instead of at some point during the NBA regular season. Everyone knows that if that were the case the Black Mamba would either a) forget when his birthday is, b) force himself to forget it so he's completely focused on basketball, c) get angry with birthday well-wishers and gifts because it's taking time away from the hardwood or d) all the above. With his 32nd birthday happening in the offseason, it's much more likely he's willing to celebrate. But given how Bryant is, you never know.
Below is a list of birthday scenarios for Bryant. Side note: I'd be interested in hearing what Lakers fans would get him for his birthday, how they think the player might celebrate and any birthday wishes for Bryant.
Below is a list of birthday scenarios for Bryant. Side note: I'd be interested in hearing what Lakers fans would get him for his birthday, how they think the player might celebrate and any birthday wishes for Bryant.
1. Uses birthday as motivation: Every time a family member, friend or fan wishes Bryant a happy birthday, he immediately lets out a scowl. With his assorted injuries last season, there were plenty of stories that suggested he was past his prime and that this was the latest sign that all that basketball mileage was catching up to him. With the report from Ball Don't Lie's Kelly Dwyer that argues Dwyane Wade is the league's best shooting guard still fresh in Bryant's mind, each birthday card and gift serves as a tangible reminder that he'll continue to hear questions about his age in the 2010-11 season. Instead of reading the cards, he watches a replay of Team USA's win over Spain to remind himself that injuries forced him to sit out. Instead of opening gifts, he heads to the gym to work on his game.
2. Spends birthday like any other day: Bryant spends Monday playing basketball and poring over game film not because he's angry about his age. He's just doing what he normally does -- hooping it up. As much as Bryant delighted in exacting revenge on his opponents, it was particularly revealing when he shared in his exit interview that he was mainly thrilled with the joy of winning. Bryant isn't in the gym today with something to prove. He's just doing what he loves best.
3. Rests: It's been what Bryant has been doing all of this offseason, so why should anything change? After playing in three consecutive NBA Finals and in the 2008 Olympics, Bryant finally conceded that it'd be much better to rest and repair the wear and tear on his body than to play in the 2010 FIBA World Championships. As indicated by his recent decision to sit out President Obama's recent pickup game, Bryant has abstained from basketball after having arthroscopic surgery on his right knee. Now all that's left is healing that right index finger.
4. Spends birthday with family and friends: Ever since Bryant won his fifth championship ring, he's gotten back to what he calls "civilization." Fans are so used to seeing his laser-beam focus and obsession with basketball that it's sometimes surprising to see how much he enjoys his hobbies during the offseason. He attended the 2010 World Cup, ran his basketball camp in Santa Barbara, took a trip to China and attended the World Basketball Festival in New York (let's not forget he fit in a few discussions with potential free agents). Bryant isn't building himself into a cocoon just yet. Instead, he's taking his wife, Vanessa, to one of his favorite restaurants, Philippe Chow, and his two daughters, Gianna and Natalia, to Disneyland.
Pau Gasol has a relaxing summer
For once, Pau Gasol is taking time off in the summer, stepping away from Spanish national team obligations and concentrating on, well, the general well-being of Pau Gasol.He's working out with a trainer twice a day, quietly preparing for the Lakers' upcoming season and fulfilling a longtime desire next week by visiting India for the NBA to increase its brand, and the game of basketball, in the world's second-most-populated nation.
Gasol had a busy summer two years ago when Spain finished second to the U.S. at the Beijing Olympics, and he was the tournament MVP last September with Spain in the European Championship.
But his body appeared to wear down early last season with the Lakers, when he sat out 17 games because of two hamstring injuries, a contributing factor in his decision to sit out the World Championship, which begins in Turkey at the end of the month.
"I feel I've been able to disconnect from basketball and recuperate from all the fatigue that had accumulated," Gasol said Wednesday. "I'm happy that I made the decision of not competing. It's for the best for my body and my career. I feel good physically."
Gasol was in South Africa when Spain won soccer's World Cup last month and he watched another event from afar, the Miami Heat stocking up with LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh.
Did the Heat do enough to stop the Lakers from winning a third consecutive championship?
"Obviously there's going to be challenges in the road, but I think we have the right people in place," Gasol said, crediting the Lakers' off-season moves to shore up their bench. "We're all getting excited about working hard to give ourselves a championship."
Foremost right now in Gasol's mind is a five-day trip to India, where he will conduct clinics in Mumbai for participants of the Mahindra NBA Challenge, the NBA's first community-based basketball league in India. He's following Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard, who traveled to India in an NBA-sanctioned trip, but Gasol will bring something different: The Larry O'Brien Trophy will be making its first trip to India.
"India has always had something special that attracted me, and finally I have a chance to go there…as an NBA ambassador," he said.
Lakers training camp begins Sept. 25 in El Segundo. Gasol will be there, fully rested, an entirely different feeling from the last two years.
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Magic Johnson leaving the Lakers?
So both Johnson and owner Jerry Buss tell the site that it's inevitable that Johnson will split from Laker Land.
