In my opinion, the Heat believe they are entitled to the trophy because they think they have the best player and best shooting guard in the NBA. Even if that was true (which it isn’t), it entitles them to absolutely nothing. Hard work wins championships. Chemistry and knowing your role on the team wins championships. Having a leader who will settle for nothing less than your best each and every night wins championships.
LeBron said recently during their losing streak that “We could lose every game and still probably make the playoffs.” What a horrible attitude to have. Whether it is true or not is beside the point: that is a loser’s mentality. Champions try to go out and win every night, no matter what stands in their way. Even in an alternate universe, I can’t imagine Kobe saying something like that… ever.
I’m not above yelling at the tv when Kobe Bryant or Pau Gasol or whomever messes up. But I do not like hearing others talk about them in negative tones. I guess it’s like when you can say something in frustration about your family, but you bristle if a friend says the same. You are allowed to get on their case, they are not. The Lakers are my basketball family. I love them no matter what and will defend them until my face turns purple. Even if they disappoint me here and there…
I would say to put last night’s game behind you, Lakers Nation. If it wasn’t for writing this recap, I already would have! I like to pretend that certain events never happened, which is why I avoid ESPN and online sports sites like the plague. I don’t like to dwell on the negative and brush it off until the next encounter with said team.
Plus, it soothed my angered soul to hear about the Mamba spontaneously practicing until midnight after the game. It was the first time he has done so since a playoff loss back in 2004. That in and of itself speaks volumes and gives me faith that the Lakers will be alright.
