Ariza may leave Lakers [Archive] - SpursTalk.com Forums

Spursmania

07-01-2009, 09:59 PM

Didn't see this on here yet.

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By Chris Broussard
ESPN.com
Archive (http://search.espn.go.com/chris-broussard/)

Trevor Ariza (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=2426)'s short but sweet stay in Los Angeles might be coming to an end.

http://a.espncdn.com/i/headshots/nba/players/65/2426.jpg
Ariza

The 24-year-old swingman, who played a key role in the Lakers' run to their 15th NBA championship, is on the verge of leaving the club, sources close to the situation said on Wednesday.
With at least five teams pursuing Ariza, the Lakers are currently unwilling to pay him more than the $5.6 million mid-level exception.
"They're letting him go," one of the sources said.
Cleveland is making a hard push for Ariza, and the Cavaliers' coaching staff was speaking with him on Wednesday. While Cleveland can only offer the mid-level as well, Ariza's disappointment with the Lakers' stance has moved other suitors ahead of his current team.
The Rockets, Clippers, Raptors and Blazers are also showing interest in Ariza. Portland and Toronto could each offer more than the mid-level exception.
If the Lakers refuse to increase their offer, it's a clear indication that they are choosing their other big free agent forward, Lamar Odom (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=617), over the younger Ariza.
Ariza averaged 8.9 points and 4.3 rebounds in the regular season for the Lakers last season. He increased his scoring to 11.3 points and had 4.2 rebounds per game in the playoffs. He had 16 points and 15 points in the last two Lakers victories in the Finals.

Those numbers were a jump over his career averages of 6.9 points and 3.8 rebounds per game. Ariza has played for three teams in his five-year career.
Chris Broussard covers the NBA for ESPN The Magazine.

urunobili

07-01-2009, 10:02 PM

:lol at 2Cleva getting owned :lmao

:owned

He's my new bitch if he leaves...

ginobili's bald spot

07-01-2009, 10:02 PM

WHAT!? This better be bullshit.

Allanon

07-01-2009, 10:05 PM

Ouch. I'm for keeping Lamar since he's more versatile but dang...that would really hurt....especially if he goes to join LeBron & Shaq.

benefactor

07-01-2009, 10:06 PM

If this happens and we sign Rasheed....watch out.

Roxsfan

07-01-2009, 10:09 PM

We'll take him:toast

Amaso

07-01-2009, 10:11 PM

If this happens and we sign Rasheed....watch out.

The Spurs can't offer more than the MLE, which is what the Lakers are apparenly offering. I seriously doubt he'd move from LA to SA. Team and city wise.

ginobili's bald spot

07-01-2009, 10:11 PM

I'm calling B.S. on this. David Lee is always talking shit like this. He did it during the Bynum negotiations too. He has no leverage in negotiations so he's trying to throw this story out there to scare the lakers. Ariza is going to leave his hometown because the Lakers offered the same amount their competitors could? Riiiight.

kbrury

07-01-2009, 10:13 PM

The Spurs can't offer more than the MLE, which is what the Lakers are apparenly offering. I seriously doubt he'd move from LA to SA. Team and city wise.

That's not what he was trying to say.

baseline bum

07-01-2009, 10:14 PM

I can't say I'm surprised Buss isn't going to overpay when he's looking at a $90+ million payroll. Losing Ariza will be a huge blow to LA, but they'd be stupid to lose Odom at Ariza's expense.

lefty

07-01-2009, 10:14 PM

Ariza made HUGE plays during the 2009 title run

If he goes, Adieu veaux, vaches et cochons

21_Blessings

07-01-2009, 10:19 PM

Most irrational Lakers fans would lead you to believe otherwise, but remember, thats what got us in trouble with Luke and Sasha's over valued contracts.

No, most rational Laker fans were against signing Luke and Sasha altogether. They are in no way comparable to a player like Ariza that actually plays defense, has athleticism and upside. All traits vacant from Sahsa/Luke.

People forget that Ariza was on his way out of the league before the Lakers traded for him to save money.

That's a lie. He wasn't and had a very good season the year before Van Gundy showed up.

Up until late last season, he was coming off our bench until Luke begged the coach to start him.

Ariza was only coming off the bench because he told Phil that's what he wanted before the season even started in order to avoid any drama between LO/Vlad/Luke. Phil was already thinking about starting Trevor anyways as he was clearly the best SF on the Lakers roster long before Luke came to him. No need to shit on Ariza for being a team player.

Id be more than happy to sign Grant Hill for a fourth of what Ariza wants. He will be quickly forgotten just like Turiaf.

Well the Lakers get worse in that scenario. And do you really care if Jerry Buss, Magic JOhnson and AEG save a few luxury dollars? Buss is only going to throw that money away on poker tournaments

lil_penny

07-01-2009, 10:19 PM

I'm calling b.s. on this just like I am with the whole rudy fiasco.. until Its heard from the horses mouth its just a bunch of b.s. rumors.

Amaso

07-01-2009, 10:20 PM

That's not what he was trying to say.

You're right. My Mistake.

KidCongo

07-01-2009, 10:21 PM

This is his agent stirring shit up to get a good deal. We dont really need Ariza. Most irrational Lakers fans would lead you to believe otherwise, but remember, thats what got us in trouble with Luke and Sasha's over valued contracts.

I would refuse to pay a player who has been shit his whole career and then decides to turn it on in his contract year. People forget that Ariza was on his way out of the league before the Lakers traded for him to save money. Up until late last season, he was coming off our bench until Luke begged the coach to start him. Ariza is a perfect example of a player that was fortunate to take advantage of a great system playing along with the best player in the game, and one of the best big man, and coach as well.

Id be more than happy to sign Grant Hill for a fourth of what Ariza wants. He will be quickly forgotten just like Turiaf.

