Cuban: Happy Lakers Got Artest

[completely deck]

http://www.lebasketbawl.com/mark-cuban-tells-dallas-radio-station-he-is-happy-lakers-got-artest/



It is now official; Dallas Mavericks Team Owner Mark Cuban is by far New York Vinnie’s favorite team owner in all of the NBA and would have to be right up there with the Late Great Mara family members who owned the New York Giants. Why has Cuban now hit the top of New York Vinnie’s “Hit Parade“? Because Cubes had the stones to tell a Dallas All-Sports radio station what New York Vinnie told you back on August 5; that Ron Artest will Frickin destroy the Los Angeles Lakers.


One of the most popular articles we have published on the “House That New York Vinnie Built” Le Basketbawl was a piece I wrote entitled How Long Will It Take For Artest To De-Rail The Lakers? (http://www.lebasketbawl.com/how-long-will-it-take-for-artest-to-de-rail-the-lakers/)It is tough enough for an NBA team to win back to back Titles in this current day and age. Now the team from Los Angeles is giving themselves a handicap right from, the start by bringing in a player who has been a Frickin losse cannon since he got into the NBA.
Cuban was a guest Friday on the Dallas “ESPN Radio (http://sports.espn.go.com/dallas/nba/news/story?id=4527133)” affiliate when the subject of “Tru-Warrior” being on the reining NBA Champions came up. The Dallas Team Owner told the shows hosts “”I tell you what, now that they’ve got Ron Artest, I couldn’t think of anything better. If you would have said, what one player; and I’ll get killed over this; what one player would you like to see on the Lakers? Ron Artest. Could you imagine? Ron Artest has got the ball, and Kobe’s standing there, ‘Throw me the ball.’ Thank you, Ron Artest!”


No, Thank You Mark Cuban because New York Vinnie not only thinks you are Spot On My Man; but you have me Frickin rolling right now! And the reason it is so Frickin funny is because it is so Frickin true; you know that scene is going to be played out throughout the entire season. The hosts gave Cubes a chance to back down but My Man did not take it. Cuban said “I think he’ll add some character to that team. Whether it will be positive or negative will be interesting to see.”


That is Frickin classic stuff Cubes! You get Big Props from Your Old Pal New York Vinnie it takes stones to do what you did my man. The High and Mighty Commissioner David Stern can’t get involved in this My Man. And New York Vinnie believes you and the Mavericks will have the last laugh.



I hate Cuban, but he said what we're all thinking. :lmao

[Findog]

Not wise to say it out loud. The Lakers have owned the Mavs for 29 years and that probably won't change anytime soon. Why give those guys extra motivation?

I think they'll be fine with Artest. I don't know that they'll repeat, but I don't see him "destroying" the Lakers.

[The Franchise]

He's right.

[Findog]

He's right.

If there are two guys who can reign in Artest's worst instincts, it's Phil Jackson and Kobe Bryant.

[Donkeybong]

Thanks for the motivation Cubes.

[Basketballgirl25]

Cuban's will be happy till Lakers beat the Mavs, then he will prob complain saying something was unfair.

No one know how any team will do with players till the season starts. Lakers could be better never know

[Crabdribble]

said the guy who traded a young and upcoming PG to 35+ washed player.

[Crabdribble]

We've got a third idiot beside Basketballgirl25 and The Franchise.
But its all good cuz we have a genius who likes to attack people for no apparent reason at all...congrats.

[picnroll]

If there are two guys who can reign in Artest's worst instincts, it's Phil Jackson and Kobe Bryant.

Who exactly has Bryant ever reigned in? Sure he's embarrassed a lot of teammates, chewing them out on the court, usually for not passing him the ball. Not sure that's going to reign in RonRon.

[cobbler]

This is devestating news coming from such an astute evaluator of talent that has led the Mav's to ZERO champinoships. I am crushed!

[Shank]

This might be the most overblown, non-story of the last month.

[Crabdribble]

LOL google is good but its translating machine sucks, you know. :wakeup
Oh really i didnt know ...but i guess you knew since you have an experience with it.

[The Franchise]

If there are two guys who can reign in Artest's worst instincts, it's Phil Jackson and Kobe Bryant.

To be honest I really do look forward to seeing if that is true. After watching every game he played in last year, I'm convinced that there is something off in his mind that will only be fixed by medication (being very serious). For his sake I hope you're right, but I don't see anyone controlling this man.

[Mavs_man_41]

Douchebags, feel free to use this thread to gang up on the mavs and trash our franchise..oh wait

[Mavs_man_41]

And Cuban's right. I don't know that he destroys them, but they definitely got worse by adding him in place or Ariza. Why add a low % chucker who thinks he's better than he really is to a team that already has Kobe freakin Bryant?

[cobbler]

And Cuban's right. I don't know that he destroys them, but they definitely got worse by adding him in place or Ariza. Why add a low % chucker who thinks he's better than he really is to a team that already has Kobe freakin Bryant?

Why is it everyone thinks the Lakers obtained Artest for his offense? It's simply not the case as they are just fiine on the offensive end. The lakers brought him in to play D. He's a lot heavier than Ariza. Ariza was a great value to the Lakers but his one weakness was he could be pushed around by the larger SF's like Melo, Pierce, and Lebron.

If he starts chucking up shots PJ will bench his ass in a heartbeat and you all know it.

[Crabdribble]

You should have a try though, even the google-translated words make more sense than yours do. usted es un hijo de puta sin vergüenza de pacotilla. :toast
I am not even going to waste any more of my time on some one who thinks is all that and yet act like bitch and attack people. If you have something to say about the comment i made on cuban go ahead ...talk like some one knows basketball ...but i guess thats impossible since you are too busy workin uscis and determining where people are from over the internet.

[Mavs_man_41]

Why is it everyone thinks the Lakers obtained Artest for his offense? It's simply not the case as they are just fiine on the offensive end. The lakers brought him in to play D. He's a lot heavier than Ariza. Ariza was a great value to the Lakers but his one weakness was he could be pushed around by the larger SF's like Melo, Pierce, and Lebron.

If he starts chucking up shots PJ will bench his ass in a heartbeat and you all know it.

I got a better question. Why is it that laker fags think a guy who historically has to have the ball in his hands to be effective, not to mention an ego and once claimed in his Pacers days that he's "a 20ppg scorer" will be content without the ball in his hands? Guys like Artest love attention, that's why he was so eager to come to LA, and when he's not getting enough of it and starts sulking, there goes the chemistry.

[cobbler]

I got a better question. Why is it that laker fags think a guy who historically has to have the ball in his hands to be effective, not to mention an ego and once claimed in his Pacers days that he's "a 20ppg scorer" will be content without the ball in his hands? Guys like Artest love attention, that's why he was so eager to come to LA, and when he's not getting enough of it and starts sulking, there goes the chemistry.

Again, then he will find his ass at the end of the bench. All the players on his teams of the past have nothing but praise for him as a teamate. Does he have some bad habits? No doubt. But look at the teams he was on. I would personally rather have Ariza but I can clearly see why the Lakers made the move. It adds toughness and D on the larger PF's they will no doubt run into on the way to their repeat. I have no doubts PJ can handle the likes of Artest.

Yeah... the Lakers are soooo worried about Ron Sulking. :lmao

[iggypop123]

october 30th. the game has been circled

[The Franchise]

Why is it everyone thinks the Lakers obtained Artest for his offense? It's simply not the case as they are just fiine on the offensive end. The lakers brought him in to play D. He's a lot heavier than Ariza. Ariza was a great value to the Lakers but his one weakness was he could be pushed around by the larger SF's like Melo, Pierce, and Lebron.

If he starts chucking up shots PJ will bench his ass in a heartbeat and you all know it.

You are right about Ariza, but Artest's weaknesses are the exact opposites (except when it comes to Pierce, and Lebron, they rape Artest regularly). He is no longer quick enough to be effective against the pick n roll, and any SG/SF with a quick first step can get passed him these days. You say if he starts chucking shots they will just bench him, but for who? Luke Walton? When Ron decides to go A.W.O.L. for a while it is going to be a major problem for the team. On the flipside, if they can somehow rein him in (which will be a first) he will have the chance to be very effective for you guys.

[Mavs_man_41]

Again, then he will find his ass at the end of the bench. All the players on his teams of the past have nothing but praise for him as a teamate. Does he have some bad habits? No doubt. But look at the teams he was on. I would personally rather have Ariza but I can clearly see why the Lakers made the move. It adds toughness and D on the larger PF's they will no doubt run into on the way to their repeat. I have no doubts PJ can handle the likes of Artest.

Yeah... the Lakers are soooo worried about Ron Sulking. :lmao

Like the other guy pointed out, who are they gonna bench him for when he starts sulking? Artest has a big mouth, I can easily see him opening his mouth to the media, make one slightly negative comment about Kobe not passing him the ball enough, Kobe's ego of course won't have any of that, and all the sudden you've got a major problem on your hands.

And who are they gonna bench him for? Luke Walton?? :lmao :lmao :lmao

[cobbler]

You are right about Ariza, but Artest's weaknesses are the exact opposites (except when it comes to Pierce, and Lebron, they rape Artest regularly). He is no longer quick enough to be effective against the pick n roll, and any SG/SF with a quick first step can get passed him these days. You say if he starts chucking shots they will just bench him, but for who? Luke Walton? When Ron decides to go A.W.O.L. for a while it is going to be a major problem for the team. On the flipside, if they can somehow rein him in (which will be a first) he will have the chance to be very effective for you guys.

Im thinking Lamar rather than Walton. We do have that luxury of having Lamar on the bench. And if the quicker SF/SG's get past him they still have to deal with Bynum and Gasol. I guess in time we will see.

[Allanon]

I don't think Cuban could be more wrong. Funny though.

I hate the comparison but I gotta make it. Mark my words, in a few years, we're going to look back and realize this Ron Artest signing is almost exactly the same as the Bulls picking up Dennis Rodman.

Laker's have transformed from a soft finesse team into a bruising, tough juggernaut with this one simple signing.

[Mavs_man_41]

I don't think Cuban could be more wrong. Funny though.

I hate the comparison but I gotta make it. Mark my words, in a few years, we're going to look back and realize this Ron Artest signing is almost exactly the same as the Bulls picking up Dennis Rodman.

Laker's have transformed from a soft finesse team into a bruising, tough juggernaut with this one simple signing.

Except the part where you guys don't repeat, and probably never win another championship with this current team

[cobbler]

I don't think Cuban could be more wrong. Funny though.