"I'll still be a Laker forever," Johnson told the site. "If there's a chance for me to go run a team, if I felt that's what I wanted to do, would I take it? Yeah, if the right situation came. I know one day that's gonna probably happen. I love being with Dr. Buss and the Buss family and working with them, but I know one day something is going to happen. I can definitely see me not being with the Lakers, yeah."
The site notes that Johnson "is believed to have about five percent of the Lakers" and does work with the personnel and marketing departments. Last week, the site reports that he expressed interest in being a part owner and front-office worker for the Detroit Pistons, which would mark a return to his home state.
"I think he would always have a temptation to run the show," Jerry Buss told the site. "He's a pretty aggressive guy. On the other hand, he loves the Lakers. It's such a hard decision for him. I don't know which way that's going to go."
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Kobe Bryant reportedly doing well after knee surgery
After undergoing arthroscopic surgery on his right knee nearly a month ago, Lakers guard Kobe Bryant told reporters in New York this past weekend that he's satisfied with his rehabilitation process.
"In a sense, I'm getting ready now," Bryant said at a Nike basketball clinic at Rucker Park in Harlem. "I'm doing rehab constantly for my knee, making sure the leg is getting stronger. As soon as the leg gets strong enough to go, that's when I turn it up." Lakers General Manager Mitch Kupchak had said Bryant's operation "went well," and the team expects Bryant to be fully healthy once training camp begins.
Bryant's latest remarks provided little insight on what his rehab process entails, and it's not fully clear whether he'll have surgery on his right index finger. Also, it's safe to presume that had Bryant gone through any setbacks, he'd be reluctant to share them. Nonetheless, Bryant has kept his promise in maintaining a low profile on the basketball court this season. He's abstaining from playing with USA Basketball for the 2010 FIBA World Championships and even sat out a pickup game organized by President Obama. Bryant isn't the only Laker considering health concerns in the offseason. After nursing two separate hamstring injuries, forward Pau Gasol decided to forgo playing in the FIBA championships with the Spanish national team. Despite having injuries to his left shoulder and right knee, forward Lamar Odom still plans to play in Turkey. Center Andrew Bynum recently had surgery on his right knee, which kept him limited throughout the postseason.
"In a sense, I'm getting ready now," Bryant said at a Nike basketball clinic at Rucker Park in Harlem. "I'm doing rehab constantly for my knee, making sure the leg is getting stronger. As soon as the leg gets strong enough to go, that's when I turn it up." Lakers General Manager Mitch Kupchak had said Bryant's operation "went well," and the team expects Bryant to be fully healthy once training camp begins.
Bryant's latest remarks provided little insight on what his rehab process entails, and it's not fully clear whether he'll have surgery on his right index finger. Also, it's safe to presume that had Bryant gone through any setbacks, he'd be reluctant to share them. Nonetheless, Bryant has kept his promise in maintaining a low profile on the basketball court this season. He's abstaining from playing with USA Basketball for the 2010 FIBA World Championships and even sat out a pickup game organized by President Obama. Bryant isn't the only Laker considering health concerns in the offseason. After nursing two separate hamstring injuries, forward Pau Gasol decided to forgo playing in the FIBA championships with the Spanish national team. Despite having injuries to his left shoulder and right knee, forward Lamar Odom still plans to play in Turkey. Center Andrew Bynum recently had surgery on his right knee, which kept him limited throughout the postseason.
Happy Birthday Earvin magic johnson
Early years:
Earvin Johnson Jr. was born on August 14, 1959, in Lansing, Michigan, the fourth of Earvin and Christine Johnson's seven children. His father worked at an auto factory during the day and hauled trash at night to make extra money. Earvin Jr. worked at several jobs, including helping his father, but his first love was basketball. In 1977 Johnson and his Everett High School team won the state championship. His passing and ball-handling skills won him the nickname "Magic." He then attended Michigan State University. In his second year, Michigan State won the national college basketball championship by defeating Indiana State University, a team led by future Boston Celtics star Larry Bird (1956–). Johnson scored twenty-four points and was chosen Most Valuable Player (MVP).
Earvin Johnson Jr. was born on August 14, 1959, in Lansing, Michigan, the fourth of Earvin and Christine Johnson's seven children. His father worked at an auto factory during the day and hauled trash at night to make extra money. Earvin Jr. worked at several jobs, including helping his father, but his first love was basketball. In 1977 Johnson and his Everett High School team won the state championship. His passing and ball-handling skills won him the nickname "Magic." He then attended Michigan State University. In his second year, Michigan State won the national college basketball championship by defeating Indiana State University, a team led by future Boston Celtics star Larry Bird (1956–). Johnson scored twenty-four points and was chosen Most Valuable Player (MVP).
Immediate success:
Johnson was selected first in the 1979 National Basketball Association (NBA) draft by the Los Angeles Lakers. He became the first rookie to start in an NBA All-Star game. The Lakers went on to defeat the Philadelphia 76ers for the NBA championship, and Johnson became the youngest player ever to be named playoff MVP. At six feet nine inches, Johnson became the first big man to excel at point guard, a position usually reserved for smaller players. He became one of the most popular players in the league.