I doubt he comes to Cavs but if he did he'd be playing alongside the best player in the game and one of the best big men.:toast

benefactor

07-01-2009, 10:25 PM

What if it does happen, and you guys dont sign Rasheed, then what?
We probably sign a couple of good decent role playing bigs and its a toss up...but if sign Sheed I think LA needs Odom and Ariza to beat us in a series, IMO.

DPG21920

07-01-2009, 10:28 PM

lakaluva is a douche and he is wetting himself. He knows that if the Lakers lose Ariza or Odom (moreso Odom) that the talent gap has closed in the NBA. Lakers will still be at the top, but they will be weaker.

Ghazi

07-01-2009, 10:33 PM

Ariza's nothing more than a plugin player and he's the 5th best player on the Lakers... his production could easily be replaced.

Not a big deal if they lose him IMO.

DPG21920

07-01-2009, 10:37 PM

Your mother is a douche, and I place no value in guys like Ariza that are a dime a dozen in this league. Odom is a must sign, but like I said before, Ariza would be sitting on our bench if it wasnt for Luke.

P.S. Nice to see you still one of my groupies:toast

:lol at you son. So anytime anyone responds to a post of yours they are a groupie? GTFO b*tch. You are so nervous about losing Ariza that you are making things up in your own mind.

Nice to see you are still one of the 5 worst posters on ST :tu

KSeal

07-01-2009, 10:37 PM

21_Blessings

07-01-2009, 10:38 PM

His defense is what's not easily replaced Ghazi. Look at who his backup is.

If it's a money issue then it's very likely the Lakers won't be spending the MLE on a replacement.

DPG21920

07-01-2009, 10:40 PM

If Ariza is a dime a dozen, I ask you to find me someone else in these playoffs that:

1) Averaged Double Digit Scoring
2) Averaged 1.5 steals+
3) Shot 50% from the field & 48% from 3
4) Averaged 4+ rebounds
5) Had a positive Asst/TO ratio

Should be easy if they are a dime a dozen.

Allanon

07-01-2009, 10:42 PM

On a positive side, we might finally see a Bynum/Gasol/Odom/Kobe/Fisher lineup.

DPG21920

07-01-2009, 10:42 PM

I'm glad the Lakers are choosing LO over Ariza cause LO is more valuable, but the Lakers need to try and get an Artest or Marion or even Hill if Ariza goes. Luke fucking Walton as your starting 3 with Adam fucking Morrison backing him up is crowning the Spurs the WC champions right then and there.

No question Lamar is more valuable, but Ariza is a big part. Replacing him with Marion or Hill or even Artest is a downgrade imo.

DPG21920

07-01-2009, 10:43 PM

My point exactly. Every team in the league has an Ariza on their team. Not many Odoms in this league. Lakers fans always over-value their role players. Outside of a couple of highlight dunks, Ariza has been a scrub in this league. He will get no more than Sasha.

lol having the same opinion as Ghazi.

jmanu20

07-01-2009, 10:46 PM

Those of you Laker fans who think that losing Ariza would not be a blow to the Lakers are either kidding themselves, watched none of the playoffs, or both. From what I saw he was more consistent than Odom throughout the playoffs and came up with some big plays for the Lakers (e.g. the inbound pass steals in the Nuggets series).

Odom might be a more versatile player, but he is also one of the most inconsistent players on that team, if not in the league.

And finally, LA would probably have the extra money to throw at Ariza if they hadn't stupidly committed $58 million to a completely unproven Andrew Bynum.

Gino

07-01-2009, 10:46 PM

Well Ariza wasnt really the important one. If the Lakers dont keep Odom they have zero chance of repeating, regardless if they keep Ariza or not.

Culburn369

07-01-2009, 10:47 PM

Grim news, but, at least we got the contract year out of him good enough for the NBA Championship.

DPG21920

07-01-2009, 10:48 PM

Here is how important Ariza is to the Lakers. The Lakers thrashed the Spurs without Ariza the year before.

Were the Spurs healthy?
Was it truly a thrashing when the Spurs were up 20+ twice?
Did the Spurs have Jefferson?

DPG21920

07-01-2009, 10:49 PM

Ghazi

07-01-2009, 10:49 PM

DPG21920

07-01-2009, 10:51 PM

Not to mention his regular season numbers (except for the 3 point %) are very close, especially if you do per minute calcs.

DPG21920

07-01-2009, 10:52 PM

The Lakers would have won without Bynum this year, how can you say he is more important?

21_Blessings

07-01-2009, 10:52 PM

You dont mind these guys getting over inflated contracts because you dont go to the games. Those high tickets and expensive food is a result of the owners passing on the expense of the players directly to the fans.

I've been to more Lakers games than you have the past 5 years, I can guarantee you that. :toast

21_Blessings

07-01-2009, 10:56 PM

easily replaced maybe not best choice of words but I don't think its pertinent to LA's title chances to keep Ariza, especially if Bynum finds his post injury game. Keep in mind they were 2 games within a title a year ago with Vlad Rad in the starting lineup... cause the core of Odom/Gasol/Kobe is that good.

Youre as good as your top 3-4 guys in this league!!

Ariza did a very good job on Melo, Artest and Hedo in the playoffs and the Lakers do not win game 3 without Ariza carrying them through the 2nd and 3rd quartes. Not to mention his key late game steals against Denver. The Lakers couldn't guard Boston in 08 with Ariza not healthy. The Lakers were forced to put Luke on Pierce and Sasha on Ray Allen. You odn't win with two liabilities like that playing heavy minutes.

Ariza guards the best wing on the other team every game. Kobe is 31 next year he can't be expected to carry the load on both ends anymore

jmanu20

07-01-2009, 10:57 PM

You clown. You expect the Lakers to pay him on those lucky numbers. His averages are no where near that close. You'd make a horrible business owner, and you are pathetic judge of talent.

