Lakers Still Hold Edge Over Fortified Spurs

One man's premature opinion.

Lakers still hold edge over fortified Spurs
by Craig Malveux

For a second there, Lakers fans second guessed themselves. Optimism quickly turned into thoughts surrounded by nothing but doubt with each passing day. Suddenly the glass once half full or better turned into a glass half empty.

The 2009 NBA Finals Champion Los Angeles Lakers appeared loaded with confidence to make a serious run to represent the Western Conference for the third consecutive year and defend their NBA title this upcoming season. Ready to forget the struggles they experienced against the Yao and T-Mac-less Houston Rockets as well as the never say die Denver Nuggets in the playoffs and identify themselves as the true favorites of the Western Conference.

With the best player in the game, an improving big man in Andrew Bynum, an All-Star forward in Pau Gasol and the intentions of returning Lamar Odom, Trevor Ariza and Shannon Brown back to the team, you'd be crazy to think the Lakers didn't have a legitimate chance to repeat as champions.

But just when Lakers fan had begun imagining Phil Jackson and Kobe Bryant hoisting the Western Conference trophy for the seventh time in the last decade in front of thousands of screaming fans in the Staples Center, the San Antonio Spurs made headlines on virtually every sports news entity.

Just two days before the NBA Draft, the aging Spurs made a blockbuster move to acquire small forward Richard Jefferson from the Milwaukee Bucks in exchange for Bruce Bowen, Kurt Thomas and Fabricio Oberto. Not to mention committing highway robbery by drafting both DeJuan Blair and Jack McClinton without any first round draft picks.

Regardless of the draft, let's take a deeper look at what Jefferson adds to the Spurs. The addition of the 29-year old former New Jersey and Milwaukee swingman brings much needed youth plus just under 18 points per game, 3 assists and 5.3 rebounds as a fourth scoring option. The Spurs add a lifetime 47 percent shooter along side the big three of Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobli and Tony Parker.

Without a doubt, the acquisition of Jefferson is a much needed upgrade over Michael Finley and immediately makes San Antonio as prime Western Conference contender. But don't crown them as the favorites to win the West just yet. And here's why.

Tim Duncan is the heart and soul of the San Antonio Spurs. However, he isn't the same player today that he once used to be. The past five years, Duncan has averaged 19.5 ppg compared to 22.8 ppg his first seven years in the league. His points have naturally decreased as well as his minutes per game but thats during the regular season.

In the playoffs, the two time MVP's numbers have dramatically reduced to 32.9 minutes per game, 8 boards and only 19.8 points - his lowest playoff points total in his career. That's just the beginning.

For the Spurs, their chances of even reaching the Western Conference Finals rests solely on Manu Ginobli. He can be reckless with the ball and make poor decisions sometimes. But he is the San Antonio X-factor who provides energy and immediate scoring off of the bench.

Here's where the problem lies. Ginobli has been injury prone the past two seasons and is showing wear and tear. Slashing to the lane taking a beating nightly is putting unnecessary mileage on his body evidenced by the 44 games he appeared in this past season due to a foot injury. Without Manu at full tilt, the Dallas Mavericks embarrassed the Spurs in the first round 4-1.

Regardless of who San Antonio acquires, they won't win without a healthy Ginobli period.

Health remains a concern for the Argentinean; If he is healthy, they are a dangerous team. If not, forget about it. Let's just assume everyone remains healthy the entire season, so what then? Well, there's an old saying - win with 'D'. The Spurs won four championships this decade playing great defense and fundamental basketball. The addition of Jefferson boosted the offense but crippled them a bit on defense.

"Defense wins championships" and no team knows this better than the old run-and-gun Phoenix Suns. Just ask them how many championships they won in the last decade while leading the league in points per game. The answer may surprise you. While Bruce Bowen certainly isn't getting any younger, the eight time NBA All-Defensive player was their best perimeter defender they had. Last time I checked, Bryant hasn't opted out of his contract so it's safe to say he is grinning from ear to ear somewhere in Los Angeles right now. No one successfully defended him one on one except for the Houston Rocket's Shane Battier, so Bryant had his way every night scoring 30.2 ppg on 46 percent shooting throughout the playoffs.

I'm sure either Roger Mason or Jefferson will accept the challenge of defending Bryant, but I just don't think either one can. Beside Bryant, the Lakers have two 7-foot towers (bynum and Gasol) and a versatile forward who stands 6-foot-10 in Odom. With the departure of Thomas and Oberto, they loss depth at the center position. How are they going to guard Gasol and Bynum? The answer doesn't lie within Matt Bonner, Oberto and Drew Gooden (if either of the latter two re-signs).

Without help in the front court for Duncan, the Spurs can pick their poison. Still unsure? Well the Spurs aren't the only team who made changes to their roster, Lakers General Manager Mitch Kuptchak responded with his own changes. Days after big names such as Ben Gordon, Charlie Villanueva, and Hedo Turkgolu accepted offers from other teams, Ron Artest signed with the Lakers ensuring the departure of Trevor Ariza.

Some question whether bringing in the troubled Artest was a smart move or simply a panic move in response to the Spurs as well as other Eastern Conference teams' acquisitions. But overlooking his past troubles in Indiana, Artest is a great all-around player with a special skill set who is a competitor. The four-time first-team all-NBA defender and 2004 Defensive Player of the Year is just what the doctor's ordered in Los Angeles. He is amongst the top defenders in the league, plays three positions on the court and most importantly brings the physicality a finesse Laker's team needs.

Ariza was a great shooter and defender as well, however he struggled against bigger and stronger players such as Carmelo Anthony. In addition to his defensive skills, Artest can create his own shot, shoot at a high percentage, and get to the rim scoring 17.1 ppg as the third or fourth option for the Lakers.

The Spurs certainly have made the West more competitive and have closed the gap between themselves and the Lakers during the offseason. The additions make them a contender in the West and gives life to an aging Spurs dynasty. But at the end of the day, the Lakers have done just enough to remain the favorites out West.

As long as they have the 'Zen Master' running the ship and the best player in the game leading the way on the floor, the Lakers have to be considered one of the best teams in the league. Health is the biggest question surrounding the Spurs. If I'm a Lakers fan, I'll take my chances.

for now...

Really? I guess will wait and see. :lol

I don't really understand why the majority of outlets seem to not realize that Duncan had a very serious injury during the 2nd half of the season..he didn't just coincidentally start playing poorly..

it's funny actually..when somebody like Kobe or Lebron is playing with a minor injury or a minor flu, they'll mention it about 7000 times on TV..

so why does Neworleans.com have a story about the Lakers and Spurs?..

