The to-do list
The Orlando Magic finally arrived in Los Angeles Sunday night and although they accounted for themselves much better than in Game 1. They still are headed back to Orlando searching for answers and down 0-2 in the series. They say the playoffs don’t start until someone wins on the others floor. Well, if the Magic do not find a way to recover the shooting magic among their guards, the Lakers will end these Finals rather quickly.
Game 1 was all about defense and Kobe catching fire in the third quarter. The Magic could not stay in the game because they shot a dismal 23 of 77 from the floor. Kobe Bryant had 16 field goals all by himself.
Game 2 was much better, but the Lakers’ ability to close down the stretch with flawless play and active defense is what secured the victory.
KEYS
Interior defense
The Lakers are one the best teams at rotating out of double-teams and in the first two games they have caused Dwight Howard to turn the ball over nine times. Usually, when the center turns it over it leads to fast-break points and the Lakers have capitalized consistently. Although Andrew Bynum has been a non-factor, their defense inside has been great.
Leaving Rafer Alston and Courtney Lee alone
I knew coming into the series that this would happen and it always does. Great teams will roll the dice on a mediocre shooter and take their medicine and double-team a great player like Dwight Howard. That’s what Cleveland did in the Conference finals, but those two burned them all series long and Mike Brown was criticized for doing the obvious. Rafer Alston is a career 39 percent shooter from the field and the Lakers will leave him alone all series even if he hits five in a row. They cannot afford to leave anyone else and after two games Alston and Lee are a combined 7 of 30 from the field and 0 of 9 from behind the arc.
Crunch time
The Lakers just got it done Game 2. They took care of the basketball and made their free throws. That is always a way to find success down the stretch in games. Defensively they forced untimely turnovers when the Magic had the lead and the ball. The experience of losing to Boston last year has the Lakers playing at a frenetic confident pace, which has secured two victories and a controlling lead in the series.
Ariza the unsung hero
Trevor Ariza did not allow Hedo Turkoglu to walk the ball up the floor when Stan Van Gundy was forced to play him at point guard. He pressured him constantly and wore him down and that’s why we saw Courtney Lee and JJ Redick handling the ball too much late in Game 2. That shot taken by Lee with about 9 seconds to go is normally for Turkoglu, but he was tired and Lee was forced to take a shot.
Orlando melts down
The plane ride home could not have been pleasant with Orlando knowing they had Game 2 locked up. They missed five straight free throws during a stretch in the third quarter and early fourth that could have had them ahead by six points. They also threw the ball away three times when they had a two-point lead in the middle of the fourth quarter. Lewis and Redick, probably their two best shooters, missed wide open three-point shots when the Magic where already ahead by one point. Finally, Lee missed two layups at the end of regulation that could have given the Magic the lead and won the game.
MVP Odom
Although Kobe has been his normal self, Lamar Odom has been the most important player on the floor after two games. He made some huge shots in the fourth quarter of Game 2. His length and smarts have stabilized the Lakers’ bench. He has done what Mickael Pietrus did in the Cleveland series and that is virtually dominating the production from the bench. He has scored 27 of the Lakers’ 43 bench points and has grabbed 22 rebounds.
WHO NEEDS TO STEP UP?
Los Angeles LakersAndrew Bynum has got to give the Lakers something on the road. Kobe, Pau Gasol and Odom have scored 139 of the Lakers’ 202 points. If this trend continues with Bynum, L.A. could find this series tied up after four games. It is one thing to win with virtually only three players at home, but doing it on the road offers a different scenario and I expect the Orlando role players to shoot the ball much better in Game 3.
The Lakers’ bench has not offered much, but until now they have not had to. The test will be in Orlando and Phil Jackson will need some production from someone other than Odom.
Orlando Magic
The guards have been just plain bad. Where is the swagger that we saw in the Cleveland series? Alston, Lee, Pietrus, Reddick and Jameer Nelson have all been bad (20-59) and what’s sad is that they will have to continue to shoot the ball. Pietrus is the obvious choice, but history is starting to catch up with him and his shot seems to have taken a nose dive at the sight of Kobe. I am not in the locker room, but I have been in 17 others during my NBA career and I see fear in the eyes of Lee and Pietrus when they face Kobe. They need to call Bruce Bowen and Raja Bell to get advice on how to guard and not back down to the Black Mamba.
Dwight Howard had a great Game 2, but he must do two things for the Magic to have a chance in this series.
1. Stop thinking he can make a two-dribble move in the post against the scrappy Lakers’ help defense.
2. Stop turning the ball over making passes out to the perimeter. Those are precious possessions and because of the double team most of his passes should find a player with an open shot.
GAME 3 STRATEGY
Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers will continue to double Howard and leave Alston and Lee alone. They lost sight of Rashard Lewis and he almost beat them by himself.
They will also focus extra on getting Bynum involved early offensively, because they need a fourth player to score double-figures against Orlando on their home floor.
I would watch for Kobe to be ultra-aggressive at the slightest thought of his team being satisfied with getting the first two games at home. He knows that the Lakers will need to offset the tremendous emotional frenzy at the beginning of Game 3.
Orlando Magic
If the guards do not make shots early in Game 3, look for Van Gundy to have a quick trigger finger, put in JJ Redick and move Turkoglu to point guard. This lineup forces the Lakers to rotate off of a shooter, which is not what they want. If Orlando starts draining three-point shots, this will allow Howard to maneuver more inside. That would pay huge dividends for the Magic.
Attack the rim. They had numerous lanes to the basket because of the Lakers being stretched defensively, but they looked to pass instead of shoot. Look for a much more aggressive team in Game 3.
