THE (REAL) LAST SEASON

A coach who has found his soul.

By Tim David Harvey



"Basketball, unlike football with its prescribed routes, is an improvisational game, similar to jazz. If someone drops a note, someone else must step into the vacuum and drive the beat that sustains the team."PHIL JACKSON, 'The Last Season'.

This is it, no album, no movie. The greatest figure in the game during the 90's not named M.J. is hanging up his smart shoes and dry erase board. No more smells of incense in the locker room, no more meditation at half-time. After this season in locker-rooms everywhere in the NBA, from the STAPLES centre to the staples of other teams, after this season a calm will have left the building. Where not talking about the lockout, but the retirement of the greatest coach in NBA history after the cigar smoke has cleared. Phil Jackson reiterated Thursday that this would be 'The Last Season', autobiography or no autobiography. It is written.

Appreciate him now, while he's still here. There will be no honour rolls throughout the league, there wasn't even one in Chicago. There will be no Jerry West press conferences, despite the jokes. This enigmatic man who loves the game, but doesn't suffer fools isn't one for the hoopla surrounding hoops. He'll appreciate his time, but will slowly and calmly go about and on his way. He's already had his Jordan moment, coming out of retirement. He's not going to do it again, he knows better. Besides your not going to want to disturb this man while he's in the middle of nowhere, finding peace love and understanding.

So let's celebrate and look back now as Jax looks forward to know press conferences and basketball politics as usual. The Zen is what has given the association it's spirit for the last two decades, from the eccentric to the sarcastic, the candor to the calm. He's the master who has taught two of the greatest students of all-time. Turned the "uncoachable" into the untouchable. Taking care of Chicago like Elliott Ness, guarding L.A's Hollywood stars like Kevin Costner.

Jackson has had a lot of different shapes to deal with in his time and he's turned it all into a beautiful triangle, whether you understand or not. From M.J. To Kobe, Scottie to Lamar, Rodman to Artest, Kukoc to Gasol, Kerr to Fisher and...erm, Longley to Shaq. No matter the talent Phil has made sure each man brought the best out of himself, whatever the frustration. Now that and the Zen calm is what makes P.J. The best coach ever, day or night. Besides Phil's seen Red and raised him a championship. Now that's a 10 out of 10 career.



Still Kobe's promising us and him one more. Kobe always wants to win but this year he's doing it for Phil, to show his appreciation. These two guys have had an incredible journey, with all the peaks, valleys, vestibules and alleys that you'd expect...and then some. When we all thought Phil was done, in more ways then one in 2006, it wasn't hinted it at it was stated in his best-selling, all-telling book ('The Last Season: A Team In Search Of A Soul') that his relationship with Bryant was in a state of disrepair. You would never believe in a million years back then that these two would lick their wounds, heal and be on the verge of a possible second three-peat and Jax's fourth overall.

Whatever went on between them since the death of a dynasty has rocked every critics argument that both men and their teams had seen their best days. Whatever was said will remain between Kobe, Phil and the bait when they go fly-fishing together and reminisce in years time. Still whatever was done renders his last book forgotten and somewhat obsolete (it's still a great read though). This is the 'real' last season and by changing his mind and Kobe as a player, Phil successfully re-wrote his own and his basketball second sons history. They really got it together. Thank God for the dream of Jeanie.

Jackson has proved that you can catch lightening in a bottle twice, or three times over even. Decades after Kob unlaces them one last time, the debate will rage over who was better, him or Mike. Still no one will quite know both men and have quite the qualified gospel to speak on them like Phil Jackson. He truly brought the best out of them and helped them become the icons they are. Now that's influence, now that's inspirational. Jordan was trying to dig his way out the East with Coach Collins but he didn't win anything until he was 'Dougless'. No offence to Doug Collins, but Jackson truly understood Jordan and together they made history, season after season, after championship, after championship.



No man has ever been synonymous with two teams, but still regarded in his own legend like Phil Jackson. A legend on two coaches and a great role player in his on-court days for New York, Phil's always been reliable. They say the worst players make the best coaches but Coach Jackson is no average man, he's played his role to a tee, Basketballs true iron man in stark contrasts. Speaking of reliable Jackson is moulding a successor in the form of assistant and former three-peat champion role-player Brian Shaw. Normally an inexperienced head coach on a championship, calibre team would raise doubts but not when he comes with the tutoring and endorsement of a sheer legend of strategy. With this co-sign, you know there will be peace of mind.

Still for all the concern gone there will be commiseration aplenty because between the Windy City and the Californian sun, the calm and the storm, the red, purple and championship gold, the Eastern philosophy and promise and the triangle and the shape of things to come, there is, hasn't been and won't be anyone quite like Phil Jackson. Still rest-assured, he isn't done yet.

"I thrive on challenges, and there is no more imposing challenge for someone in my profession than winning an NBA title."PHIL JACKSON, 'The Last Season'.

LAKERS LATEST

LOS ANGELES LAKERS 100-95 SACRAMENTO KINGS



Kobe Bryant might have evened 'The Score' with Hakeem Oloujawon and then passed him as eight on the NBA's all time scoring list but it was Sacramento that had the highest numbers beating the Lake Show, 100-95. In a surprise win in this Californian clash at STAPLES Sacto' looked like their old selves shocking the Lakers. The Kings dethroned the defending champions home-win streak with a royal flush. DeMarcus Cousins had 27 points and 10 rebounds and Omri Casspi's 20 points put the Lakers in the toilet. Kobe had an impressive 38 points. Still even with 20 more then he needed to pass 'The Dream', (he had his 18, with 21 in the first) it wasn't enough to prevent this nightmare. Lamar Odom and Pau Gasol struggled with 4 and 9 points respectively, which with all due respect even added together subtracts from these guys regular form this season. This is the first time since 2008 that the Kings have beat the Lakers landing a rock on their throne. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

NBA STATE OF MIND Pt. II

Mind Games

By Tim David Harvey



It's been said before, this game is as much about the mental as it is the physical. Skill versus will, motion versus emotion. During a recent water-cooler esque conversation about a game with a die-hard, this writer was further inspired by this notion.

A couple weeks past, in a prime Eastern Conference clash, the Boston Celtics took on the Orlando Magic, or should it be said Kevin Garnett took on Dwight Howard. A lot was to be said for what determined the game, beyond star players and key shots. The mental battle between Garnett and Howard played the most significant role however. The two differing sides of passion, from K.G.'s emotion to Dwight's smiling devotion. It was time to see and hear who was tougher then the rest. Sure there is nothing wrong with Dwight's fun and happy go lucky approach to the game but it was 'Da Kid's', snarling, growling, glaring, staring and chalk tossing and chest pumping, thumping passion that was King Kong. K.G. talked so much trash that he needed a sanitary towel. Sure trash talk is throw away but it's also an important way of throwing off your competitor and getting into their heads.