Seeing as the Lakers already are giving Andrew Bynum (who contributed next to nothing in the playoffs) $58 million, it's not impossible.

Banzai

07-01-2009, 10:58 PM

http://www.forumammo.com/cpg/albums/userpics/10062/wdw.jpg (http://www.forumammo.com/cpg/albums/userpics/10062/wdw.jpg)
http://www.forumammo.com/cpg/albums/userpics/10062/hitlersnap.gif (http://www.forumammo.com/cpg/albums/userpics/10062/hitlersnap.gif)
http://www.forumammo.com/cpg/albums/userpics/10062/beta096.gif (http://www.forumammo.com/cpg/albums/userpics/10062/beta096.gif)

KSeal

07-01-2009, 10:59 PM

No question Lamar is more valuable, but Ariza is a big part. Replacing him with Marion or Hill or even Artest is a downgrade imo.

No, Artest can do everything Ariza does but better, especially his man D, and he can abuse smaller dudes on the block. Marion or Hill would be a downgrade though.

Banzai

07-01-2009, 11:00 PM

http://www.forumammo.com/cpg/albums/userpics/10062/hitlery2.gif (http://www.forumammo.com/cpg/albums/userpics/10062/hitlery2.gif)

lil_penny

07-01-2009, 11:01 PM

The difference between me and you is I sit no higher than the 4th row, whereas you are up there sharing beers in the 300 section.

Lol

holcs50

07-01-2009, 11:01 PM

lakaluva has some of the worst posts i've ever seen. Biggest laker homer on ST, at least drhouse has a few good arguments, lakaluva is just....well...dumb.

TheSpursFNRule

07-01-2009, 11:03 PM

why say faggot? such a shit word.

Ghazi

07-01-2009, 11:03 PM

faiiiir points 21... fair points... I'm just assuming they would get a decent swingman replacement like Parker/Hill/Marion/Artest/Barnes... maybe not better than Ariza but ya know.

21_Blessings

07-01-2009, 11:03 PM

I bet you have. Ive only gone to the Christmas game 7 out of the last 8 years,

Your troll is even terrible at this. Good see you traveling across the country to be at those road christmas games!

Banzai

07-01-2009, 11:04 PM

I'm surprised no one has noticed the hilarious GIFs I posted..oh well at least there are those of you here who enjoy them quietly.

21_Blessings

07-01-2009, 11:05 PM

faiiiir points 21... fair points... I'm just assuming they would get a decent swingman replacement like Parker/Hill/Marion/Artest/Barnes... maybe not better than Ariza but ya know.

If they can get Artest or Marion with MLE I won't complain about losing Ariza at all. Seems like a long shot with only the MLE though.

Hill and Parker are downgrades though.

Spursfan092120

07-01-2009, 11:07 PM

You should be pinked for this comment alone.
I agree...you're a HELL of a lot better poster than DrHouse

YellowFever

07-01-2009, 11:07 PM

Hey, the boy wants to get paid.

Can't say I blame him and saying that he's just a scrub is ludicrous but he's also not the savior some here (and Laker Ground) says he is.

He helped alot but than again so did Sasha the previous year in the playoffs.

There won't be too much of a drop-off if he leaves and we plug Shannon Brown into his slot.

As I said before, if it comes to choosing between the two, my heart says sign Ariza...but my head says sign Odom.

Now if Odom goes elsewhere, I'll be majorly pissed.

21_Blessings

07-01-2009, 11:08 PM

Fool, Im 20 minutes from Staples. 105 to the 110 and Im there.

How long is the drive to Miami from LA? :lol

Spursfan092120

07-01-2009, 11:08 PM

I'm surprised no one has noticed the hilarious GIFs I posted..oh well at least there are those of you here who enjoy them quietly.
Banzai..you know I got love for them gifs...I throw my own out every now and then.

Tradition

07-01-2009, 11:09 PM

We cant afford to lose either player. Forget even repeating if we fail to resign Ariza and/or Odom. Contract year or not, pay up Buss. I hope Kobe is pushing Buss to open his wallet. We have a real shot at being a dynasty here. God forbid if we have to resort to fucking Luke Walton back as the starting sf.

YellowFever

07-01-2009, 11:10 PM

DUNCANownsKOBE2

07-01-2009, 11:12 PM

ginobili's bald spot

07-01-2009, 11:12 PM

We gotta stop this Laker fan on Laker fan violence. I won't stand for it.

Spursfan092120

07-01-2009, 11:12 PM

http://www.zwani.com/graphics/funny_pictures/images/funny-pictures99.jpg

KSeal

07-01-2009, 11:13 PM

Ariza going to the Cavs is the latest story. Way to go Lakers, lmao.

Banzai

07-01-2009, 11:13 PM

Banzai..you know I got love for them gifs...I throw my own out every now and then.

http://www.forumammo.com/cpg/albums/userpics/10325/BILL___TED_2.jpg (http://www.forumammo.com/cpg/albums/userpics/10325/BILL___TED_2.jpg)

Tradition

07-01-2009, 11:14 PM

The Lakers being a dynasty is not riding on whether we resign Ariza or not.

Odom on the other hand...

Both bring different things to the table. Having a guy like Ariza made LA that much better. He is a vital role player for this team. A guy like this isnt that easily replaceable. Same goes for Odom. And fuck going after old ass Grant Hill. That guy would hurt the team more than he would help it due to him being a shitty shooter.