I hate the comparison but I gotta make it. Mark my words, in a few years, we're going to look back and realize this Ron Artest signing is almost exactly the same as the Bulls picking up Dennis Rodman.

Laker's have transformed from a soft finesse team into a bruising, tough juggernaut with this one simple signing.

Or the Pistons picking up Wallace.

[Allanon]

Except the part where you guys don't repeat, and probably never win another championship with this current team

That's what everybody says..."Ron is a ballhog, Ron is crazier than a 3 dolla bill" , we shall see.

I personally believe the Lakers are going to dominate to the point where it's unfair and boring.

[Mavs_man_41]

That's what everybody says..."Ron is a ballhog, Ron is crazier than a 3 dolla bill" , we shall see.

First decent response in this thread. Personally I don't see it happening, but if everything plays out JUST right it could be a good move

[Mavs_man_41]

You're assuming Ron is going to stay focused, work his ass off, be perfectly content without having the ball in his hands (something he's NEVER been able to do), and not pull any other crazy antics to distract the teams focus. That's a lot of if's.

[Allanon]

First decent response in this thread. Personally I don't see it happening, but if everything plays out JUST right it could be a good move

Fair responses like this ain't gonna get you into the DoucheBag All-Star team.

[Donkeybong]

Even if he is crazy, you have to admit that he has toned it down dramatically since his Indiana days. As a Rocket, he rarely caused a problem.

[Mavs_man_41]

Fair responses like this ain't gonna get you into the DoucheBag All-Star team.

I've been working so much overtime, I deserve a break

[cobbler]

Even blinders can easily see that it wasn't for offensive reasons that Lakers pursued and eventually signed Ron Artest but for their defensive issues. It's fine to strap Artest with as low prize as a MLE but I don't think such a move has upgraded their defense, because Ron's defensive effects have long been overrated IMHO. Ariza may not be as good as Ron in one-on-one defense, I mean Ron may probably do a better job guarding Melo, Pierce and our Lebron, but their team defense is more likely to get sliced by teams playing nice team-offense like Jazz and Spurs. Ron is always too devoted to the man he guards to give a shit about the weak side, and the Lakers haven't got another one playing tough defense to help make up for this flaw.

Of course anyone can see that. But all i keep hearing is hes got to have the ball, hes a chucker etc etc

All we heard for two years was the Lakers have all the tools... but lack toughness and grit. There is no doubt obtaining Ron added toughness. If he flakes then the risk was not worth it. If he plays his role, and if any organizarion can get him to it will be the Lakers, then watch out because the team will be dominant.

[Allanon]

You're already in that honorable team, congrats. :toast Not only that, but you're also a favorite candidate for MVP trophy of that all-star douchebag game. You're the douchebag of douchebags.

Even if I don't make it at DB All-Star break, any time I'm mentioned in the same breath with the all time Greats like 21 Blessings, Dr. House and LakaLuva, it's a true honor. Thanks :tu

[The Franchise]

Even if he is crazy, you have to admit that he has toned it down dramatically since his Indiana days. As a Rocket, he rarely caused a problem.

I have to agree he is much better than he used to be.

[Mavs_man_41]

What would Cuban know about team chemistry. He let Nash walk, and he won two MVP's. He let Finley go on to win a title. He traded one of the best young PG'S in the league for an old Kidd. This guy sure has made some great moves, yeah.

Does that make you the Mark Cuban of Spurstalk since your posts = his moves?

[Culburn369]

I personally believe the Lakers are going to dominate to the point where it's unfair and boring.

Yep, yep.

[DJB]

If there are two guys who can reign in Artest's worst instincts, it's Phil Jackson and Kobe Bryant.

Really?

[Culburn369]

I don't want any of "Artest's worst instincts" reigned in. I want him in Los Angeles, as advertised, with nary a modicum of change.

Let us proceed...

[Brazil]

You're already in that honorable team, congrats. :toast Not only that, but you're also a favorite candidate for MVP trophy of that all-star douchebag game. You're the douchebag of douchebags.

a new bump troll ? :wakeup

[Thompson]

october 30th. the game has been circled

I'll be watching that game. Throw your beer Cuban... throw your beer Cuban... Yes! Holy @#$%!

:lol

[Culburn369]

What would Cuban and Mav fan know about winning.

At O & forever, not much.

[Mavs_man_41]

What would Cuban and Mav fan know about winning.

More than you know about posting, obviously. You suck

[Obstructed_View]

Agree with Cuban, but also agree with someone above that it was a dumb thing for an owner to say publicly. Ariza was a team-first guy on the floor who made timely plays and didn't need the ball in his hands to make them. Ron Artest is the opposite of all those things. The Lakers are a threat to the rest of the NBA because they have Bryant and Gasol and a lot of depth and a good coach. Ron Artest brings more threat to the Lakers' chemistry than anything else.

[bostonguy]

Artest makes the Lakers that much better. Ariza is a good player but he is nothing more than a system role player. Ariza fucked with Buss and will suffer in Houston because of it.

I don't see Ron ruining LA. If anything, the Lakers got even tougher in terms of how difficult it will be to eliminate them in a 7 game series, tougher on d, and tougher on testicular fortitude.

Add in the fact that Ron is finally on a team where he doesn't have to be a 1st, 2nd, and even a 3rd option. His role will be to play d and make his WIDE OPEN threes.

[Obstructed_View]

I don't see Artest ever having made any of his other teams a tough out in the playoffs. That's typically the time he disappears.

[bostonguy]

I don't see Artest ever having made any of his other teams a tough out in the playoffs. That's typically the time he disappears.

None of those teams were the defending world champs though. Ron's role will be the easiest it has ever been for him. It also helps having the leagues best player and coach as well.

[Mavs_man_41]

Only the teams that are afraid of the Lakeshow think Artest will ruin our chemistry. Houston had great chemistry last season. The Kings had great chemistry when he was there. The West is already won, we're just waiting on Boston.

:lmao

[Morg1411]

Only the teams that are afraid of the Lakeshow think Artest will ruin our chemistry. Houston had great chemistry last season. The Kings had great chemistry when he was there. The West is already won, we're just waiting on Boston.

http://dogsounds.files.wordpress.com/2009/03/retard-owls.jpg

[mystargtr34]

Only the teams that are afraid of the Lakeshow think Artest will ruin our chemistry. Houston had great chemistry last season. The Kings had great chemistry when he was there. The West is already won, we're just waiting on Boston.

I agree. Fans only go out of their way to trash certain opposition when they are afraid of that team.

[nevetslc]

from Ron Artest twitter

http://twitter.com/ThugRaider37

Laker fans don't listen to Mark Cuban. I understand I am a third or fourth option on the team. Im not playing for cash anymore! Just to win!
Laker fans, this summer Dallas wanted me on their team. Why does Mark Hate me? That's the topic of the next hour.

[Obstructed_View]

None of those teams were the defending world champs though. Ron's role will be the easiest it has ever been for him. It also helps having the leagues best player and coach as well.

So when he gets suspended or melts down in a playoff series at a critical time with other teams, he's less likely to do it now because his team won the title last year? Sorry, but that's weak. There are lots of reasons for other teams to fear the Lakers; they're talented, well-coached and deep. Trading Ariza for Artest is NOT a big reason for everyone to suddenly fear them. At this point the ifs are too big, and you really don't know for sure that he's not going to sabotage the team until they're hoisting the trophy.

BTW, LOL at Artest owning Cubes. Almost as funny as "thugraider37".

[iggypop123]

oh its gets better


RT @Doc_aka_UNBorn:Cuban is mad cuz even at our worst,he is still in our shadows.His window is closed, and all he has left is talk.Fuck him

[bostonguy]

So when he gets suspended or melts down in a playoff series at a critical time with other teams, he's less likely to do it now because his team won the title last year? Sorry, but that's weak. There are lots of reasons for other teams to fear the Lakers; they're talented, well-coached and deep. Trading Ariza for Artest is NOT a big reason for everyone to suddenly fear them. At this point the ifs are too big, and you really don't know for sure that he's not going to sabotage the team until they're hoisting the trophy.

BTW, LOL at Artest owning Cubes. Almost as funny as "thugraider37".

It is not only because they won a title. It is because of who their leader and head coach both are. The organization that Artest is representing I feel will also play a vital role. This isnt anything like Houston, Sacramento, Indiana, or Chicago. Being a Laker has a much different feeling than being a member of any other team. Of course that is my opinion. We will see what happens as the months go by.

[cobbler]

So when he gets suspended or melts down in a playoff series at a critical time with other teams, he's less likely to do it now because his team won the title last year? Sorry, but that's weak.


...or taken another way ...playing the whole year with a class organization with a strong coaching staff and multiple players he respects and looks up to will minimize any possibility of melting down. Not to mention that as the 3rd or 4th option, the pressure is not ON HIM!

[Culburn369]

Ron Artest brings more threat to the Lakers' chemistry than anything else.

Poppycock.

You hopin', fingers crossed, Obs, don't mean squat.

[Culburn369]

Only the teams that are afraid of the Lakeshow think Artest will ruin our chemistry. Houston had great chemistry last season. The Kings had great chemistry when he was there. The West is already won, we're just waiting on Boston.

Yep, yep.

[The Franchise]

Artest is not Rodman. Stop it with that stupid shit.

[Culburn369]

["In the following 1994–95 NBA season, Rodman clashed with the Spurs front office. He was suspended for the first three games, took a leave of absence on November 11, and was suspended again on December 7.]

lol!

[DAF86]

Lakers won't repeat, does somebody want to bet?

[KSeal]

Lakers won't repeat

How many times have the Spurs repeated?

[21_Blessings]

Lakers won't repeat, does somebody want to bet?

Sure.

[Culburn369]

How many times have the Spurs repeated?

tee, hee.

[Allanon]

Lakers won't repeat, does somebody want to bet?

I'll take that bet, Daf. What would you like to bet? Sig or avatar? :D

[xellos88330]

Cuban is a douche, plain and simple.

[Culburn369]

Cuban is a douche, plain and simple.

Frankly I'm torn. If he hadn't a beat your asses a few months back I'd be really pissed off at him.

But, all's well that ended well.

[DAF86]

Sure.


I'll take that bet, Daf. What would you like to bet? Sig or avatar? :D

Ok, if the Lakers don't repeat you have to put "I'm DAF86's bitch" under your usernames

[Allanon]

Ok, if the Lakers don't repeat you have to put "I'm DAF86's bitch" under your usernames

Agreed. Duration of title is offseason to opening day of the following season.

And vice-versa when the Lakers repeat, of course.

[DAF86]

Agreed. Duration of title is offseason to opening day of the following season.