During the 1981–82 season Laker head coach Paul Westhead designed an offense that featured center Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (1947–). The change upset Johnson, who asked to be traded. Westhead was soon replaced by Pat Riley, under whom Johnson became one of the league's best all-around players. In Johnson's first season with Riley, the Lakers won another championship, with Johnson again winning the playoff MVP award. In 1985 the Lakers won their third NBA title, defeating Bird and the Boston Celtics. The Lakers also won championships in 1987 and 1988.
During Johnson's twelve years with the Lakers, the team won five championships. He was chosen playoff MVP three times. He was a twelve-time All-Star and the 1990 All-Star game MVP. He averaged 19.7 points per game in 874 games, pulled down 6,376 rebounds, and had 1,698 steals. During the 1990–91 season he broke Oscar Robertson's (1938–) assist record, finishing the season with a total of 9,921. In October 1996 he was named one of the fifty greatest players in the history of the NBA.
Johnson was selected first in the 1979 National Basketball Association (NBA) draft by the Los Angeles Lakers. He became the first rookie to start in an NBA All-Star game. The Lakers went on to defeat the Philadelphia 76ers for the NBA championship, and Johnson became the youngest player ever to be named playoff MVP. At six feet nine inches, Johnson became the first big man to excel at point guard, a position usually reserved for smaller players. He became one of the most popular players in the league.
During the 1981–82 season Laker head coach Paul Westhead designed an offense that featured center Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (1947–). The change upset Johnson, who asked to be traded. Westhead was soon replaced by Pat Riley, under whom Johnson became one of the league's best all-around players. In Johnson's first season with Riley, the Lakers won another championship, with Johnson again winning the playoff MVP award. In 1985 the Lakers won their third NBA title, defeating Bird and the Boston Celtics. The Lakers also won championships in 1987 and 1988.
During Johnson's twelve years with the Lakers, the team won five championships. He was chosen playoff MVP three times. He was a twelve-time All-Star and the 1990 All-Star game MVP. He averaged 19.7 points per game in 874 games, pulled down 6,376 rebounds, and had 1,698 steals. During the 1990–91 season he broke Oscar Robertson's (1938–) assist record, finishing the season with a total of 9,921. In October 1996 he was named one of the fifty greatest players in the history of the NBA.
Happy Birthday Magic Johnson! :)
Jerry Buss enters the Hall of Fame on Friday
He has presided over the Lakers since 1979, turning the franchise into one of the most successful in sports.And for that, for all he has done to uplift the NBA, the Lakers and the game of basketball, Lakers owner Jerry Buss will be enshrined in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame on Friday in Springfield, Mass.He will be joined in the class of 2010 by Scottie Pippen, Karl Malone, Cynthia Cooper and high school coach Bob Hurley Sr.
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The 1992 U.S. men's Olympic basketball team known as the "Dream Team," which included Lakers Hall of Famer Magic Johnson and the 1960 team that included another Lakers Hall of Famer, Jerry West, also will be inducted.Dennis Johnson, Gus Johnson and Brazilian star Maciel "Ubiratan" Pereira will be honored posthumously.Buss, 76, will be the third Laker to go into the Hall of Fame as a contributor, joining broadcaster Chick Hearn and Pete Newell.Under Buss' guidance, the Lakers have won 10 NBA championships, the latest coming in June over the Boston Celtics, and been to 16 Finals.Buss declined interview requests, so others had to speak for him."I'm overtaken by emotion because he is so deserving," said Johnson, who will be inducted into the Hall of Fame for the second time. "The league wouldn't be where it is if it hadn't been for Dr. Buss."If you talk about the fan experience, he was way ahead of the curve. He was way ahead of his time, with the team on the court, with the Laker Girls, with the band. He really understood fan experience way before it became common like it is now."When he took over the Lakers, Buss seemed to have a vision and it started when the team won a coin flip and selected Johnson from Michigan State with the No. 1 overall pick in 1979.That spun the era known as "Showtime.""He taught us about consistency in management," NBA Commissioner David Stern said in a statement. "Under his leadership, the Lakers have been perennial contenders. Their record is really quite extraordinary in terms of Finals appearances."He taught us about entertainment value and Showtime. And he very much led the way with respect of the understanding of the court-side seat — sports meeting beachfront property. I applaud the selection."In the eyes of Jeanie Buss, Jerry's daughter and the team's executive vice president of business operations, her dad is the best owner in sports."He knows the formula. He's committed to winning," Jeanie said. "But he's smart because he runs it like a business. Usually people think that when you run something like a business, that means you can't win. But he's proven that you can be successful on the floor and off the floor, and that's a model that has brought him so much success."West and Buss worked together to build championship teams in the 1980s and then again in the early 2000s with three titles in a row."I'm thrilled for Jerry," West said. "He deserves to be in there. His success is incredible."Like Johnson, West will be inducted into the Hall of Fame for the second time. He was enshrined as a player in 1980 and now will go in with the 1960 Olympic team."I'm excited for the other guys," West said. "I'm excited that I'm in with the team."Johnson recalled how the Dream Team blew out every opponent, winning by an average of 43.8 points, and never having Coach Chuck Daly call a timeout."It's great to represent the Lakers and represent this great city of Los Angeles," said Johnson, who was enshrined as a player in 2002. "That's what I've always tried to do since I've come here, is just represent the whole community and Lakers fans. It'll be a Laker day, in a sense."