Banzai

07-01-2009, 11:15 PM

You know Im a die-hard Banzai, its just these Lakersground Lakers fans are delusional at times.

http://www.forumammo.com/cpg/albums/userpics/10063/funny_cat_pictures_46.jpg (http://www.forumammo.com/cpg/albums/userpics/10063/funny_cat_pictures_46.jpg)....I see your point.....woops that sounded wrong:rollin

TheSpursFNRule

07-01-2009, 11:15 PM

15 rings... faggot.

Oh......your so alone.

Spursfan092120

07-01-2009, 11:17 PM

http://trooth.midnightcheese.com/Retardog.gif

VivaPopovich

07-01-2009, 11:17 PM

Spurs fan hate on the likes of Matt Bonner and Michael Finley, Laker fans hate on the likes on Ariza, a man the Lakers wouldn't have won the championship without, and literally DIDN'T win it without last season

5.6/yr is insulting when you factor in what other SF's on his level are getting paid, even when you factor in what some of his own teammates are getting paid that he's much better than. i dont know who, but SOMEONE should have taken a paycut to accommodate him

DPG21920

07-01-2009, 11:17 PM

Exactly. The Spurs have been irrelevant for so long that most of their fans have lost their ability to judge talent. This is what happens when you are down in the dumps for years, you tend to over value scrub talent and pay dearly for it in the long run.

I saw this tragedy happen post Shaq era. Luke stuck the Lakers for a 6 year deal because the team was so bad, they thought Luke was a steal, but for men with an eye for talent, we knew Luke was a bum who is always hurt.

Arza is no different than every player before him that tried to make a name for himself during his contract year, and played like shit thereafter.

Mike James is a perfect example of the mistake of what the Lakers would be making if they signed that scrub Ariza.

Spurs won in 2007, how is that down in the dumps for years? You are a cockroach Laker fan.

:lol

You are a tool for sure. Championship teams can afford to lose a role player here and there. We didnt have Bynum or your most valued Ariza when we bitch slapped the Spurs, and all you clowns can talk about was being healthy.

I got news for you son, Manu is done, and your management knows this. Only Spurs fans are clueless to this fact.

Ya, you did not have Ariza and you got bitched by the Celtics in an epic fashion.

Gino is still a Spur, if he was done and the managment knew this as you said, he would have been traded.

DrHouse

07-01-2009, 11:18 PM

KSeal

07-01-2009, 11:18 PM

Both bring different things to the table. Having a guy like Ariza made LA that much better. He is a vital role player for this team. A guy like this isnt that easily replaceable. Same goes for Odom. And fuck going after old ass Grant Hill. That guy would hurt the team more than he would help it due to him being a shitty shooter.

Odom is not replaceable. Artest could come in for Ariza and you could argue the Lakers are a better team for at least this next season, now can the Lakers get Artest for the MLE, not sure, but it's not that far off. If Grant Hill is starting for the Lakers next year it's better then Luke but quite a drop off from the Ariza.

DUNCANownsKOBE2

07-01-2009, 11:18 PM

While I agree with Lakaluva about Ariza not being worth more than the MLE, I agree with 21_Blessings that it's a stretch to compare him to Walton and Vujacic.

Mugen

07-01-2009, 11:20 PM

awwwww

DPG21920

07-01-2009, 11:20 PM

Ariza is NOT worth much more than the MLE. Any team dumb enough to pay him upwards of $7 million is outside their minds.

He is a product of the Laker's system more than anything. Playing alongside Kobe and Gasol allows him to play to his strengths.

Maybe so, but that does not change how effective he was in his role with the Lakers. They needed him to win. Lose him and you get worse and you have question marks surrounding the position and others fitting in so well.

KSeal

07-01-2009, 11:21 PM

Ariza is NOT worth much more than the MLE. Any team dumb enough to pay him upwards of $7 million is outside their minds.

He is a product of the Laker's system more than anything. Playing alongside Kobe and Gasol allows him to play to his strengths.

Think about it though, if you're Ariza and you're looking at the Lakers roster and dudes like Walton and VUJACIC! are making basically the same money as what the Lakers offered you, I'd probably be asking for a couple more million too, Ariza is way better then those shit scrubs and deserves to make more money then them.

Spursfan092120

07-01-2009, 11:21 PM

http://viralvideohq.files.wordpress.com/2006/12/bt-dickinabox-gallery-1637.jpg

ginobili's bald spot

07-01-2009, 11:22 PM

While I agree with Lakaluva about Ariza not being worth more than the MLE, I agree with 21_Blessings that it's a stretch to compare him to Walton and Vujacic.

Co-sign.

21_Blessings

07-01-2009, 11:23 PM

While I agree with Lakaluva about Ariza not being worth more than the MLE, I agree with 21_Blessings that it's a stretch to compare him to Walton and Vujacic.

It's not a stretch, that comparison makes no sense at all. Lakaluva just likes the cock, that's all.

Full MLE is like 6 year about, if it takes 7 to keep Ariza you might as well do it. I could give a shit that Buss would have to pay a whole 2 more million in luxury taxes. 8-9 million - no one is that stupid.

Hill's defense isn't as good as Ariza's, plus his age/ankle. And fuck a guy like Matt Barnes.

If it's Artest or Marion for the MLE I'll throw a fucking kegger. Would be funny if Artest and Marion end up taking less than Trevor Ariza though :lol

Banzai

07-01-2009, 11:23 PM

http://viralvideohq.files.wordpress.com/2006/12/bt-dickinabox-gallery-1637.jpg

http://www.threadbombing.com/data/media/20/b832400bde33865f326979672bc63c84.jpg (http://www.threadbombing.com/details.php?image_id=4165)

Spursfan092120

07-01-2009, 11:25 PM

http://www.demotivateus.com/posters/birds-scary-shit-demotivational-poster.jpg

jmanu20

07-01-2009, 11:25 PM

For anyone that thinks he's just being a stupid homer, Lakaluva isn't flip flopping here, he's always had the stance Ariza type players are a dime a dozen. As important as he was to LA this year, he isn't worth more than the MLE.