And vice-versa when the Lakers repeat, of course.

ok

[thispego]

this vinnie guy is a clown

[Findog]

from Ron Artest twitter

http://twitter.com/ThugRaider37

That aint his twitter

[Findog]

BTW, LOL at Artest owning Cubes. Almost as funny as "thugraider37".

That's not his twitter.

[Findog]

http://twitter.com/96TruwarierQB is Ron Artest

[Findog]

He let Nash walk, and he won two MVP's

And the Mavs got better.


He let Finley go on to win a title. He cut Finley to save $50 million in luxury tax payments. And the Mavs sent Michael Finley fishing the two times they've run into him in the playoffs. Are you saying the Spurs couldn't have won a title in 2007 w/o Michael Finley? I'm pretty there's about 60 guys they could've plugged into the 2 guard spot and still won.


He traded one of the best young PG'S in the league for an old Kidd.

I'd rather have Devin Harris 5 years from now, but you cannot tell me he would've made us a better team last year in place of Kidd.

[Findog]

Really?

Yeah, he worships Kobe Bryant. Kobe will tell Ron when to jump and how high, and Ron will comply.

[Findog]

I'm convinced that there is something off in his mind that will only be fixed by medication (being very serious).

That's funny, I've heard more than one league insider say that about him needing medication. And he refuses to take it.

[completely deck]

I hate the comparison but I gotta make it. Mark my words, in a few years, we're going to look back and realize this Ron Artest signing is almost exactly the same as the Bulls picking up Dennis Rodman.


You were right about hating the comparison because it's just terrible.


Even if he is crazy, you have to admit that he has toned it down dramatically since his Indiana days. As a Rocket, he rarely caused a problem.

You obviously didn't watch any of the Rockets games last year.


What would Cuban know about team chemistry. He let Nash walk, and he won two MVP's. He let Finley go on to win a title. He traded one of the best young PG'S in the league for an old Kidd. This guy sure has made some great moves, yeah.

What do the Lakers know about chemistry by bringing in the biggest crybaby and drama queen in the history of the NBA to a team that just won a title?

[LakeShow]

:lol The Mental Midget is at it again. Cuban really knows how to pick them. First Kmart, now Artest. He's cruising for a bruising. The bad thing about it is that he doesn't play the game so they'll have to take it out on his team.

[Culburn369]

What do the Lakers know about chemistry by bringing in the biggest crybaby and drama queen in the history of the NBA to a team that just won a title?

We got Manu?

I'm stoked!

[BlackBellamy]

What do the Lakers know about chemistry by bringing in the biggest crybaby and drama queen in the history of the NBA to a team that just won a title?

Biggest crybaby award goes to... zzR60xPDLQs

[Mavs_man_41]

I'd rather have Devin Harris 5 years from now, but you cannot tell me he would've made us a better team last year in place of Kidd.

disagreed

[cobbler]

Chemistry is way overated.

Let me think .... can a coach and organization reel in a team with shaky chemistry and really win the title?

How about 3 of them... in a row!

00-01-02 LAKERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[BlackBellamy]

Chemistry is way overated.

Let me think .... can a coach and organization reel in a team with shaky chemistry and really win the title?

How about 3 of them... in a row!

00-01-02 LAKERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ok, but that same volatile chemistry also won you guys a trip to the lottery and a few first round playoff exits. I'm not saying that it's the same situation now, but you can't deny that after the glory the general lack of teamwork, respect and, yes, chemistry killed the mid 2000 Lakers.

[cobbler]

Ok, but that same volatile chemistry also won you guys a trip to the lottery and a few first round playoff exits. I'm not saying that it's the same situation now, but you can't deny that after the glory the general lack of teamwork, respect and, yes, chemistry killed the mid 2000 Lakers.

Im thinking with having starters Kwame, Smush, and Luke... it was more a lack of skill than chemistry. So yes, I do deny it.

There is no doubt that having chemistry is a positive thing. I just think people make to much of it. Ill take the skill first and if they happen to get along... that's all icing.

[BlackBellamy]

Im thinking with having starters Kwame, Smush, and Luke... it was more a lack of skill than chemistry. So yes, I do deny it.
Yes, but would Shaq have gone anywhere in the first place if the team had better chemistry? It's pretty obvious that what you guys were lacking was a decent big man during your lottery/ early exit years (as shown with you guys still being a mid-level team in the West at best until acquiring Gasol). In fact, the Lakers prolly should have gone to four (or more) in a row had it not been for in-fighting. So, be stubborn and deny it all you want. Maybe Artest will be your answer to a new three-peat or more, or maybe he tears your chances apart. We'll just have to see.

[BlackBellamy]

The Utah Azz have great chemistry every year.

C'mon here fellas. I'm not bashing your team, I'm not saying Artest will be your team's terminal cancer (although the thought is not out of the question) and I'm not saying that getting along with teammates is the most important component to winning, but it certainly helps a team's chances.

[Basketballgirl25]

I'd rather have Devin Harris 5 years from now, but you cannot tell me he would've made us a better team last year in place of Kidd.

maybe Nets can trade you back Devin Harris when he is 35 or 36 like they did with Kidd:lol

[iggypop123]

http://twitter.com/96TruwarierQB is Ron Artest

he has 3 twitter accounts. he said all the stuff that was posted

[sonic21]

wasn't Cuban trying to trade for Artest last year?

[nevetslc]

That aint his twitter

yes it is he has three twitter accounts

http://twitter.com/Basketball_Ron <--- This one is the Verified Account. Just for basketball talk

http://twitter.com/ThugRaider37 <--- This is the one he seems to use the most for his fans.

http://twitter.com/96TruwarierQB <--- He uses this one just for music stuff.

[Baseline]

The trouble with Cuban is that he thinks he's not only the smartest guy in the room, but the ONLY smart guy in the room.

It's obvious to every Spurs fan that Artest could blow up on the Lakers. that's why I was ecstatic to hear that they were letting Ariza go an signing Artest. Stupid move in my opinion. Ariza says nothing, plays team ball, is the defensive stopper, and makes plays on offense. there's nothing not to like about Ariza. Most importantly, he's unselfish on offense and defers to Bryant, so no waves there.

Artest is a black hole on offense, and increasingly so as he's gotten older. His defensive skills will diminish with each passing day, yet the Lakers signed him for FIVE years. Incredibly stupid.

Yet Cuban thinks he's the only guy who realizes this, and has to open his enormous mouth about it. That's an even stupider move than signing Artest to a 5-year deal.

[picnroll]

he has 3 twitter accounts. he said all the stuff that was posted

One for each personality.

[Ghazi]

Cuban is a billionaire, he can say whatever the fuck he wants.

[DPG21920]

One for each personality.

:lol

[iggypop123]

Cuban is a billionaire, he can say whatever the fuck he wants.

he also travels to the away games which means all cameras will be on him when the mavs are defeated

[Obstructed_View]

:lol at the idea that someone suggesting Ron Artest could be a problem is doing so only out of fear of the Lakers. Ariza defends, hits big clutch shots and makes plays at key times without needing lots of touches. THAT scares me. Ron Artest throws elbows, gets teed up and takes poor shots when it matters. If I wanted the Lakers to be weakened to give the Spurs a shot, I'd certainly hope for Artest to be there. As it is, I'll take my chances with both teams healthy and playing their best ball. Forgive me if I think they've taken a step down with Artest. Besides, if the Lakers think they needed to take a risk like this in order to defend their title, they're the ones that are scared.

[crc21209]

Not like it's a secret or anything...we all know that one of the big storylines of the Lakers this season is whether Ron Artest and the Lakers are good for each other, will it or will it not work?

[Banzai]

Not like it's a secret or anything...we all know that one of the big storylines of the Lakers this season is whether Ron Artest and the Lakers are good for each other, will it or will it not work?

Well when the season begins..we shall see.

[Banzai]

Ron only works well on scrub teams without anyone else demanding shots. When the beast isn't satiated with meat, he is easily tempered and trapped into a brawl like that happened in Auburn. Before the brawl, however, Ron had played some great games in which he averaged 22 points each night. At that time Ron was the No.1 scorer on his team with 22pts/g, which encouraged him to grasp even more share of shots than he'd already got. But JO is no Yao or T-Mac, I mean JO is even more enthusiastic than Ron in personal stats. Ben's vicious foul was just the detonator to the brawl while the evil in Ron's mind was actually the cracker.

I don't doubt Pau and Odom will sacrifice some shots for Ron's comfort, but are you expecting Kobe to give up some shots and subsequently dump his pt/g to under-20? Kobe is no KG, Ray Allen or Pierce anyways, and bitch has already got 4 putas and also proved he could win a ring w/o kissing shaq's ass, hence he has no more motive to give much care to how his team works. I assume Ron will get traded before the deadline in exchange for several expiring craps.
I don't know how Ron will play once the season starts..I'm hoping for the best. That is about all I can do at this point. Once again we shall see how he plays once the season starts.

[Morg1411]

Go fuck yourself fat boy. Back to back, and its gonna be easier than last year, book it.

Dipshit quote of the day courtesy of Lakafag.

http://www.dorkmuffin.com/images/shut-the-fuck-up.jpeg

[Culburn369]

As it is, I'll take my chances with both teams healthy

F'in child care.

[Culburn369]

Go fuck yourself fat boy. Back to back, and its gonna be easier than last year, book it.

It'll make Kobe goin' sans Daddy look like Sunday school.

[Allanon]

I have to agree with Luva, the addition of Ron Ron made an already talented Lakers team infinitely tougher and even more talented.

Kobe - Top 5 SG
Pau - Top 5 PF
Bynum - Top 5 C
Ron - Top 5 SF ... maybe Top 10
Lamar - Top 10 PF although without candy, plays more like Top 15

Cumulative
Pau, Bynum, Lamar - #1 Frontcourt
Kobe, Ron Ron - #1 perimeter defense

I think the only two teams with talent and cohesiveness remotely close to the Lakers are Boston & San Antonio. LeBron & Shaq together really is interesting but they did nothing to solve their midget guard problem. Dallas & Orlando have a load of talent but I don't think they play well together.

I don't think it will be difficult for the Lakers to repeat at all and I personally don't really like it. Lack of competition makes for a very boring season from an entertainment perspective.

[Mavs_man_41]

It'll make Kobe goin' sans Daddy look like Sunday school.

please, kill yourself

by all means, stab yourself in the knee with a diseased needle

[Culburn369]

please, kill yourself

by all means, stab yourself in the knee with a diseased needle

Uh, uh, daddy-O. The Cubby has landed and we're gonna go thru the '09-'10 season together.