Anthony Johnson might get the call at some point in Game 3 if Nelson does not produce with his backup minutes.
PREDICTION FOR GAME 3
The Lakers will say that they will stay focused, but it does not matter. This is the biggest game of the year for the Magic and I expect them to be energized by their home crowd. Although they lost Game 2, I saw some confidence emerge from their locker room. I expect the role players to step up because, quite frankly, they can’t fall any further than they already have. I also expect Howard to have his best scoring game.
Orlando will win Game 3 and keep the series alive.
Darryl Said,
June 8, 2009 @ 8:45 pm
I don’t get why they keep giving you columns…I’m no hater, I’m just saying you’re wrong everytime I read you…The Cleveland NBA Champs column…The Orlando is going to win it all column, but maybe you’re just a hilarious read because I’ve read most of your columns on this site, I want to say you’re credible because you had a very solid NBA career…I remember the jumper you hit vs. the Jazz the most when you were on that veteran Rockets team with Sir Chareles…but man I can’t name a time when you’ve been right.
Holla Bolla Said,
June 8, 2009 @ 8:58 pm
Eddie,
WOW…You are really going out on a limb with your Game 3 prediction. You have a major set of cojones.
BTW–Since when does a defense force untimely turnovers? Aren’t they all timely? Or are you speaking from an HPV..Haters Point of View?
Ronnie Said,
June 8, 2009 @ 9:06 pm
Well….
I don’t think it is HPV… just that…
Eddie has to make sure his prediction holds true.. its coming close to sweep time for the Magic… Get those brooms out Eddie…
Didn’t Eddie predict the Magic to win this series?
Swwwwweeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeep!
james Said,
June 8, 2009 @ 9:12 pm
Haha I laughed at your prediction that Orlando would win the series. But they will win game 3, and not another. Eddie when will you learn you only die by the jump shot. You always pick jump shooting teams. I remeber u picking Phoenix 2 or 3 years in a row. Look how that turned out. It pains me to say it but Lakers will when this year and next.
eddie Said,
June 8, 2009 @ 9:32 pm
Holla Bolla Said,
June 8, 2009 @ 8:58 pm
Eddie,
WOW…You are really going out on a limb with your Game 3 prediction. You have a major set of cojones.
BTW–Since when does a defense force untimely turnovers? Aren’t they all timely? Or are you speaking from an HPV..Haters Point of View?
you talking to me or are you upset i still like the Magic? Look if the Lakers win, i will be the first to say i was wrong. no problem—i would hope that some of you guys start to build confidence in your life. its ok to put yourself out there and be wrong. Orlando winning is what i believe and only until they lose will you be justified in saying i was wrong. i hope you are not one of those people who always tell friends and aquaintances that they should not start a business or make a career decision just because you don’t have the cajones to do it.
I DO and always will lol. timely for the Lakers yes. Untimely for the Magic—did that make sense? lol
eddie Said,
June 8, 2009 @ 9:33 pm
james Said,
June 8, 2009 @ 9:12 pm
Haha I laughed at your prediction that Orlando would win the series. But they will win game 3, and not another. Eddie when will you learn you only die by the jump shot. You always pick jump shooting teams. I remeber u picking Phoenix 2 or 3 years in a row. Look how that turned out. It pains me to say it but Lakers will when this year and next.
i thought i picked a jump shooting team last year in the Boston Celtics against the Lakers.
BW Said,
June 8, 2009 @ 9:56 pm
Yes you did pick a jump shooting team last year, but you have been wrong all playoffs. The CAVS was winning the title this year, and now its the Magic. You have something against the Lakers because didn’t have Denver beating them before this one. WOW
MR. BASKETBALL Said,
June 8, 2009 @ 11:09 pm
Not again…Eddie…? again?
after the lakers win game three are you gonna comeback with an article about how the magic can come from 0-3? The magic are filled with all fill in players. They have no real offensive threats, lewis,turk and howard are very limited offensively. It is not bad shooting it is overrated talent. They make open shots and they are deemed as all stars. As a former great shooter you have to understand what I am saying. You would been an all star every year on orlando or most teams nowadays. This is a 80’s baby speaking. They upset me comparing Lamar Odom to turk. Lamar is vastly superior talent wise, vastly. Lamar can handle the ball for real! turk is decent at best that is why ariza puts shackles on him because he cannot create a decent shot with his dribble. Also peitrus has no D, none. I think it’s hilarious when they take courtney lee out because kobe is abusing him like peitrus has done anything to stop anyone ever. He cannot guard luke walton…watch the game again and you’ll see. Skip needs to sit his butt on the bench! the nerve of him upset because jameer played alot HE IS SUPPOSED TO.
Skip is playing terrible at the moment anyway. Orlando is only there because kg was hurt. Because they are a 1st round team at best.I still cannot believe they pay rashard so much,lol….only if he hustled like that on the court though right? ….118 million for him? really? orlando is done the end.
Boi Boi Said,
June 8, 2009 @ 11:36 pm
IT’S ALL BOUT BLACK MAMBA & DA LAKERS!
yellow menace Said,
June 8, 2009 @ 11:45 pm
Great prediction Eddie on orlando winning the series…pwned
eddie Said,
June 9, 2009 @ 12:08 am
MR. BASKETBALL Said,
June 8, 2009 @ 11:09 pm
Not again…Eddie…? again?
if Courtney Lee had made that shot —your response would have been they were lucky. calm down till its over lol
HoopsHype.com NBA Blogs - Eddie Johnson » The to-do list « easy todo lists Said,
June 9, 2009 @ 3:26 am
[...] the rest here: HoopsHype.com NBA Blogs - Eddie Johnson » The to-do list 08 Jun 09 | [...]
sam Said,
June 9, 2009 @ 5:10 am
rashard lewis is a gun, he plays to the role the coach gives him. the nights he dont score is the nights he dont touch the ball because its in turk or dwights hands (thanks coach). without him they wouldnt have beaten cleveland in game 4 = no finals, without him they would have lost by 30 in game 2 of finals.
sounds like he’s a good locker guy too, lol @ the quote for lee
worth every penny.
