Garnett deal could increase Kobe's trade demands

<div class="quote_poster">Trench Wrote</div><div class="quote_post">Im with you 110%. He really just needs to start playing like a champion and stop worrying about who he is playing with. The team will feed off of his energy and desire to win. I really believe that was at least 50% of the reason the Bulls were so successful in the 90's. It wasn't just because they had Jordan.. It was because they came on the floor every game expecting to win. Jordan always pushed his game to new heights. He didn't play with the most talented roster, but he played to WIN. He'd do anything and everything to win. Kobe needs to get that mindset.

The man has all the tools and talent, he just needs to go out and play instead of "B" about it.

I'm really hoping Bynum has improved his game after all the trashtalk over the summer and hopefully Fishers presence and point will make a difference in the execution of the triangle this coming season.

Now if we can somehow land J'Oneal for either Odom or Bynum that would be icing on the cake...</div>

How do you expect the Lakers to play like champs with a roster like that? Too much hope is being pinned on Bynum. The guy has barely showed anything on the floor. Kwame had the same hype when he was drafted. And what has Kwame done since? And Fisher? Aside from thinking that he's the best player on the floor, the guy plays no "D", and looks for his shot first. You guys should be happy and support Kobe. The guy wants to win and he's doing what he can for the Lakers.

 

Bynum has actually shown a lot of flashes of brilliance. He had a very solid year last season, he just ran out of gas. His conditioning was terrible and he was thrown into the fire, playing a whole lot more than expected. Based on that and the fact that he's still yet to turn 20, I'd say he's going to continue to get better and could be a 14/8 type player this year if he comes in to camp in great shape. As far as Fish goes, I think he's a decent pick up, but just not at his price. They brought him there for his familiarity with the tri, and that's going to help a lot in the execution of the offense. He knows what his role will be, and as long as he can still make a jump shot, his purpose on offense will be served. He's not there to be a play maker, that's what Kobe and Odom are for, he's there to hit open jumpers. As long as he does that and plays decent defense (which anything is better than Smushy's), he'll be ok.

 

I really doubt the 14/8 numbers from him this season. Maybe in a couple of years or so. Kobe wants to win now and Bynum is not ready at this time. Fisher is a "specialty" type of player. Like you said, he's there to take jumpers, that's it. These players won't help Kobe do the job. If these are the "major" changes Mitch is talking about, then Kobe has every right to be furious.

 

<div class="quote_poster">AMS_ice Wrote</div><div class="quote_post">How do you expect the Lakers to play like champs with a roster like that? Too much hope is being pinned on Bynum. The guy has barely showed anything on the floor. Kwame had the same hype when he was drafted. And what has Kwame done since? And Fisher? Aside from thinking that he's the best player on the floor, the guy plays no "D", and looks for his shot first. You guys should be happy and support Kobe. The guy wants to win and he's doing what he can for the Lakers.</div>

#1 its a job. He gets paid millions to play basketball. He's adored by millions. You play like a champ even on the worst of teams. I hate men who whine like babies. Kobe is carrying this team and he needs to continue to do so. Yes, complain to the front office, but dont make it so that you look like a whining kid.

I support Kobe. I've always supported him. Where do you come off saying I dont support him? Just because I think he should man up to his responsibility as the leader of the team? Right now, it seems to me that he wants to walk away from this team just because he is frustrated. He has every right to be, but that shouldn't stop him from playing hard and instead start to cry like a baby.

<div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post">"<font size="-1">Ask not what your teammates can do for you. Ask what you can do for your teammates." ~ Magic Johnson</font></div>Ever heard that quote. Its pretty self explainatory.
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This team is good. We were doing so well before the injuries. Everyone was so quick to knock the team down when they started losing. But when they were winning at the beginning, everyone was so proud boasting about a 50 game win season.

Kobe has great work ethic, but his leadership is still questionable. Will he TRULY be great? The greatest basketball players in the world WIN at all costs. They make their "AVERAGE" teammates better.

Kobe has yet to prove he can do that, although he's shown flashes of it. I truly believe at the end of the day Kobe can with this squad. They just need to be injury free. Believe me, I want nothing more than to see Kupchak get someone better to play alongside him. The reality is, it hasn't happened so this is the team he has to work with. So lets get it on!!! stop whining and play ball.