Sure on another night, Dwight's constant smiling at everything may have been Garnett and Boston's plight but not last week. Kevin's passion and heart was too much, attacking and screwing with Magic. Still this is just the tricks of K.G.'s trade, no foul play here. Just look at the highlight reels of this Boston great, you'll see just as many slow-mo jersey tugs, heart thumps and head pounds, as lay-ups, dunks and blocks (and there's a lot of those). Nine times out of ten the only thing not standing up about Kevin at the end of the game is the elastic on his jersey...and you can bet he'll still be talking, even after the presser.

See 'trash talk' is more than just 'your momma so fat she's sitting next to everyone in the Garden', it's more than jokes, it's a tactic not to be played with. Even Mr. T couldn't tell K.G. to stop his jibber jabbering, or Gary Payton for that matter. You best believe that the legendary point guards mouth was damn near as effective as his handle on defence. The D student was so good at getting under his opponents uniform mentally and physically that he frustrated everyone from Sam Bowie to Michael Jordan. It's this play that made sure 'The Glove' had his hand on more games then Goldstein.

Payton's one season team-mate on the Lakers, Rick Fox was another great instigator. A great defender and one of the best game changers that didn't show up on the stat-sheet. Sure it isn't recorded but everyone in the Los Angeles and Sacramento areas of Cali know how killer Rick's game was. Especially Peja Stojakovic who paid the cost for Fox's no holes barred D. In those legendary Laker/King series the Lakers where crowned victorious because Rick made it virtually impossible for Peja to take any shots at the throne. Stojakovic's killer three point shot was dead and out the water as the European sensation couldn't wet anything. This shooter was in the foreign territory of not getting his own way, thanks to Fox's sly off the ball defence. A style that is mental as it is physical, as will destroying as it is skill employing. Sure you have to be strong, athletic and fast to prevent someone from getting touches but it's vital to have a mental edge too. When this D is in effect the only buckets will be left for tears, because these mind games really get to opponents. Now who's left playing?

Rick's dawg Kobe is a doberman on defence two and just think how much mental pressure comes with playing one-on-one with one of the greatest of all time? Knowing he's watching your every move and then you have to deal with every one of his. Kobe recently faced former team-mates Sasha Vujacic and Jordan Farmer in New Jersey just mere months removed from better days. Sure off court it was all love but on the floor Kob made sure there was "no mercy" just like he's reiterated before. This killer instinct, which we've talked about before is exactly why Kobe's murder game has so much conviction, for better or hearse.

Bryant's back-up, Shannon Brown has his back in more ways the one. From dunks to blocks and more dunks, Shannon is the true definition of a spark-plug, re-charging his teams energy in crucial lows, emphasis on crucial. You see every minute of a game is important and this underrated, spark of energy can sometimes be 'clutch' even with two quarters left in the bank. Bench legend, Vinnie Johnson was nicknamed 'The Microwave' during his Detroit days in the 80's. Nothing complicated here but sometimes it's the simple things, when the Pistons needed more fuel, they went to someone who could heat up and be ready in seconds, which sometimes in basketball is all the time in the world, all the time you have and all the time you need.

It can be argued that Chris Anderson has as much love as Carmelo Anthony in Denver (even before now). Sure he'll never average 30 or be a high-roller baller like his rap Birdman namesake but baby's got talent. From dunks to blocks, he gets the fans off their seat and puts the opponents on their backsides. He's a real momentum changer and just like gravity all you need is a little push for things to quickly spiral from one way to another. This jokers no clown he's the Nuggets ace in the hole. The high socks, tattoos, accessories and Vanilla Ice hair are all part of the unique mind-set of a guy who can bring the energy like M.C. Hammer. Energy is such an important factor of basketball and all spirits. When your bodies out of fuel and your running on fumes in need of a pick me up, the reserves of energy come from inside, the mind. That's how you then take care of business, by 'minding' it. Think on.

There are an infinite amount of examples here that we can not put it all in one, let alone two pieces. A sound state of mind speaks volumes and that makes the winners sing while the losers are left trying to hit the right notes. It's evident in any for of Basketball from Motown to California, it's supreme in all the three degrees, the college, the pro's and the streets. In high-school and college there's that undying passion from every contributor, one through to the fan sitting up top at the back. Everyone is passionate, excited that young exuberance that those past it wish they never passed on. From replica game sweats to instruments these guys are as bold as brass, with passion perspiring out of every pore. Same perspiration in the streets whether it's coming off a Jordan replica or a white tee that's now a shade of off grey. From one on one to 'I'm Mike your Mars'. From five versus, whoever you got, to next basket wins, it's all the same trend.

Some people wish they saw the same passion, the same exuberance in the big leagues, in the NBA. Trouble is they aren't looking. From the Birdman to the cash money of courtside, armchair fan Mark Cuban. From the guy taking the last bucket to the guy on the bench in a suit, just glad he isn't in the D-League, but just wishing he could play. From Kobe to the next 10 day. From the look in K.G.'s eyes to the white in Dwight's smile. It's all there. It's a state of mind.

LAKERS LATEST

The starters for this years All-Star game in Los Angeles have been announced. Once again Kobe Bryant is the best in the league leading all the vote getter's. With 2,380,016 votes Kobe was the best in the West, while slam dunk, entertainer, big talent Dwight Howard left everyone else in the East least with 2,099,204 ballots cast. Kobe will lead his Western squad in his home court of STAPLES in L.A. The team will also feature other top vote-getter's, including the Hornets' Chris Paul (1,281,591), the Thunder's Kevin Durant (1,736,728), the Nuggets' Carmelo Anthony (1,299,849) and also the Rockets' Yao Ming (1,146,426) who again draws a lot of votes from Asia but is injured. In the East joining Howard we have, LeBron James (2,053,011), Amar'e Stoudemire (1,674,995), Dwyane Wade (2,048,175) and Derrick Rose (1,914,996). As for the reserves they will be voted in by NBA head coaches who will vote for seven players within their conference, including two guards, two forwards, a center and two players additional players but not their own teams players. Will the right players get picked? After our 'Odom A Favour' campaign, will the Lakers Lamar will be returned the favour he deserves? David Stern also will pick the replacement for any player who can't participate. With Yao sidelined will the other Lakers great Bynum be picked? He is one of the last true centres left and is playing strong amongst all the Hollywood stars. The 60Th All Star game will be broadcast in more than 200 countries and territories in more than 40 languages on Sunday, Feb. 20.. Super...what? TIM DAVID HARVEY.

THE SCORE

Let's get academic as we report on how Kobe is taking the legends to school.

By Tim David Harvey



TITLE:

A report on Kobe Bryant's rise up the all-time NBA scorers list, investigating how far he can climb with relation to an analysis of his offence and a comparison to the legends above him.

