If the Hawks somehow eliminate the Sixers, Doc Rivers’ status as the coach with the most collapses and the most flameouts in history would be cemented. Somehow he seems to be followed by the haunting image of the word “collapse” everywhere he goes. Can’t seem to sake that off.
Lakers Fast Break- Lakers-Kings Post Game Show!
By 
April 3, 2021 3 Comments
Great podcast, guys. And a breath of fresh air after the whipping by the Bucks and disappointing debut by Drummond on Wednesday. As Gerald pointed out, always good to see another NBA team fall into Admiral Ackbar’s ‘trap game’ black hole.
Lots to love about this game including Kyle Kuzma stepping up and showing he could be the Lakers ‘Next Man Up.’ What was impressive about Kyle’s performance is he was great at both ends, pouring 30 points in on offense and shutting down Buddy Hield on defense. I’ve long lobbied for Kuz to be our starter at shooting guard and this just adds fuel to that fire.
But speaking of shooting guards, it was great to see KCP break out and have a great first half although he seemed to lose it again in the second half. Nice to hear him talk about it being on him to be aggressive. We need Playoff KCP if we’re going to stay in the top 6 and avoid the Play-In Tournament.
Caruso had a good bounce back game and an impressive one handed dunk but still is getting beaten way too many times on defense. But can’t complain about Lakers raining threes. 17 of 35 is the kind of performance from deep that can keep the Lakers afloat until LeBron and AD return.
I put out my theory that other than LeBron and AD the Lakers don’t have any players who would start for more than half the teams in the NBA. Still think that’s true. I also think missing LeBron and AD undermines their confidence. Just like a pick up game at the gym on Saturday, everybody plays with more zeal and confidence when you know you have the best player on the court on your side.
When we played the Bucks, our guys felt like the other team had the best player and played like it. Last night, against a team w/o a superstar, the Lakers came out confident they could compete and they did. I think we can win games w/o LBJ and AD against teams like the Kings, Raptor, Hornets, and Knicks but will struggle against teams with real superstars like the Clippers, Heat, and Nets. Chance to go 4-3 on this roadie.
Tom, I like your take on the team’s mindset when they face a team with a super star as opposed to a team without. That’s a very interesting take. I hope they keep playing like they did last night without any regard to a super star.
Thanks, Buba. Always a big plus to have the best player on the court on your team. Bron makes everybody better.