Im not knocking Kobe at all. I really hope he retires here in LA. If he walks when is obligations are up, then so be it. He gave it his all. Right now however, basketball and HIS TEAM should be on his mind.

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Alot easier said then done I think Jordan would have felt the same way if he had to carry a team on his back the way Kobe has.

 

<div class="quote_poster">Trench Wrote</div><div class="quote_post">Kobe has great work ethic, but his leadership is still questionable. Will he TRULY be great? The greatest basketball players in the world WIN at all costs. They make their "AVERAGE" teammates better.
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It's kind of hard to make your "average" teammates better when none of them even care or put forth the effort on the court. Besides Kobe Bryant, Ronny Turiaf, and Lamar Odom (occasionally), everybody else on this roster plays for the paycheck and wouldn't give a damn if we win or lose

 

^Just look at Smush Parker the trash wanted more money or a better check.

 

<div class="quote_poster">Trench Wrote</div><div class="quote_post">#1 its a job. He gets paid millions to play basketball. He's adored by millions. You play like a champ even on the worst of teams. I hate men who whine like babies. Kobe is carrying this team and he needs to continue to do so. Yes, complain to the front office, but dont make it so that you look like a whining kid.

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What do you think the guy has been doing for the past few years? The guy drops 50, 60, 70, 80 point games, what was that for? Last season, Kobe started by looking for his teammates more than his own shots. It came to a point that a lot of you Laker fans wanted him to stop passing and start shooting. It's one thing to be a leader but it's another not to have the right people around you. Michael had Pippen, Grant, Rodman, Kukoc. Bird had Mchale, Parish, Ainge, DJ. Magic had Kareem, Scott, Worthy, Cooper. Need I say more? Kobe is only doing what others have done, including MJ. He had a well publicized feud with Jerry Krause for years with regards to Kraus' decisions for the Bulls. Kobe has left everything on the floor and still you question his leadership. He has been lobbying for player changes in hopes for a better team and you call him a whining kid. If that's what you call support, then Kobe is pursuing a lost cause. With the kind of support you give, Kobe is better off on another team.

 

<div class="quote_poster">AMS_ice Wrote</div><div class="quote_post"> Kobe is only doing what others have done, including MJ. He had a well publicized feud with Jerry Krause for years with regards to Kraus' decisions for the Bulls. Kobe has left everything on the floor and still you question his leadership. He has been lobbying for player changes in hopes for a better team and you call him a whining kid. If that's what you call support, then Kobe is pursuing a lost cause. With the kind of support you give, Kobe is better off on another team.</div>

I spoke my thoughts about it and if you feel I'm less of a fan because of it, then so be it. I've been a fan of the Laker organization for over 20 seasons and the bottomline is, if Kobe doesn't want to be here so be it. I was here before Kobe was here and I'll be here when Kobe is gone.

Kobe has been lobbying for better players and I definitely got his back on this. Believe me, I want nothing more than to see another banner raised for an NBA championship. The reality is however that Mitch is an idiot, and until we can get a better front office to make some "Real" moves, then nothing will be done.

Look at what happened when Kobe started whining. KG wouldn't even consider coming to LA because of all the media buzz. Kobe should have kept alot of those things behind close doors. In reality, it probably made things worse than better.

When he demanded his trade it really felt like he turned his back on his fanbase. At least for me personally. I would have never thought in my wildest dreams he would have demanded to be traded.

He could have yelled and screamed to bring talent to LA, and I would have been fine with that. Hell, I yell and scream for better talent all the time. I've sent my emails, my complaints, etc..

I want Kobe to be successful just as much as everyone else does. But just because he isn't given what he wants means he has the right to leave for greener pastures?? What about the fans??? Its not like he doesn't have rings. Its not like he doesn't have scoring titles. The mans a winner and we all know this.

I have backed him for years, during his rape trial, during his feud with Shaq, when others call him a ballhog.. I HAVE BACKED HIM. Then he decides because he is not winning and no changes are being made he wants to leave us? Come on man. Where is the loyalty. Maybe it was just words, but those words hurt. When Kobe first made the announcement, I almost ished in my pants. I couldn't believe it.