Lets say LA loses Ariza and signs Grant Hill, they don't really lose a whole lot, heck they might even get beeter.

Bad choice of substitute players there. Grant Hill is past whatever small prime he had thanks to all his injuries, and is more of a mid-range shooter. He might be one of the better defenders on the Suns, but seeing how the Suns don't play a lick of defense, that's not saying much.

Ariza on the other hand, while he might not be worth more than the MLE, he's an excellent defender who has a much improved 3-point shot. He was actually one of the only Lakers not named Kobe or Gasol who provided some kind of consistency in the playoffs.

DUNCANownsKOBE2

07-01-2009, 11:26 PM

:toast
Matt Barnes is just as good as Ariza, and much tougher.

I agree with everything else but this is a little too extreme. Matty Bricks is terrible.

Spursfan092120

07-01-2009, 11:26 PM

http://www.izzatz.com/images/oh-shit-not-you-again.jpg

Allanon

07-01-2009, 11:26 PM

If the Lakers dont keep Odom they have zero chance of repeating, regardless if they keep Ariza or not.

Gino's got it right.

As awesome as Ariza is, he's relatively a dime a dozen compared to Lamar.

monosylab1k

07-01-2009, 11:27 PM

Artest might have just become a Laker, check out his Twitter page.

KSeal

07-01-2009, 11:27 PM

http://twitter.com/96TruwarierQB

Ron a Laker?

Allanon

07-01-2009, 11:28 PM

I'd rather overpay Artest than overpay Ariza.

Oh shit, just read what Ron Ron wrote on Twitter....

"THANKS ALOT HOUSTON.:) I HAD ALOT OF FUN:)"

DUNCANownsKOBE2

07-01-2009, 11:29 PM

It's not a stretch, that comparison makes no sense at all.

It makes SOME sense, it's not a comparison I would ever make, but it somewhat makes sense comparing them because of the contract situation.

DrHouse

07-01-2009, 11:30 PM

I'd rather keep Odom than Ariza at this point.

If the Lakers don't replace Ariza with anyone then yes they are worse. But if they can entice Ron Artest into coming to LA then it's hard to argue that they aren't a better team in the short term.

Ron Artest > Ariza.

DUNCANownsKOBE2

07-01-2009, 11:30 PM

Bad choice of substitute players there. Grant Hill is past whatever small prime he had thanks to all his injuries, and is more of a mid-range shooter. He might be one of the better defenders on the Suns, but seeing how the Suns don't play a lick of defense, that's not saying much.

Go check out the season Grant had this year and then talk to me.

KSeal

07-01-2009, 11:30 PM

I think Ron is bullshitting on his Twitter to fool people.

monosylab1k

07-01-2009, 11:30 PM

I'd rather overpay Artest than overpay Ariza.

Oh shit, just read what Ron Ron wrote on Twitter....

"THANKS ALOT HOUSTON.:) I HAD ALOT OF FUN:)"

He also just wrote that he went to Vegas after leaving LA and he just signed a new deal.

DUNCANownsKOBE2

07-01-2009, 11:32 PM

I guess if we're going by twitter pages, the Lakers traded for Amare twice in the last week.

Allanon

07-01-2009, 11:32 PM

He also just wrote that he went to Vegas after leaving LA and he just signed a new deal.

Dude, that's crazy if your hunch is right and Ron is joining the Lakers...maybe that's why the Lakers are letting Ariza walk.

KSeal

07-01-2009, 11:33 PM

Ron says he just signed his contract, but you can't until July 8th, he's got to be bullshitting.

DUNCANownsKOBE2

07-01-2009, 11:34 PM

Fuck Twitter.

facebook > twitter not even close.

monosylab1k

07-01-2009, 11:35 PM

Ron says he just signed his contract, but you can't until July 8th, he's got to be bullshitting.

Yeah but we all know these deals get done like this all the time, they just wait until the appropriate time to actually announce it.

YellowFever

07-01-2009, 11:35 PM

He will get paid, regardless of who he signs with. But you guys fail to admit that Ariza was a scrub when he came to LA, and there are at least 50 players in this league that can fill his minor void.

Odom is the real key here, and apparently Mitch, and Dr. Buss feel the same as I do about Ariza.

Don't put words into my mouth.

Your definition of scrub really must not be compatible with mine. Sasha is a scrub.....Walton is a scrub.

Ariza actually contributed greatly to our run this year.

All I'm saying is it would be good to have him back and I would maybe go as high as a mil or two over the MLE to keep him but I would not throw the whole bank at him either.

Ariza is a solid role player that, yes, greatly benefited from playing with Kobe, Gasol, triangle, etc, but alot of those 50 players you mentioned will not be able to fit in this system as well as Ariza.

Maybe we can do better in the FA market if we lose Ariza but the guy did contribute to the Lakers getting a ring. And also, if we lose Ariza, I don't think Mitch will be creative enough to replace him with someone else.

Mitch wasn't as bad as a GM Kobe made him out to be a couple of years ago....but he's not as good as most people seem to think he is now.

YellowFever

07-01-2009, 11:36 PM

Maybe so, but that does not change how effective he was in his role with the Lakers. They needed him to win. Lose him and you get worse and you have question marks surrounding the position and others fitting in so well.

No....they don't.

He just makes it a bit more easier.

KSeal

07-01-2009, 11:38 PM

Yeah but we all know these deals get done like this all the time, they just wait until the appropriate time to actually announce it.

You're right, I still call bullshit though.

21_Blessings

07-01-2009, 11:42 PM

Fuck Twitter.

facebook > twitter not even close.