[DPG21920]

Allan, you've seen me on here talking shit, but I'm dead serious when I say we are far out ahead of the other teams. All of this Artest hate is funny, because when he was traded to the Rockets, it was all good, now he's going to ruin the chemistry of a championship team, but not a very fragile Houston team.

What is it that you do not understand about the different situations? Houston was a team that had not gotten out of the first round in a long time. They needed another big piece and they had to take a risk if they had any hope of winning a title. They had to. Artest was still a risk in Houston, but they had no other options.

LA is a team that won without Artest. They did not need to take a risk. There is no reason to add a risk to your team. They could have won without Artest, the only way to go from here is backwards. Artest is a talented player and I think he will be fine in LA, but they did not NEED TO take the risk; Houston did.

[Culburn369]

I'm praying for Boston as well. Kobe can give raw to all of his haters if he comes through this year.

Yes, that (triumph Vs. Boston) is where Kobe (and the Lakers) will attain mythical proportions. Nothing will ever be the same again.

We're on the precipice of true legendary greatness. Does Bryant have what it takes, what it took Magic Johnson in the Summer of '85? I hope we'll bear witness to the answer.

[Culburn369]

LA is a team that won without Artest. They did not need to take a risk. There is no reason to add a risk to your team. They could have won without Artest, the only way to go from here is backwards. Artest is a talented player and I think he will be fine in LA, but they did not NEED TO take the risk; Houston did.

Ancient ground, DPG: Christ, if I've explained this once I've gone over it a hundred times:::

Odom wanted Artest.
Odom delivered the goods (those two cold blooded 3's).
The good Dr. saw his opportunity, shut his f'in mouth and waited till just a smidge after midnite free agent day.
He gave Odom what he wanted/Artest.

Two choices for the Dr., DPG:

Ariza.

OR

Artest & Odom.

[Mavs_man_41]

Ancient ground, DPG: Christ, if I've explained this once I've gone over it a hundred times:::

Odom wanted Artest.
Odom delivered the goods (those two cold blooded 3's).
The good Dr. saw his opportunity, shut his f'in mouth and waited till just a smidge after midnite free agent day.
He gave Odom what he wanted/Artest.

Two choices for the Dr., DPG:

Ariza.

OR

Artest & Odom.

How can we take this for fact? Where did you find definite proof of this. Or at least heavy speculation with a lot of fans who agree. I need a link

[DPG21920]

What risk? We had a player that wanted too much money, and publicly said he had better options. We went with another option. We could have gone after Marion, Grant, a number of players could have filled Ariza's small shoes. Whats funny is you all make Ariza out to be some piece that was irreplaceable. We upgraded playa, and you gotta deal with me and Crazypills for the next five years. Don't be mad at me, things are the way they suppose to be.

That is what I said. Still does not explain why you bring up Houston and Ron to make a point about LA and Ron. It is a risk. Anytime you bring in a player like Artest, with his baggage, it is a risk.

Artest is a talent upgrade, but the questions are 1) Will he play the role LA needs him to, 2) Will he fit in 3) Will he behave or cause chemistry problems.

LA won without Artest last year, they had no questions to be answered. They do now with Artest and that makes it a risk. I am sure it will work out fine though.

Ancient ground, DPG: Christ, if I've explained this once I've gone over it a hundred times:::

Odom wanted Artest.
Odom delivered the goods (those two cold blooded 3's).
The good Dr. saw his opportunity, shut his f'in mouth and waited till just a smidge after midnite free agent day.
He gave Odom what he wanted/Artest.

Two choices for the Dr., DPG:

Ariza.

OR

Artest & Odom.

Not true.

[Culburn369]

How can we take this for fact?

Because it's common f'in sense, man.

Christ, do you have to have Media lead you to every single waterhole, Mavs_?

It was a wild stroke of genius by Buss. He got everything he wanted the way he wanted it: the moment Odom shows up in the playoffs Buss is able to reward him with exactly what he wants/Artest. He can then give Artest the money, and give Odom Artest in lieu of an amount of money. WTF is Odom gonna do? Nothing, he's got to sign.

Buss has won 9 NBA World Championships in 30 years of ownership. And now you know why, buster.

[Culburn369]

We are the champions, my friend, and we'll go on fighting to the end!!!!!!!!!

[cobbler]

What is it that you do not understand about the different situations? Houston was a team that had not gotten out of the first round in a long time. They needed another big piece and they had to take a risk if they had any hope of winning a title. They had to. Artest was still a risk in Houston, but they had no other options.

LA is a team that won without Artest. They did not need to take a risk. There is no reason to add a risk to your team. They could have won without Artest, the only way to go from here is backwards. Artest is a talented player and I think he will be fine in LA, but they did not NEED TO take the risk; Houston did.

Could it be that the FO realized that we were fortunate to not have to go through the Celts and Cavs who have larger small forwards. Could it be that they saw the way Melo and other large SF's were able to push Ariza around? Could it be that they realized Ariza (and I love Ariza) got hot (shooting) in the 3rd round and finals and that was not the norm as witnessed by the rest of his career?

It's ironic how we get all these posts talking about how lucky the Lakers got on their path to the championship and in the next breath say they shouldn't have tried to upgrade since they won it all.

[Findog]

he has 3 twitter accounts. he said all the stuff that was posted

Thanks for the info.

[Findog]

yes it is he has three twitter accounts

http://twitter.com/Basketball_Ron <--- This one is the Verified Account. Just for basketball talk

http://twitter.com/ThugRaider37 <--- This is the one he seems to use the most for his fans.

http://twitter.com/96TruwarierQB <--- He uses this one just for music stuff.

Thanks for the info.

[Mavs_man_41]

Our GM damn there quotes Cul word for word, shit for brains.
http://www.nba.com/video/channels/nba_tv/2009/10/03/nba_091003_pierce_intv.nba/

Where does he say that it was either Ariza or Odom/Artest???

[Culburn369]

Where does he say that it was either Ariza or Odom/Artest???

That's where you use your common sense. That's why he ran Ariza off immediately. Odom had shown his cards already (wanting Artest). Buss just let nature takes it course= give Ariza the boot/give Artest the money/give Odom Artest. Odom made it doable by showing up in the '09 playoffs. Everybody had been saying forever that he could do it...he finally did it. Buss didn't have to pay him. He could pay Artest and get Odom thrown in for a discount.

[Mavs_man_41]

That's where you use your common sense. That's why he ran Ariza off immediately. Odom had shown his cards already (wanting Artest). Buss just let nature takes it course= give Ariza the boot/give Artest the money/give Odom Artest. Odom made it doable by showing up in the '09 playoffs. Everybody had been saying forever that he could do it...he finally did it. Buss didn't have to pay him. He could pay Artest and get Odom thrown in for a discount.

So it's all just lakerfan speculation. Wheres the proof that Lamar wanted Ron in LA or else he wasnt resigning?

[Culburn369]

Buss was able to to choose Artest & Odom over Ariza because Odom had delivered the championship. The "risk" came when Orlando closed to 5 and Odom busted their ass with those two threes. Buss at that point put the plan into action....and frankly used Odom's immaturity to trap him with the Artest signing. But, he didn't rub his face in his makings. Odom wanted to pal around with Artest in Los Angeles, Kobe signed off on it, and Odom got his fantasy wish. Buss got another ring, everybody was happy/sans Ariza. tee, hee.

Christ, time elapsed twixt midnite of the free agent period, the dumping of Ariza just east of Bakersfield and the Artest signing was what: 72 hours? Odom didn't know wtf hit him.

[TIMMYD!]

Yes, that (triumph Vs. Boston) is where Kobe (and the Lakers) will attain mythical proportions. Nothing will ever be the same again.

We're on the precipice of true legendary greatness. Does Bryant have what it takes, what it took Magic Johnson in the Summer of '85? I hope we'll bear witness to the answer.

And that answer shall be no.

[Culburn369]

Wheres the proof that Lamar wanted Ron in LA or else he wasnt resigning?

Christ, use your f'in common sense, man.

He wanted Artest in CA.. Turns out he'd been playin' grab ass with him for years. They also keep the shower incident with Artest|Kobe under wraps for near a year and then expose it when the time is ripe. That acts as defacto grace from Kobe on the Artest acquisition.

Buss can go preemptive: "he wasn't resigning" doesn't even register with him. He kept his ear to the train track and heard the rumblings twixt Artest & Odom and then pounced on it. Instead of just money, he gave Odom money & Artest.

[sprrs]

And if the quicker SF/SG's get past him they still have to deal with Bynum and Gasol. I guess in time we will see.

So you don't have a problem with it practically being 5-on-4 because you have Bynum and Gasol to make up for Artest's mistakes?

[Culburn369]

And that answer shall be no.

& I'm on record with the requisite "no" as well. After 13 years and at 31 Kobe has settled. He'd have to go to a fresh level in order to accomplish the triumph over the Celtics team. They're waiting for him.

I just hope I'm wrong.

[Mori Chu]

Cubster, there is no way the Celtics are making the Finals this coming season. I don't see why anybody would expect a Lakers-Celtics Finals. KG is still gimpy, and an aging Rasheed Wallace doesn't make up for it. Cleveland and Orlando are much better IMO.

[Culburn369]

Cubster, there is no way the Celtics are making the Finals this coming season. I don't see why anybody would expect a Lakers-Celtics Finals. KG is still gimpy, and an aging Rasheed Wallace doesn't make up for it. Cleveland and Orlando are much better IMO.

Maybe Orlando, Mori, but, not Cleveland. Daddy will suck the life out of that franchise by January.

Well, of course I'm figuring on Garnett to return to form. And Wallace will straighten up. To me they're stacked. Them, us & the Spurs.

In Orlando much rests on what impact Carter is going to have. This is his last chance to make his mark. If he can't, they can't get there.

[cobbler]

So you don't have a problem with it practically being 5-on-4 because you have Bynum and Gasol to make up for Artest's mistakes?

I said "if". It's not like its a given. And if on a few occasions he does get beat... yes, it is nice to have two 7 footers as backup. Everone gets beat.

[DPG21920]

Could it be that the FO realized that we were fortunate to not have to go through the Celts and Cavs who have larger small forwards. Could it be that they saw the way Melo and other large SF's were able to push Ariza around? Could it be that they realized Ariza (and I love Ariza) got hot (shooting) in the 3rd round and finals and that was not the norm as witnessed by the rest of his career?

It's ironic how we get all these posts talking about how lucky the Lakers got on their path to the championship and in the next breath say they shouldn't have tried to upgrade since they won it all.