100% correct. Up to the Spurs to prove him wrong.

Squirt , Squirt..ahhhhhhhhhhhh

This Spurs team has more potential than most of their previous teams...especially if they can add a credible 5 to the mix. I'm pretty excited to see how this team gels.

http://i638.photobucket.com/albums/u...er21/funny.gif

I don't get the point of the article.

Lakers hold the edge over every team in the western conference at this point. SA didn't have all their guns last season (fact) and even w/the healthy return of Duncan, Ginobili and the addition of Richard Jefferson, you still have to like the Lakers.

That being said, the game is played on the court, not in the papers or on message boards and anything can happen in a season but the Lakers have to be the favorites.

I am a Spurs fan but at least I try to be objective and realistic. :)

Manu. We need you.

:pimpslap

Without a solid Big, he's right.

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Originally Posted by HarlemHeat37

so why does Neworleans.com have a story about the Lakers and Spurs?..

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They seem to 'cover' a wide variety of sports, this fell under 'Pro Basketball News'.

i too will hold my opinion until we land our pf/c

http://www.codeproject.com/KB/grid/D...hCS/Radar1.jpg

Caution: Objects may be more dangerous than they appear.

Annoying. Sounds like the writer is trying to convince himself that his team is okay.

First, no one can guard Bryant.

Second, who fears Bynum, a player that couldn't get off the bench in the playoffs?

Third, why didn't he mention the overwhelming match up problem between Parker and any point guard on the Lakers?

Fourth, why does he consider Artest an upgrade? Artest is overrated. He takes bad shots and doesn't play within the flow of the offense. When he doesn't get the ball consistently, he starts forcing bad shots. He is an overrated defender that has lost an obvious step on defense. He is not mentally stable. Last year, he had two good games in LA in the playoffs, and then disappeared for the next five games. He is no one to fear.

Meh, I disagree with a couple of his central points; primarily that the team is completely done without Manu. I think it's a dire situation if he's out again, but it's not at all like last year. That's one of the points of bringing in Jefferson (and hopefully retaining Mason, imo). Additionally I disagree that Artest is an upgrade over Ariza. He may be a better player, but I really don't think he's going to work in that system. At all.

And if the likeliest outcomes break out - Odom leaves and SA acquired McDyess - that further changes the complexion and breaks them even, imo. Yes, it's on the Spurs to prove, but I don't like the gap is all that huge. A lot will depend on how the rookies pan out.

i like the underdog role.

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Originally Posted by Creation88

i like the underdog role.

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I like the sound of that as well...
Spurs are contenders.. :ihit

It's going to be a great matchup, I think the Lakers still hold the edge with Odom/bench

Tony Parker >>>>> Fisher
Manu << Kobe
RJ<<Artest
Duncan >> Gasol
McDyess << Bynum

Blair/Boner <<<<< Odom
GHill/Mason/JV < Farmar/Brown/Machine
Finley > Luke

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Originally Posted by Allanon

It's going to be a great matchup, I think the Lakers still hold the edge with Odom/bench

Tony Parker >>>>> Fisher
Manu << Kobe
RJ<<Artest
Duncan >> Gasol
McDyess << Bynum

Blair/Boner <<<< Odom
GHill/Mason/JV < Farmar/Brown/Machine
Finley > Luke

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Might wanna update that - Vaughn is unsigned and is no lock to still make the team.

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Originally Posted by Allanon

It's going to be a great matchup, I think the Lakers still hold the edge with Odom/bench

Tony Parker >>>>> Fisher
Manu << Kobe
RJ<<Artest
Duncan >> Gasol
McDyess << Bynum

Blair/Boner <<<<< Odom
GHill/Mason/JV < Farmar/Brown/Machine
Finley > Luke

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I'd disagree about Bynum and Artest. Byum played terrible last year in the playoffs and was eventually benched. He missed defensive rotations and committed silly fouls. He occassionally had a decent post move, but most of his games were duds. Hard to say that he is not turning into Eric Dampier.

As for Artest, I disagree he is better than Jefferson. Artest is overrated. He took a lot of bad shots when in Houston. Shots that killed the offense and were highly contested. On defense, he showed that he couldn't keep up with the quicker players. Yes, he plays physical, but he also does not play smart. Jefferson seems to be a better scorer and better able to gel his game with the Spurs. I see Artest not working out with the Lakers.

Also Farmer had a down year. If that keeps up, the Laker bench is going to look weak in the backcourt outside of Kobe.

Shannon Brown is not the solution.

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Originally Posted by cd98

I'd disagree about Bynum and Artest. Byum played terrible last year in the playoffs and was eventually benched. He missed defensive rotations and committed silly fouls. He occassionally had a decent post move, but most of his games were duds. Hard to say that he is not turning into Eric Dampier.

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It's always iffy with Bynum. He's slow to heal and extremely slow to regain his game after an injury. But when he's playing like he did for the last 2 January's, he gives Dwight a run for his money as the top NBA center.

He was a non-factor in the last Playoffs. Good and bad since the Lakers won the championship without him, basically. Bad that he didn't show up. If he does show up, it will make the road that much easier for the Lakers with a new bonus super weapon added to an already championship team.

I can see it going either way but in his 5th year, I'm hoping he starts showing consistency over several months in his domination.

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As for Artest, I disagree he is better than Jefferson. Artest is overrated. He took a lot of bad shots when in Houston. Shots that killed the offense and were highly contested. On defense, he showed that he couldn't keep up with the quicker players. Yes, he plays physical, but he also does not play smart. Jefferson seems to be a better scorer and better able to gel his game with the Spurs. I see Artest not working out with the Lakers.

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Artest is extremely talented but undisciplined. I think Zenmaster Phil will bring the best out of him. If Phil doesn't, you're right, it could be a disaster.

I agree that the Spurs can't win the West or another NBA championship without a healthy Ginobili.

I also agree that the Lakers still have to be considered at least a slight favorite because "a healthy Ginobili" is a pretty uncertain qualifier.

But IF Ginobili IS healthy this year (primarily in the playoffs)... these Spurs are capable of beating the Lakers. San Antonio is unquestionably back in the championship conversation, if healthy.

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Originally Posted by cd98

Also Farmer had a down year. If that keeps up, the Laker bench is going to look weak in the backcourt outside of Kobe.