After a few weeks of it, I just decided to let things go. So be it. He doesn't want to lead this team anymore.. Maybe it is time for him to go. Thats why I question is leadership. Real leaders, don't walk away from their unit when times get rough. They stick it out and fight to the end.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">It is easy to sit at the helm in fine weather. </font><font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">When Kobe had SHAQ and a more talented roster, things were easy. Things don't always stay the same. Good times do come to and end.</font><font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">

Can he stick it out when the weather gets rough? Guess we shall see.... Can he gut it out with the fans? </font><font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">The bandwagoners have already left ship, but those loyal to the Lakers will be here even during the rough times. I hope Kobe will remain with us and give us hope. But as I mentioned, its come to the point where if he wants to walk, then let him walk. I'd rather my Lakers go 0-82 with a roster who gives their all even if they keep losing than continue to watch a player who doesn't want to BLEED purple and GOLD.
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Kobe has been sticking it out for the last 3 years or so since Shaq left for Miami. I think loyalty went out the door after Mitch didn't deliver on his words for a major change and the front office statements regarding Shaq's departure as a result of Kobe's demands. I don't think you can blame the guy for his frustrations with that. As far as not wanting to bleed purple and gold, I think otherwise, Kobe wants to win bad in L.A. His demands to be traded is a result of the front office' actions (or less of). I don't believe Kobe's actions are a sign of disloyalty, rather disgusts over the situation. If you want to see a player bleed purple and gold, then I think you should take a closer look at Kobe.

 

I dont blame him for his frustrations. He has every right to be frustrated. I think all of Lakerland is frustrated with the front office and three tough seasons. Its not just KOBE.

With that aside, I think most of the Laker fans support Kobe. We've rallied for him, asked him to stay, sent him emails, etc... Most Laker fans would like to see Kobe Bryant retire in the Laker jersey. The fact the he keeps demanding to be shipped, makes it harder to deal with. How can you support someone who doesn't want to be here anymore? Its tough.

My frustration however with the front office hasn't made me stray away from my loyalty and support of the team. I highlighted the team because its the team I cheer for. The bandwagoners are gone and the real fans are still here sticking it out with the team, frustration and all. We were here before Kobe, we'll be here after Kobe. The Laker fans anyway. Kobe fans will jump to where Kobe goes if he indeed leaves in the future.

This season I would really like to see Kobe focus on the task in front of him which is having a successful 07-08 season with the roster he has. He can sit and moan all he wants, but right now he is in a situation where he has to play with the cards handed to him. He can go ALL IN or FOLD.

I'm really hoping bad luck doesn't strike us twice in a row. We had a great start last season but a very lousy ending because of a lot of injuries and personal issues.

Hopefully this team can play healthy and the addition of Fisher and Crittenton will help with the very poor play at the one spot last season.

I am still hoping we land another serviceable big man...

 

<div class="quote_poster">Trench Wrote</div><div class="quote_post">
Kobe has been lobbying for better players and I definitely got his back on this. Believe me, I want nothing more than to see another banner raised for an NBA championship. The reality is however that Mitch is an idiot, and until we can get a better front office to make some "Real" moves, then nothing will be done.
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FIRE MITCH, KEEP KOBE!

 

Well, the thing is, if the front office is not going to make any moves to improve the team, then there is no need for Kobe to be here at all. We would be better off sending him elsewhere and getting some young talent in return. It doesn't seem like this front office is capable of bringing any talent to this roster, and I can understand that, because honestly, when I look at this roster, I see mostly trash. If we aren't going to be contending anytime soon, what's the use of keeping Kobe on the squad? He needs touches, and his touches will take away from the development of the young players. If we're not going to make any big moves, and it doesn't look like we will, we would be better off trading away Kobe for his sake, and for our sake. Let's not kid ourselves, this roster is not capable of advancing past the first round. At most, we'll give a top team a good scare, but at the end of the day, we don't have enough to go deep and contend. Like I already said, it doesn't seem to me like we'll be able to bring in any substantial talent to improve the squad, so why not just start over instead of having Kobe "will" us into the playoffs as the 8th or 7th seed only to get eliminated year after year after year

 

<div class="quote_poster">Brian Wrote</div><div class="quote_post">It's kind of hard to make your "average" teammates better when none of them even care or put forth the effort on the court. Besides Kobe Bryant, Ronny Turiaf, and Lamar Odom (occasionally), everybody else on this roster plays for the paycheck and wouldn't give a damn if we win or lose</div>

Luke walton plays hard, he's just not that smart. Mihm and Cook both play with a lot of effort. Sasha vujacic tries. Kwame and Vlad I agree with you dem boys aren't in the game as much as they should be. As a whole the team seems to play with more than average effort, there just seems to be a lack of chemistry going on. I think the Lakers are a decent team, they're just not a "Very Good" team. They can go from decent to very good without adding any allstars, they just need to work it out amongst them and get a cohesiveness.