That's like choosing between cancer and aids

DUNCANownsKOBE2

07-01-2009, 11:42 PM

That's like choosing between cancer and aids

Then what the fuck is myspace? The black plague?

Mugen

07-01-2009, 11:44 PM

Then what the fuck is myspace? The black plague?

Super AIDS.

Udokafan05

07-01-2009, 11:48 PM

Ariza is a lot better option then Artest. Artest started throwing up bricks in the playoffs, and will not play into the lakers system. Atleast Ariza knows his role, and comes up big in playoffs.

Banzai

07-01-2009, 11:49 PM

I got a face book..add me people.

Kindergarten Cop

07-01-2009, 11:52 PM

I think it's hilarious how a player who is on a fan's favorite team is an incredible player that the opposing team cannot defend or outmatch until he is gone (or at least on the verge of leaving). He then becomes a "dime a dozen" type player that was fortunate to be part of his/her team and will be easily replaced. This is not unique to any one team's fanbase, but this is what I am seeing right now by a lot of Lakers' fans. Even after the Lakers won the championship, many fans were saying that the Lakers would do whatever it takes to keep him and how much he meant to the team (and the feeling was mutual). Now with the latest news, many have changed their tune.

DUNCANownsKOBE2

07-01-2009, 11:56 PM

Lakaluva, I agree that Ariza is replaceable, but please trust me when I say, you do not want Matty Bricks on your team.

Spursfan092120

07-01-2009, 11:59 PM

Record deal with some beat guy. Ron still doesn't know where he's going.

Mugen

07-01-2009, 11:59 PM

isnt ariza's agent the same as bynums?

probably just trying to drive the price up and make the overpay again.

21_Blessings

07-02-2009, 12:02 AM

Ariza wasn't a "scrub" before he came to the Lakers. He had a very good season in Orlando before Mr. Panic showed up and the Magic were very high on him. He was only moved because they thought he couldn't shoot a lick.

At this point Ariza is a top tier defender with a proven work ethic and potential to get better. In no way shape or form can he be compared to the Luke or Sasha situation. Both of those guys did not receive multiple MLE offers around the league. Both of them played shit defense, had shit athleticism and with basically zero potential to improve.

Kai

07-02-2009, 12:14 AM

We'll take him:toast

Who is that in your avatar???:wow

21_Blessings

07-02-2009, 12:17 AM

Name one team that has offered Ariza the MLE? According to Arizas agent, not even the Lakers have offered him that.

A Lakers source speaking on the condition of anonymity said the offers Ariza has received from other teams are for the $5.6 million mid-level exception.

The Lakers are willing to match the other offers on the table for Ariza, according to the source, but they're not going to overpay simply because it's their own player.

http://blogs.pe.com/prosports/nba/lakers/#a506457

There are dozens of reports on Ariza getting a MLE offer. It's pretty obvious teams want him on their team.

With Luke and Sasha there were no such reports whatsoever. Sasha was being courted by some shitty backwater Europe teams and Luke traded sexual favors with Phil Jackson to get his contract.

DUNCANownsKOBE2

07-02-2009, 12:19 AM

Luke traded sexual favors with Phil Jackson to get his contract.

Given how big his contract is, Luke giving PJ sexual favors alone wouldn't cut it. I think he needed to convince Richard Jefferson to give Phil some black dick in order to get that contract.

Purple & Gold

07-02-2009, 12:21 AM

scottspurs

07-02-2009, 12:25 AM

Laker fans freaking this is just awesome. Ariza is the best player on the lakers and he is leaving.

Kindergarten Cop

07-02-2009, 12:26 AM

While I would like for both Ariza and Odom to come back they are both replaceable. If somebody wants to give Ariza 7-8 Million and Odom 10+ Million then they are welcome to them. Artest would be a more than suitable replacement for Ariza and Odom is still way to inconsistent to give him another 10+ Million contract. I'd be surprised if Ariza gets more than MLE and if Odom gets 10 Million. More power to them if they can get it, but I find it unlikely.

I agree that both Ariza and Odom are replaceable, but the problem the Lakers will have in replacing them is that they will be limited to splitting the MLE on replacements - whereas they can match any offer to either/both of them. If you choose to let them both walk (as in your scenario), you will likely have to spend the full MLE to bring in comparable talent for just one of them - leaving a significant void in your lineup. At least that's my honest opinion.

Ditty

07-02-2009, 12:26 AM

espn reports ariza is most likely to not return to the lakers

ariza just dickslaped buss and cupcheck

i want to stay in LA beacsue im from LA my ass

Ron has a better chance of being a spur then a laker last time i heard artest didnt like the lakers or kobe

bullshit rumors to make LA look good beacuse luke walton will be there starting small foward :)

scottspurs

07-02-2009, 12:26 AM

Artest will never be on a championship team. Sorry

DUNCANownsKOBE2

07-02-2009, 12:27 AM

Artest will never be on a championship team. Sorry

Where's the epic fail troll?

scottspurs

07-02-2009, 12:27 AM

Ariza will go to the spurs just to screw the lakers for same price.

Ditty

07-02-2009, 12:29 AM

Ariza will go to the spurs just to screw the lakers for same price.

wouldnt that be nice :toast

but wont happen because we got to get a big guy first:bang

and dont think ariza wants to come off the bench anymore

scottspurs

07-02-2009, 12:29 AM

Where's the epic fail troll?

Where's your face?

KSeal

07-02-2009, 12:30 AM

Artest will never be on a championship team. Sorry

Unless the Spurs sign him, then he's the greatest player in the league and the Spurs missing piece.

Spursfan092120

07-02-2009, 12:30 AM

Unless the Spurs sign him, then he's the greatest player in the league and the Spurs missing piece.
Not so much...don't want him.

DUNCANownsKOBE2

07-02-2009, 12:31 AM

Where's your face?

