It’s amazing how much a Laker game can alter my mood. A bad loss can drag me down if I let it, and a good win will keep me grinning like an idiot for at least a day or two. I wasn’t having a great day, but watching the Lakers come from behind to win in Boston made it infinitely better. Honestly, I enjoyed winning in Boston more than I would have enjoyed winning in LA. It’s easier to win at home than on the road, although I know what it feels like to watch your team lose at home and it’s terrible. I was glad the Lakers’ returned the favor last night.
Make no mistake: this was a huge win in a statement game. The season series sits at 1-1 now. Everyone, from the media to opposing fans, to some members of Lakers Nation, have been questioning the Lakers’ ability to win meaningful games. Was it the result of a poor mentality at this point in the season, or the result of needing new blood via a trade? I think that question was answered emphatically last night. We don’t need Carmelo or anyone else.
Andrew Bynum proved to me last night how integral he truly is to our team. I was afraid the trade rumors would get in his head and mess with his psyche but he came out ready to play. He had close to a double double with 16 points and 9 rebounds, but more important was his energy. He was aggressive, he didn’t back down from the Celtic’s bigs, and he helped the Lakers win the rebound battle for the night, 47-36.
The Lakers focused on the paint and getting Andrew and Pau Gasol touches throughout the game, which is absolutely key to our success. They need to be involved and feel involved for us to win. Even though the first half didn’t go exactly as the Lakers would have liked, I was glad that they didn’t deviate from their game plan.
Next: Strength and Honor
Kobe only took three shots and was focused on getting his teammates going offensively. Because he is such a threat on any part of the court, the Celtic’s defense has to collapse on him whatever he does, and he knows this. Kobe repeatedly drove inside the lane and dished it out to the perimeter to open teammates. Derek Fisher and Shannon Brown both had somewhat quiet but effective nights and knocked down 50% of their shots when given the opportunity.
On the same note, Kobe drew defe
Oddly enough, I was glad the Lakers were down 8 at the half. Whether it’s healthy or not, they like to play through adversity both real and manufactured. I thought they would come out of the gates streaking to start the second half, and I was right! L.A. opened the third quarter on a 10-0 run and had the game in their control for the most part. They knew what this game meant, that their honor was on the line, and adjusted accordingly.
The defense improved mightily from the first two quarters; Ray Allen had 8 of his 20 to finish the game, including a record setting three pointer, and Paul Pierce ended up with 15 points. Even though Ron didn’t have a strong offensive game, he did a great job defending Pierce which is what we really need him for anyway.
Next: It’s Mamba Time
Kobe got hot as well, which contributed to the Lakers’ offensive firepower to close the game. I’m always impressed by Kobe, but I was particularly impressed with his game last night for a few reasons. He only took 17 shots, which meant he stayed within the offense. He commanded his troops with aggressiveness and efficiency, but still took his own shots when he needed to, and made them. It was the perfect balance of scorer and facilitator.
20 of Kobe’s 23 points came after the break, and 8 of them were in the last five minutes of the game! For the most part he said in his midrange game, but was able to switch into Mamba Mode and get feisty in the paint. It was funny; I thought his leg kick when he shoots his fadeaway jumper was more pronounced than usual. Kobe’s leg kicked up almost comically high, like a cheerleader, and I loved it. It is still a gorgeous shot, and was a masterful performance overall by Mr. Bryant.
Poor Lamar, by the way: 8 stitches from running into his own teammate! The bar I watched at made the loudest collective “ohhh” I’ve ever heard when they kept replaying that moment. It looked so painful, and I was glad it wasn’t too serious of an injury to L.O or Pau.
Next: A Turning Point
Last night’s win felt 
At the end of the season, I think Lakers fans will look back at this current roadtrip as a turning point in the journey to a third title. The Lakers are now 3-0, including a quality win against their arch nemesis, with the opportunity to win in New York and Orlando as well. It’s happening already, but going 7-0 or even 6-1 on the Grammy’s Trip will quiet a lot of the trade chatter and media speculation about whether the Lakers still have what it takes to be elite. Everyone forgets we’re still 5th in the NBA, and like it or not, the Lakers don’t consider the season truly started until April. NBA opponents, you have been warned.