ABSTRACT:

13 is an unlucky number for some, but not for someone called Kobe Bryant. 13 is the number of points that Kobe needs to pass Hakeem Olaujwon to become the 8Th leading scorer in NBA history. The Mamba is slithering up more than the average weekly Top Ten ladders. Kobe's next chance to shake the dream like Christina Milian is this Friday when the Lakers face the Sacramento Kings. Still, years from now, when Kobe calls it quits and retires, where will he be crowned amongst the all-time scoring royalty of the association? You can count on him being affiliated with the top guys.

INTRODUCTION:

Kobe hits milestones every season, he's being doing it his whole career going from youngest ever to best ever records. This year however Kobe's been drawing milestones and breaking records in his sleep. Despite recovering from a knee injury and some ill form, Kobe has still been playing sick, having one of his most successful years for achievements. Kobe's already made Dominique Wilkins (26,668 points) highlights look human in comparison, passing his position and his big offence already passed 'The Big O', Oscar Robertson (26,710 points) in the top ten scoring and now for the rest of his career he could pass even more. So let's take a look at who and how far he could really get up the scale.



FINDINGS:

Kobe's got the best of the best to best if he wants to become the all-time greatest scorer. Here they are;

Hakeem Olajuwon-26,946 Points: Kobe's about to send one of the leagues greatest postmen to ninth place. As Kobe's offensive repertoire has evolved over his career so have his deliveries in the post. Example, when Robin Lopez was torching Bynum and Gasol in a recent Phoenix/Lakers game, Kobe still went hard posting up the seven footer, who had plenty of size and bulk on Kobe.

Elvin Hayes-27,313 Points: Hayes is one of the most underrated legends of all time and right now Kobe's scoring achievements aren't receiving as much praise as they should be. With Hayes you had a tall inside guy who could score in bunches, big bunches. Kobe's more of an all over the court guy, shooting and slashing inside. It's this kind of diverse play that will leave Hayes outside of Kobe's range soon.

Moses Malone-27,409 Points: The second Houston legend and the first of two Malone's is one of the greatest centre's ever. Goggles or not, it aint hard to see that. Kobe's number 24 isn't retired yet like Malone's but by the time this happens, Moses will have already parted from sixth place, allowing Kobe to pass through. This isn't rocket science.

Shaquille O'Neal-28,582 Points: As Kobe gets older and the scoring ladder gets harder to climb the mamba is going to meet an old friend as he tries to enter the top five. The question is will the corvette hit the brick wall? It looks like the red car could drive round the wall no matter how old the model. When Kobe passes Shaq sure everyone will try and make something big out of it, but in reality it's nothing.

Wilt Chamberlain-31,419 Points: As we get into 30, 000 territory will Kobe be out of bounds or will he find a home amongst the elite. Chamberlain's position is on a high stilt, that's what happened when you score a century in a game. Still Kobe's not far behind him as this current and one-time Laker have a lot in common. Kobe's career high of 81 has put him right behind Wilt in another scoring category and many critics have talked about whether he can go one better. In a game maybe not, but over a few more 82's? That will do.

Michael Jordan-32,292 Points: If you thought there was a lot riding on overcoming Shaq, how about if Kobe has a chance to enter the top 3? He could take M.J. Throughout Bryant's career the like Mike similarities and comparisons have been drawn out. Could it be that Kobe could actually beat Mike? Now this won't end the debate of who's better, or start it for those that know that Michael will always be king. Still with almost identical offensive skills and age not offending Kobe right now, number 24 could really be more than number 23.

Karl Malone-36,928 Points: now where going deeper does Kobe have the good to deliver more points then the Mailman? Or for that matter does he have the strength and conditioning to play into his 40's. When Kobe's goatee sports greys will he still be able to pick his spots and roll to the basket like Malone could. Karl ended his career playing with Kobe in L.A. and although things didn't end so well then, it's clear the conclusion of these two players hasn't been wrote yet.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar-38,387 Points: Records where meant to be broken and everyone wants the top spot, but can Kobe cap Kareem's and the leagues total, becoming the all-time Laker and the all-time player? 11, 453 is a lot of points for a guy who has already done this twice over but is way into the third act of his career. Still, if anyone in the league right now could do it, it'd only be Kobe. The guy is a scoring machine, and a regular franchise feature in the early Summer. Still, if only Kobe had a signature shot like Jabbar then the limit would be the sky. You know Kobe would then have this hook line and sinker. Now the question is, will he score big, or will he fadeaway.



CONCLUSIONS:

Kobe Bryant-26,934 Points: There are too many variables here to determine, for example injuries and playing time etc. Kobe's knee is a factor as are the team-mates he shares the ball with. How longer can Bryant play for and at a high-level to boot? 35? Maybe. 40? Perhaps if he puts on airs and mirrors the 'Floor Jordan' era. Still, the more time Kobe has left the more likely he is of climbing the charts. At 32, he could definitely still play at a high level for many years, perhaps until he's 37. With that idea in mind he could still make it. If he kept up an unlikely 30 point average to his late 30's he'd clear Kareem like a high jumper with 12, 300 more points in the books, just from regular season games of around 2, 460 points each year.

Now if we looked at this more realistic career average of around 25 points, (which he could more likely maintain) that would keep Kobe at around 2,050 points each season. Over 5 more years that would give the mamba 10, 250 points that wouldn't snake him the top spot. Still however this isn't taking in playoff games, that could take him further in more ways then one. With a more of Gasol, Odom, Artest and Bynum, who knows how far this Laker dynasty could go in the next five years. The more rings Kobe gets the more positions he'll take in this top-ten. Still taking playoffs out the equation makes up for the points that could be lost due to age, injury or ball-sharing (that's passing Kobe) that could help give us a more realistic conclusion.

So there are plenty of variables and things standing in the way of Kobe reaching the top, but he's going to make up more spots this year and he could definitely crack the top 5 or 3. As for going all the way, it may look doubtful in some degrees but it's still a possibility for a man who has defied the impossible. Winning is everything but you know in the back of Kobe's mind this is a mission he chooses to accept. Let's keep score, 11, 453 to go and counting. Catch up!

LOSS LAKERS

The Lakers right now could get by with a little help from their old friends.

By Tim David Harvey




It's no new news that the Lakers are in a spot of trouble right now. Sure they don't have a lot to worry about, there are always trials and tribulations and things will get better, but the Lakers could use a little help. Perhaps they could of got it from some old friends they should have never lost touch with. Here's the definitive list of the best Lakers lost after the post-Shaq era. The players missed the most and who could really be used right now. They sure do make a good team.

MARC GASOL (CENTRE)

If it wasn't for Marc, there would be no Pau. Sure Marc's the younger brother but his draft rights held by the Lakers where part of the trade that brought Pau and all those championships to Laker land. Sure Kwame Brown was part of the trade where Pau Gasol was 'given' to the Lakers but in reality the way Pau's young brother has grown up, it has been a fair trade in hindsight. Sure Marc's the only guy on this list that has never donned a Laker jersey or logged a minute of showtime action but still he would of been valuable. This post power is the centre of attention in Memphis and a solid, strong, big, 20, 10 guy. Sure with Bynum, Marc's absence is by the by, but it sure would of been nice to see two great brothers on the same team.

