The Lakeshow Gets Cancelled

Not only did the Lakers get eliminated from the playoffs this weekend, but they got embarrassed. Even after Kobe predicted that the Lakers could come back and win the series, the Lakers couldn’t even make game four competitive. All series long, the Lakers looked slow and old. Instead of running the Triangle offense featuring lots of ball movement, L.A. appeared to abandon what had lead to two consecutive titles in favor of isolation sets for Kobe while the rest of the players on the floor just seemed to stand and watch. That strategy might work when Kobe is hot, but what happens when he has an off night, or four. For example, the Lakers were fine in the first quarter when Kobe had thirteen points. However, after that Kobe only had four more points on 1-10 shooting, and right away the Lakers got outscored by twenty points in the second quarter alone. Not only did they play badly, but they acted poorly too. With the game already over, the Lakers looked like a bunch of little kids who didn't get their way. Both Bynum and Odom lashed out with unsportsmanlike flagrant fouls that deservingly caused them both to get the toss.

The Lakers could have taken their beating with that class that you should expect from a Phil Jackson coached squad. But on that night, the Lakers let their legendary coach down. Now, Los Angeles faces many questions this offseason. I'd bet my life that Phil isn't coming back, and many are expecting the Lakers to "blow up" their roster and try to rebuild around Kobe while there is still time. So, this summer will be a key transition period for the Lakers as they most likely look for a replacement for Phil Jackson, and make a roster overhaul. I for one will be surprised if they will be able to replicate the success they've had over the past three seasons.