BULLS 2010!!!
SonnyDe Said,
June 9, 2009 @ 5:34 am
Eddie is now picking them game by game vs the entire series. I predict that Eddie will write another column picking the Lakers after they get the next game.
Thanks Eddie.
Ron Said,
June 9, 2009 @ 6:33 am
Man you guys need to stop hating…he picked orlando…boo hoo…is the world coming to an end? does he not have his opinion? does everyone need to think the same?
I am a laker fan…but i appreciate when someone thinks differently…i am not going to doubt the Majic…if we win awesome…but i dont wanna jinx that by saying…hey eddie…you were wrong and what not…
Great Aticle Eddie…not for the laker fans…but great read into an opposing teams mind.
NMQ Said,
June 9, 2009 @ 7:25 am
Dear Eddie,
I’ve been a fan of your columns (more than anything here in hoopshype) that’s why I visit the site regularly, but I can’t help but agree to the first two posters.
My first reaction was? Not again, Eddie. I’m very dismayed you picked the Magic to upend the Lakers not considering the Lakers where there before and they have all but the championship in mind? I find it amusing that you picked the Cavs to win it all before the Magic won the series and then, kinda like, ‘bandwagon’ on them.
Don’t get me wrong, I like both teams but I do admit I like the Lakers more than the Magic since they’re my favorite team. But come on! Enough is enough. I’m getting tired of your articles. 2008-2009 NBA Champions would be the Los Angeles Lakers. Kobe gets his 4th ring.
Perhaps you’ll change your mind if the Lakers win tomorrow? That would be your last chance to praise, and admit that they’re the best this season has to offer.
bobbylight Said,
June 9, 2009 @ 9:19 am
As a lifelong Laker fan, all I’m thinking is … keep it up! At this point I expect everyone to throw “the kitchen sink” logic before they concede that the Lakers deserve to win. Whether it’s from those who claim objective analysis or an flat-out secret envy, it doesn’t really matter. I like adverse comments pertaining to my team, that’s just fine. It fuels our fire. and it makes it that much sweeter in the end. Two more wins and we take the title back. Even then I’m sure there will be comments like, the Lakers weren’t really tested or that Boston wouldn’t have “allowed” us to win. It’s never about our defense, but more about Orlando’s lack to production or “jitters”. Just my two frustrated cents…
Vincent Said,
June 9, 2009 @ 9:39 am
After seeing the first two games, it does not look like Orlando has what it takes to beat the Lakers.
Bynum hasn’t given the Lakers anything and in fact, the Lakers defence and offence gets better when he goes to the bench. Lamar Odom and Pau Gasol are doing a tremendous job keeping Howard out of the lane. The Laker perimeter defenders are digging down on Howard once he puts the ball on the floor (and sometimes before he even catches the ball).
The Orlando Magic haven’t been able to punish the Lakers by rotating the ball faster than the Lakers can recover to the shooters. That’s not going to change unless the Lakers suddenly lose their mojo. I suspect that’s why we’re seeing a lot of screen/roll action from Turk/Howard to see if they can’t get something rolling to the basket. The problem for them is that Turk/Howard are a far cry from Stockton/Malone. So their two main options (dump it to Howard, screen and roll) have been frustrated by the Lakers defence - what now?
Stan Van Gundy talked about playing faster during halftime, and that is likely their best option for improving offensive efficiency at this point. They don’t have time to concoct a whole new game plan. Like one of the posters above said, Howard, Turk, and Lewis are fairly limited offensively and when you took their bread and butter away, you don’t have much else to go to. They badly new Jameer’s penetration make this a series again.
If the Orlando shooters get hot, they may win one or two, but the odds are not in their favor of winning 4 of the next 5 games with hot shooting only given the way the first two games have gone.
Bob Said,
June 9, 2009 @ 9:51 am
From a neutral reader… I don’t understand why some of these guys are so focused on Eddie’s predictions. His analyses are pretty good and he’s more than a decent sports writer. So what if his predictions aren’t always correct? I’m sorry but somone who only looks at that is no intelligent person in my opinion. it’s sports and predicting sports game has a lot more complexity to it than most people think. Just as an example: If Courtney Lee hits that buzzer layup in game 2, the series would’ve been 1-1 and all of a sudden the Magic have the edge for at least another game because they stole the homecourt advantage, and Eddie’s looks like he made a much better bet.
Raul Said,
June 9, 2009 @ 10:24 am
Hey…guys/girls… stop hating on Eddie..
He is just giving us a topic to talk about… Forget about what he predicts and read the article which is very informative..
I believe that Orlando has a chance to win game 3. But I don’t think they can win the series. However, I can predict (there we go again) that the Lakers might come out with the mentality they obtain when they went to Denver and eliminated them in their home floor….
Remember that Denver was a WAYYYY more physical team than The Magic.
And althought I feel Orlando might win game 3… I can’t say they Lakers can step up a notch and take The Magic’s hearts out by beating them at home… Remember.. it’s the Finals and this is why you play 80 games a season…
frank B Said,
June 9, 2009 @ 10:45 am
Michael Jordan has the playoff scoring record of 63 at Boston Garden.
