Angelenos are some of the most hard-working people on the planet. They themselves are people from small cities from all over the world who set outrageous goals, flew to LA to fulfill their dreams, and many of them do. The ones who don't reach their crazy goals still understand what incredible determination and effort it takes, because the whole social culture of this town is made up by the opportunistic mindsets, the optimism, the faith, the purpose and the drive of those that did.
That is why, up until now, there have been little or no Laker flags in traffic around town this post-season. Semi-Finals, but no flags. Spoiled fans? No. Angelenos are simply too used to greatness to be impressed by empty promises of something that could be. Arguments like, "The Lakers will soon turn it on" means nothing around here. Nothing.
This morning, I saw a flag increase. Coincident? I think not. Is it because of the 40 point differential? I think not. It's about how they did it. It's about the unrelenting effort, patience, focus and determination they showed. The team we saw yesterday will be loved forever by this city if they can keep this up. Flags will be on every car and people will never forget the players on this squad. If they keep this focus up.
If you ask me, this must have been the first 48 minute game that this team has played all season. They looked extremely sharp. As they were expected to do, they controlled the game pretty much all the way through — just like we've all hoped to see, and all know that they can. Well, they did it. And it's still not too late to flick that switch, as long as it stays in "ON" position from here on out.
When they play defense like this, not many teams will stand a chance at all. How do you stop Kobe, Gasol, Lamar, Ariza, Brown, Farmar, Luke etc running the fast-break two-on-one and three-on-two? You don't. If they play like this in every game (including on the road, bench mob), they will win the championship. Defense, Rebounds, Rings.
With the 40 point victory, Phil Jackson also becomes the first coach to reach 200 NBA Playoffs wins! Worthy fashion to reach that milestone. Hail, Master Jackson and his mentor Yoda. Congrats.
It's easy as a fan to complain when things are not right, but how about giving our team some hard-earned genuine props when they really deserve it? Feel free to let out all your Laker Pride in this thread. Let's get that Laker flag Mojo going!
It's been since 2003, but I think it's that time again...
Fultz, Ball or Bust
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