Shannon Brown is not the solution.

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Farmar had an injury year, broke his foot or something like that.

I think Shannon Brown IS the solution, he looks to be a bigger, more athletic Fisher with some crunch-time Playoff play. Instrumental in one of the Denver round wins.

Still too small of a sample to be surebut he looked really good.

theMachine had a terrible year, starting out with an injury. He should rebound this year and become a good shooter again...that's my guess.

With 2 strangely underperforming key bench guys last year, my guess is the Lakers bench will be vastly improved over last season.

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Originally Posted by Kent_in_Atlanta

San Antonio is unquestionably back in the championship conversation, if healthy.

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No doubt.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Allanon

It's going to be a great matchup, I think the Lakers still hold the edge with Odom/bench

Tony Parker >>>>> Fisher
Manu << Kobe
RJ>Artest
Duncan >> Gasol
McDyess > Bynum

Blair/Boner <<<<< Odom
GHill/Mason/Clint = Farmar/Brown/Machine
Finley > Luke

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That's more like it.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Allanon

It's going to be a great matchup, I think the Lakers still hold the edge with Odom/bench

Tony Parker >>>>> Fisher
Manu << Kobe
RJ<<Artest
Duncan >> Gasol
McDyess << Bynum

Blair/Boner <<<<< Odom
GHill/Mason/JV < Farmar/Brown/Machine
Finley > Luke

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I remember when you used to be a relatively objective poster.

Let's do a little more honest assessment here:

Tony >>>>>>> Fisher
Manu << Kobe
RJ = Artest (unless you think him throwing up 10 ill-advised shots a game is a good thing)
Duncan >> Gasol
McDyess >> Bynum (Just what has Bynum done to make you think he can play at a high level? He can't even rotate defensively, let alone match the contribution of a proven player on both ends like Dice).

Blair/Boner ? Odom (Assuming Odom is healthy, how do you know Blair doesn't come in and average 8 and 10?)
GHill/Mason/JV = Farmar/Brown/Machine (Vaughn? What? Anyway, none of these players are ready for WCF basketball)
Finley = Luke = Doesn't matter. Ever.

Don't get me wrong, long term I'd rather have Bynum, because eventually, MAYBE, his upside maybe give him the ability to be a poor man's Ewing (at best), which would put him in the top 5 on the list of NBA centers.

Right now, Bynum hasn't done a freaking thing to justify his value. He's a slightly less poor-man's Kwame Brown. He's a potential headcase (as evidenced by his youtube vids) and looks absolutely lost on defense.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Cry Havoc

I remember when you used to be a relatively objective poster.

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Not sure if I should thank you or cuss at you for this. :lol

Quote:

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Let's do a little more honest assessment here:
Tony >>>>>>> Fisher
Manu << Kobe
Duncan >> Gasol

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Fine

Quote:

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RJ = Artest (unless you think him throwing up 10 ill-advised shots a game is a good thing)

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We haven't seen the best of Ron Artest for years now, people have forgotten how good he can be given the proper coaching. When Ron's on top of his game, he's unstoppable in the post and a lock-down defender, especially in tandem with Kobe. My guess he and Kobe will combine for the best perimeter duo in the NBA.

Quote:

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McDyess >> Bynum (Just what has Bynum done to make you think he can play at a high level? He can't even rotate defensively, let alone match the contribution of a proven player on both ends like Dice).

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I can understand your viewpoint. Bynum hasn't done jack for 4 years except show flashes of dominance. But that's why I'm betting this is his year to put it all together.

Quote:

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Blair/Boner ? Odom (Assuming Odom is healthy, how do you know Blair doesn't come in and average 8 and 10?)

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I think Blair's gonna have a good rookie season but c'mon, Odom would destroy both Blair and Boner.

Quote:

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GHill/Mason/JV = Farmar/Brown/Machine (Vaughn? What? Anyway, none of these players are ready for WCF basketball)
Finley = Luke = Doesn't matter. Ever.

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Agreed

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Allanon

It's always iffy with Bynum. He's slow to heal and extremely slow to regain his game after an injury. But when he's playing like he did for the last 2 January's, he gives Dwight a run for his money as the top NBA center.

He was a non-factor in the last Playoffs. Good and bad since the Lakers won the championship without him, basically. Bad that he didn't show up. If he does show up, it will make the road that much easier for the Lakers with a new bonus super weapon added to an already championship team.

I can see it going either way but in his 5th year, I'm hoping he starts showing consistency over several months in his domination.



Artest is extremely talented but undisciplined. I think Zenmaster Phil will bring the best out of him. If Phil doesn't, you're right, it could be a disaster.

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really?

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Allanon

Farmar had an injury year, broke his foot or something like that.

I think Shannon Brown IS the solution, he looks to be a bigger, more athletic Fisher with some crunch-time Playoff play. Instrumental in one of the Denver round wins.

Still too small of a sample to be surebut he looked really good.

theMachine had a terrible year, starting out with an injury. He should rebound this year and become a good shooter again...that's my guess.

With 2 strangely underperforming key bench guys last year, my guess is the Lakers bench will be vastly improved over last season.

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Well, I'm obviously biased, but I think the strength of the Laker team last year was obviously Kobe and Gasol. I think Lamar gave them good match up problems. And I think Ariza provided athletic wing defense that Phil has always had and used effectively (see Harper and Pippen).

I think the Lakers lose a lot defensively with Ariza leaving (equally bad move for him to go to Rockets). Artest is an overrated defender. He has his moments offensively, but he is too undisciplined to know what is or is not a good shot. Hard to see how Phil is any different than Adelman, a coach that Artest loved and had a very good relationship with. I'm just not sold on that move.

As for Farmer, he looked good two years ago. Last year, he looked like he lost all his confidence. I've always that the Machine was less than adequate. He's not the knock down shooter they pretend he is and, though active on defense, ultimately his foot speed is too slow to be an adequate defender against healthy top notch players.

Bynum, while talented, shows that even though he can string a few good games against the Clippers, T'wolves, and Grizzlies has a long way to go to prove he is worth his contract. He's not the worst center, but he is way over paid. At his best, I promise you Yao (when not injured) and Howard are still much better. And I would argue that Howard's game has a lot of flaws that he occassionally makes up for with athleticism.

Lakers need to resign Odom desperately and they need to get better at the point guard position. Houston destroyed them all because their point guard got to the rim consistently. L.A. will have it much tougher with Paul, Parker, and a healthy Williams. The point guard position is the one real weak spot. Hard to address, though, as the Mavs found out.