No. You can take to heart people who post the Laker's got lucky or you can realize the truth; Ariza, despite his flaws, was great role player for the Lakers and the Lakers had the best team by far.

Although you gain better defense of SF's that are bulky, you lose the ability to guard quicker guards. That means Kobe has to do more work and not hide out on the defensive end. It can be argued what is better for the Laker's considering they faced a guy like Carmelo and prevailed anyways.

The Lakers definitely upgraded in talent with the Artest for Ariza swap, but that does not mean there are not risks inherent with the move. Ariza fit, this was a known entity. Artest is still a question mark and that is the point.

[completely deck]

What risk? We had a player that wanted too much money, and publicly said he had better options. We went with another option. We could have gone after Marion, Grant, a number of players could have filled Ariza's small shoes. Whats funny is you all make Ariza out to be some piece that was irreplaceable. We upgraded playa, and you gotta deal with me and Crazypills for the next five years. Don't be mad at me, things are the way they suppose to be.

Is English your first language or are you really that stupid?

[mogrovejo]

I agree with Cuban. Artest is a guy with a very high usage rate without being very efficient and Ariza is a better perimeter defender than him these days.

[mystargtr34]

No. You can take to heart people who post the Laker's got lucky or you can realize the truth; Ariza, despite his flaws, was great role player for the Lakers and the Lakers had the best team by far.

Although you gain better defense of SF's that are bulky, you lose the ability to guard quicker guards. That means Kobe has to do more work and not hide out on the defensive end. It can be argued what is better for the Laker's considering they faced a guy like Carmelo and prevailed anyways.

The Lakers definitely upgraded in talent with the Artest for Ariza swap, but that does not mean there are not risks inherent with the move. Ariza fit, this was a known entity. Artest is still a question mark and that is the point.

Wasting your time.

[KSeal]

I laugh at the Laker haters who act as if Ariza was going to shot 48% from three the rest of his career. He played way over his head which just happened to be in a contract year. Yes he played good D as well but does anyone remember the first few games of that Denver series? Ariza got abused to the point where Kobe had to guard Melo. With Ron here that isn't a problem, he can handle the PP's, Melos's and LBJ (to a point) of the world, Ariza had no chance against those guys. Not to mention the biggest complaint and weakness of the Lakers over the past two years has been toughness, bringing in the toughest SF in the league obviously helps the team out there. Haters are going to hate and look at all the negatives while the lovers love and look at all the positives, the truth is Artest fills wholes the Lakers desperately needed filled yet he can't fill them all. The Lakers are going to have to play to their strengths and get great leadership and coaching.

[Obstructed_View]

It's so funny that Lakerfan talks out of one side about the overwhelming talent advantage the team has, then turns around and suggests that winning titles with this team suddenly makes Kobe Bryant less of a coattailer than when Shaq was there.

[Morg1411]

And we still have the best team. Come all-star break, you all will be wishing for injuries, because Artest is what the doctor ordered.

:sleep

[Obstructed_View]

And we still have the best team. Come all-star break, you all will be wishing for injuries, because Artest is what the doctor ordered.

If you're relying on Artest to be bigger in critical situations than Ariza was, then your team is doomed. If the Lakers are as dominant as Lakerfan likes to tell everyone, then Artest doesn't really put them over the top. At best he's overkill. At worst, he's what he's been his entire career. Be glad you have a built-in excuse if Kobe fails to repeat with all this talent around him and a HOF coach.

[KSeal]

If you're relying on Artest to be bigger in critical situations than Ariza was, then your team is doomed. If the Lakers are as dominant as Lakerfan likes to tell everyone, then Artest doesn't really put them over the top. At best he's overkill. At worst, he's what he's been his entire career. Be glad you have a built-in excuse if Kobe fails to repeat with all this talent around him and a HOF coach.

Yeah cause I'm sure Ariza was going to shoot 48% from three in the playoffs again. Plus if Bynum doesn't get his knee raped by Kobe again (he's quite the rapist) then he'll be the big story, not Artest. Ron just needs to play nice and tough D and hit the open three when it's presented, that's it.

[Culburn369]

The Lakers definitely upgraded in talent with the Artest for Ariza swap, but that does not mean there are not risks inherent with the move. Ariza fit, this was a known entity. Artest is still a question mark and that is the point.

Thank, you, DPG...and that (upgrade in talent) is yet another reason why Buss choose Odom & Artest over Ariza.

[Culburn369]

At best he's overkill.

I'd settle for that, yes.

[Danny.Zhu]

Just hope Cuban decides to build Mavs in the next few years with the only aim to match up well against Lakers, instead of Spurs.

[Culburn369]

Just hope Cuban decides to build Mavs in the next few years with the only aim to match up well against Lakers, instead of Spurs.

Yes, it would be a change of pace most welcome for your worn out asses.

[mystargtr34]

Amazing how Lakerfan has turned on Ariza. One minute he was a Pau Gasol level steal, who was the third most important piece to his teams title run, with unlimited potential. Now hes that scrub role player who rode Kobe's back and got abused by defenders on a nightly basis.

[Mori Chu]

In Orlando much rests on what impact Carter is going to have. This is his last chance to make his mark. If he can't, they can't get there.

I agree, Cubby. And I'm not super sold on Vince. A lot of people think he was an upgrade over Hedo, but I don't think so. It's all about fit, and I don't really think he fits this team.

But the reason I still think they're an elite team (and better than Boston) is because of their other acquisitions and the rest of their roster. Matt Barnes was a steal. Retaining Marcin Gortat, while pricey, is a great retention of talent. Brandon Bass is also a useful player. Plus their other guys like Dwight Howard and Rashard Lewis aren't going anywhere. So I think Vince's potential to damage the team is reduced.

I still think they look a lot better than a gimpy, aging Boston. I don't see any way that the Celtics are in the Finals come June. Part of it is because I'm not at all sold on their Rasheed Wallace pickup. He's getting too old and demands the ball a lot, and his outside shooting is shakier than it used to be. I just don't think Sheed is a get-you-over-the-hump kind of player any more.

As for Cleveland, I don't love the Shaq move, but I like a lot of their other moves such as grabbing Jamario Moon. And Shaq, for all his faults, will at least provide a big shield for Lebron, a cushion (made of flab). He'll deflect a lot of the pressure and make Lebron feel freer to do his thing. I think it will help, and that the Cavs will rush out to the #1 seed in the East by a wide margin.

[Chieflion]

I agree, Cubby. And I'm not super sold on Vince. A lot of people think he was an upgrade over Hedo, but I don't think so. It's all about fit, and I don't really think he fits this team.

But the reason I still think they're an elite team (and better than Boston) is because of their other acquisitions and the rest of their roster. Matt Barnes was a steal. Retaining Marcin Gortat, while pricey, is a great retention of talent. Brandon Bass is also a useful player. Plus their other guys like Dwight Howard and Rashard Lewis aren't going anywhere. So I think Vince's potential to damage the team is reduced.

I still think they look a lot better than a gimpy, aging Boston. I don't see any way that the Celtics are in the Finals come June. Part of it is because I'm not at all sold on their Rasheed Wallace pickup. He's getting too old and demands the ball a lot, and his outside shooting is shakier than it used to be. I just don't think Sheed is a get-you-over-the-hump kind of player any more.

As for Cleveland, I don't love the Shaq move, but I like a lot of their other moves such as grabbing Jamario Moon. And Shaq, for all his faults, will at least provide a big shield for Lebron, a cushion (made of flab). He'll deflect a lot of the pressure and make Lebron feel freer to do his thing. I think it will help, and that the Cavs will rush out to the #1 seed in the East by a wide margin.
I beg to differ. For Orlando, Carter was what they needed. They needed a go-to scorer and they got one in Vince Carter. If only he was 2 years younger. Dwight, Hedo and Lewis are not go-to scorer calibre and Hedo wanted out, which was strange.

For Boston, Rasheed would just be a big man coming off the bench. Perkins is going to start. Rasheed would be better than Glen Davis and Brian Scalabrine anyway. Marquis Daniels will play good minutes behind Ray Allen and Paul Pierce, whose minutes will get slashed. Daniels is better than Tony Allen.

You got Cleveland correct. Those were good moves by their FO.

[Culburn369]

I beg to differ. For Orlando, Carter was what they needed. They needed a go-to scorer and they got one in Vince Carter. If only he was 2 years younger.

Well, are you going to "beg to differ"---or "If"?

[Culburn369]

Amazing how Lakerfan has turned on Ariza.

Ain't me. It's not personal. Just business. Buss had only the two choices:

1. Ariza

2. Odom & Artest

He moved swiftly & correctly.

[picc84]

It's so funny that Lakerfan talks out of one side about the overwhelming talent advantage the team has, then turns around and suggests that winning titles with this team suddenly makes Kobe Bryant less of a coattailer than when Shaq was there.

With that logic, there are at least 4 teams this year that no matter who wins finals mvp they will be coattailing, and your spurs are one of them.

I guess Lebron already proved this year that its possible to win a title in todays NBA as a great player without a great team.

Oh wait. He proved the exact opposite.

[Killakobe81]

Artest is a risk and Ariza's SPEED and length is a loss ...but here is where Artest will help.
The other 4 NBA title contenders all have good (RJ and Rashard Lewis) or great Pierce, Lebron and Melo. In THOSE matchups Artest is a HUGE upgrade. [I] could pull up stats but what matters most is what I see ...and Artest has done a great job on all 3 at times. Against the quicker guys like Roy Wade etc. Ariza couldnt stop those guys either. (Ariza did help vs. Tony Parker). Ariza was most effective in passing lanes and bothering shooters and backcourt pressure ...
On defense Artest is like a shutdown corner who has lost a step yes he can get burnt from time to time but you arent going to earn your living going there regularly.
On offense artest will get the ball in the pinch post and side triangle ESPECIALLY when Kobe rests. He will be the primary or secondary scorer when Kobe and or Gasol sits.

You will see. Expect a great year on the court ...off? Well that is anyone's guess ...

[Killakobe81]

With that logic, there are at least 4 teams this year that no matter who wins finals mvp they will be coattailing, and your spurs are one of them.

I guess Lebron already proved this year that its possible to win a title in todays NBA as a great player without a great team.

Oh wait. He proved the exact opposite.