On top of my shoulders being supported by my neck.

scottspurs

07-02-2009, 12:31 AM

wouldnt that be nice :toast

but wont happen because we got to get a big guy first:bang

and dont think ariza wants to come off the bench anymore

I just thought it would be :lol funny as hell. If he did that.

scottspurs

07-02-2009, 12:32 AM

On top of my shoulders being supported by my neck.

Oh sorry, I thought it was up your ass.

Ditty

07-02-2009, 12:33 AM

would be a great fit if it wasnt for the attitude but hey if were going after sheed then might as well get him defintly someone will step up and talk shit when others besides the big 3 and jefferson didn't show up " 2009 Spurs Playoff roster" excluding parker,duncan and hill unless when he blew his assignment with terry

DUNCANownsKOBE2

07-02-2009, 12:34 AM

Oh sorry, I thought it was up your ass.

Sorry I'm not that flexible.

Ditty

07-02-2009, 12:34 AM

And rott on that bench. You guys still couldnt beat us with that midget team of clowns.

come on man yall won a title

give it a break you should be happy :king

Allanon

07-02-2009, 12:35 AM

Kobe, Pau, Bynum, Odom, Lakers will still be alright.

Not easily the best team when they had Ariza but still should be the best. And if Ron Ron does join the Lakers, the Lakers have upgraded.

We'll find out next week but I do have a feeling Ron's coming to the Lakers for the MLE and maybe 4 years.

holcs50

07-02-2009, 12:36 AM

scottspurs

07-02-2009, 12:40 AM

Sorry I'm not that flexible.

Ok sorry then.

Allanon

07-02-2009, 12:41 AM

Ok, so some of you say ariza is replaceable. Ok, I'll buy. Lakes have the MLE, who out there right now can come in and provide what ariza has for the MLE. Artest I highly highly doubt will take MLE. Who else? Throw me some names. There's no one that can do what he did for you guys in the playoffs available. Say you guys didn't have Ariza for the playoffs, and instead had Sasha/Luuuuuuuke playing all those minutes, can you honestly say (try not to be a homer) that you guys would have won? I don't see it, he was too important in a lot of close games in quite a few of the series. If he leaves, you guys won't be able to get anything this year near arizas talent. Next year is where you should aim. If you get Artest miraculously then yea my comments are void.

Ariza is obviously a valuable member of the Lakers. But even at that, he's the 5th most important behind Kobe/Pau/Odom/Bynum.

I think the Lakers still would have won this year, but no way would it have been in 5 games vs the Magic without Ariza.

If it ain't Artest, the Lakers will just have to use Lamar as a SF with Luuuuke as his backup.

Purple & Gold

07-02-2009, 12:52 AM

I agree that both Ariza and Odom are replaceable, but the problem the Lakers will have in replacing them is that they will be limited to splitting the MLE on replacements - whereas they can match any offer to either/both of them. If you choose to let them both walk (as in your scenario), you will likely have to spend the full MLE to bring in comparable talent for just one of them - leaving a significant void in your lineup. At least that's my honest opinion.

They will try to bring one back and it seems like it will probably be Odom. They know the market and Odom is not getting 10 Million. He's worth it for around 8 Million or so. Now if the Lakers do lose both then they will have some holes to fill. They will probably throw the MLE at a SF and run with Gasol/Bynum as the starting 4 and 5. Bynum hasn't been able to stay healthy the last 2 years so of course it is a concern and the Lakers will be weaker, but I don't think many thought the Lakers could keep together such a stacked team when all FA's want to get paid. The gap has closed between the spurs and Lakers, but the spurs are still a big man away to compete against the Lakeshow.

Medvedenko

07-02-2009, 01:08 AM

I just saw on Crazy Ron's twitter....

"we are playing pool at lamar odums barn in hollywood.
25 minutes ago from mobile we"

I'm so happy he knows how to spell Odom right.....

DUNCANownsKOBE2

07-02-2009, 01:11 AM

I just saw on Crazy Ron's twitter....

"we are playing pool at lamar odums barn in hollywood.
25 minutes ago from mobile we"

I'm so happy he knows how to spell Odom right.....

Keep in mind he isn't the brightest crayon in the box.

angelbelow

07-02-2009, 01:14 AM

lol at anyone claiming that ariza is easily replaced. obviously i dont agree with the amount he thinks he deserves but at the same time you cant say ariza can be easily replaced.

KSeal

07-02-2009, 01:27 AM

According to Real GM (I know) Whoever misses out on Hedo, either the Blazers or Raptors, they're going to offer Ariza a deal between 32-40 mill. I'm not sure the Lakers would match that, and if Artest goes to the Cavs and Ariza goes to the Blazers, the Lakers will have performed an epic fail.

21_Blessings

07-02-2009, 01:31 AM

^^ Don't worry lakaluva would be happy in that situation. He can go to bed at night dreaming about all extra money Magic has to spend on those hourly HIV cocktails of his.

Meanwhile the Lakers have Matt Barnes dribbling the ball off his foot 3 times

KSeal

07-02-2009, 01:36 AM

Well I guess we're better off with Matt Barnes starting then Luke fucking Walton.

RedsLakers24

07-02-2009, 01:37 AM

Dont worry we got Larry Bird i mean Adam Morrison on our team

KSeal

07-02-2009, 01:39 AM

Dont worry we got Larry Bird i mean Adam Morrison on our team

lol, I still remember Woody Paige being 100% convinced Adam was the next Bird, what a dumbass.

DUNCANownsKOBE2

07-02-2009, 01:45 AM

Meanwhile the Lakers have Matt Barnes dribbling the ball off his foot 3 times

He must have been playing a bad team, because that number is really low for Matty Bricks.