Look for Kobe to break the record tonight. He pays attention to such things.
Imagine how his year could look at the end of this series. Led the Olympic team to the Gold. The Lakers to the NBA championship. MVP of the finals. All time playoff scoring record.
Love him or hate him, Kobe wants to be the best. Of all time.
We’ll see if Orlando cooperates.
Trevin James Said,
June 9, 2009 @ 10:50 am
Originally I have said Lakers in 5 but I think 4 is very possible if Orlando keeps shooting as bad as they have. LA is the best road team in the NBA this year so I dont expect them to lay down and give this game away. Lee and Alston should shoot better at home but as long as we can match the intensity we had in the last road game we played we will be just fine. Odom blew assignments on Rashard Lewis more often that he should have Sunday early but stayed with him late. I don’t think he gets open as much this game. Also going home won’t make Howard’s post game any better. If Bynum can stay out of foul trouble early and give us 10-10 I like our chances. Ariza needs to continue to play good defense and hit the open shot. Odom has got to stay active and give us that all around game he has been giving since game 5 of the WCF. Kobe and Gasol will give us what good play, Farmar, Walton and Brown can combine for 20-25pts and LA wins this game by 10.
Matt Said,
June 9, 2009 @ 10:56 am
I really could care less who wins, but the real question I want to ask is where does this championship put Kobe in the rankings of great players?
I would say to be considered one of the best, you have to be the best player on your team that wins championships. With that being said, to me, this is Kobe’s first. I would rank him behind:
Multiple titles
Michael Jordan
Bill Russell
George Mikan
Magic Johnson
Larry Bird
Shaq O Neal
Tim Duncan
Hakeem Olajuwan
Isaiah Thomas
One Title
Kareem
Kobe
Oscar Robertson
Wilt
Rick Barry
Dwayne Wade
Moses Malone
Todd Said,
June 9, 2009 @ 11:06 am
When you think about it and if you’re truly of fan of basketball - go back to any Finals and tell me which player wanted the victory the most - that player’s (provided he’s one of if not the leader) team always wins the chip. Think about it…Who wants it more KB24 - no one, that’s why they’ll win!
yackity yack Said,
June 9, 2009 @ 11:16 am
Orlando just needs to stay close. Those dim lights in the staples center must have been a factor down the stretch.
Orlando has 3 in a row at home. They just need the one tonight. Their role will make more shots on the home floor and you can expect better games from their big 3 as well.
I’ve seen this before. Remember how dismall the miami heat looked in the first two games against the mavs in 06′?
Some good drives and home court calls got them the win in game 3 and the whole series changed from their.
All L.A. needs is a lil doubt. If kobe sees the role players falling off he will try to take over and this plays into orlando.
Orlando in 6.
justinmeilers Said,
June 9, 2009 @ 11:33 am
Any people picking Orlando to win the series - I would be more than happy to fly to Atlantic City and help you put all your savings on them. Matt’s list is such a joke. Have you ever watched a game before? I mean - ever? Is this your first time paying attention to the NBA? I like how you don’t give a shit about any of the players who made huge contributions to those championship teams. This is the kind of idiot one sided thinking that hurts the NBA. Stop being a joke please
eddie Said,
June 9, 2009 @ 11:49 am
follow me on Twitter tonight so i can enlighten you guys on the flow of the game. http://twitter.com/ eddie a johnson or jumpshot8
Holla Bolla Said,
June 9, 2009 @ 12:08 pm
Eddie, you picked the Magic to win Game 3. Cajones should be used for bolder predictions…right? Why waste cajones on easy predictions.. most “experts” like the Magic to rebound tonight, so I thought it was strange that you would dedicate a column to that.
Are you predicting that the Magic win all 3 @ home? That’s bolder, that would certainly be worth writing about. I am assuming you thought the Magic would split in LA, like most who picked them.
Also, when you are writing “Keys for the Lakers” then yes the turnovers they force would be timely..not untimely..LOL.
BTW–you should do some motivational/life coach columns. Thanks for the tip on starting a business. I’m starting one today.
Cordell Taylor Said,
June 9, 2009 @ 12:47 pm
Interesting piece Eddie, I do not think Orlando can come back and win this series. Even if they win Game 3, I think they cannot win back in LA . Playing at home will help them regain their shooting touch but I expect LA and Kobe to play at their highest level in Orlando. The Black Mamba smells blood and I sense he will go in for the kill. They can seize this series right now and sweep Orlando, I would not be surprised if Orlando folds in Game 3.
Orlando’s guards have been miserable throughout the series and I think they have stage fright. They seemed happy to get to the Big Dance but they dont know what to do anymore with the cameras flashing on their eyes.
If the Lakers can get ANYTHING from Bynum in Game 3, they will blow out the Magic. He has simply disappeared on the floor, cannot stay out of foul trouble and does not seem aggressive at all when he gets it deep in the paint. I actually prefer the Lakers with Odom on the floor, I think Fisher, Bryant, Ariza, Odom and Gasol is their best lineup. Bring Shannon Brown and the “machine” Sasha Vujuic off the bench and go seven deep.
Marlon Said,
June 9, 2009 @ 1:10 pm
I’m going out on a limb and make this bold prediction! Drum rolls please!!!!
Lakers will lose tonight!!!!
Wow…even an ordinary Joe like me can say that prediction. What more if it comes from an expert like Eddie?!?!?
Porky Said,
June 9, 2009 @ 2:57 pm
The “To-Do” List for Eddie:
Update resume (excluding hoop analysis writing gig)
Matt Said,
June 9, 2009 @ 2:59 pm
justinmeilers: Why do players care so much about winning a title? Because it’s the way the media, fans, and their peers judge them. Are you a winner..