How you riding coattails when you average over 20 pts in 3 different playoff runs AND score over 30 and sometimes 40 in said playoff run?
You my friend (if you feel Kobe rode coattails and wasnt a HUGE key) are an idiot ...was shaq the 1A to Kobe's 1B? Of course! but it was Kobe that killed the Spurs more than shaq did Oh and Derk Fisher LOL

Shaq was dominant presence and the doubles helped out the other guys ESPECIALLY Fish and Horry who had wide open 3's ...
But Kobe has probven he can be an option 1a and Option 1B on a title team

[picc84]

How you riding coattails when you average over 20 pts in 3 different playoff runs AND score over 30 and sometimes 40 in said playoff run?
You my friend (if you feel Kobe rode coattails and wasnt a HUGE key) are an idiot ...was shaq the 1A to Kobe's 1B? Of course! but it was Kobe that killed the Spurs more than shaq did Oh and Derk Fisher LOL

Shaq was dominant presence and the doubles helped out the other guys ESPECIALLY Fish and Horry who had wide open 3's ...
But Kobe has probven he can be an option 1a and Option 1B on a title team

Are you talking to me?

[Harry Callahan]

Artest is capable of truly bizarre behavior. He has destoyed teams in the past (Indiana). I had read some stories coming out of Houston about how he was late for team buses and not being ready to go before games.

The Rockets kept a lid on some of this stuff, but it came out after their season was over.

Will Ron-Ron implode. We don't know. Could Ron-Ron implode. Absolutely.

[Culburn369]

I had read some stories coming out of Houston about how he was late for team buses and not being ready to go before games.

That only happened after he signed in Los Angeles. When he was in Houston he was always on time, ready to go, sans his clothes, replete in his Fruits only.

[jack sommerset]

Cuban is wrong about a lot of things and certainly this one. That ass can't admit letting Nash go was a mistake.

[Culburn369]

Cuban is wrong about a lot of things and certainly this one. That ass can't admit letting Nash go was a mistake.

But, he got further without Nash than he ever did with him.

[duncan228]

Artest downplays Cuban's comments (http://www.latimes.com/sports/la-sp-lakers-fyi4-2009oct04,0,2107463.story)

Artest said he was told about Mark Cuban's comments by his "Twitter friends," in which the Dallas Mavericks owner suggested that Artest would upset the Lakers' chemistry.

"I talked to Kobe [Bryant] about it," Artest said. "He said that's what happens when you're a Laker."

In an ESPN radio interview in Dallas, Cuban said: "Could you imagine? Ron Artest has got the ball and Kobe's standing there, 'Throw me the ball.' Thank you, Ron Artest."

Artest viewed Cuban's comments as entertainment.

"As long as you can play basketball, work hard, come to work every day, get your training in, get your extra work in, I think it's important that the fans get entertained," Artest said. "It's important that Mark Cuban says stuff like that. It's great for the fans. It's something to read and it keeps it interesting.

"Nobody is really getting hurt. It's just words. I think the fans like that. That's why I love this game."

[ooshmay]

said the guy who traded a young and upcoming PG to 35+ washed player.


HAHAHAHA so true...

[wanggi]

But, he got further without Nash than he ever did with him.

It "was" s a mistake to let Nash go especially when Nash's Suns beat his Mavericks later in the playoffs.
But now the Suns make a mistake signing Nash a 22 million bucks contract extension until the age of 38.

[Culburn369]

It "was" s a mistake to let Nash go especially when Nash's Suns beat his Mavericks later in the playoffs.

Only if your goal is to "beat his Mavericks later in the playoffs."

[Findog]

It "was" s a mistake to let Nash go especially when Nash's Suns beat his Mavericks later in the playoffs.]

They went further w/o Nash and sent him fishing once. So yeah, big "mistake"

[wanggi]

Only if your goal is to "beat his Mavericks later in the playoffs."
Actually, it was simply "Nash's" goal.

Tee, hee.:lol

[Capt Bringdown]

Betting against Phil Jackson - not a good move. I'm sure there were those who thought Rodman wouldn't be effective in a Bulls uniform.

[Culburn369]

Betting against Phil Jackson - not a good move. I'm sure there were those who thought Rodman wouldn't be effective in a Bulls uniform.

& then those who thought Rodman would be effective in a Spurs uniform.:nope

[21_Blessings]

They went further w/o Nash and sent him fishing once. So yeah, big "mistake"

Further is meaningless when you come up short by choking your brains out in the finals. Mavs win that Miami series with Nash at the helm.

You sent Nash fishing when the Suns were missing Amare. Yes that's an accomplishment worth bragging about.

Cuban's meddling is simply not good for the organization. He's a shitty GM, plain and simple. Take notes from Jerry Buss on how you win a championship. Keep your mouth shut, let the people who know basketball make basketball decisions and open your wallet only when it makes sense.

[DaDakota]

Cuban screws around too much with his teams chemistry....he has let 2 all star PGs go...in Nash and Harris......

I think his passion gets in the way of his brains.

DD

[Culburn369]

Further is meaningless when you come up short by choking your brains out in the finals. Mavs win that Miami series with Nash at the helm.

That's my point:::Nash could never get them that far (Finals).

[Capt Bringdown]

& then those who thought Rodman would be effective in a Spurs uniform.:nope

Why not? Rodman's a headcase, but SA was the only place he had major problems with. He was an extremely effective player in his day, I'm not sure all the problems he had here were entirely his fault.

[Culburn369]

Cuban screws around too much with his teams chemistry....he has let 2 all star PGs go...in Nash and Harris......

I think his passion gets in the way of his brains.

DD

But neither one (Nash and Harris) could accomplish a gd thing. They both fall apart the later it gets. They're 82-game Wonders. The league is full of that ilk.

[Culburn369]

Why not? Rodman's a headcase, but SA was the only place he had major problems with. He was an extremely effective player in his day, I'm not sure all the problems he had here were entirely his fault.

He had major problems in Los Angeles as well. All his problems were his fault.

[Capt Bringdown]

He had major problems in Los Angeles as well. All his problems were his fault.

Problems like being a big contributor on multiple NBA title runs. No one can take that away from him, or deny his competitive intensity. Of course he was full of too much nonsense, but it's stupid to deny his positive attributes. He was a hell of ballplayer when he wanted to be.

Rodman clearly belonged in the NBA - Bob Hill did not.

[DaDakota]

But neither one (Nash and Harris) could accomplish a gd thing. They both fall apart the later it gets. They're 82-game Wonders. The league is full of that ilk.

It is a team game, the Mavs were one of the elite teams with Nash, not one since...it is not a coincidence.

DD

[Culburn369]

It is a team game, the Mavs were one of the elite teams with Nash, not one since...it is not a coincidence.

DD

Elite my ass. Cuz Nash looks good failing? The Mavs got to the Finals without him. Sure, they stepped out the door once there, but, Nash could never get them (or the Suns) that close.

[Culburn369]

He was a hell of ballplayer when he wanted to be.

That's a terrible testamonial, Capt.

[jazzypimp]

Artest the butt plug with kobe the rapist playing sans daddy= culbs blowin his load all over his keyboard!

[Culburn369]

Artest the butt plug with kobe the rapist playing sans daddy= culbs blowin his load all over his keyboard!

I'm closin' in on 3,000 hits, Jazzy. I feel like Clemente!

[jazzypimp]

I'm closin' in on 3,000 hits, Jazzy. I feel like Clemente!

:lmao Homie may I recommend taking a couple hours off to recoupe !!

[Culburn369]

:lmao Homie may I recommend taking a couple hours off to recoupe !!

Christ, I just woke up and got started. Now you want me to break?

No way. I got fresh Depends on. I'm dry & bushy tailed!

[Capt Bringdown]

That's a terrible testamonial, Capt.

Not really. Every ballplayer's career has ups and downs. Few are able to contribute at the championship level to the degree Rodman did. That's not to say he didn't have significant problems and downfalls. His behavior in a Spurs uniform was inexcusable. But so was Bob Hill's coaching - he'll never coach in the big leagues again.

I gather that your rather un-nuanced position is that Rodman is irredeemably bad.
I don't think so - if that was the case Chuck Daly and Phil Jackson wouldn't have made use of his at times incredible passion and competitive intensity.

[Culburn369]

Not really. Every ballplayer's career has ups and downs. Few are able to contribute at the championship level to the degree Rodman did. That's not to say he didn't have significant problems and downfalls. His behavior in a Spurs uniform was inexcusable. But so was Bob Hill's coaching - he'll never coach in the big leagues again.

I gather that your rather un-nuanced position is that Rodman is irredeemably bad.
I don't think so - if that was the case Chuck Daly and Phil Jackson wouldn't have made use of his at times incredible passion and competitive intensity.


It's a slippery slope with Rodman and his type. You end up selling your soul for a ring or a chance at a ring with his type (i.e. Artest). So, yes, Rodman is irredeemably bad unless he wanted to be a hell of a ballplayer. You & I didn't get that. Chicago & Detroit got it.

[TheMACHINE]

i like our chances this year especially when other teams are "hoping" that our team chemistry blows up to even have a chance at a title.

LOL!

[hater]

LOL sensitive insefure lakerfans

Cuban messing with them

[IronMexican]

I'm closin' in on 3,000 hits, Jazzy. I feel like Clemente!

I remember when you had like 200 posts, and I said "This dude is weird". Now I just say "There goes that crazy ass Culburn"

[Culburn369]

I remember when you had like 200 posts, and I said "This dude is weird". Now I just say "There goes that crazy ass Culburn"

I'd have 3,000 by now if they'd hadn't a axed my original [Culburn thread] lodged by BUMP. That was my pride & joy.

[jazzypimp]

I'd have 3,000 by now if they'd hadn't a axed my original [Culburn thread] lodged by BUMP. That was my pride & joy.

Fuck those Culburn useless threads!!!

[Culburn369]

Fuck those Culburn useless threads!!!

Yer just jealous over my writing acumen.

[jazzypimp]

Yer just jealous over my writing acumen.

I will make you a deal. I will make a Culburn specific thread for you to place all your writings if you will keep your asinine poetic writings in that thread and not spam the other ones?? Souuuuunnnddd gggooodd?

[Culburn369]

I will make you a deal. I will make a Culburn specific thread for you to place all your writings if you will keep your asinine poetic writings in that thread and not spam the other ones?? Souuuuunnnddd gggooodd?

That wouldn't be right, Jazzy. I never solicited BUMP to lodge my thread. It was a pure and spur of the moment event that came from his heart. I'd feel dirty writing my shit on a coerced thread like you're proposing. No thanks.

[jazzypimp]

That wouldn't be right, Jazzy. I never solicited BUMP to lodge my thread. It was a pure and spur of the moment event that came from his heart. I'd feel dirty writing my shit on a coerced thread like you're proposing. No thanks.

