Thought I would take a moment to explain all the new stuff that appeared here just before and just after the Hornets-Lakers game. As part of the Register’s further commitment to offer a compelling Web presence, I’ll be offering some key pregame info before tip-off of each game and then a thorough analysis upon game’s end here in the blog area right when the game ends. (See below for Example A. Or perhaps “Example F” with regard to the Lakers’ defense on Chris Paul and Peja Stojakovic.)
Although the Lakers’ defense deserves to be criticized for not identifying and taking away the Hornets’ strengths, no one necessarily should go overboard. Phil Jackson said afterward: “I am not that disappointed with this game, actually.”Jackson cited positives on offense (47 percent shooting from the field). Beyond that, the Lakers’ main focus on defense this season is to stop penetration in the lane and help one other out. Even though it didn’t work in this game, Jackson can’t really get too upset with the Lakers collapsing in the middle against Paul’s drives and letting him pass to open shooters. Jackson actually doesn’t mind a lot of times just letting the opponent see if it can hit its threes.
“We did a pretty good job against Phoenix the other night, but they didn’t hit their threes,” Jackson said. “This team did.”
By the way, we’ll also be providing mid-day updates on the goings-on at weekday Lakers practices via the aforementioned SoCal Sports Now section, so check that out. And remember that I’ll be there in that section every Monday morning with a fresh column take of my own.
Thanks for all the coverage and insights, Kevin!
I would tell Phil not to count teams like Phoenix and Warriors to miss too many threes. And by divulging information about the Lakers defensive emphasis, he might have given our opponent’s 3-pt shooters a hint that they are about to set their new career highs.
holy cow! Even MORE articles, coverage and insight from the best writer covering the team? Keep up the good work, Kevin! One thing I appreciate as a reader is you deliver the news as-is without the need to create buzzing headlines or stir up even more drama. Kudos to you and your editors. I can’t wait to read what’s in store this season.
Kevin Ding, you and the Editors of the OCRegister totally kick the (bleep) out of all other print media for Lakers coverage in the Southland! My only regret is that it took me so long to finally reject the Lakers tabloid
*cough* LA Times *cough* Plascke *cough* Simers *cough*
and commit to some REAL sports coverage of my favorite team of many decades. You can bet I’ll be checking out the week-day practice updates at SoCal Sports Now.
BRAVO to you and the rest of the OC Register Staff for respecting us sincere Lakers fans!!!! KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK!!!!!