VLADAMIR RADMONOVIC (POWER FORWARD)

Vladamir was always one of those talents that could have had more of an output. From floppy hair and bandannas to buzz cuts and from skiing trips to slides out the rotation, Radmonovic has had his ups and downs. Still with that all said and done this tall, versatile forward is one hell of a talent. It seemed liked the Lakers gave him away to Charlotte for the talented Adam Morrison, but that was until Shannon Brown developed. That doesn't mean Vlad isn't missed however. With a Nowitzki like inside/outside game Rad is tall enough to go inside and has had one of the sweetest strokes from outside by any Laker present and past over the last decade. Right now Radmonovic would be the perfect guy off the bench, supplementing Gasol, bringing both shared and different talents off the bench. The Lakers already have a decent B-team but with Vladamir it would be the best in the league.

CARON BUTLER (SMALL FORWARD)

The Dallas Mavericks have a lot of fire-power, but one of their best all round guys is Caron Butler. Now, however a knee injury has ushered Butler out of playing for the rest of the season. As this news broke it hot former team-mate Kobe hard who is a close friend of Caron. Kobe still reiterates his disappointment of how the Lakers traded Butler. The Lakers practically let him disappear to the Wizards for Kwame Brown, but then again Kwame did bring the Lake Show Gasol. It was another trade disappointment for L.A. when they lost Shaq to the Heat for Odom and Butler. Still despite the losses, Bryant, Odom and Butler made for a wonderful three that could have lasted and won together. The Lakers liked Caron so much at one point they where even rumoured to be shipping Odom to get their Butler back in the past. If Caron was to ever come back (trade or free-agency) he'd be the most welcome return to the Laker family since Fisher. A heralded defender in all aspects with an even more underrated, diverse offensive set. This strong player is built for all aspects of basketball and when he returns this Butler is going to be at it, for whoever he serves.

TREVOR ARIZA (SHOOTING GUARD)

Of all the people on this list, Trevor Ariza is one of the most missed Lakers by fans. Even with the much loved Ron Artest and the Ariza look-a-like, play-a-like Devin Ebanks the Lake Show loved the rising talent of Ariza. The swingman, who does it on both ends of the floor is still one of the most underrated players in the L and he practically gave L.A. their first ring post new millennium, three-peat. With great defence on and off the ball, gazelle like speed and thieving steals, this tenacious, versatile talent was a fast-break starter. He was also a fast-break finisher, with rim rocking dunks and twine, tweaking threes for days. There's no one quite like this guy, expect one man. The Lakers had a problem when Ariza signed with Houston, so it was a good job they inked Ron Artest, because it takes an enigmatic man to replace an enigmatic talent.



JORDAN FARMER (POINT GUARD)

It still seems strange that this UCLA grad is now in the Garden State, sporting a New Jersey with other former L.A. story, Sasha Vujacic. See, Farmar was always the man meant to take over Fishers crop at point guard once the clutch retired, but not everything works out. The Lakers are doing more than alright with the tough, sharp-shooting Steve Blake but still Jordan's missed here like legends in Chicago. A starter for the future this man has speed, finesse, and savvy in reserve. With his complete Point Guard skills Jordan could become a franchise guy. It's just a shame it won't be for the Lakers.

MAURICE EVANS (SIXTH MAN)

Basketball teams these years are nothing without their sixth men and reserves these days don't come much better or more underrated then Maurice Evans. With Mo Evans, you have no problems because this swingman covers more spots then Clearasil. With speed, finesse and athleticism. This guy doesn't just look like a prototype ball player, he is one. The slasher cuts through to the basket like Wes Craven cuts through college kids. As for his finishing talent, where do we start, his dunks are amazing and his lay-ups and finger-rolls are amazing grace, whether straight-forward or off-balance. This guys put down so many circus-shots like they where nothing, it's a shame he couldn't be a ringmaster here in Laker land. Now wouldn't that be something.

So there you have it, five guys and one in reserve that the Lakers may have replaced but still wouldn't mind a reunion with. Players that not only make up a team but helped make up the Lakers squad and now make the most of their contributions to their current sides. At the end of the day, no matter the colour, there's nothing like the Laker family.

LAKERS LATEST

LOS ANGELES LAKERS 120-91 UTAH JAZZ



The Utah Jazz seem to be playing all the wrong notes at the moment. The Lakers beat them all throughout L.A.'s 120-91 win, Tuesday. Utah don't look worth their salt at the moment with a five game slide. This is their second-worst loss of the run, right now the Jazz sound flat. For the Lakers Kobe only needed three quarters to notch 21 on his record. If he had a spare quarter to make change, Kobe could of tramped up the all-time scoring list and pass as Hakeem Olajuwon as eight best. Kobe now needs just 13 points. More Lakers had points for proof as Gasol hit 20 and Bynum made his star shine, doubly bright with 19 and 11. Lamar Odom also furthered his case for leagues best sixth man with a Bynum jersey in points (17). The Lakers now also have an Odom jersey number for straight wins at home (7). The Lakers where up so much (38) that the crowd could even forgive reserve Shannon Brown for literally stuffing a dunk. Still despite this clanger the only turkeys Tuesday where Utah.

CANDOR, CADENCE & CANDACE

(Originally published on sister site 'BASKETBALL 24/48/82' and after all the Los Angeles Sparks are the Lakers sister team)

She's not got next, she has right now.

By Tim David Harvey


CANDOR:: can-dor Frankness or sincerity of expression; openness.

Let's be frank and fair here. Hype will always, eventually die down. It's a given. From Christopher Nolan directions to Kanye West outbursts, we'll anticipate, be excited, love every minute in it's moment and then ultimately move on and go about our day. That's the relationship between the common man and this machine called hype. This is especially true in the talent laden, promised haven of the basketball world. Even when hype is justified and major and not Harold Minor it will still calm down. Trophies will be polished and award shows will be tidied up and turned back into function rooms. Sad, but hey that's just the way it goes. Even some of the best guys in the NBA have to become free agents or go through some sort of change to re-establish a buzz. Just look at LeBron and Carmelo. It's not that any of these guys have lost any heat (pun not intended) but people in this entertainment consumer society are always looking for that new, hot thing.

So the worlds most underrated league and the worlds most underrated female sporting talent definitely don't stand a chance between Youtube and on demand networks making it virtually impossible to not watch exactly what you want, when you need. Still the WNBA should 'expect great' fans, boy do they deserve it. This isn't glorified Netball, you've seen the adverts and if you haven't you should really watch. This writer doesn't need to tell you how great it is, you should see for yourself. u need look no further then Candace Parker to see standout talent either.

CADENCE: ca-dence. Balanced, rhythmic flow, as of poetry or oratory.

