The Lakerhead

Lakers VS Kings Cooler Talk

-  Kings are missing Kevin Martin, their only all-star (sprained right ankle).  Odds of them winning according to me… 4 million to 1.  This is why I’m not a mathematician.

-  I can’t believe the commentators haven’t mentioned how Radmanovich’s orange goggles get him one step closer to being a real space cadet.  Of course, he goes 2 for 2 from downtown in the first to show me up.  His eye got poked, and I’m glad he’s OK.  But I’m sad that this picture below might only be a temporary protective accessory.

- Kobe with four baskets from the outside (4-4) to open the game.  Those legs must be getting rest playing only 34 minutes a game.

- Kings staying in the game by outrunning the Lakers when they get the ball.  Transition defense practice time.  9-0 run in the 2nd by Sacramento.

-  I can’t say I’m upset at Cal State Fullerton alumni and undrafted Bobby Brown’s success in this game.  He has 9 in the 2nd quarter and finishes the game with a career high 21 points (8-13fg).  He’s a small pg with heart, speed, shooting skill, and usually makes the right pass.

-  Quincy Dooby is in the game.  He killed my Lakers in NBA 2k8 (my friend would bring him from the bench anytime his Kings went down).  Hopefully he isn’t as good in reality land.  Yes! He plays 2 minutes, 21 seconds, and is back on the pine.  The secret weapon is put away…for now.

-  61-52 Lakers at halftime.  How do you give up 52 points against a Kevin Martin-less Kings team?

-  Lakers look sluggish.  Pau Gasol is not getting enough touches.  It’s not a coincidence.

-  Gasol gets an “and 1″, and looks really pissed he hasn’t gotten the ball all game with Spencer Hawes guarding him.

-  How are the Lakers giving up over 50% shooting and up by 11 in the 3rd? Going 7-10 in their 3 pointers, they still need to tighten up the D.

-  Lakers have a 19 point lead to begin the 4th quarter after Bynum’s “and 1″.  The Kings cut it to 4 with 6 minutes left to go in the 4th quarter, forcing Phil to stop resting Gasol and Kobe for the rest of the game.  Now they have to come back in.

-  Kobe with a monster offensive rebound and free throws to take the lead back up to 8.

-  Gasol with a beautiful left hand tip off Kobe’s miss.  The Lakers take control and win, 118-108.

-  I consider this game a defensive failure.  But it’s good to know the Lakers can win games handily that they looked so off in.