Alot of players help, but they don’t get talked about. Who won the MVP of the Finals every year during the Laker run with Shaq and Kobe? enough said.
Does anyone take into account that Dennis Rodman was 7 time all defense 1st team and 7 time rebounding champ? He won 5 titles. He is a hall of famer. Nobody says Rodman’s Piston teams or Rodman’s Bulls teams.. Perception is reality and you’re the idiot guy.
eddie Said,
June 9, 2009 @ 4:44 pm
Holla Bolla Said,
June 9, 2009 @ 12:08 pm
i will give you one more response.
stop reading from the bottom of the article—start at the top
eddie Said,
June 9, 2009 @ 4:48 pm
I LOVE LA
Fred Said,
June 9, 2009 @ 5:12 pm
My God, Eddie this… Eddie that…geez..i bet the dude from american pie has more self -confidence that this Eddie -guy right now..just gettin it from left to right..Not every dude that had a short stint in the NBA automatically qualifies to be a pundit..!!!!!!oh by the way,Lakers win G3,Kobe 35+ points…i put that on ma parade tickets in Elsegundo..
Michael Bennett Said,
June 9, 2009 @ 10:37 pm
Leave Eddie alone!
How can you give him grief when you yourself make no predictions?!?!?!?
Most people on here don’t have enough cojones to even make predictions? Why? Because if they’re wrong, their lives will be shattered.
If you follow the NBA and write A LOT of articles about the sport, you’re obviously going to be right some times and wrong some times.
At least Eddie can put together VERY entertaining, original articles that don’t regurgitate the same nonsense that every other sports wire service puts out.
We should all be thankful that a basketball guru even responds to our uneducated responses…
eddie Said,
June 9, 2009 @ 11:25 pm
Laker fans
Fred Said,Porky Said,Marlon Said,Holla Bolla Said,justinmeilers Said,
go back and read the Article again and learn. they did exactly what i stated. next time just pay attention. i assume you Laker fanatics will hide until the Lakers win a game. thats ok.
the Magic have outplayed them in two straight games. they will not go quietly.
eddie Said,
June 10, 2009 @ 12:23 am
Ronnie Said,
June 8, 2009 @ 9:06 pm
Well….
I don’t think it is HPV… just that…
Eddie has to make sure his prediction holds true.. its coming close to sweep time for the Magic… Get those brooms out Eddie…
Didn’t Eddie predict the Magic to win this series?
Swwwwweeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeep!
Noooooooooooooppppppppppppppppppppppppe!
Marlon Said,
June 10, 2009 @ 10:13 am
Eddie…I really love your sweet stroke but “the Magic have outplayed…” the Lakers in two games??!?!?!? Come on Eddie…I know you have to stick with your team of choice but to say the magic has outplayed the Lakers for two games is a bit farfetched.
The Magic shot blazing hot in Game 3! Of course they would. It’s their first home game of the Finals after so many years. You would expect them to win knowing that if they lost, the series is over. But yet, even with their hot sizzling shooting, the Lakers were STILL in the game!!!
And true Laker fanatics would know that sweeping any team in the Finals is ridiculous. I for one, predicted a Laker loss in game 3. But now I’m predicting a Laker victory in game 4. No way the Magic is going to shoot the same percentage they did in game 3 and no way is Kobe going to be that tired again for 2 straight games.
Eddie…the Magic outplay the Lakers for 2 games?!?!? Come on, get real. Take your victory and stash it away. I would have loved to see you in purple and gold though!
javaman Said,
June 10, 2009 @ 10:44 am
Game 3 was a squeaker…So what happens in game 4, huh!
justinmeilers Said,
June 10, 2009 @ 12:10 pm
I really think we need to start acknowledging how the game is called and how this dictates who wins. If offensive fouls are not called then the Magic have a great chance of winning. If the refs stick to the rule book then I counted 8 elbows to the chest of Gasol. Go back and watch the tape. That does not include Howard using his elbow to clear space. The same way Kobe did (got called) and the same way Walton did (got called). 3 seconds in the key is still a rule too? You can’t beat the refs and the Magic. It’s too much to go against. It’s time people started to call out Joey Crawford’s crew. I ref calls everything and the another calls nothing. It’s hurting the game. How had is it to call it fair? How hard?
justinmeilers Said,
June 10, 2009 @ 12:18 pm
The best way to shut anyone from picking the Magic to win is to bet them money. You see how fast they jump back into their tortoise shell. It’s easy to make predictions when you have nothing riding on it. I picked the Clippers to win the finals this year. I also had the SupeSonics going back to Seattle. I also had Zach Randolph as my MVP. I had Shawn Bradley as my most improved player. With no consequences I can pick anyone and hope it pans out. I would love clean Eddie out. How much money are you rolling with these days? It sucks when you have to deal with people smarter than you.
eddie Said,
June 10, 2009 @ 12:25 pm
I repeat the Orlando Magic should be up 2-1. They blew game 2. The Lakers still have the advantage because it is tough to beat any team three times in a row, but if the Magic does, this series will be over in 6 like i said. i just like to make you LA People stew one more day
eddie Said,
June 10, 2009 @ 12:27 pm
justinmeilers
Lets bet everything you got on game 4. You name it and follow me on twitter. I am waiting.
Casey Said,
June 10, 2009 @ 12:40 pm
Orlando would be up 2-1 if the refs would not call fouls on Howard and others for the Lakers FLOPPERS. FISHER, ODOM, GASOL and FARMER. FISHER is more of a flopper than most of the Europeans. Start calling blocking fouls on this little FLOPPER. Your thoughts Eddie?