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The 1992 U.S. men's Olympic basketball team known as the "Dream Team," which included Lakers Hall of Famer Magic Johnson and the 1960 team that included another Lakers Hall of Famer, Jerry West, also will be inducted.Dennis Johnson, Gus Johnson and Brazilian star Maciel "Ubiratan" Pereira will be honored posthumously.Buss, 76, will be the third Laker to go into the Hall of Fame as a contributor, joining broadcaster Chick Hearn and Pete Newell.Under Buss' guidance, the Lakers have won 10 NBA championships, the latest coming in June over the Boston Celtics, and been to 16 Finals.Buss declined interview requests, so others had to speak for him."I'm overtaken by emotion because he is so deserving," said Johnson, who will be inducted into the Hall of Fame for the second time. "The league wouldn't be where it is if it hadn't been for Dr. Buss."If you talk about the fan experience, he was way ahead of the curve. He was way ahead of his time, with the team on the court, with the Laker Girls, with the band. He really understood fan experience way before it became common like it is now."When he took over the Lakers, Buss seemed to have a vision and it started when the team won a coin flip and selected Johnson from Michigan State with the No. 1 overall pick in 1979.That spun the era known as "Showtime.""He taught us about consistency in management," NBA Commissioner David Stern said in a statement. "Under his leadership, the Lakers have been perennial contenders. Their record is really quite extraordinary in terms of Finals appearances."He taught us about entertainment value and Showtime. And he very much led the way with respect of the understanding of the court-side seat — sports meeting beachfront property. I applaud the selection."In the eyes of Jeanie Buss, Jerry's daughter and the team's executive vice president of business operations, her dad is the best owner in sports."He knows the formula. He's committed to winning," Jeanie said. "But he's smart because he runs it like a business. Usually people think that when you run something like a business, that means you can't win. But he's proven that you can be successful on the floor and off the floor, and that's a model that has brought him so much success."West and Buss worked together to build championship teams in the 1980s and then again in the early 2000s with three titles in a row."I'm thrilled for Jerry," West said. "He deserves to be in there. His success is incredible."Like Johnson, West will be inducted into the Hall of Fame for the second time. He was enshrined as a player in 1980 and now will go in with the 1960 Olympic team."I'm excited for the other guys," West said. "I'm excited that I'm in with the team."Johnson recalled how the Dream Team blew out every opponent, winning by an average of 43.8 points, and never having Coach Chuck Daly call a timeout."It's great to represent the Lakers and represent this great city of Los Angeles," said Johnson, who was enshrined as a player in 2002. "That's what I've always tried to do since I've come here, is just represent the whole community and Lakers fans. It'll be a Laker day, in a sense."
Lakers Sign Devin Ebanks & Derrick Caracter
LOS ANGELES -- The final pieces of the Los Angeles Lakers roster that will compete for a three-peat championship have fallen into place.
The Lakers announced on Thursday the signing of forward Devin Ebanks, the first of two second-round selections in the draft.
Ebanks signed a non-guaranteed deal for the rookie minimum worth $473,604 if he makes the team, according to the Los Angeles Times.
The 6-9 swingman, drafted 43rd overall out of West Virginia, played on the Lakers' Las Vegas Summer League entry. He averaged 15 points and started all five games.
In two collegiate seasons with the Mountaineers, the 20-year-old Ebanks averaged 11.2 points, 7.9 rebounds and 2.6 assists in 69 games.
Ebanks posted on his Twitter account on Thursday that he will wear No. 3, the same number worn by former Laker Trevor Ariza who Ebanks bears a striking resemblance to.
The Lakers other second-round draft pick, Derrick Caracter, a 6-9 big man selected No. 58 out of the University of Texas El Paso, has also agreed to terms with the team. Caracter is flying out to Los Angeles on Thursday to officially sign with the team Friday, according to Caracter's agent, Happy Walters.
Walters said Caracter's deal is guaranteed at the rookie minimum for 2010-11 with a team option in place worth approximately $788,000 for the following season.
Caracter averaged 14.1 points and 8.1 rebounds in his lone season with UTEP after transferring from Louisville.
The signings cap off a successful offseason for Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak who managed to retain coach Phil Jackson and guards Derek Fisher and Shannon Brown; add tested-veteran free agents Steve Blake, Matt Barnes and Theo Ratliff without overpaying; and find two players to help the team via the 2010 NBA draft despite not having a first-round pick. The pick was sent to the Memphis Grizzlies as part of the Pau Gasol trade.
The Lakers will carry 14 players on their roster next season, one more than the league-minimum 13 the team had in 2009-10.
Ebanks will provide some depth at back-up small forward behind Ron Artest and Barnes and gives the team some insurance should Luke Walton's troublesome back cause him to miss a significant amount of time as it did last season. Caracter will provide size behind Andrew Bynum, Pau Gasol, Lamar Odom and Ratliff.
The Lakers announced on Thursday the signing of forward Devin Ebanks, the first of two second-round selections in the draft.
Ebanks signed a non-guaranteed deal for the rookie minimum worth $473,604 if he makes the team, according to the Los Angeles Times.