Duncan's scoring is not down, just his minutes.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by cd98

Well, I'm obviously biased, but I think the strength of the Laker team last year was obviously Kobe and Gasol. I think Lamar gave them good match up problems. And I think Ariza provided athletic wing defense that Phil has always had and used effectively (see Harper and Pippen).

I think the Lakers lose a lot defensively with Ariza leaving (equally bad move for him to go to Rockets). Artest is an overrated defender. He has his moments offensively, but he is too undisciplined to know what is or is not a good shot. Hard to see how Phil is any different than Adelman, a coach that Artest loved and had a very good relationship with. I'm just not sold on that move.

As for Farmer, he looked good two years ago. Last year, he looked like he lost all his confidence. I've always that the Machine was less than adequate. He's not the knock down shooter they pretend he is and, though active on defense, ultimately his foot speed is too slow to be an adequate defender against healthy top notch players.

Bynum, while talented, shows that even though he can string a few good games against the Clippers, T'wolves, and Grizzlies has a long way to go to prove he is worth his contract. He's not the worst center, but he is way over paid. At his best, I promise you Yao (when not injured) and Howard are still much better. And I would argue that Howard's game has a lot of flaws that he occassionally makes up for with athleticism.

Lakers need to resign Odom desperately and they need to get better at the point guard position. Houston destroyed them all because their point guard got to the rim consistently. L.A. will have it much tougher with Paul, Parker, and a healthy Williams. The point guard position is the one real weak spot. Hard to address, though, as the Mavs found out.

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+1 Great Post!

I think Odom is the key. If they lose Odom it would force Bynum to step his game up and I just dont think he is ready for that. Odom gives LA sooooo many options and versatility. If they lose Odom, it would be better for Artest and he will have a great year. But the team will struggle. As we all know LA cant afford to lose both Ariza and Odom.

Tony Parker > Derek Fisher
Manu Ginobili < Kobe Bryant
Tim Duncan > Pau Gasol
Richard Jefferson > Ron Artest
Antonio McDyess > Andrew Bynum

Obviously Tony is better than Derek. Obviously Kobe is better than Manu. Obviously Timmy is better than Pau. Richard Jefferson and Ron Artest is basically a tossup, imo. I give the edge to RJ because of my Spurs bias and the fact that RJ is a high character guy, not a headcase, and a guy one would consider coachable. I think Bynum will be a fine center next year. I just think right now McDyess possesses more skill and talent than Andrew, which is not far-fetched at all. In a couple years, if Bynum can live up to his hype than obviously he'll be better than a 37 year old McDyess.

Spurs Bench = Lakers Bench

I don't really want to breakdown the backups, but I will say: If you judge Bynum negatively because he hasn't really done anything, than how can you judge Blair positively? Anyways, I think both will do fine next year. But unlike Bynum, Blair basically serves two purposes: good defense and rebounding. Rebounding, which I think Blair will dominate, even as a rookie. Defense is something he'll have to work on to get up to par with the NBA level. For what the Spurs want him to do, DeJuan Blair will do that at a high level. Almost the same thing for Matt Bonner, but not quite. Bonner will be much more effective when he is not forced into a position where he has to start and start at center/PF. So if you think he's gonna suck as much as he did last year, think again. Of course, I can only hope Pop won't turn to him in clutch moments, haha. So when I reach the conclusion of Odom > Bonner + Blair, I reach it in terms of talent. In which case Odom crushes Bonner and Blair. In a similar position as Bonner and Blair is Finley. Finley will hopefully and in good logic from Pop, get limited to around 10-15 mpg. Finley is a clutch player with a good shot, and brings the overrated veteran leadership to help guide the younger guys. Finley will be again, like Blair and Bonner, more effective than he was last year, in a position where he is not forced to start. Let's not forget Roger Mason and George Hill. Both are high quality backups and decent starters, if ever need be.

When you consider it all, I believe the Spurs would be beat the Lakers in the Western Conference Finals, and possibly go on to win the NBA Finals. Hey, it might require some luck to get Manu healthy, but the Spurs are the only challengers, imo, to the Lakers' throne. :flag:

Manu doesn't start, Mason does. Normally teams go to a 8 man rotation during the playoffs which would likely see:

Manu, Hill, Blair Vs. Odom, Farmar, Vujucic

Blair is the wildcard, if he's as good as advertised the edge is to the spurs easily.

As for the starters the likely match-ups would be:

Parker>Fish
Mason<Kobe
Jefferson=Artest
Dice<Gasol
Duncan>Bynum

A player by player comparison doesn't tell the whole story. We'll see how the players gel before declaring the better team. Truth be told, both are very talented, but no more so than the other. IMHO, Spurs upgraded, Lakers (assuming they sign Odom) stay the same with except for losing perimeter defense (Artest can bang guys in the post, but he's not effective guarding guys on the peremeter).

Truth be told, Bowen was the best perimeter defender I've ever seen. Ariza has that type of potential. He was lethal with L.A. I'm glad he's going to disappear in Houston, where he will be less effective as he has no one to create shots for him and he can't put the ball on the floor and score consistently.

This article was written before the McDyess signing :D

when did RJ turn into MJ????

Artest >> RJ

I don't think it's wrong to say both teams are equally matched on paper. Now then you add in reality, add injuries, refs, who has homecourt advantage and I'm thinking Lakers would have the edge. This isn't to say that Spurs won't be the better team if they meet the Lakers in the playoffs...just that odds are better in the Lakers favor.

But being a Spurs fan, I keep faith that we'll be healthy and rockin' come playoff time, which should mean BIG trouble for the Lakers. :D

In any case, miles above last year where the team would've had no chance to beat the Lakers.

Lakers are still better. Jut a tad bit better. On paper.

The one thing that no one is mentioning is that Artest has never been able to guard a healthy Gino. Gino is too quick and crafty for Artest. That means Kobe will still spend time guarding him.

Another thing not mentioned was that Ariza was the primary defender on Parker. It's been said that the best way to guard lightening quick PGs is with fairly quick, long agile defenders, like Ariza. Therefore, Artest is stuck guarding Jefferson while Kobe has to choose between Parker and Gino. That's a matchup that work in favor of the Spurs in a HUGE way.

I'd give the Lakers the edge based on the fact that they ended last season as the best team and this season hasn't started yet. But it's going to be a long season, and the offseason isn't even done yet. Let's save the observations for November at the earliest.

