Star wars, NBA-style II

The Lakers stepped up and delivered in a major way in last week's victory over Phoenix. It was a statement of the first order. The Suns' acquisition of Shaquille O'Neal was an attempt to put some muscle and size in the mix for a small but speedy lineup. Shaq was able to deliver some muscle but that alone is not going to stop these Lakers.

The depth and cohesion of the Lakers squad is a pleasure to watch for Laker fans. Pau Gasol has made a seamless transition to the Laker offense and complements Kobe perfectly.  His ability on the perimeter to shoot, pass or attack the hoop creates problems for both his defender and those trying to help. Lamar Odom is like a Swiss Army knife at both ends of the court and is a threat to produce triple-double stats at any time.

Kobe was his usual self despite an injury to his shooting hand. The most ominous fact for their opponents is that the Lakers are not even at full strength. Trevor Ariza and Andrew Bynum are still sidelined with injuries at this point. When they return, we may get to see some truly scary hoops.

Like the rest of the Laker faithful, I can't wait for the next episode.

Photo of Pau Gasol taking on Shaquille O'Neal in Phoenix, by Lisa Blumenfeld/Getty Images

Comments

[Jesterguru]

Cap,

Thanks for the shoutout to the Laker Faithful in the blogosphere.

May I jsut say, I have an autographed copy of "Giant Steps" that is my prized possession. So GREAT to see you as part of the staff helping our young bigs.

Keep up the awesome work!

[InsideHoops.com]

The Laker cuts, away from ball movement, etc. is the most beautiful in the league, even when they lose, which lately rarely happens

[rashad]

I don't get these people who think Shaq will have an impact with the Suns. He stilll looks like he's holding back the Suns a bit. But the Lakers look fluid.

[Jon K.]

Cap,

It's great that you have an L.A. Times blog. The combination of sports competition with intellectualism and cultural appreciation is what need right now in society.

Hey, I hope you get to do some work with Pau Gasol, even DJ Mbenga. I saw Pau make an impressive shot against Seattle and I thought of you.

The sky hook is a beautiful shot. A shame more players don't follow your example.

Keep it up, brother!

[Charles]

It's an honor cap. Will you be training the other Centers i.e. Gasol-Mbenga-Mihm and maybe Turiaf?

Regards,

Charles

[Lakers Legacy]

Great article Mr. Abdul-Jabbar!
Sorry to use such formalities, but I feel like a kid again writing to you since you are a childhood hero of mine!
Keep up the great work with the blog and with Bynum. Can't wait to see the skyhook come back.

Take Care

[wilzuvsteel]

Hello Kareem,

I really enjoy your blog and your enthusiasm for how the Lakers are playing. It is great to get your perspective on their play and also how you've played an intrical part in the development of Andrew. I think what's impressive is how you've taken care of yourself through the years. I always wondered how it felt to have trained and played under such great coaches and teams and with such talented players through your high school, college and pro career. Also to have met and trained with the legendary Bruce Lee. How has he influenced your life and training? Do you know if he ever watched any of your games or just watched basketball in general?

Thank you Kareem for your dedication and discipline in all that you do.