TheMACHINE

07-02-2009, 01:46 AM

Good luck to whichever team signs Ariza for 8-10 million.

crc21209

07-02-2009, 02:36 AM

I knew it. I knew some team would offer either Ariza or Odom crazy money, and it's happening now. 32-40 million for Ariza? Fucking crazy....

crc21209

07-02-2009, 02:38 AM

Man if the Lakers lose out on Ariza AND Artest boy would they be fucked.

Fisher?, Kobe, Walton? :lol, Odom, and Bynum. Wow...major downgrade. :td

KSeal

07-02-2009, 02:38 AM

Spurfan cumming his pants, lmao..

crc21209

07-02-2009, 02:41 AM

Spurfan cumming his pants, lmao..

:blah:sleep

KSeal

07-02-2009, 02:42 AM

Spurs 2010 NBA Champions, congrats!

DPG21920

07-02-2009, 03:07 AM

It is funny how Laker fans are turning to Odom. Spurs fans are not saying the Lakers will suck if they lose Ariza or that Ariza is better than Odom. Most are saying they will still be top of the league, but the gap will close, especially with the moves other teams are making.

21_Blessings

07-02-2009, 03:14 AM

Lakers are not winning next year if Luke Walton is starting at SF and Sasha sees heavy minutes at the 2. They will get torched all day.

mystargtr34

07-02-2009, 03:15 AM

Spurfan cumming his pants, lmao..

:lol

Culburn369

07-02-2009, 03:27 AM

Hey, "Spurfans", this sure as Hell beats Fisher standing out there at .4 with that little grin on his face---like the little grin in Florida, eh?

tee, hee.

KSeal

07-02-2009, 04:11 AM

Lakers are not winning next year if Luke Walton is starting at SF and Sasha sees heavy minutes at the 2. They will get torched all day.

Pretty much. If Ariza does go, and Artest and Marion aren't available I'd be stunned if the Lakers didn't get someone like a Grant Hill. They just have to get someone, anyone, you can't go into camp with Luke and Morrison as your only true 3's, that is just suicide.

Sasha will get minutes though, he has to, if he continues to suck ass his minutes will get cut big time for the playoffs, just like this past year.

rayray2k8

07-02-2009, 04:23 AM

Spurs 2010 NBA Champions, congrats!

:rolleyes

Kobe anyone? The lakers almost won it all last year with out Ariza anyway..

KSeal

07-02-2009, 04:45 AM

:rolleyes

Kobe anyone? The lakers almost won it all last year with out Ariza anyway..

Lakers still have Kobe, Gasol and (god please) Odom.

But if they lose Ariza and don't find a replacement for him, who else?

Bynum - Who knows if he'll even stay healthy and if he does if he'll ever stay out of foul trouble. Shouldn't be making 12.5 mill next year :depressed
Fisher - 35 years old with not much left
Walton - Do I need to say anything
Sasha - Do I need to say anything
Morrison - :lmao
Farmar - Almost on Luke and Sasha's level of suck but not quite
Powell - Who cares
Mbenga - Who cares

carrao45

07-02-2009, 05:39 AM

Lakers still have Kobe, Gasol and (god please) Odom.

But if they lose Ariza and don't find a replacement for him, who else?

Bynum - Who knows if he'll even stay healthy and if he does if he'll ever stay out of foul trouble. Shouldn't be making 12.5 mill next year :depressed
Fisher - 35 years old with not much left
Walton - Do I need to say anything
Sasha - Do I need to say anything
Morrison - :lmao
Farmar - Almost on Luke and Sasha's level of suck but not quite
Powell - Who cares
Mbenga - Who cares

You never know, Sasha may get his shooting touch back, and Morrison might play like he actually matters. And Bynum will probably return to form next season

KSeal

07-02-2009, 05:45 AM

You never know, Sasha may get his shooting touch back, and Morrison might play like he actually matters. And Bynum will probably return to form next season

It's nice to see some optimism, but to think Sasha and Morrison will be worth a damn next year is just being silly and illogical. Bynum on the other hand could have a nice year if his health allows him but we'll just have to wait and see. All I know about Bynum as of right now is he has no business making 12.5 million next year, if he's making what he should be, like 7, then Ariza is probably already signed and Lamar soon to be.

Muser

07-02-2009, 05:51 AM

Any team with Kobe and Gasol will make a hell of noise.

benefactor

07-02-2009, 09:16 AM

2Cleva

07-02-2009, 09:48 AM

If Trevor Ariza feels slighted that all the Lakers can offer him is the mid-level exception, it's not clear where he's going to do better than that on the open market. One rival executive believes the Lakers have prioritized Ariza over their other unrestricted free agent, Lamar Odom, and several sources believe they still have a chance to retain both. The Spurs have expressed interest in Odom, as well as Marcin Gortat (courted by the Rockets), and Antonio McDyess.

http://www.cbssports.com/mcc/blogs/entry/11838893/15844326

iilluzioN

07-02-2009, 02:48 PM

I dont know how reliable the bleacher report is but with the word coming out last night of Ariza wanting out of LA for more money if portland really wants him, I dont think toronto really wants to renounce the rights to all those players they would have 2 to sign hedo.. And if supposedly toronto is gonna offer 9 mill, cant we just give hedo 9mill, isnt that what we initially offered him? or would it take us to far into the luxury tax?
Now if turk could make about the same thing here rather than going to toronto then you would think he would want 2 stay and compete for a ring..

"I received notice that the Blazers prefer Ariza over Turkoglu, and would be willing to offer a 5 year deal worth $40.5 million dollars for him. If that in fact happens, Hedo Turkoglu would likely end up with the Raptors, who are only looking at offering a 4 year deal to Hedo, worth in the $9-10 Million dollar range per year."
http://bleacherreport.com/arti...est-to-switch-places