Truthfully I'm more worried about the Celtics and Cavs than the Spurs.

They are not a team that gives the Lakers fits like the Celtics seem to do. Mainly because their defense is a shadow of what it once was.

Hill will have a breakout year.

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Originally Posted by hater

This article was written before the McDyess signing :D

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:king

RJ isn't MJ. Or even close. But who is Ron Artest? What's he done in this league? What teams has he led to a championship? How many scoring titles does he have? How many all star appearances? I'm yet to see him make a team a winner.

I saw him play the Lakers in the playoffs. He had two great games (G1 and G2) and then disappeared. Once Yao went down, he was supposed to step up. He didn't. His teammates did. He's overrated. Especially now on L.A. where every player is overrated as their abilities suddenly swell under the adoring media.

Irrelevant article. Describes Manu as "not at full tilt" against Mavs last year - how about "not playing". Ignores Duncan's tendonosis. Ignores Blair and McDyess. Assumes RJ will not be an improved defender in our system. Fail.

You cant tell me the defense is not gonna be better with RJ and Dice in the starting lineup....

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Originally Posted by cd98

RJ isn't MJ. Or even close. But who is Ron Artest? What's he done in this league? What teams has he led to a championship? How many scoring titles does he have? How many all star appearances? I'm yet to see him make a team a winner.

I saw him play the Lakers in the playoffs. He had two great games (G1 and G2) and then disappeared. Once Yao went down, he was supposed to step up. He didn't. His teammates did. He's overrated. Especially now on L.A. where every player is overrated as their abilities suddenly swell under the adoring media.

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Artest does not need to lead the Lakers. They have Kobe or even Gasol.

Artest has fit and been a great contributor to EVERY team he has been on. Pacers, Kings, Rockets. I don't understand why some Spur fans are saying he will give Lakers chemistry problems. That is bullshit!!! and you know it.

Artest is gonna kill with the Lakers.

The key to me for the Lakers is to keep Odom. They will IMO. If they don't they are toast. If they do they have a chance.

But on the other hand, Lakers backup guards are complete shit. Pathetic. And the rest of their bench is pretty pathetic too. Lakers have taken a step back mainly for losing Ariza and doing nothing to improve their backups.

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Originally Posted by Allanon

It's going to be a great matchup, I think the Lakers still hold the edge with Odom/bench

Tony Parker >>>>> Fisher
Manu << Kobe
RJ<<Artest
Duncan >> Gasol
McDyess << Bynum

Blair/Boner <<<<< Odom
GHill/Mason/JV < Farmar/Brown/Machine
Finley > Luke

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i would have artest and jefferson as equal and i would also have to be cautious of bynum. the bynum of the regular season would be better than mcdyess but the post-season bynum would not be. also, it would be mason that is less than kobe and not manu as manu would come off of the bench and he would make the bench for the spurs as good as that of the lakers.

a series between the two would be epic i believe, assuming everyone was healthy.

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Originally Posted by Nathan Explosion

The one thing that no one is mentioning is that Artest has never been able to guard a healthy Gino. Gino is too quick and crafty for Artest. That means Kobe will still spend time guarding him.

Another thing not mentioned was that Ariza was the primary defender on Parker. It's been said that the best way to guard lightening quick PGs is with fairly quick, long agile defenders, like Ariza. Therefore, Artest is stuck guarding Jefferson while Kobe has to choose between Parker and Gino. That's a matchup that work in favor of the Spurs in a HUGE way.

I'd give the Lakers the edge based on the fact that they ended last season as the best team and this season hasn't started yet. But it's going to be a long season, and the offseason isn't even done yet. Let's save the observations for November at the earliest.

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+1000

I've been stressing that about how well Ariza guarded Parker for A WHILE NOW, and it's very under-represented in discussing matchups.

Put simply, the Lakers now have NO ONE that can guard Parker, at all. Artest can't, Kobe can't, Fisher DEFINITELY CAN'T, Farmar can't, Sahsa can't, etc. They have no one: Parker, the Spurs youngest proven player is going to carve the Lakers defense into SHREDS. The more the Lakers rotate to try and stop him, the more that will open up Manu/Jefferson to go ballistic because Kobe/Artest are no longer guarding them.

The Lakers, by letting Ariza walk, have made a HUGE MISTAKE: Parker might average 40ppg in a series with the Lakers, and it wouldn't surprise me. Or the Lakers will try to trap/double team him, leaving the 3 point shooters open.

Which is what the Spurs were built for.

When comparing the Lakers and Celtics, I think Laker fans should be worried. The Celtics are one of the few teams that can matchup size with size, and have the advantage. The Lakers can throw out Bynum, Gasol, and Odom (assuming he re-signs) if they want. The Celtics can counter with Perkins, Sheed, and KG.

I'd give the Celtics the slight edge on those matchups.

Then you'd have Kobe and Fisher vs Pierce and Rondo. Kobe is the better player but Pierce can punish Kobe in the low block wearing him down. And does Rondo vs Fisher really deserve a comparison?

I can't wait until the NBA releases the 2009-2010 Schedule. I want to know when we play the Lakers, so we can all finally see how we match up.:toast

Also, I wouldn't be surprised to find out that the NBA gives us an inordinate amount of back-to-backs again.:bang

Oh, and in my last post, I forgot a guy named Ray Allen. I think the guy's a little bitch, but that little bitch can shoot lights out.

For some reason Bynum has a 20 point 10 rebound game against the Grizzlies, follows with a 14 point 9 rebound game against the Clippers, and all of the sudden the Lakers are acting like he is right up there with Kareem, Shaq, and the other legendary Laker big men.

Yet when he gets relegated to the bench in the playoffs, where the talent is that much better, the Laker fans talk about his potential.

Kind of reminds me of Dampier, actually.

The only thing worse than comparing Blair to Malik Rose is comparing Bynum to Dampier. :lol

Lakers looked so - so in getting through the West last year. Look closer. The heavy weights in the Western Conference all had injuries to key players that led to a poor post season performance. Which explains LA's relative ease at winning the west and why they got to play the Nuggs instead of a good team in the WCF.

Injuries: See Utah (Boozer barely back, Okur, and Williams at first half of season), Mavs (Howard missed lots of games), Spurs (Ginoboli missed half season/playoffs); New Orleans (Paul injured, Chandler, Peja), Houston (Yao/McGrady). Makes for an easier passage to the finals, no?