 

<div class="quote_poster">NYC_Balla Wrote</div><div class="quote_post">Luke walton plays hard, he's just not that smart. Mihm and Cook both play with a lot of effort. Sasha vujacic tries. Kwame and Vlad I agree with you dem boys aren't in the game as much as they should be. As a whole the team seems to play with more than average effort, there just seems to be a lack of chemistry going on. I think the Lakers are a decent team, they're just not a "Very Good" team. They can go from decent to very good without adding any allstars, they just need to work it out amongst them and get a cohesiveness.</div>

Luke Walton plays hard, but he's not that smart? That shows that you know nothing about Laker basketball, because Luke Walton is probably the smartest player on our roster besides Kobe Bryant. I agree that Walton plays hard though, I forgot to include him along with Kobe, Ronny, and Lamar. But either way, that's 3.5/15 (Lamar counts as half because half the time he doesn't play with effort either, it's only on special occasions). Sasha Vujacic plays hard, but who cares. The guy sucks. Micheal Jordan couldn't have made him any better. Chris Mihm played with decent effort before his injury, who knows what type of play we'll see from him now? And saying that Brian Cook plays hard is like saying Yao Ming is 5 feet tall. That's just a ridiculous statement to make because Brian Cook is probably the laziest player on our entire squad.

 

<div class="quote_poster">Brian Wrote</div><div class="quote_post">Luke Walton plays hard, but he's not that smart? That shows that you know nothing about Laker basketball, because Luke Walton is probably the smartest player on our roster besides Kobe Bryant. I agree that Walton plays hard though, I forgot to include him along with Kobe, Ronny, and Lamar. But either way, that's 3.5/15 (Lamar counts as half because half the time he doesn't play with effort either, it's only on special occasions). Sasha Vujacic plays hard, but who cares. The guy sucks. Micheal Jordan couldn't have made him any better. Chris Mihm played with decent effort before his injury, who knows what type of play we'll see from him now? And saying that Brian Cook plays hard is like saying Yao Ming is 5 feet tall. That's just a ridiculous statement to make because Brian Cook is probably the laziest player on our entire squad.</div>

Even if Brian Cook plays hard, all he can do well is hit an open three or grab a couple of boards (occasionally). He's a very one-dimensional catch-and-shoot type of player (not that you didn't know Brian, but I'm just saying that in general).

 

<div class="quote_poster">huevonkiller Wrote</div><div class="quote_post">Even if Brian Cook plays hard, all he can do well is hit an open three or grab a couple of boards (occasionally). He's a very one-dimensional catch-and-shoot type of player (not that you didn't know Brian, but I'm just saying that in general).</div>

Grab a couple of boards? Brian Cook can rebound? lol

 

<div class="quote_poster">Brian Wrote</div><div class="quote_post">Grab a couple of boards? Brian Cook can rebound? lol</div>

Well I hate to be called out like this but his rebound rate is higher than LeBron James and almost the same as Kwame's. On occasion, he has been known to grab a decent amount of boards.

 

<div class="quote_poster">huevonkiller Wrote</div><div class="quote_post">Well I hate to be called out like this but his rebound rate is higher than LeBron James and almost the same as Kwame's. On occasion, he has been known to grab a decent amount of boards.</div>

That may be true, and you're probably right, but the many times I've seen Brian Cook play, I've never thought of him as a decent rebounder. But I guess with his build, he'd probably be able to muscle his way in for a board

 

<div class="quote_poster">Brian Wrote</div><div class="quote_post">That may be true, and you're probably right, but the many times I've seen Brian Cook play, I've never thought of him as a decent rebounder. But I guess with his build, he'd probably be able to muscle his way in for a board</div>

But to put Cook in perspective, his PER is the league average (about 15), so that means that he sucks in almost all other aspects of Basketball. Sorry to be redundant, but since he's a good shooter and "ok" rebounder, the law of averages is against him in many other categories.