Sometimes you must make a deal with the devil to get back to respectability!:hat

[Culburn369]

Sometimes you must make a deal with the devil to get back to respectability!:hat

I have my pride, Jazzy. And as I pass into the twilight of my life, I must protect my pride and my legacy. So that when I'm no longer here they'll still speak of me in the annals of all Boards & Forums with reverence & like awe.

[all_heart]

Don't the Lakers believe in weights? They should have put Ariza on a good workout program with lots of food! That would have beefed him up! Lakers should have kept Ariza, he's a better role player and a shit load faster than Artest. Cuban is a big idiot for sure, but he could be right on this one. The only thing that reigns in players like Artest is meds and maybe a really good woman! Of course his old team mates like him, he's got their back! That's the only advantage he'll give the Lakers. This "toughness" will not repeat NOT rub off on guys like Gasol, Farmar or Walton.

[jazzypimp]

Sorry for the delay, I had to drop a Cul and whipe a burn.. now what were we talking about again??

[Obstructed_View]

With that logic, there are at least 4 teams this year that no matter who wins finals mvp they will be coattailing, and your spurs are one of them.

Difference is, Spurs fans don't really care about that. Matt Bonner can be finals MVP for all I care, as long as he's a Spur when he wins it.

[Culburn369]

Difference is, Spurs fans don't really care about that. Matt Bonner can be finals MVP for all I care, as long as he's a Spur when he wins it.

We ain't no diff. You can stick the Finals MVP for all I care.

All I want is 2 things:

1. make the playoffs.

2. win the last game we play.

There is nothing else.

[TheMACHINE]

Don't the Lakers believe in weights? They should have put Ariza on a good workout program with lots of food! That would have beefed him up! Lakers should have kept Ariza, he's a better role player and a shit load faster than Artest. Cuban is a big idiot for sure, but he could be right on this one. The only thing that reigns in players like Artest is meds and maybe a really good woman! Of course his old team mates like him, he's got their back! That's the only advantage he'll give the Lakers. This "toughness" will not repeat NOT rub off on guys like Gasol, Farmar or Walton.

we'll see how things work out for Ariza when he actually has a hand in his face when shooting.

[all_heart]

we'll see how things work out for Ariza when he actually has a hand in his face when shooting.

So you are saying Kobe presence made him successful? I don't doubt that, but what about on the defensive end? "Trading" Ariza for Artest, the Lakers lost youth, quickness, and a good defensive role player who can run the floor. Yes, Artest is bigger and can guard bigger guys but isn't that Bynum's "role"? Not a good return IMO..

[picc84]

Difference is, Spurs fans don't really care about that. Matt Bonner can be finals MVP for all I care, as long as he's a Spur when he wins it.

You certainly would care, if you were trying to enjoy the championship and all everyone talked about was how Duncan had to coattail Matt Bonner on his way to a 5th ring.

Fortunately, I don't think anyone would be that stupid. But from your previous post it seems you would.

[TheMACHINE]

So you are saying Kobe presence made him successful? I don't doubt that, but what about on the defensive end? "Trading" Ariza for Artest, the Lakers lost youth, quickness, and a good defensive role player who can run the floor. Yes, Artest is bigger and can guard bigger guys but isn't that Bynum's "role"? Not a good return IMO..

oh yah..i forgot that Artest isnt know for his defense. :rolleyes

Cant wait to see Bynum do his role and guard Lebron and Melo.

/sarcasm

[lefty]

LMAO Cuban,

What an idiot


Artest won't mess up the Lakers chemistry

They'll be even better

[21_Blessings]

Don't the Lakers believe in weights? They should have put Ariza on a good workout program with lots of food! That would have beefed him up! Lakers should have kept Ariza, he's a better role player and a shit load faster than Artest. .

Ariza tried that last summer. Only barely added like 5 pounds while eating 3500+ calories a day most of the summer.

Without a doubt, Ron defends Melo, Jefferson Pierce and Lebron much better than Ariza.

[The Franchise]

Ariza tried that last summer. Only barely added like 5 pounds while eating 3500+ calories a day most of the summer.

Without a doubt, Ron defends Melo, Jefferson Pierce and Lebron much better than Ariza.

Maybe Melo, but have you seen him play Lebron, and Pierce lately? He cannot check either effectively anymore. They have been raping him for the last couple of years.

[21_Blessings]

He cannot check either effectively anymore. They have been raping him for the last couple of years.

Not true at all

http://www.basketball-reference.com/fc/h2h_finder.cgi?request=1&p1=artesro01&p2=jamesle01

http://www.basketball-reference.com/fc/h2h_finder.cgi?request=1&p1=artesro01&p2=piercpa01

No one in the league can guard Lebron more effectively than Artest.

[The Franchise]

Not true at all

http://www.basketball-reference.com/fc/h2h_finder.cgi?request=1&p1=artesro01&p2=jamesle01

http://www.basketball-reference.com/fc/h2h_finder.cgi?request=1&p1=artesro01&p2=piercpa01

No one in the league can guard Lebron more effectively than Artest.

Your numbers actually back my arguement. Look at the matchups from 2007-2009. They both dominate him in most of the games except maybe 1 or 2, and there stats are still leaps and bounds better than his in the bad games. Almost forgot to mention, Shane Battier covered Lebron in the one bad game Lebron had in that stretch (they switched him on Lebron because Artest was a turnstile on D). The numbers show that Artest's effectiveness on the defensive end has dropped considerably the last two seasons.

[21_Blessings]

Your numbers actually back my arguement. Look at the matchups from 2007-2009. .

No they don't. Learn how to read statistics.

[Obstructed_View]

You certainly would care, if you were trying to enjoy the championship and all everyone talked about was how Duncan had to coattail Matt Bonner on his way to a 5th ring.

Fortunately, I don't think anyone would be that stupid. But from your previous post it seems you would.

Nope. I'd enjoy any championship for the Spurs. I don't have to make up shit about Tim Duncan to try to vault him into places he doesn't deserve to be. I don't have to call him "the best closer in the game" or some stupid bullshit just to enjoy a title.

Spurs fans already watched Duncan carry two aging stars to titles. Trying to pretend that Tim Duncan is Michael Jordan is not a pastime for Spur fans.

[iggypop123]

Ariza tried that last summer. Only barely added like 5 pounds while eating 3500+ calories a day most of the summer.

Without a doubt, Ron defends Melo, Jefferson Pierce and Lebron much better than Ariza.

yeah he was at in and out alot. if that didnt work nothing will!

[The Franchise]

No they don't. Learn how to read statistics.

Did you even look at the stats you posted? Obviously not.

[picc84]

Nope. I'd enjoy any championship for the Spurs. I don't have to make up shit about Tim Duncan to try to vault him into places he doesn't deserve to be. I don't have to call him "the best closer in the game" or some stupid bullshit just to enjoy a title.

Spurs fans already watched Duncan carry two aging stars to titles. Trying to pretend that Tim Duncan is Michael Jordan is not a pastime for Spur fans.

No, but selectively mocking only certain players for winning on great teams is.

[Brazil]

I read all the pages and I really think that DPF21920 deserves a spur for arguing constantly with lakers fans on their own forum !!!

[21_Blessings]

Did you even look at the stats you posted? Obviously not.

Did you? Obviously not.

Last game Artest faced Lebron he played 37 minutes while Bron shot 7 for 21. I watched that game and Artest was guarding him for much of that game.

Game before that Lebron basically shoots his season average with only 6 free throws. Artest only played 31 min that game compared to Battier's 39.

Lebron's career FG% against Ron is .447 which is well below Lebron's career average. No one else in the league has the combination of size and quickness to D up Bron like Ron does.

Pierce, same story. He shot 7/14 in a Boston loss against and 5/15 the game before that with Ron playing heavy minutes.

Really, Kobe is only superstar that really consistently torches Ron. And him doing that everyday in practice will only make Ron Ron an even better defender.

[The Franchise]

Did you? Obviously not.

Last game Artest faced Lebron he played 37 minutes while Bron shot 7 for 21. I watched that game and Artest was guarding him for much of that game.

Game before that Lebron basically shoots his season average with only 6 free throws. Artest only played 31 min that game compared to Battier's 39.

Lebron's career FG% against Ron is .447 which is well below Lebron's career average. No one else in the league has the combination of size and quickness to D up Bron like Ron does.

Pierce, same story. He shot 7/14 in a Boston loss against and 5/15 the game before that with Ron playing heavy minutes.

Really, Kobe is only superstar that really consistently torches Ron. And him doing that everyday in practice will only make Ron Ron an even better defender.

The highlighted part is wrong. I watched that game to, (along with the other 81 Rocket games last season because league pass is wonderful) and they took Ron off of Lebron, stuck Shane on him, and kept him out of the paint with team defense making him a jumpshooter. Compare 2007-2009 to the years before and you will see that his effectiveness in previous years was greater against both players. That was the point I made in my original post. I never said he wasn't effective against them in the past, I said he hasn't been recently which is true. He has lost a step.

[21_Blessings]

The highlighted part is wrong. I watched that game to, (along with the other 81 Rocket games last season because league pass is wonderful) and they took Ron off of Lebron, stuck Shane on him, and kept him out of the paint with team defense making him a jumpshooter.

Ron guarded Lebron plenty that game and did a good job on him. Now you're resorting to lying.


Compare 2007-2009 to the years before and you will see that his effectiveness in previous years was greater against both players.

Compare last season and his defense against those two was very good. Looking at his time with the Kings is pointless when you consider what a terrible defensive team was around him. Brad Miller and Shareef down low with Kenny Thomas off the bench which is pathetic.


That was the point I made in my original post. I never said he wasn't effective against them in the past, I said he hasn't been recently which is true. He has lost a step.

Huh?


He cannot check either effectively anymore. They have been raping him for the last couple of years.

Yes he can check them effectively and he do it much more effectively than Ariza ever could with his size. No they haven't been raping him the last couple years. Thanks for basically admitting you never looked at that bref link I posted.

Yeah he's lost a step, but you're exaggeratin how much he lost. Ron is a smarter defender now with more strength. Lakers won a championship with Ariza and upgraded defensively with Artest.

[The Franchise]

Ron guarded Lebron plenty that game and did a good job on him. Now you're resorting to lying.

I have no reason to lie. You're changing the truth to fit your needs.


Compare last season and his defense against those two was very good. Looking at his time with the Kings is pointless when you consider what a terrible defensive team was around him. Brad Miller and Shareef down low with Kenny Thomas off the bench which is pathetic.

Them shooting mid 40% and 50% against him regularly is very good defense? Check the stats again please. Bringing Brad, Shareef, and Kenny into the conversation obviously means Artest's man had beaten him correct?