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Nathan Explosion

The only thing worse than comparing Blair to Malik Rose is comparing Bynum to Dampier. :lol

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Not as distant as you'd think. You see, Dampier had enough good games that people thought he had potential to be the best center not Shaq. That's why he got a huge contract.

Then, he continued to show the same inconsistent play until finally settling on being an average center in the NBA (which means you suck, but you're 7 feet tall and somewhat mobile).

Bynum has enough good games to make you think he's worth the contract L.A. gave him. But then you watch the playoffs and see that he's not getting any minutes. Especially against Houston when Yao was down. That should have been his series to dominate. Why wasn't he? Because he is overrated. Hard for some to accept, but what exactly has he done to show he's not Eric Dampier?

id love if both teams were at full strength. i believe a 100% bynum is a bigger deal in the matchup than a 100% manu

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Originally Posted by cd98

Not as distant as you'd think. You see, Dampier had enough good games that people thought he had potential to be the best center not Shaq. That's why he got a huge contract.

Then, he continued to show the same inconsistent play until finally settling on being an average center in the NBA (which means you suck, but you're 7 feet tall and somewhat mobile).

Bynum has enough good games to make you think he's worth the contract L.A. gave him. But then you watch the playoffs and see that he's not getting any minutes. Especially against Houston when Yao was down. That should have been his series to dominate. Why wasn't he? Because he is overrated. Hard for some to accept, but what exactly has he done to show he's not Eric Dampier?

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I know the comparison between Bynum and Dampier is a fair one. That's the sad part. That's why I said while I didn't like the comparison between Blair and Malik was being made, I think comparing Bynum to Dampier is even worse, for Bynum that is.

Wasn't Bynum 100% in the playoffs this past season?

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Originally Posted by Nathan Explosion

I know the comparison between Bynum and Dampier is a fair one. That's the sad part. That's why I said while I didn't like the comparison between Blair and Malik was being made, I think comparing Bynum to Dampier is even worse, for Bynum that is.

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My bad. It's the limitation of communicating ideas in writing. It's especially hard to catch sarcasm.

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Originally Posted by Allanon

Not sure if I should thank you or cuss at you for this. :lol


Fine


We haven't seen the best of Ron Artest for years now, people have forgotten how good he can be given the proper coaching. When Ron's on top of his game, he's unstoppable in the post and a lock-down defender, especially in tandem with Kobe. My guess he and Kobe will combine for the best perimeter duo in the NBA.



I can understand your viewpoint. Bynum hasn't done jack for 4 years except show flashes of dominance. But that's why I'm betting this is his year to put it all together.



I think Blair's gonna have a good rookie season but c'mon, Odom would destroy both Blair and Boner.



Agreed

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That's just it about Artest...he doesn't really live in the post now. He has become alot more of a three point shooter, with a bad shot selection. It's easy to think all of a sudden thats going to change because of the influence of Phil and Kobe, but Ron really doesn't roll that way. He will be great at times, and much of the time he will frustrate the hell out of the rest of the team with basketball that just is not smart. I don't think changing Ariza out for Artest is a big upgrade...Ariza is younger, faster, more athletic, and is a better defender than Artest at this point in their careers, and fits within the Lakers team concept. We'll see, but Ron is not a role player. Watch tape of last season's Rockets. That is what you are getting.

Way too early to tell..Lakers obviously have the advantage, that's the respect they'll get as defending champions..

I want to see how our guys look in the SL, because they can potentially give us a significant advantage over LA's weak bench..we'll see if they can show some good potential for the regular season bench..

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Allanon

It's going to be a great matchup, I think the Lakers still hold the edge with Odom/bench

Tony Parker >>>>> Fisher
Manu << Kobe
RJ<<Artest
Duncan >> Gasol
McDyess << Bynum

Blair/Boner <<<<< Odom
GHill/Mason/JV < Farmar/Brown/Machine
Finley > Luke

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quite possibly the stupidest method for evaluating matchups, props :tu

Lakers and Spurs have a massive drop off in talent from the starters to the role players. Crazy to think how the teams would look if contracts of people like Sasha/Luke/Finley/Bonner went to other players. Not great players, but good role players. All these players have had pretty big struggles in recent history.

I'm just not terrified at the thought of playing the Spurs. You can sit there and run through your little player by player comparisons until you're blue in the face but the reality is that Phil Jackson's teams have usually had the upper hand over Pop when the talent levels were equal. This is a team that Jackson has proven he can beat time and time again.

This is going to be the strongest Laker team since '01. Internal improvements to Bynum, another year of chemistry with the core, and the addition of Artest is going to take this Laker team to the next level. The Spurs as constructed probably wouldn't even beat last season's Lakers, expecting them to take down this upcoming team is wishful thinking at best.

And we are all operating under the assumption that Duncan and Ginobili's bodies will hold up until the playoffs. A humongous IF at this point in their careers.

The Spurs look like a powerhouse team. It might just come down to health. If both teams are healthy I like our chances. We have 4 guys who can go for 20 points a night, obviously they won't do it every night but it will be nice to know that there are several players capable of posting those numbers.

We got younger with a solid draft and retaining two players from last year. We hopefully get to see Ian.

We got a center, though I wanted Zaza. I like our prospects.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by DrHouse

I'm just not terrified at the thought of playing the Spurs. You can sit there and run through your little player by player comparisons until you're blue in the face but the reality is that Phil Jackson's teams have usually had the upper hand over Pop when the talent levels were equal. This is a team that Jackson has proven he can beat time and time again.

This is going to be the strongest Laker team since '01. Internal improvements to Bynum, another year of chemistry with the core, and the addition of Artest is going to take this Laker team to the next level. The Spurs as constructed probably wouldn't even beat last season's Lakers, expecting them to take down this upcoming team is wishful thinking at best.

And we are all operating under the assumption that Duncan and Ginobili's bodies will hold up until the playoffs. A humongous IF at this point in their careers.

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Its also a pretty big "if" that Bynum steps up the way you think he will next year. His past says otherwise, he is injury prone and has decided to eat up a 10-11 million dollar contract.

You will also learn what happens when a key player decides to play for his national team for consecutive years. I have heard that Pau is going to play for Spain again this summer. We liked Manu playing when he was 25 for his national team. That changed when he turned 30, which is what Gasol will be this year.