The 6-9 swingman, drafted 43rd overall out of West Virginia, played on the Lakers' Las Vegas Summer League entry. He averaged 15 points and started all five games.
In two collegiate seasons with the Mountaineers, the 20-year-old Ebanks averaged 11.2 points, 7.9 rebounds and 2.6 assists in 69 games.
Ebanks posted on his Twitter account on Thursday that he will wear No. 3, the same number worn by former Laker Trevor Ariza who Ebanks bears a striking resemblance to.
The Lakers other second-round draft pick, Derrick Caracter, a 6-9 big man selected No. 58 out of the University of Texas El Paso, has also agreed to terms with the team. Caracter is flying out to Los Angeles on Thursday to officially sign with the team Friday, according to Caracter's agent, Happy Walters.
Walters said Caracter's deal is guaranteed at the rookie minimum for 2010-11 with a team option in place worth approximately $788,000 for the following season.
Caracter averaged 14.1 points and 8.1 rebounds in his lone season with UTEP after transferring from Louisville.
The signings cap off a successful offseason for Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak who managed to retain coach Phil Jackson and guards Derek Fisher and Shannon Brown; add tested-veteran free agents Steve Blake, Matt Barnes and Theo Ratliff without overpaying; and find two players to help the team via the 2010 NBA draft despite not having a first-round pick. The pick was sent to the Memphis Grizzlies as part of the Pau Gasol trade.
The Lakers will carry 14 players on their roster next season, one more than the league-minimum 13 the team had in 2009-10.
Ebanks will provide some depth at back-up small forward behind Ron Artest and Barnes and gives the team some insurance should Luke Walton's troublesome back cause him to miss a significant amount of time as it did last season. Caracter will provide size behind Andrew Bynum, Pau Gasol, Lamar Odom and Ratliff.
Readers share their thoughts on the Lakers' 2010-2011 schedule
I shared my take on the Lakers schedule. Now here are yours:
I think for Lakers fans there will be less games of interest because some of the teams' stocking of talent. Cleveland and Phoenix will be less appealing with Shaq in Boston and LBJ in Miami and Amare in NY.
EAST: Orlando, Boston, Miami will be the ones I will mark as "Must See." Playing Chicago should also be fun.
WEST: I will be more apt to watch us play OKC than previous years since they showed so well against us in the playoffs. I think Dallas may be our greatest challenge out west. I want to see Blake Griffin as a Clipper. Portland always gives us fits, so i will want to see us smash them. Denver, Phoenix, San Antonio have lost their luster for me.
OVERALL: The big three in the east will be the funnest games to see. The west doesn't excite me. That's what happens when you are as good as the Lakers have become. Expectations are very high. It will be hard to exceed them." -- rdlee
"Oh thank goodness we won't have to hear all that NBA gave the Lakers a cushy schedule, like we had to all last year... First 25 games will tell us a lot... How the new players are acclimating to the team and our system... The rotations PJ will be using...His distribution of playing time... Will Artest still be making progress in finding his niche in the offense...or will he go backwards and regress... AB and how his aggressiveness level will be...Will he come out attacking, or a little overly cautious... Will our boys still be hungry...the main criticism last year was keeping focus...will the team keep playing down to the level of the competition...or will they need to be put behind the 8 Ball to get motivation... Finally...we will get a peek of Mitch Kupchak's off season moves...will it force him to make other moves before the trade deadline...Hopefully we get some sort of measurement...Artest move from last year was not fully answered till the final game of the season..." -- LEWSTRS
"There are 2 glaring differences between last years and this years schedule. 9 of the first 21 games are on the road, last year it seemed early on as if the schedule maker's were alergic to asigning the Lakers to play any road games, evident by how few they played.
The second difference in my opinion, oozes with the feel of Laker nepotism, which is a beautiful thing, for the LAKER-NATION. Last year the Lakers played Denver, in Denver, the second night of a back-to-back. Needless to say, without Pau, out due to hamstring issue's, the Lakers lost by double digits. On the contrary, this year we play 5 less back-to-back games. More importantly, in key match-ups like, Bos, Mia, and Okc, they have a day off beforehand, giving them the recooperative time they need to be at their very best. It's not to far off to assume the NBA understands the timeline of their best player, playing for their best team. It doesn't take a mind like Russell Crowe in the movie, "A Beautiful Mind", to see that." -- ToneBone24
"Overall I would say the schedule is relatively kind to us, and all we need is our players to stay healthy to have another GREAT season.
"One more thing: Last year every team brought their A+ game against the Lakers, since they were considered (and truly) were the best. This year, with Miami having all that hype (and the angst of other coaches with that so called "Super-3" they have built), teams are going to play their A++ game against Miami, which would work in our favor!!" -- Ruud Van Nistelrooy
"Most of our road games will be in December and Feb. Kinda a nice break after having Feb and March as having long road games. This also plays to an advantage to LA. Having a healthier team (because playing early rather than later when the toll of the season is more apperant) on the road and having the benefit of playing at home in the latter part of the season is good especially when the players are getting hit by the long NBA season and will enjoy more the confines of home. It's better off getting as much road games as early as possible to help with getting as good of an NBA record as we can get." -- KB Blitz
--Mark Medina
I think for Lakers fans there will be less games of interest because some of the teams' stocking of talent. Cleveland and Phoenix will be less appealing with Shaq in Boston and LBJ in Miami and Amare in NY.