Casey Said,
June 10, 2009 @ 12:51 pm
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HjsFu882zks&feature=PlayList&p=EF6A31C26D69F9D4&playnext=1&playnext_from=PL&index=6
Marlon Said,
June 10, 2009 @ 2:00 pm
Eddie, just out of curiosity. What if LA wins this series and are crowned the NBA champions; are you going to give them their props and acknowledge that they rightfully deserve it or are you going to say that the Magic gave away the championship because of this and because of that? And NO I’m not betting since I know you got me covered lol!
And to the Laker-Haters, one game. Boo Hoo…wait till game 4.
Craig Bailey Said,
June 10, 2009 @ 2:53 pm
I must say this years’ playoffs has been the worst officiated playoffs in recent memory. I’m a Laker fan but i see so many missed calls on both sides. It doesnt seem they can call 3 seconds on D Howard or his elbows to Pau’s chest. I counted 4 times Rashard Lewis had 2 hands to the back of Pau in the post, which is an automatic foul. I watched Bynum blatantley push D Howard to the back and no whistle was blown. and i feel like the worst call was the ball going out of bounds under the basket and Joe Crawford standing right there but yet didnt know who hit it last, then he relys on the other 2 refs who have no view of the play to make a call on it. thats jus horrible. these calls are affecting the games too much. Let these guyz play basketball, its the NBA Finals dammit!!!
With that said. Lakers in 5
Matt Said,
June 10, 2009 @ 3:06 pm
Phil Jackson said that Pau’s hand in the net is GOAL TENDING! Your own coach said that was goal tending. If they count that, the game is over. 2-1 Orlando. Do you think that might be a bigger call than hands to the back or elbows to Pau’s chest?
That’s how you know who the soft team is, the other teams fans start crying about holding and flagrant fouls, it reminds me of the Suns against San Antonio. Just shut up and play.
Laker fans are such D bags, always have been. You come out of the woodwork when your team is good.
justinmeilers- BET EDDY YOU Vag
yellow menace Said,
June 10, 2009 @ 6:37 pm
at end of day lakers won two games and orlando has 1. i do not believe the magic outplayed lakers in game two, if they did, orlando would be up 2-1 bottom line.
thats why i don’t make excuses and say the lakers would have won game 3 if kobe made his freethrows..
orlando outplayed lakers in game 3 by shooting 62%. thats why they won. lakers outplayed orlando the first two games.
eddie Said,
June 10, 2009 @ 7:24 pm
yellow menace Said,
June 10, 2009 @ 6:37 pm
at end of day lakers won two games and orlando has 1. i do not believe the magic outplayed lakers in game two, if they did, orlando would be up 2-1 bottom line.
thats why i don’t make excuses and say the lakers would have won game 3 if kobe made his freethrows..
orlando outplayed lakers in game 3 by shooting 62%. thats why they won. lakers outplayed orlando the first two games.
*******************
Eddie
Disagree. you can outplay someone and still lose. thats the nature of sports. Orlando deserved to win game 2 just like they deserved to win Game 2 in Cleveland. Sometimes luck turns against you. My point is all you Laker fans that think its a done deal are fooling yourselves. Orlando has found a way to win in every series—so don’t go thinking that they can not do it again.
Are their backs against the wall? yes it is, But they are not in serious trouble yet. Both teams have won at home. So realistically no advantage to anyone yet.
Holla Bolla Said,
June 10, 2009 @ 8:03 pm
Eddie,
Orlando shot 65% and won by 4. Not to mention some rather interesting foul calls on Odom and Walton, and no-calls on Gasol. Kob’s turnover was huge and he played terribly down the stretch.
You saw what we all saw..LA almost overcame tremendous hurdles to pull that game out against a desparate home team. True fans know Orlando is legit, but you are picking them cause you have to..it would make Cleveland look better. O earned the dub yesterday, but please don’t tell us that they have outplayed LA in Games 2 & 3..just because a rookie with 0.6 seconds left missed a shot while flying under the backboard and a 7 footer jumping in his face. They had 20 turnovers in Game 2..most of them forced…remember? or do we need to re-read the boxscore? These squads are pretty evenly matched, but experience and hunger will prevail and you will pull a disappearing act until the draft.
Game 4: Lakers 102-Orlando 94..winning in Denver twice was more of a challenge.
yellow menace Said,
June 10, 2009 @ 11:52 pm
Eddie
Disagree. you can outplay someone and still lose. thats the nature of sports. Orlando deserved to win game 2 just like they deserved to win Game 2 in Cleveland. Sometimes luck turns against you. My point is all you Laker fans that think its a done deal are fooling yourselves. Orlando has found a way to win in every series—so don’t go thinking that they can not do it again.
Are their backs against the wall? yes it is, But they are not in serious trouble yet. Both teams have won at home. So realistically no advantage to anyone yet.
======
thats what losers say when they lose. At end of day, if u remove the “what ifs” the getter team prevailed….its like saying my grandmother would be my grandfather if she had a penis lol…cant do that…
in game 2 it was very evenly matched…lakers won first half and magic won second half…but at end of day, lakers prevailed….I am a huge laker fan as u can tell
but lets call a spade a spade…games 2 and 3 could have gone either way but facts are facts..lakers won game two and orlando won game 3..lets see what happens in game 4…
yellow menace Said,
June 11, 2009 @ 12:03 am
btw, all the games are going to be close for sure….