You also make a big assumption that Artest will step in and mix well with the chemestry of the team. That has not been the case for most of his career. Maybe he gets distracted playing in LA, certainly you would agree that there is plenty there to distract. Lets see how Kobe and Artest gell, I don't know that Kobe will have the effect over Artest that Jordan had over Rodman.

Lets wait and see. But the last time LA said they weren't worried about the Spurs was the time the Spurs ended the threepeat.

This article was poorly written, and I think the writer was far less familiar with the Spurs and Lakers than most of the posters on this board. I think the Lakers have the advantage over everyone right now. But if they wind up losing Ariza and Odom that will weaken them.

I'm not sure why anyone thinks Artest is better than Jefferson. RJ has way better stats, is also a very good defender, and has the added benefit of not being crazy. I think some of you don't watch that much Eastern Conference, but Jefferson is on the same level as Artest. He isn't as famous, because he hasn't made an ass of himself many times in public.

Richafrd Jefferson 57 win shares in 571 career games.
Ron Artest 44 win shares in 604 career games.

Any type of statistical analysis will show Jefferson to be the better offensive player, and Artest's defense is overrated and not as good as it was.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by barbacoataco

This article was poorly written, and I think the writer was far less familiar with the Spurs and Lakers than most of the posters on this board. I think the Lakers have the advantage over everyone right now. But if they wind up losing Ariza and Odom that will weaken them.

I'm not sure why anyone thinks Artest is better than Jefferson. RJ has way better stats, is also a very good defender, and has the added benefit of not being crazy. I think some of you don't watch that much Eastern Conference, but Jefferson is on the same level as Artest. He isn't as famous, because he hasn't made an ass of himself many times in public.

Richafrd Jefferson 57 win shares in 571 career games.
Ron Artest 44 win shares in 604 career games.

Any type of statistical analysis will show Jefferson to be the better offensive player, and Artest's defense is overrated and not as good as it was.

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Agreed!:toast

The only thing stopping Spurs from another Finals appearance is a worse Lakers squad that went 16-7 last playoffs. 16-7. The 2003 Spurs with one all-star, Tim Duncan, went 16-8. That's how Kobe, Pau, and the 'phenomenal' talent around them stepped up.

LA has proven nothing, literally NOTHING by winning 09. Another trophy, no one can take it away and props for basically showing up to play since no one else had a chance due to injuries.

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Originally Posted by hater

when did RJ turn into MJ????

Artest >> RJ

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offensively hes not and his footspeed is not what it was 6 years ago on defense. they rebound at the same rate but jefferson is a better scorer both percentage and totals wise.

In fairness RJ has not been a good defender the last couple of seasons but Pop seems to think that more a focus thing over a ability thing. RJ is certainly more agile.

I think calling it a wash is fair even before you factor in Artest's emotional and mental makeup.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by hater

when did RJ turn into MJ????

Artest >> RJ

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No. Wait 'till the season starts and you'll see that RJ > that overated chucker.

Would you rather have Ron Artest @ $6 million or RJ @ $14 million?

For what the Lakers need, Artest is seemingly a perfect fit. A bulldog defender to throw at the bruising SF's that give the Lakers fits (Pierce, Melo, Lebron, etc.). Artest may not be as quick as he once was but he is still one of the league's best defenders. Having Kobe and Ron on the perimeter will definitely give the Lakers an intimidating defensive presence they have not had in a long time.

I couldn't care less what RJ brings to the Spurs because in my mind it doesn't matter what other teams are doing. As long as the Lakers retain their core and the youngins keep improving the Lakers will remain the best team in the NBA.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by DrHouse

Would you rather have Ron Artest @ $6 million or RJ @ $14 million?

For what the Lakers need, Artest is seemingly a perfect fit. A bulldog defender to throw at the bruising SF's that give the Lakers fits (Pierce, Melo, Lebron, etc.). Artest may not be as quick as he once was but he is still one of the league's best defenders. Having Kobe and Ron on the perimeter will definitely give the Lakers an intimidating defensive presence they have not had in a long time.

I couldn't care less what RJ brings to the Spurs because in my mind it doesn't matter what other teams are doing. As long as the Lakers retain their core and the youngins keep improving the Lakers will remain the best team in the NBA.

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The problem for LA is that while they can now defend the bigger SFs in the league, they lost their best defender of the quicker PGs in the league, guys like Parker, Chris Paul, Derron Williams, Aaron Brooks and so on and so forth.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by DrHouse

Would you rather have Ron Artest @ $6 million or RJ @ $14 million?

For what the Lakers need, Artest is seemingly a perfect fit. A bulldog defender to throw at the bruising SF's that give the Lakers fits (Pierce, Melo, Lebron, etc.). Artest may not be as quick as he once was but he is still one of the league's best defenders. Having Kobe and Ron on the perimeter will definitely give the Lakers an intimidating defensive presence they have not had in a long time.

I couldn't care less what RJ brings to the Spurs because in my mind it doesn't matter what other teams are doing. As long as the Lakers retain their core and the youngins keep improving the Lakers will remain the best team in the NBA.

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How can you make that comparison?
Artest took a paycut, while the spurs traded for Jefferson's bloated contract.
Yeah, as if the spurs payed him that amount. :rolleyes

With the addition of McDyess, Spurs just took the lead over the Lakers.

With the current rosters (assuming LA keeps Odom) I'd say LA in 6.

If LA loses Odom, then they won't get past the WCF.

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Originally Posted by Cant_Be_Faded

quite possibly the stupidest method for evaluating matchups, props :tu

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Woohoo!!!!! :tu

I'd take Jefferson over Artest. How long does Ron-Ron have left?

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Originally Posted by Nathan Explosion

The problem for LA is that while they can now defend the bigger SFs in the league, they lost their best defender of the quicker PGs in the league, guys like Parker, Chris Paul, Derron Williams, Aaron Brooks and so on and so forth.

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You must have been smoking some glorious reefer because Ariza never once guarded any of those players in the playoffs. So even if Ariza could, in theory defend them, Phil Jackson would never allow it making it all a moot point.

Plus wouldn't it be a smarter idea for the Lakers to go out and acquire oh I don't know a PG that could actually defend other PG's instead of relying on a SF to do that job?

P.S. they already do have someone who can adequately guard all of those players....his name is Shannon Brown and you will be seeing a lot more of the kid next season.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by peskypesky

With the addition of McDyess, Spurs just took the lead over the Lakers.