EAST: Orlando, Boston, Miami will be the ones I will mark as "Must See." Playing Chicago should also be fun.
WEST: I will be more apt to watch us play OKC than previous years since they showed so well against us in the playoffs. I think Dallas may be our greatest challenge out west. I want to see Blake Griffin as a Clipper. Portland always gives us fits, so i will want to see us smash them. Denver, Phoenix, San Antonio have lost their luster for me.
OVERALL: The big three in the east will be the funnest games to see. The west doesn't excite me. That's what happens when you are as good as the Lakers have become. Expectations are very high. It will be hard to exceed them." -- rdlee
"Oh thank goodness we won't have to hear all that NBA gave the Lakers a cushy schedule, like we had to all last year... First 25 games will tell us a lot... How the new players are acclimating to the team and our system... The rotations PJ will be using...His distribution of playing time... Will Artest still be making progress in finding his niche in the offense...or will he go backwards and regress... AB and how his aggressiveness level will be...Will he come out attacking, or a little overly cautious... Will our boys still be hungry...the main criticism last year was keeping focus...will the team keep playing down to the level of the competition...or will they need to be put behind the 8 Ball to get motivation... Finally...we will get a peek of Mitch Kupchak's off season moves...will it force him to make other moves before the trade deadline...Hopefully we get some sort of measurement...Artest move from last year was not fully answered till the final game of the season..." -- LEWSTRS
"There are 2 glaring differences between last years and this years schedule. 9 of the first 21 games are on the road, last year it seemed early on as if the schedule maker's were alergic to asigning the Lakers to play any road games, evident by how few they played.
The second difference in my opinion, oozes with the feel of Laker nepotism, which is a beautiful thing, for the LAKER-NATION. Last year the Lakers played Denver, in Denver, the second night of a back-to-back. Needless to say, without Pau, out due to hamstring issue's, the Lakers lost by double digits. On the contrary, this year we play 5 less back-to-back games. More importantly, in key match-ups like, Bos, Mia, and Okc, they have a day off beforehand, giving them the recooperative time they need to be at their very best. It's not to far off to assume the NBA understands the timeline of their best player, playing for their best team. It doesn't take a mind like Russell Crowe in the movie, "A Beautiful Mind", to see that." -- ToneBone24
"Overall I would say the schedule is relatively kind to us, and all we need is our players to stay healthy to have another GREAT season.
"One more thing: Last year every team brought their A+ game against the Lakers, since they were considered (and truly) were the best. This year, with Miami having all that hype (and the angst of other coaches with that so called "Super-3" they have built), teams are going to play their A++ game against Miami, which would work in our favor!!" -- Ruud Van Nistelrooy
"Most of our road games will be in December and Feb. Kinda a nice break after having Feb and March as having long road games. This also plays to an advantage to LA. Having a healthier team (because playing early rather than later when the toll of the season is more apperant) on the road and having the benefit of playing at home in the latter part of the season is good especially when the players are getting hit by the long NBA season and will enjoy more the confines of home. It's better off getting as much road games as early as possible to help with getting as good of an NBA record as we can get." -- KB Blitz
--Mark Medina
Lakers, Shannon Brown agree to two-year deal
The free-agent guard agrees to a contract worth approximately $4.6 million to remain with the Lakers and try for a third consecutive title.
Shannon Brown had suitors. Six of them or so. Some offered the free-agent guard more money than he might make if he returned to the Lakers. He thought about that.But in the two years Brown had spent in purple and gold, he won two rings. He thought about that too. Eventually, the idea of three in a row was too much to pass up, and the guard agreed to a two-year contract worth about $4.6 million to stay with the Lakers, his agent, Mark Bartelstein, said Thursday."Obviously, the process took a while, but Shannon wanted to be here and they wanted him," Bartelstein said. "Shannon had a number of other opportunities out there, but he had been in L.A. for two years and they won two championships. The chance to go for a three-peat is very special to him."
The athletic, high-flying dunker averaged career highs in points (8.1), rebounds (2.3), assists (1.3) and minutes (20.7) last season. Brown, 24, had opted out of a contract that would have paid him $2.1 million next season, the second year of his previous deal with the team.The Lakers like his potential and own his "early bird rights," meaning they could have paid him about $5.5 million in the first season of a new contract. But Bartelstein said Brown, whose new deal includes a player option in the second year, was willing to take less money to stay in L.A."It was important for him to go through the process and hear what people wanted to say, but his heart was with the Lakers to stay here and try to win a third title," he said.Brown, who was hampered late in the season with a bone bruise and torn ligament in his right thumb that he said could require off-season surgery, was perhaps the Lakers' final off-season priority.Coach Phil Jackson, obviously the highest priority, announced he would return for one more year, and veteran point guard Derek Fisher signed a three-year contract. In moves to bolster the lineup, the Lakers added Steve Blake, Matt Barnes and Theo Ratliff.With Brown signed, the Lakers have 12 players under contract and can focus on signing second-round draft picks Devin Ebanks and Derrick Caracter.