I am curious…. if u think luck plays a role and the magic outplay the lakers BUT lakers still win series..is it possible for the lakers to be that lucky for an entire series?..
thats why i love basketball..usually the better team does win in a 7 game series…
look at me i am using a bunch of “what if” propositions now lol
Bhavik Patel Said,
June 11, 2009 @ 2:34 am
This was orlandos year to try to win it all and what sucks for them is the lakers are just a far better team. There is no way the magic are going to win this series. Will the magic be able to return to the finals next year? Probably not. Think about it Hedu is going to opt out and ask for more money and I dont know if the magic have what it takes to sign him. Same thing with Marc Gortat. He is going to ask for a significant raise. Hes going to probably seek the full midlevel exception, and right now he makes under 1 million. Lakers in 6.
NBA Finals News Roundup — Part Three « nbaroundtable Said,
June 11, 2009 @ 7:44 pm
[...] Eddie Johnson — The To-Do List [...]
yellow menace Said,
June 12, 2009 @ 12:23 am
Please eddie, dont tell me that the magic lost because they missed their freethrows…give credit where credit is due, lakers executed down the stretch and the magic didnt. Did the lakers get lucky again?
bobbylight Said,
June 12, 2009 @ 2:46 am
Where’s the commentary on game 4 Eddie? I want to know your analysis of how the Lakers just stole another game and the laundry list of excuses you’ll make for not crediting LA at all. Let me guess, it’s all about Orlando not making free throws right? There’s another side to game 4: Lakers were crippled by losing their frontcourt to some bogus calls, meanwhile Dwight camps out in the paint over 3 secs repeatedly. Just as much excuses people conjure up for Orlando’s internal failures, it was equally tough on LA (who on the road lost Bynum and Odom to some really horrendous refs). Lakers still came up on top, so “witness” that haters!!
Marlon Said,
June 12, 2009 @ 7:51 am
Eddie…how’s that Orlando in 6 looking now? What? Free throws? Wait a second. How about Kobe’s elbow to Jameer’s face? Couldn’t be lack of experience could it? Or how about that the Lakers are the better team…Eddie, now will you admit that the Lakers are going to win this series AND DESERVE the championship?!?!?!
eddie Said,
June 12, 2009 @ 10:10 am
I heard Orlando sent a ribbon to the Lakers Locker room to tie up that gift they just gave them.
The Lakers were handed the game. Plain and Simple, but give Derek Fisher credit he was HUGE! LOL
Marlon Said,
June 12, 2009 @ 10:29 am
hahahaha…Eddie! Are you saying Orlando had that game and they gave it to the Lakers?!?!?! Come on Eddie hahahahaha….
You really can’t give the Lakers their due can you?!?!?!?
It was “plain and simple” that the Lakers are a better team. Didn’t panick. Didn’t choke. They just stayed with the their winning plan and won the game Eddie. “Handed” the game…your true laker hater colors are really coming out now…
justinmeilers Said,
June 12, 2009 @ 10:57 am
First of all, this is person blogging isn’t the real Eddie. But if it is than shit - I didn’t get your betting message Eddie until too late. I don’t Twitter because I’m not an idiot or a motivational speaker. Damn! I could have sunk Eddie with his great Orlando pick. You would have been on the street. I can’t do that to you Eddie. I don’t want my taxes supporting you. Let’s own up to a stupid pick and move on. Plus I wasn’t picking games. I was talking about the series. Which is over because Orlando is erratic and mentally soft. The Lakers have discipline and metal toughness. That’s why they won. No one gifted anything. The Lakers made huge shots and Orlando panicked.
On a side note, I like grown men who still want to be called Eddie. That ribbon Orlando sent looks exactly like the one Baby Eddie has on the front of his diapers.
Eddie - I’m picking Keith Closs for my MVP next year. Can we bet?
Holla Bolla Said,
June 12, 2009 @ 11:21 am
Actually Eddie, the ribbon Orlando got was originally from Lakers..who gave it to Boston after Game 4 last season. What goes around comes around.
BTW–Magic had 17 throws in Q4..Lakers had none. Pretty clear that the NBA was doing it’s best to prolong this thing. Kob should have been to the line at least 4 times becuase there was some major contact.
Eddie, if you do not mind..can you ignore your hate for a second and grade the referees in the last two games. You mention gifts and ribbons, but the refs certainly seem to be in giving mood to the Magic. Thoughts?
frank B Said,
June 12, 2009 @ 11:42 am
Eddie,
Your wrong.
The Lakers rule!!
Remember all you posters when you start in on the “Kobe now has four rings” argument in the future that basketball is a team game.
Derick Fisher is the Laker team captain.
And a Laker legend!!!!!!!
justinmeilers Said,
June 12, 2009 @ 11:55 am
Wow - That was the free throw discrepancy. Oh My God. That’s nuts. That’s the biggest gift of them all. Why is no one talking about that. That’s crazy. I am curious to read Tim Donaghy’s book. I think it should give a great inside look into how the NBA tries to control games.
The Lakers still fought through it.
frank B Said,
June 12, 2009 @ 12:25 pm
Thank you to:
Eddie, for predicting (and stubbornly continuing to predict) that Orlando is going to take this series.
Stan Van Gundy, for panicking and playing a rusty, never was that good, how did he ever make the all-star team, Jameer Nelson over Rafer Alston, who was tearing us apart.
Jameer Nelson, for choosing to protect the basket rather than the three point line with a three point lead. It was also great when you threw your face into Kobe’s elbow and flopped down instead of covering Fisher again.
The referees, who despite their effort to hand the game to Orlando, allowed the Lakers to show conclusively that they are the better team.
Party in LA!