Parkers game is like poetry. Flowing with perfect rhythm, balance and poise, while singing with the loudest noise. The Los Angeles Sparks number three has been playing big like a Laker for three years now. Sure her hands haven't touched a championship trophy yet, but they have caught, consecutive dunks and received not only a MVP, but the passing of the torch from WNBA legend Lisa Leslie. It was a pleasure to watch the master and the apprentice together, in their all too short time together but now the teacher is gone, the student is graduating to her own legend.

Sure you've probably heard all this hype before, Basketball's next great hope. Well the hype may have taken a hiatus, but why should it? Candace is current and now, established and proud. The LeBron of the WNBA, to Lisa Leslie's Kobe. A leader, no longer raw talent but still getting fresher. Like Michelle Wie in Golf or the Williams sisters in Tennis, Parker is showing that sports is not just a mans world. It'd be nothing without a woman and the promise of Candace's potential is screaming this notion loud like James Brown. Now get up off your ass and see what this writer means.

Sure Tamika Catchings may have the best right now tag, the Seattle Storm may have the championship and Diana Taurasi may have the legend and that hot like fire ESPN cover, but Candace has the future and the world of basketball in her hands, whether your handing it to her or not. A star player and one of the greatest, her best is yet to come. With Tina Thompson and Delisha Milton-Jones also plugging the Sparks, parade routes may be a regular traffic problem in downtown Los Angeles soon, look out for that red, double decker London bus. As the wheels of her career go round and round, the WNBA's CP3 is going to travel further and further up the ladder of greatness. Besides she's already a potent 20 and 10 threat, at 6,4. Sure WNBA ball is a short woman's game (Shaq would make them all look like kids) but Candace is still putting up power numbers that her power, potential, post man husband, Shelden Williams can't deliver right now (no offence, it's the bench). This Basketball's his and hers are in different leagues sure, but who would you pick in a one on one? Her big brother two, Anthony may be an off the bench great, but Candace is off the chain. Sure her Basketball family is linked with greatness but she commands the top.

CANDACE: can-dace. Basketball beauty, the genetic make-up of a true star.

You see Candace aint playing...oh wait a minute yes she is. With the WNBA season being a Summer fixture like extra classes, Candace has taken her basketball studies overseas. Taking the Brandon Jennings route, (but in different ways) Parker is making up time that would otherwise be lost by playing for UMMC Ekaterinburg of Russia. Just like B.J. before and Shaq and whoever else next (with the impending, potential NBA lockout), Candace doesn't need the money, but she does need the playing time. Why, because any great player, established like Shaq or establishing like Jennings need to constantly hone their game to be the best they can be, whatever the talent. Sure Candace could heave up 100 made shots before she leaves the gym in the warmth and familiarity of Los Angeles, but nothing beats real, competitive action, or the rise of international ball for that matter. It did wonders for Brandon Jennings when age restrictions prevented his seasoning in the league and now it's going to expand the world-wide appeal of one of the best female athletes even more. Candace is no slouch overseas either, exporting her talents on a nightly basis. Playing just like she does in the States increasing her status over two leagues. She's making her point, or should I say points two, dropping more 23's than the Chicago Bulls gift shop.

Sure the fresh feeling of Candace Parker's hype may not have been left out a little too long, but what does that change? There is nothing raw or in the refrigerator about this cool, cold player. She's as hot as the forecasts predicted on and off the court. Ever since her 34 point debut this girl has been putting up numbers Shaq size and now at 24 with a family and a legacy, this woman's work and best years are still ahead. This former WNBA Rookie Of The Year and MVP, is already in the elite company of NBA legends, Wilt Chamberlain and Wes Unseld. If you drop the W, Parker still loses nothing and with all that she's achieved and her extra curricula, European vacation, Candace is chasing and gaining even more. Male or female, it doesn't matter, this talented Naismith and Wooden award winner is Basketball. Anyone who doesn't believe that should bounce.

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LOS ANGELES LAKERS 107-97 DENVER NUGGETS



Things to do in Denver when your almost dead...give Kobe the ball. Kobe shot the lights out when it counted. With a barrage of beautiful, fadeaways and M.J.'s, Kobe's 18 points helped overcome the Denver Nuggets and their current star Carmelo Anthony who had a Jordan jersey number of 23 points. 'Melo was causing problems, calming Ron Artest all night but he wasn't enough for Kobe, who once called Anthony the toughest guy in the league to play. "Ultimately it's my reads on when to attack and when not to attack. I know I can score at any moment or get looks at any moment and in the third quarter I was able to do that," Kobe told press, postgame about his choice points. Sure Kobe didn't have a career night, but he made his point and his points when it truly mattered, hitting from every angle with obtuse offence. Five Lakers had at least 15 points, including Pau Gasol, who recorded yet another double, double with 19 points and 13 rebounds (his 24th this season to be exact). Bynum also had 17 and 5 in yet another impressive night. He even got into it with Nene at one point, proving he hasn't lost any passion. The Lakers also showed they haven't lost any passion or determination, rebounding from some recent losses before their time off which leaves them free until Tuesday. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

*Congratulations are in order for Shannon Brown and R&B star Monica, who have secretly wed, according to reports. Wishing this great couple all the happiness.*

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LOS ANGELES LAKERS 100-109 DALLAS MAVERICKS



As the Lakers headed to Texas they faced up against a Maverick team that has had troubles as of late. Dallas' record against the Lakers has always been a little shaky as well, but in hosting the Lake Show, Jason Kidd and his jittery knees carried his team to victory. He had a season-high 21 points and 10 assists, as he dropped both dimes and buckets on L.A. Shawn Marion and Jason Terry Also lifted Dallas off the bench with 22 points a piece as the Mavs took care of the visitors and their own 6 game losing streak in their saloon. Los Angeles have now lost three of their last four games as Pau Gasol's game high of 23 was not enough in the old west. Even Kobe matching Kidd with 21 and 10 of his own and Lamar Odom's impressive 20 and 10, double, double night could not supply the Lakers with the goods to overcome a great Maverick run. Every player counted this night as Jason Terry described it perfectly, "Tonight we came into this game with all 12 guys suited up and ready to play. Guys got after it on both ends of the floor and played hard". It's time for the rest of the Lakers bench players to warm up. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

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LOS ANGELES LAKERS 101-94 OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER



Derek Fisher couldnt recreate his clutch magic against the Clippers this weekend but he was up to his old tricks against Oklahoma hitting big buckets and threes. He scored a season-high, 15 points en route to the Lake Show's 101-94 win against Oklahoma City. Pau and Kobe also helped weather the Thunder, both collecting 21 points. The Lakers won their eigth of nine as Russell Westbrook (32 points and 12 assists) and Kevin Durant's (24 points) strong play wasn't enough. The team that almost beat the Lakers in the playoffs last year, showed they could still match up to the Lakers in this regular season game. Phil Jackson had a lot of respect for his opponent but also appreciated his own team saying, . "It's a good win for us. Our intensity was right on a back-to-back night. We had the energy necessary to win against a young and very active team." TIM DAVID HARVEY.