The athletic, high-flying dunker averaged career highs in points (8.1), rebounds (2.3), assists (1.3) and minutes (20.7) last season. Brown, 24, had opted out of a contract that would have paid him $2.1 million next season, the second year of his previous deal with the team.The Lakers like his potential and own his "early bird rights," meaning they could have paid him about $5.5 million in the first season of a new contract. But Bartelstein said Brown, whose new deal includes a player option in the second year, was willing to take less money to stay in L.A."It was important for him to go through the process and hear what people wanted to say, but his heart was with the Lakers to stay here and try to win a third title," he said.Brown, who was hampered late in the season with a bone bruise and torn ligament in his right thumb that he said could require off-season surgery, was perhaps the Lakers' final off-season priority.Coach Phil Jackson, obviously the highest priority, announced he would return for one more year, and veteran point guard Derek Fisher signed a three-year contract. In moves to bolster the lineup, the Lakers added Steve Blake, Matt Barnes and Theo Ratliff.With Brown signed, the Lakers have 12 players under contract and can focus on signing second-round draft picks Devin Ebanks and Derrick Caracter.
Shannon Brown to Return to the Lakers
Shannon Brown is returning to the Lakers.Brown's agent, Mark Bartelstein, told FanHouse on Thursday the deal "definitely'' will get done later in the day. The free-agent guard will sign a two-year, $4.6 million contract, with the second year a player option. He will make $2.2 million this season, with the option year worth $2.4."The lure of the Lakers was too great,'' said Bartelstein, whose client had been looked at strongly by New York. "He didn't want to look back and not have the chance to go for a third straight championship.''Brown opted out of a deal that would have paid him $2.149 million this season. So he ended up getting just a slight raise."We'll have the flexibility and look at it again next summer,'' Bartelstein said.
Shannon Brown expected to sign with Lakers Thursday
NBA players have a little Gollom in them -- they will do anything for the precious ring.
Shannon Brown's agent Mark Bartelstein told the New York Post that Brown is leaning towards returning to the Lakers and will make his announcement Thursday.
The Knicks offered one year at $2.7 million (they want to keep cap space flexibility for next summer). The Lakers offered less money but more years.
Brown also would have a larger role with New York, if not as the starting two guard then as the first guard off the bench. In Los Angeles Brown would be Kobe Bryant's backup, which would not mean nearly as many minutes (he averaged 20.7 a game last year).
But the Lakers could offer another shot at a ring.
"The Knicks did a great job selling Shannon on everything and their vision for him,'' Bartelstein said. "They did a great job but the chance to go back and win a third championship for the Lakers is a tough thing to pass up. He'll make a final decision (Thursday).''
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Cancel your plans for Christmas: Lakers play Heat at Staples Center
The NBA announced the TV schedule for opening week, Christmas and Martin Luther King's birthday on Tuesday, and, as expected, the Miami Heat will be playing the Lakers on Christmas Day, at Staples Center. Below are the four Lakers games announced on Tuesday:
Season Opener: Oct. 26 - Lakers vs. Houston at Staples Center, 7:30 p.m. on TNT. Lakers will receive their championship rings.
Oct. 29: Lakers at Phoenix, 7:30 p.m. on ESPN. Rematch of the Western Conference finals.
Chrristmas Day: Lakers vs. Miami at Staples Center, 2 p.m. on ABC. I don't know, did the Heat do something in the off-season to earn the Christmas Day slot? I can't remember if they made any moves or not.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Jan. 17): Lakers vs. Oklahoma City at Staples Center, 7:30 p.m. on TNT.
Below is the complete schedule released by the NBA (all times Pacific):
10/26 - Miami at Boston, TNT 4:30 p.m.
10/26 - Houston at Lakers, TNT 7:30 p.m.
10/27 - Chicago at Thunder, ESPN 5 p.m.
10/27 - Portland at Clippers, ESPN 7:30 p.m.
10/28 - Wizards at Orlando, TNT 5 p.m.
10/28 - Phoenix at Utah, TNT 7:30 p.m.
10/29 - Orlando at Miami, ESPN/ESPN Deportes 5 p.m.
10/29 - Lakers at Phoenix, ESPN/ESPN Deportes 7:30 p.m.
10/30 - Denver at Houston, NBA TV 5:30 p.m.
10/31 - Utah at Thunder, NBA TV 4 p.m.
11/1 - Portland at Chicago, NBA TV 5 p.m.
12/25 - Chicago at N.Y., ESPN 9 a.m.
12/25 - Boston at Orlando, ABC 11:30 a.m.
12/25 - Miami at Lakers, ABC 2 p.m.
12/25 - Denver at Thunder, ESPN 5 pm.
12/25 - Portland at G.S., ESPN 7:30 p.m.
1/17 - Chicago at Memphis, ESPN 10 a.m.
1/17 - Kings at Atlanta, NBA TV 1 p.m.
1/17 - Orlando at Boston, TNT 5 p.m.
1/17 - Thunder at Lakers, TNT 7:30 p.m.
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Season Opener: Oct. 26 - Lakers vs. Houston at Staples Center, 7:30 p.m. on TNT. Lakers will receive their championship rings.