Hey Eddie, see that commercial about Dr. J, Magic, and the “Old School legends”? Next year that commercial is going to feature the Phoenix Suns lineup. Hope you have a good time watching those old geysers!
justinmeilers Said,
June 12, 2009 @ 12:51 pm
Fake Eddie - You did a good job of motivating people. Maybe you should do this for a living. You are getting railed on for making a horrible prediction and then trying to defend it. It’s funny when people are wrong.
Now can the real Eddie answer some of the question about the refs in Game 4? 17 free throws to 0. That’s not the Magic blowing the game. That’s the res blowing the game. Agreed?
Porky Said,
June 12, 2009 @ 12:58 pm
Eddie- dig the hole deeper. Keep justifying your position. As a Faker hater, I await the return of the Boston Celtics. We will win next year…and that is no Eddie prediction.
bobbylight Said,
June 12, 2009 @ 2:11 pm
Screw boston… if Lakers are “lucky” with Fisher’s shots then Boston Cialis was lucky that Posey made some big shots for their run at the title.
As far as any talks of gifts in game 4, let’s talk about how the refs gifted calls left and right for the Magic. If it was only about Orlando missing FT then game 3 was only about Kobe “gifting” them with his missed FT. What a bunch of whiners you haters are. When LA lost last year, I accepted that we needed better defense. I didn’t whine like this and point fingers. The hell with the haters, they can go to whatever lowly life they have. That Matt guy who posted hatred on us sounds like a total loser. His comment about Laker fans “coming out of the woodwork” when it’s convenient is absolute garbage. Hey moron, go to ANY NBA arena in the country and you’ll see our supporters.
Porky Said,
June 12, 2009 @ 2:45 pm
bobbypinhead…a true faker. Pathetic.
Got milk? I bet you do, bobbypinhead
justinmeilers Said,
June 12, 2009 @ 4:04 pm
“Lakers fans coming out of the woodwork” - That’s funny. Why does your stadium fill up when the Lakers are in town? Why do the Knicks fans chant MVP for Kobe? Lakers are to basketball what Ferrari is to F1. I think I saw a Magic fan once at a Clippers game. Plus we’re in the finals. Of course we want to talk about it.
bobbylight Said,
June 12, 2009 @ 4:48 pm
Porky, you’re pathetic… why are you bothering with a ORL-LAL series discussion board? Go to spend your time checking up on the Celtic discussions about how they won last year. You’ll need to relive all the highlights ad nauseum, since Boston will take another 20 years to win another one. That’s true fakers Celtic chumps who act ridiculous and relive the past. Lakers show class and win regularly, not sporadically. That’s why your town, chanted MVP for Kobe a few years back.
yackity yack Said,
June 12, 2009 @ 4:52 pm
Looks like Derek Fisher saved the day.
Kobe’s smirk told it all.
Phil’s half time speech said to me, “I’m worried, but I must stay the course. Anything can happen.”
Who is Lamar Odom? I’d be surprised if hes back. Afterall T-Riza has got a big chunk coming his way.
___________________________________
I hate when teams win championships by default.
Orlando has done more to lose this series than the lakers have done to win it.
Experience > Talent.
yack……
Yack is an idiot Said,
June 12, 2009 @ 10:11 pm
Please tell me you think Orlando is more talented than the Lakers. Please. Thats funny. What does winning by default mean? I guess it means overcoming at 18 to 0 free throw count in the fourth period. I guess it means hitting huge shots when the other team can not. I guess it means yack is an idiot. I guess it means Lakers didn’t need to show up. I’m am so sick of idiots like this.
javaman Said,
June 13, 2009 @ 12:40 am
Wow! What were the refs thinking? Trying to cripple the entire L.A. frontline in the 1st qtr by sitting them all in the bench. How about the 0 vs 17 foul disparity in the 4th? Well, in the end it did’nt work, but i suspect that it covered the points…
Michael Bennett Said,
June 14, 2009 @ 2:04 pm
If the Cavs get Shaq, watch for them to win 70 games and a title.
HotBoiAtl719 Said,
June 15, 2009 @ 11:01 am
WOW!!! No column on the Lakers winning it all this morning. I guess it’s still in the owrks must have had the Orlando Magic’s greatest comeback in NBA history on your mind.
So what you gonna say Now!!!? Mr League MVP, best player in the game, The King has gone fishing. The Magic, gone fishing, The Nuggets, gone fishing, and Kobe Bryant the 2nd best player in the game to LEBRON (*&%^#%) is coming home with yet another Championship…
Bennet you buster, I can’t wait to read some more of you silly posts about Kobe and the Lakers…
and Eddie, stop hatin on KOBE!!! Everything came out in the wash, embrace this guy as the best playing today…
And he did it without SHAQ or another SUPERSTAR!!!!
BAR NONE
Holla Bolla Said,
June 15, 2009 @ 1:37 pm
Eddie,
Have a great vacation. When you come back, you will get blasted. Laker Nation never forgets who hates. Take all the time you need.
Summary of your calls:
Bynum wont come back
Cleveland wins championship
Orlando wins championsip.
You are caught in a no-win situation. Either you really belive what you write or you only write what you write to get people to comment. If you really believe what you write..you are a hater. If you don’t ten you are a fraud..but you have a ton of company in the media.
Marlon Said,
June 15, 2009 @ 1:50 pm
Eddie…tell Lebron i said hi as well as Dwight when you guys go fishing later on this summer. I bet your picking the Cavs to go all the way next season when the Big Over the Hill joins the team or probably ride the Celtic’s bandwagon because they are going to have a supposedly healthy Garnett or maybe Phoenix with their….what…nash and stoudemire?!?! Or maybe the Spurs with an aging Duncan?
Orlando in six…..are you still sticking with that prediction? Oh wait, The Lakers beat them in 5. Oh that’s right!