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:lmao

Only on ST is a 37 year old McDyess a game changer.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Nathan Explosion

The problem for LA is that while they can now defend the bigger SFs in the league, they lost their best defender of the quicker PGs in the league, guys like Parker, Chris Paul, Derron Williams, Aaron Brooks and so on and so forth.

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i know you are referencing the game at san antonio where ariza had to guard parker and seemed to do an ok job on him. that wasnt by design it was out of desperation. that game farmar was out along with sasha and fisher had been substituted because he strained something. the lakers didnt have a PG for half of the 4th quarter. so the idea that the lakers have a pg in a SF is nuts. they have brown for that but thats more for stength aka billups,williams

Quote:

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Originally Posted by z0sa

The only thing stopping Spurs from another Finals appearance is a worse Lakers squad that went 16-7 last playoffs. 16-7. The 2003 Spurs with one all-star, Tim Duncan, went 16-8. That's how Kobe, Pau, and the 'phenomenal' talent around them stepped up.

LA has proven nothing, literally NOTHING by winning 09. Another trophy, no one can take it away and props for basically showing up to play since no one else had a chance due to injuries.

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Jaja! +1

At least we show consistency and dominance on our title runs. Not only did the nuggets lost to the lakers, but also did the magic. I mean its not like the lakers won it all. Simply they were able to execute in the counting seconds. Denver could have easily beaten them as well as Orlando. THe difference was the experience they had from the defeat of last year championship against boston.

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Originally Posted by poeticism707

+1000

I've been stressing that about how well Ariza guarded Parker for A WHILE NOW, and it's very under-represented in discussing matchups.

Put simply, the Lakers now have NO ONE that can guard Parker, at all. Artest can't, Kobe can't, Fisher DEFINITELY CAN'T, Farmar can't, Sahsa can't, etc. They have no one: Parker, the Spurs youngest proven player is going to carve the Lakers defense into SHREDS. The more the Lakers rotate to try and stop him, the more that will open up Manu/Jefferson to go ballistic because Kobe/Artest are no longer guarding them.

The Lakers, by letting Ariza walk, have made a HUGE MISTAKE: Parker might average 40ppg in a series with the Lakers, and it wouldn't surprise me. Or the Lakers will try to trap/double team him, leaving the 3 point shooters open.

Which is what the Spurs were built for.

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+1:lmao

I think its hilarious the lakers recruited Artest behind Ariza's back and now think Artest is going to represent this big upgrade over Ariza. Ariza was the absolute perfect complimentary role player, now they have a egostistical hothead who I'm thinking is going to disrupt their offensive schemes and triangle to the point where, if it gets bad enough, him and Kobe are going to clash. He may just end up on the bench in favor of Luke Walton. Wouldn't that be funny. :lol

Good times ahead.

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Originally Posted by TJastal

+1:lmao

I think its hilarious the lakers recruited Artest behind Ariza's back and now think Artest is going to represent this big upgrade over Ariza. Ariza was the absolute perfect complimentary role player, now they have a egostistical hothead who I'm thinking is going to disrupt their offensive schemes and triangle to the point where, if it gets bad enough, him and Kobe are going to clash. He may just end up on the bench in favor of Luke Walton. Wouldn't that be funny. :lol

Good times ahead.

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Yeah, IN NOW WAY SHAPE OR FORM SHOULD THE LAKERS HAVE CHOSEN ARTEST OVER ARIZAA.

They made a huge mistake, and it's going to show up with teams who have elite PGs like Parker.

Even if they Lakers had signed Kidd, it still wouldnt' have made a difference defensively, BECAUSE HE ABSOLUTELY CANNOT GUARD PARKER.

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Originally Posted by DrHouse

:lmao

Only on ST is a 37 year old McDyess a game changer.

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Dice is 34, doc.

You may want to check the patient history before you make false deductions.

Wouldn't want you to prescribe the wrong medicine, would we doc?!?

Quote:

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Originally Posted by DrHouse

Would you rather have Ron Artest @ $6 million or RJ @ $14 million?

For what the Lakers need, Artest is seemingly a perfect fit. A bulldog defender to throw at the bruising SF's that give the Lakers fits (Pierce, Melo, Lebron, etc.). Artest may not be as quick as he once was but he is still one of the league's best defenders. Having Kobe and Ron on the perimeter will definitely give the Lakers an intimidating defensive presence they have not had in a long time.

I couldn't care less what RJ brings to the Spurs because in my mind it doesn't matter what other teams are doing. As long as the Lakers retain their core and the youngins keep improving the Lakers will remain the best team in the NBA.

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:lol thats why you go out of your way to shoot down every move the Spurs every opportunity you get.

lakers are the champs, not us

their going to remain the favorites till someone knocks em off. see you soon

Bynum on Duncan
Gasol/Odom on Dice
Artest on RJ
Kobe on Manu
Fisher on TP

They still have the edge defensively yes...

Quote:

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Originally Posted by DrHouse

Would you rather have Ron Artest @ $6 million or RJ @ $14 million?

For what the Lakers need, Artest is seemingly a perfect fit. A bulldog defender to throw at the bruising SF's that give the Lakers fits (Pierce, Melo, Lebron, etc.). Artest may not be as quick as he once was but he is still one of the league's best defenders. Having Kobe and Ron on the perimeter will definitely give the Lakers an intimidating defensive presence they have not had in a long time.

I couldn't care less what RJ brings to the Spurs because in my mind it doesn't matter what other teams are doing. As long as the Lakers retain their core and the youngins keep improving the Lakers will remain the best team in the NBA.

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If Ron was such a great defender, how come he didn't guard Kobe very much in the playoffs? He's an overrated defender. I've seen him quite a lot of the last couple of years and his defense, while not bad, is certainly not that great. He gets a lot of media hype for his defense. The Laker defense last year was pretty good with Ariza. I'd be surprised if Artest could duplicate that.

I see all this talk about the Lakers having nobody to defend Parker.

Apparently nobody has seen Shannon Brown.

And there has never been a time when the Lakers needed someone to guard Parker in order for them to beat the Spurs.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by cd98

If Ron was such a great defender, how come he didn't guard Kobe very much in the playoffs? He's an overrated defender. I've seen him quite a lot of the last couple of years and his defense, while not bad, is certainly not that great. He gets a lot of media hype for his defense. The Laker defense last year was pretty good with Ariza. I'd be surprised if Artest could duplicate that.

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Newsflash, NOBODY GUARDS KOBE BRYANT WELL. Including Shane Battier, aka Kobe stopper.