Huh?

What's hard to understand about his stats, and effectiveness being worse in the past two years against those players?



Yes he can check them effectively and he do it much more effectively than Ariza ever could with his size. No they haven't been raping him the last couple years. Thanks for basically admitting you never looked at that bref link I posted.

2007-2009 check it again. He does worse against them than any other point in his career. I agree he does have better size to check them than Ariza though. :toast


Yeah he's lost a step, but you're exaggeratin how much he lost. Ron is a smarter defender now with more strength.

:lmao



Lakers won a championship with Ariza and upgraded defensively with Artest.

They have upgraded when it comes to playing a larger SF, but I would much rather have a player that can check the PG, SG, and most SF effectively (Ariza). Now you have one that can check some SF, and some SG. Enjoy.

[Culburn369]

I read all the pages and I really think that DPF21920 deserves a spur for arguing constantly with lakers fans on their own forum !!!

The moment Kobe went sans Daddy, DPF had no other choice.

[Obstructed_View]

No, but selectively mocking only certain players for winning on great teams is.

Not sure how pointing out the facts that Kobe's not the greatest player of all time, the best finisher in the game, or capable of winning without the deepest team in the NBA around him is "selectively mocking".

[Culburn369]

Not sure how pointing out the facts that Kobe's not the greatest player of all time, the best finisher in the game, or capable of winning without the deepest team in the NBA around him is "selectively mocking".

"you're trying too hard."

tee, hee.

[DaDakota]

Ron guarded Lebron plenty that game and did a good job on him. Now you're resorting to lying.

Shane guarded Lebron most of that game....he is telling the truth.




Compare last season and his defense against those two was very good. Looking at his time with the Kings is pointless when you consider what a terrible defensive team was around him. Brad Miller and Shareef down low with Kenny Thomas off the bench which is pathetic.

OK, but Ron was horrible on defense last year in Houston, he could not stay in front of anyone with a sliver of quickness.


Yes he can check them effectively and he do it much more effectively than Ariza ever could with his size. No they haven't been raping him the last couple years. Thanks for basically admitting you never looked at that bref link I posted.

Ariza is quicker than Ron at this point in their careers...


Yeah he's lost a step, but you're exaggeratin how much he lost. Ron is a smarter defender now with more strength. Lakers won a championship with Ariza and upgraded defensively with Artest.

Ron and smart should never be put together in a sentence unless it is like this:

Ron Artest is a smart ass......because the guy is one of the all time knuckleheads on the floor, you guys made a Mark Cuban sized mistake in signing him.

DD

[picc84]

Not sure how pointing out the facts that Kobe's not the greatest player of all time, the best finisher in the game, or capable of winning without the deepest team in the NBA around him is "selectively mocking".

Because not many have been.

[Culburn369]

Because not many have been.

They don't count those, picc. Just Kobe.

[Obstructed_View]

Because not many have been.

True, just the ones that won titles. Kobe has trouble getting out of the first round without at least one perennial all-star around him. When Kobe gets shut out in the fourth quarter of a closeout game in the playoffs, it's gotta be Smush Parker's fault.

[Culburn369]

When Kobe gets shut out in the fourth quarter of a closeout game in the playoffs, it's gotta be Smush Parker's fault.

No.

But, Smush Parker brought him there. That fourth quarter belongs to Bryant. He owns it. And it owns him.

[picc84]

True, just the ones that won titles. Kobe has trouble getting out of the first round without at least one perennial all-star around him. When Kobe gets shut out in the fourth quarter of a closeout game in the playoffs, it's gotta be Smush Parker's fault.

2 all star selections in 9 years = perennial?

But yes, give Kobe one all star to play with and he gets past the first round. And right into the finals.

Coincidentally, there were three teams to lose in the first round this year with two 'perennial' all stars on the court.

Guess who was one of them.

[Killakobe81]

the funny part here is guys like Obstructed talk about excuses etc. So Duncan has an all-star PG, a 6th man winner, the steal of the draft, 2 clutch 3pt shooters and the best bigman at his side since David left and so if Duncan doesnt win that somehow diminishes what he has already done. Not sure if you listen to rap but Im paraphrasing Jay-Z "I'm on the wall already, in the hall already ...I've done what yall trying to do... ALREADY"
Kobe and duncan HOF credentials are sealed Kobe has been the #1 or 2 optoion on 4 title team s and 2 Finals teams. Duncan has been the man on at leats 3 (i argue 4 but morons voted TP Finals MVP) ...this year is just this year ...Lebron and Dwight howard may come under scrutiny because they have NOT won I would argue that if Boston doesnt win at least one more it keeps KG and Pierce out of the Kobe/Duncan level.

[picc84]

Yeah I don't get it, but I don't see any of the other Spurs fans making the same silly claims so i'm assuming he's just trolling or just really, really, really, really hates kobe, as opposed to just really, really hating him like most do.

[21_Blessings]

I have no reason to lie. You're changing the truth to fit your needs.

That's exactly what you're doing. See below.


Them shooting mid 40% and 50% against him regularly is very good defense?

They don't do that regularly against Ron Artest you nimrod. Stop lying.


Bringing Brad, Shareef, and Kenny into the conversation obviously means Artest's man had beaten him correct?

I think it's pretty obvious you don't play basketball. Learn the game and then learn how defense actually works before you say stupid shit like this.


What's hard to understand about his stats, and effectiveness being worse in the past two years against those players?

What? You said they were "raping" the last two years and he wasn't effective in guarding them anymore. Which is not true at all.


2007-2009 check it again. He does worse against them than any other point in his career. I agree he does have better size to check them than Ariza though. :toast

He doesn't do worse against them, especially pierce. Lebron had ONE good game against him when he was on the Kings. I already explained why that's not comparable to Ron on the Lakers defense.


They have upgraded when it comes to playing a larger SF, but I would much rather have a player that can check the PG, SG, and most SF effectively (Ariza). Now you have one that can check some SF, and some SG. Enjoy.

I have bad news from for you. Ariza doesn't guard SFs effectively and his overall man defense is worse than Ron Artest's. SF defense which was the one of the Lakers biggest weaknesses. Upgraded that big time with Artest.

I know you're angry that your team and Franchise player is a complete joke. Don't have to be bitter because you lost a better player (than Ariza) in free agency. It's ok man. Maybe T-Mac can get healthy and lead you guys to another first round exit.

edit:

Who is the best perimeter defender in the NBA?
1. Kobe Bryant, L.A. Lakers 34.5%
2. Shane Battier, Houston 24.1%
3. Ron Artest, L.A. Lakers 20.7%
4. Rajon Rondo, Boston 6.9%

Who is the best on-the-ball defender in the NBA?
1. Kobe Bryant, L.A. Lakers 25.0%
1. Rajon Rondo, Boston 25.0%
3. Ron Artest, L.A. Lakers 17.9%

Not only were you made to look foolish by the statistics, the coaches (All-NBA 2nd team for Ron) and GMs disagree with you. I'll take Ron's defense over Trevor's any fucking day.

Back :lobt: to back :lobt2: time. Peace.

[DaDakota]

Ron's rating is based upon his past, he is nowhere near as good now....witness Brandon Roy lighthing him up in the playoffs.

Now Battier is that good.

DD

[djohn2oo8]

Sorry fellas, Artest HAS lost a step or two on defense, and here are the numbers to prove it:

2008-2009

Lost 5 matchups:

Against Brandon Roy: Roy scores 25, 31, 19, 42, 22

Against LeBron: LeBron scores 27

Against Al Thorton: Thorton scores 24

http://www.hoopsstats.com/basketball/fantasy/nba/houston-rockets/players/ron-artest/matchups/09/10/134/2

[The Franchise]

That's exactly what you're doing. See below.
They don't do that regularly against Ron Artest you nimrod. Stop lying.
I think it's pretty obvious you don't play basketball.


You fucking idiot. You were the fool that gave me the statistics, and when they back up my arguement that Artest hasn't been as effective the last two seasons now I'm crazy. You dummy I have been watching the games, and they have been raping him. As far as playing I'm pretty sure I have been doing that for a longer period of time than your sissy ass has been breathing. Fuck playing, from your lack of basketball knowledge I would guess that you haven't even been watching the sport for over ten years. So, in the future, before you post stats that prove you wrong and make you look like a fucking dolt, please check them first. Fucking idiot.

[The Franchise]

Ron's rating is based upon his past, he is nowhere near as good now....witness Brandon Roy lighthing him up in the playoffs.

Now Battier is that good.

DD

That's what happens when you only pay attention to career stats. I don't care about what he did in 2004, I just know in 2009 he was trying to live off of his reputation (and getting embarassed in the process). He is nowhere near what he used to be. Who knows, maybe he will surprise everyone this year.

[Obstructed_View]

Yeah I don't get it, but I don't see any of the other Spurs fans making the same silly claims so i'm assuming he's just trolling or just really, really, really, really hates kobe, as opposed to just really, really hating him like most do.

You got it - sort of. Spurs fans don't make silly claims about the greatness of their superstar that can't be backed up in any way. That's what Kobe fans do. I have to point out the difference between a "Lakers fan" and a "Kobe fan" in this case.

[Allanon]

Kobe has trouble getting out of the first round without at least one perennial all-star around him. When Kobe gets shut out in the fourth quarter of a closeout game in the playoffs, it's gotta be Smush Parker's fault.

Pau Gasol was an All-Star once before joining the Lakers; doesn't really qualify as a perennial All-Star.

Reality is, Kobe really did take a cast of non-stars to a Ring last year.

Pau was known for being a soft pansy for years now. Even Spurs fans were laughing at Pau last year. Memphis couldn't get rid of him quick enough.

Lamar Odom was a pot-smoker and inconsistent. He probably wouldn't make most people's list of top Power Fowards...hell, he even lost his starting job on the Lakers.

Trevor Ariza, was traded from the Knicks, warmed the bench in Orlando and supposedly sucked and wouldn't have made a difference

Derek Fisher wouldn't even sniff the Top 15 PG's in the NBA list.

Andrew Bynum is a no-name only hyped by Laker fans

Farmar, Vujacic, Shannon Brown, DJ mBenga, Adam Morrison...are these guys even NBA players?

The only guy out of the whole bunch to make it to All-Star weekend was Pau Gasol, and that was only once prior to coming to the Lakers. Everybody else pretty much made their name as a Laker. Now that Ariza's no longer a Laker, he'll probably be forgotten in a few years.

[Culburn369]

Pau was known for being a soft pansy for years now. Even Spurs fans were laughing at Pau last year.

They ain't laughin' no more.