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The Lakers held training camp practice yesterday, and fans got to see the new, and old Laker players. Most of the players were trying to get back into basketball shape after months off. However, Lamar Odom had been on a basketball court all summer long. Odom participated in the 2010 FIBA World Championships and won gold for the USA team; Odom played a major role on the team, and was arguable the runner-up for MVP of the tournament. Coming into practice, Lamar Odom was physically ready and was in full basketball form. With Odom remaining in shape, he has an opportunity to be very effective for the Lakers early in the season. And if he plays like he played in the World Championships, a Sixth Man of the Year trophy should be reserved for Lamar Odom.
Lamar Odom is prepared for another title run: Los Angeles Times Lakers Blog
The Latest on the Lakers
The Lakers conducted practice yesterday, and the entire event was shown live on NBA.com. Fans saw a simple and fundamental based practice, while getting a glimpse at the new and old players. Perhaps the highlight of the practice was seeing Kobe Bryant and Andrew Bynum on the bench; both players missed training camp due to their injuries. The Lakers also got a first look at their new players and training camp signees. [Lakers.com]
Take some time and relive the Lakers’ 2010 Finals run, with memorable pictures and sights. [OC Register]
Although many people disliked Andrew Bynum’s decision to delay his knee surgery, at least the young man had fun in his championship summer. [OC Register]
If you ask Ron Artest what was his favorite moment last season, he will not give you an answer. Artest did many unforgettably things last season, he won his first title, he had an amazing press conference, he released a single called “Champions” and he got pulled over by a cop. [Los Angeles Times Lakers Blog]
Ron Artest was the only new player on the Laker roster last season, and he was somewhat of an outcast. Artest found the Triangle Offense difficult to handle and didn’t seem to understand the Lakers’ style of play. However, this year Artest is more comfortable with the team and is bound for a good season. [Los Angeles Times]
The Latest on the NBA
Check out the all the interesting quotes said by stars from various teams on Media Day. [OC Register]
LeBron James told the media that defense will be the key to the Heat’s success. James understands that winning a ring can be achieved through playing tough “D.” [NBA.com]
Coach Mike D’Antoni considers Ronny Turiaf a centerpiece of the team. [Hoopsnotes]
Anderson Varejao left training camp due to the death of his grandfather. [NBA.com]
The Boston Celtics opened training camp in Newport, Rhode Island, with a three hour practice. [ESPN Boston]
Kevin Love will get a MRI done on his right knee, bad news for all Timberwolves fans. [ESPN.com]
Greg Oden is not buying the fact that he is considered a bust. However, he cannot deny his less than impressive stats. [Dime Magazine]
Due to the new and improved teams and big names changing jerseys, the NBA ticket sales are sky-rocketing. [Pro Basketball Talk]
NBA TV will broadcast the Heat’s first pre season game, when they square off with the Detroit Pistons. NBA TV will also air some of the pre season games of the Lakers. [NBA.com]
Kevin Garnett’s yelling interrupted Rajon Rondo’s media day interview. [Slam Magazine]
Videos
Kobe Bryant’s training camp interview
httpvhd://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4tRgCqAEv1w