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LOS ANGELES LAKERS 92-99 LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS



The last time these twin city teams met on the same (Clipper's turn) floor Derek Fisher hit a clutch lay-up to win the game. This time he was almost hit in the face as he tried to break up a scuffle to close out the game. The Lakers where obviously frustrated as this weekend it was the Clip show who owned STAPLES in more ways than one. As their 99-92 victory over the Lakers came to a head, Lamar Odom got into a shoving match with Blake Griffin after battling for a rebound, which also saw Ron Artest and Baron Davis get into it. All four players where ejected as this battle of Los Angeles rivalry intensifies. The hotter this Griffin/Gordon/Davis tandem Clipper team gets, the more heated this same city/same building rivalry gets. The Clippers have won 9 of their last 13 games and may soon rival the New York Knicks in the improvement scales. Kobe had 27 for the Lakers and Bynum a double, 18 and 13. Gasol however was held to an opposite, 13 and 8 as he was also whistled out the game for fouling out. The Clips were all fire though as in a great guarded game, Eric Gordon scored 30 points and Baron Davis had 14 and 8 assists. While Blake Griffin dunked and muscled his way to 18 points and 15 rebounds. Now that's strength from the young underdog. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

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LOS ANGELES LAKERS 100-88 NEW JERSEY NETS



Laker 2008-2010, championship heroes Jordan Farmar and Sasha Vujacic made their return to STAPLES last night. They where welcomed back with open arms and cheers, but their New Jersey Net team where shown the door in Los Angeles. Jersey where sent back to Garden State with a 100-88 Lake Show kicking up their backsides. Still the Meadowlands team exit by the hand of the Lakers was more 'Don't let the door hit you' then 'Hit The Road Jack', as L.A. struggled again against a lesser side for three quarters. Kobe paced the Lakers with 27 as he battled jersey darling Brook Lopez (with a game-high 35) in the post. Kobe wasn't scared by the imposing big man but Andrew Bynum almost heard the famous Ray Charles, STAPLES Centre number with five fouls on his way to two points. Lopez got the better of the Lakers twin post players as even Pau Gasol's 20 points came hard fought. "Lopez was a real tough handle for our big guys tonight and we didn't give them much help," Coach Phil Jackson told press postgame. Vujacic had 17 points and a touching 'Thanks Machine' video tribute on the jumbotron, to go with being dunked on by Kobe. While Jordan Farmar gave 15 points and received his championship ring and a spin and lay in from Mamba. That just leaves Josh Powell and Adam Morrison to collect their gold now. It's about time someone gave these champions more burn, they where good enough for the Lakers and Larry O'Brien. Suit it up. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

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LOS ANGELES LAKERS 115-110 GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS



After blowing all the Cavs candles this week the Lakers extended their win streak to 6, travelling across the Pacific. Across the Golden gate the Warriors were much tougher opponents however. After a 55 point win on Tuesday the Lake Show squeezed a 5point win against Golden State. Still the Lakers starting five where more than alright in this clash. With less than 5 to go in the game, Kobe got his Kobe on and took over scoring 17 points to close out the game and the GSW's, en route to 39 points. “It don’t matter who’s on me. When it’s go time, it’s go time,” Kob remarked postgame. Bryant also dropped a dime to Ron Artest for a clutch, three pointer with under 2 minutes remaining, Ron's getting quite good at those isn't he? All round player, Pau Gasol had yet another double, double, with 24 points and 11 rebounds. Lamar Odom also nearly made it double, double trouble, with 20 and 9. What was most crucial was his 10 straight in the fourth which was as instrumental as Kobe's play and Ron's three in icing the game. Andrew Bynum also doubled with 11 points and 14 rebounds. he Lakers are looking pretty solid right now. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

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LOS ANGELES LAKERS 112-57 CLEVELAND CAVALIERS



The Lakers didn't handle the Cleveland Cavaliers last night...they manhandled them. There was no Cleveland show last night as the Lakers held the Cavs to an opposing, franchise record low 55 points. It looked like Cleveland only had a half to play as by the final buzzer the Cavaliers only had 57 points to L.A's 112. This is the Lakers biggest margin of victory since 1972. That's before Shaq, before Magic and before 'Cap. It was the Lake Show's third-largest victory in history. Still it was a new defensive record for the Lakers after allowing 66 points by Charlotte back in the Shaq/Kobe three-peat days of 2002. Kobe "absolutely" felt sorry for former Laker and Cleveland coach, Byron Scott. Still after the 'Showtime' destroyed the Lakers, 80's babies squad Kobe was asked if any of his sympathy was extended to the Cavalier team, "None," Bryant replied. "You forget who you're talking to." Ron Artest and Andrew Bynum both had 15 points, while Kobe and Pau had 13 apiece. The Lakers other biggest wins where 56 points against Detroit in 1966 and 63 points against Golden State in '72. This weeks game is still one for the record books however. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

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LOS ANGELES LAKERS 109-87 NEW YORK KNICKS



Kobe always steps it up at Madison Square Garden, but he's no slouch at STAPLES either. With New York coming into town, Kobe had 27 points as Los Angeles beat the Knicks 109-87 at home. Kobe looked great despite his knee issues. As did the improving Andrew Bynum who almost doubled up with 18 points and 7 rebounds and he probably would of if he wasn't ejected late in the game for a second technical after arguing a foul he committed against Amare Stoudemire. Pau Gasol did get another double however with 20 points and 14 rebounds as the improving Lakers went for four straight wins. Stoudemire had 23, Chandler had 19 and Felton had 12 for the Knicks, but it wasn't enough for this turnaround team who stay the same against the Lakers with their seventh straight loss. Despite the Knicks finally looking like a great team, some things don't change. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

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The Lakers are set to lose defensive swingman, backup talent Matt Barnes for around two months. The major pickup of this past offseason has been incredible for the Lake Show off the bench. Barnes confirmed on his Twitter account that a knee injury would keep him at courtside in a suit and tie for a timeline of around eight weeks. After a fall against the New Orleans Hornets during a Lakers win at STAPLES on Friday, Matt has torn the lateral meniscus in his right knee. There is no official return date from the Lakers as Barnes will undergo surgery some point this week. This is a shame for L.A. who have been in the injury wars all season long and looked like they where getting out of it. Barnes has also been one of the Lakers bright spots from his hard nosed D to his potent offensive set. To fill his spot the Lakers have recalled, Trevor Ariza like, versatile rookie Devin Ebanks from the D-League. The swingman who is competent on all areas of the floor has been strong in the NBA's development league, averaging around 14 points and 8 rebounds. Now he's been called up perhaps this is finally Ebanks shot. Also Phil Jackson won't have any more trouble finding extra minutes for favourite Luke Walton. Now that will leave Tom Hanks smiling again. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