Oct. 29: Lakers at Phoenix, 7:30 p.m. on ESPN. Rematch of the Western Conference finals.
Chrristmas Day: Lakers vs. Miami at Staples Center, 2 p.m. on ABC. I don't know, did the Heat do something in the off-season to earn the Christmas Day slot? I can't remember if they made any moves or not.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Jan. 17): Lakers vs. Oklahoma City at Staples Center, 7:30 p.m. on TNT.
Below is the complete schedule released by the NBA (all times Pacific):
10/26 - Miami at Boston, TNT 4:30 p.m.
10/26 - Houston at Lakers, TNT 7:30 p.m.
10/27 - Chicago at Thunder, ESPN 5 p.m.
10/27 - Portland at Clippers, ESPN 7:30 p.m.
10/28 - Wizards at Orlando, TNT 5 p.m.
10/28 - Phoenix at Utah, TNT 7:30 p.m.
10/29 - Orlando at Miami, ESPN/ESPN Deportes 5 p.m.
10/29 - Lakers at Phoenix, ESPN/ESPN Deportes 7:30 p.m.
10/30 - Denver at Houston, NBA TV 5:30 p.m.
10/31 - Utah at Thunder, NBA TV 4 p.m.
11/1 - Portland at Chicago, NBA TV 5 p.m.
12/25 - Chicago at N.Y., ESPN 9 a.m.
12/25 - Boston at Orlando, ABC 11:30 a.m.
12/25 - Miami at Lakers, ABC 2 p.m.
12/25 - Denver at Thunder, ESPN 5 pm.
12/25 - Portland at G.S., ESPN 7:30 p.m.
1/17 - Chicago at Memphis, ESPN 10 a.m.
1/17 - Kings at Atlanta, NBA TV 1 p.m.
1/17 - Orlando at Boston, TNT 5 p.m.
1/17 - Thunder at Lakers, TNT 7:30 p.m.
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Opening night: Lakers vs. Rockets
It'll be official in a few hours on NBA TV but for those of you who can't get near a set at 4 p.m. PDT, the Lakers will be opening the season on Oct. 26, hosting the Houston Rockets.
Not the most attractive opener out there ... but the not the worst one by any means.
There is, of course, the draw of former Laker Trevor Ariza returning, and even more intriguing, the possible presence of Yao Ming. The Rockets center missed all of last season because of foot surgery. Last week, he told Chinese media that he might call it quits if his foot does not fully heal.
Not the most attractive opener out there ... but the not the worst one by any means.
There is, of course, the draw of former Laker Trevor Ariza returning, and even more intriguing, the possible presence of Yao Ming. The Rockets center missed all of last season because of foot surgery. Last week, he told Chinese media that he might call it quits if his foot does not fully heal.
Source: Phil Jackson signs new deal
Phil Jackson has officially signed a contract to return to the Los Angeles Lakers.
The 11-time NBA champion coach announced on July 1 that he would return for what he called "the last stand for me" but it took until last week to finalize a new contract, according to a source close to the situation.
Terms of Jackson's new contract have not been released. A message left for his agent Todd Musburger Monday evening was not returned.
With Jackson's deal finally in place, the Lakers were able to quickly reach agreements with the rest of his staff. Longtime assistants Brian Shaw, Frank Hamblen and Jim Cleamons are returning and special assistant Chuck Person has officially been added to the staff.
The 11-time NBA champion coach announced on July 1 that he would return for what he called "the last stand for me" but it took until last week to finalize a new contract, according to a source close to the situation.
Terms of Jackson's new contract have not been released. A message left for his agent Todd Musburger Monday evening was not returned.
With Jackson's deal finally in place, the Lakers were able to quickly reach agreements with the rest of his staff. Longtime assistants Brian Shaw, Frank Hamblen and Jim Cleamons are returning and special assistant Chuck Person has officially been added to the staff.
Lakers Announce Coaching Staff
Person, who assisted the Lakers coaches and Jackson during their championship run last season, spent the previous four seasons as an assistant coach for the Sacramento Kings (2007-09) and Indiana Pacers (2005-07). Prior to that, he served two seasons as a special assistant to the CEO/president of basketball operations for Indiana, working with Pacers and Indiana Fever (WNBA) players, both on and off the court. Additionally, he spent one season with the Cleveland Cavaliers before joining the Pacers' coaching staff.
An alumnus of Auburn University who concluded his collegiate basketball career as the Tigers’ all-time leading scorer, Person has been in the NBA for 25 years; 13 as a player and the last 12 in the front office or coaching.
A first round selection (fourth overall) by the Pacers in the 1986 NBA Draft, he averaged 18.8 points and 8.3 rebounds in his first season and was named NBA Rookie of the Year. He spent six seasons with Indiana and ranks 10th on the team's all-time scoring list with 9,096 points. He recorded 34 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists against New York on Feb. 20, 1986, becoming the first Pacers rookie in franchise history to record a triple-double. Person also played for Minnesota, San Antonio, Charlotte and Seattle over his 13-year NBA career. His career averages include 14.7 points, 5.1 rebounds and 2.8 assists per game.
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