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LOS ANGELES LAKERS 101-97 NEW ORLEANS HORNETS



He did it! Last night Kobe's 25 points put him past Oscar Robertson as ninth on the NBA All-Time scoring list with 26,720 points. Kobe hit yet another milestone this week in leading his Lakers to a 101-97 victory over the New Orleans Hornets and old Laker friends, Trevor Ariza and D.J. Mbenga (who collected his championship ring next to an all smiling Bryant. Congratulations D). As Kobe keeps climbing the scoring ladder however, the mamba is also falling down the injury snake pit. The legend, along with Andrew Bynum still has to watch his knee, especially last night. Bynum himself looked strong in 31 minutes with his jersey number in points (17). Still these two where still a concern, especially as both of the Lakers two most recent additions went down with sprains. Matt Barnes sprained his right knee and Steve Blake his left ankle. At least Pau Gasol looked mighty healthy with a killer, 21 points, 13 rebounds and 7 assists as he hit another double, double and almost tripled up. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

ODOM A FAVOUR

The ballot of Los Angeles,

By Tim David Harvey



Kobe's a given, that's why he's the top vote getter. Pau Gasol? Sure he's a regular. Ron Artest? Yep there's no one like him, defensively or mentally, put him in. Andrew Bynum? Sure he's been injured, but off the bench yes and who else is there? Derek Fisher even? Hey, there's a Twitter campaign going, now wouldn't that be nice? He deserves it (but that's for a separate piece). You know what I'm talking about, it's time to tick the ballots and punch the holes out of the paper. No, no the mid-terms have passed, this is the NBA All-Star voting where talking about.

With so much talent on view for the Lake Show this could be like '96 all over again. Just like when Shaq, Kobe and mid-nighties, purple and gold legends Eddie Jones and Nick 'The Quick' Van Exel suited up in those gaudy, instantly dated All-Star uni's. Face it like face time the Lakers could easily field their starting lineup at this years game. They may as well, the game is being played at STAPLES after all. Still, especially with all the inconsistencies it's not the starting lineup that's most deserving of the honor, it's their most consistent player and their sixth man, Lamar Odom.

Forget 'Khloe and Lamar' for a second, the only thing you need to keep up with is what Lamar Odom showcases on the court. The only reality you need to tune into is that this guy is the most diverse, versatile player in the league. He is the difference maker, the do it all guy everybody wants on their team. Part what Kevin Garnett is, part what Anthony Randolph is going to be. Just like what Pat Riley said back in the Miami days, just like Magic.

Odom's got his own tricks two. From a great inside and out game, on both ends of the floor, to passing first and shooting from anywhere when needed. He's a triple, double machine and his 16 and 10 double, double average is two buckets away from being the 20 and 10 sought after figures that are generally considered, Dwight, Amare or legendary numbers...and they said Lamar was soft. No he's togh, like his New York upbringing. Q.B.'s finest like Nas and Ron Artest, now that's two games legendary, so let's give him one more.



Most of these points come off the bench as well. OK, so with the injuries the Lakers have suffered this year from Bynum to everyone, L.O. has started more than he's had pine time. Still, now he's willingly and ably back in his revserve role, Lamar could still be the NBA's 'Sixth Man Of The Year' and one of the best ever in this position (but that's for another article). Besides Lamar has saved the short-handed Lakers from falling even shorter. Isn't that the hallmarks of a top sixth man? Coming in hot when his cold team needs him? Still as said, that's for a different article.

This unique player deserves the exclusive honor of playing mid-February and not just looking flash and Hollywood on the sidelines watching. What does he gave to do? Shave a star into his head again? The voters may put him out of their minds for the Durant's etc, that's fair enough but the coaches shouldn't snub him yet again. The majority of these coaches would love him on their team, so does everybody else... word to Nelly Furtado (whether that's a cool reference or not both his game and her are as hot as each other). He was good enough for America and the rest of the world in2010 as he and the U.S. took home gold. So why isn't everyone else now sold?

Sure this guy probably shouldn't start, but what's more perfect than this sixth man coming off the bench? He plays like an All-Star so he should be given that declaration. Gone are the days where bench players and sixth men weren't good enough to play with the big boys. Bobby Jackson changed all that and no one knows that more than the Lakers. Good second units and bench mobs are what take ordinary teams to champions and if you where to start a second team today Lamar Odom would be your franchise guy for sure. He'll be a Laker legend when it's all said and done, Worthy like James. So why is he getting less action in February then 'Call Of Duty' all nighters?



Lamar's entertaining and a genuine star. He deserves the vote, people should return the favour. We've had three rounds of this now. It's time for pen to meet paper halfway like Odom's success meets what he shares. This do it all, versatile forward is cool but not laid back. Don't let that smooth demeanour fool you. That equally silky game is worked and honed to perfection. This is the product of nothing lazy, so why sleep, appreciate. He's everything you could ever want and need on your team.

If Kobe's having a 9 for 21 night, Lamar will come in and make the extra shot after shots. Jumper or critics, Odom rebounds from being written off to sign in for his team and take them out of situation critical. Others would simply clock out, call the game on an account of pain. L.O. takes no L though, he's no loser, mind over matter. If Pau needs help in that hardened frontcourt, Lamar will come in and clean the glass and polish off missed shots, en route to as many double, doubles as Pau or anybody in this league gets. Do you have to be told twice? Lamar's overcome it all, personal and/or what we can write about, year after year, cycle after cycle. He's been through the storm and survived to reign. Championship ring. Back to back ring any bells? Don't confuse selflessness for weakness. He's all team, he's all-star. The everything man. Give him something.

He would be one of your best picks to start a first team, believe it or not, fantasy or reality. Youth and experience. Offence and defence. Inside and out. This versatility is why he would start on any other team in the league, (even his old Miami team and all their hot 'superfriends') and this fact is why he is an All-Star, vote or die, change or George Bush. Forget 'yes we can', make it happen! Tick the box, punch his name, write 'Lamar Odom' down as that special extra name you'd usually reserve for another fan favourite (unless it's Fisher). Then repeat and do it all again. Like clockwork. It's time.

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There really isn't anybody more deserving. Lakers guard Derek Fisher will be awarded the title of '2010 Sportsman of the Year' by the 'L.A. Sports Awards' on the 24Th of February. Derek will be presented with the award at the Beverly Hilton Hotel by the Los Angeles Sports Council. The award according to the council honors, "the local male athlete whose performance and character best exemplified the ideals of sportsmanship during the calendar year." Fish joins elite company. This is the sixth year this annual award show has been around, previous winners of Fisher's award include, teammates Kobe Bryant (2008) and Pau Gasol (2009), former L.A Clipper, Elton Brand (2006) and Lakers superfan and L.A. Galaxy soccer legend, David Beckham (2007). After Fishers stellar year on and off the court it's about time the man that gives so much is having the favor returned.



Stand aside Ozzy and Sharon. 'Khloe & Lamar', it was always going to happen. Now your going to have to keep up with more then the Kardashian's as celebrity couple Khloe Kardashian's and her husband Lamar Odom from your Los Angeles Lakers have their own reality T.V. show green lighted. This weekly 30-minute show will have a more humorous side and will be broadcast on the E! cable network. Of course Lamar had to seek permission from the Lakers because unlike his wife, T.V. is not his reality or full time job. Coach Jackson gave his blessing, providing "There's no access to the toilets and the showers in the locker room, things like that." Lamar told press, "The Lakers make decisions that they need to make and Lamar does the same. This is the life that we live. This is entertainment," happy that his coach and G.M., Mitch Kupchack support his decision. The 31 year old forward is maintaining his outside interests which will help him when basketball won't be around, "For me, this is just an opportunity to kind of expand a little bit and get some other things going." Here's reckoning fellow Queensbridge, entertaining teammate Ron Artest will make his presence felt with a cameo, but how about you Phil? "I won't be on it." The coach told reporters. Will you be tuning into this show and keeping up with the Odoms and the Kardashian's? Sound off in our comments section below. As for Phil Jackson's T.V. Choices, "I can hardly wait to watch it," you believe him?



Former Lakers Trevor Ariza and D.J. Mbenga will be welcomed back in Los Angeles this weekend. Their New Orleans Hornets will be in town to take on the Lake Show at STAPLES. It's been two seasons since the Lakers have missed the talents of Ariza but Mbenga was part of the team this year. So the centre will receive his 2009/2010 season championship ring at the game. The dependable, strong, hard working big man will be honoured on court where he is missed. Congratulations and thank you Mbenga you've earned it. In other former Laker news guard Sasha Vujacic (who was traded away for Joe Smith) is playing great in Jersey with former Laker Jordan Farmar. The spark plug hit a crucial, tie-breaking lay up in N.J.'s impressive 96-94 win over the surging Chicago Bulls. "It was a game we just had to win," Vujacic told press. Good to see Sash is still thinking like a champion. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

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LOS ANGELES LAKERS 99-95 PHOENIX SUNS



Phil Jackson may be able to rest a little bit easier now, it's more than one game. Last night the Lakers overcame the Phoenix Suns 99-95 on the road at the U.S. Airways centre. Kobe Bryant had 24 points, continuing his crucial play and ascent up the Top 10 all time scorers list in the NBA. Steve Nash had a double, double of 10 point and 11 assists for Phoenix who also had a hot streak from Sun, Jared Dudley who had 21 points, and three of the teams eleven three pointers. Still despite this blazing shooting from the home team the Lake Show watered down the Suns. The Lakers had a balanced attack with Bynum scoring 14, Shannon Brown 13, and Lamar Odom 12. It was Ron Artest's 11 that where special though, with shades of last seasons Western Conference Finals series, Phoenix left shaky, three point shooter Ron, Ron wide open...will they never learn. Artest sinked the three pointer...BOP! Cutting Phoenix's lead to 1 with 1:30 to play. Here's betting every Laker in their heads was screaming 'SHOOT'! this time...or maybe not. Now the Lakers are at .500 over their last eight games after this Western Conference Finals rematch. Phoenix are looking burnt however losing 10 out of their last 13. Even Air Phoenix's Vince Carter's strong 14 points couldn't pull them back. He had a long three point attempt in the waning seconds blocked by Pau Gasol and that was all she wrote.
TIM DAVID HARVEY.

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LOS ANGELES LAKERS 108-83 DETROIT PISTONS



"Listen to how everyone is talking about you. You have to use it as fuel for motivation". This is what Kobe Bryant told his Los Angeles Lakers ahead of a big night for both him and his team. Following their Christmas to New Year struggles the Lakers rebounded from losing three of their last four to beat the Detroit Pistons 108-83 at Staples. Pau Gasol heard what mamba was saying the loudest with 21 points. Still it was Kobe's mid-town 17 that was huge. Huge in the Lakers 16-2 run and huge in terms of NBA history. Kobe's 17th point took him past, Atlanta Hawks, dunking legend Dominique Wilkins as Bryant became the 10th on the NBA's all-time scoring list. Watch out Kareem! As Kobe slammed 'nique out the top ten, the Pistons, Tracy McGrady and Greg Monroe's 14 each could not add up for Detroit. "That's a great honor," K.B. said of his latest milestone, while reminiscing of being amazed by Dominique's dominant aerial ability when he would watch NBA games as a kid in Italy. Lamar Odom had 16 points, while number 17, Andrew Bynum had an unlucky for the Pistons 13. Despite things looking better for the Lake Show, one man stressed the need for more hard work and consistency. "We have to really turn it around," Phil Jackson remarked. "One game is not the end of this situation." Phil's right, we've certainly seen similar situation's last fall. Time to go full circle this new year. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

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LOS ANGELES LAKERS 85-104 MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES



A gnarly, Memphis Grizzlies 104-85 win made it a sad start to the new year for the Lake Show. This is the Lakers fourth loss in six, so that slump they thought they were out of is still flagging this team. Coach Jackson had some choice words for his team including this press soundbite, "I think we took for granted the fact that we've been beaten in Memphis and everybody thought we were going to come out here and play better and no one took responsibility on themselves to play better." At one point at Staples the Lakers were down by 26 and the boos rang out from the home faithful. Bryant had 28 points, trying to bring the Lakers back (he had 17 in the third alone) as he didn't want to have foam fingers thrown at his team again. He was the one that got mad, again however as he was issued a tech late in the game. This was Kobe's fifth technical foul in seven games. These are clearly frustrating times in La, La, Lakerland. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

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LOS ANGELES LAKERS 102-98 PHILADELPHIA 76ERS



A lot was at stake against Philly this weekend for the Lake Show. The Lakers needed to prove that their min-slump was permanently behind them and they did that by putting the 76ers there two with a 102-98 win. Even with Andre Igudola out the Sixers still kept it close at Staples like it back at Game 1 of the 2001 NBA Finals. As the clock wound down however, Kobe took over. He tied the game up with just other a minute to play and as the buzzer rang out, Kobe his Kareem-esque 33 and his Lakers where on top. Kobe was "FEEEELIN YOOOU" but he wasn't the only Laker feeling it against Philadelphia. His Laker frontcourt brothers Gasol and Odom held the floor. Pau just missed another double, double of 20 and 10 as he notched 8 rebounds, while Odom resumed his sixth man of the year worthy position with 18 off the B team wood. Andrew Bynum almost hit a double, double-like Gasol-just a little bit different with 8 points and 15 boards. The NBA's final game of 2010, made it a good end to a great 2010 for Los Angeles. Now to start the new year the Lakers look to get back on happier terms against Memphis. TIM DAVID HARVEY.