Good Effort But Mistakes Cost Raps In L.A

Let's be honest this was not going to be easy. Raptors have only won twice in their history vs Lakers in L.A. Coming off their worst effort of the season vs Utah this had the makings of being an ugly night. But that is why they play the games as they say.

Lakers were best team in league at making 3's coming into this one but miss a couple to start and Jack and DeRozan get buckets for an early Raps 4-0 lead. Kleiza would get back to back scores and Raps would hold a lead at 8-4. Kobe had a basket and a foul so far. Derek Fisher made a couple at the line then a steal and score in transition and the game was tied at 10. DeRozan and Bryant traded buckets. Kinda of a sloppy start by both teams but the Lakers take the lead 16-12 then a steal and score for Fisher and Raptors making turnovers, 6 of them and Lakers were cashing in on them. Kleiza a corner 3 that is a air ball that ends up with Reggie Evans. Kobe comes along and takes it from Reggie the touchdown pass to Gasol for 2 and Lakers had an 8 point advantage after a slow start for them. DeRozan grew up a Kobe fan but not letting that stop him from taking it at his idol. Nice drive and score by Double D. Bargnani finally got a bucket with under 2 to play. Kobe then found a wide open Blake for 3....nailed it. A steal and Lakers score and much like you might have expected Lakers lead 27-18. Another 3 from Blake would make it 30-18. He was not done another 3 his 3rd of the quarter and Lakers lead 33-20 after 1.

8 turnovers in the first quarter for the Raptors. Forget beating the Lakers, you are not going beat anyone doing that. Andrea a drive and he meets Laker off season pick up Theo Ratliff with the big swat. Barbosa a score then on next trip the feed to Weems for the slam and 1. Weems made the free throw and Raps cut it to 8 with score 35-27. Brown and Calderon trade buckets then another dagger 3 from Blake...40-29. Weems with a dunk that might score a 9 but is only worth 2. Raptors were getting out gunned and not playing any kind of defence at all. A recipe for disaster. Raptors just not looking good. Amir rebounded fellow Young Onez miss in DeRozan and scores. A Laker score then a Barbosa 3 and at least the Raptors are hanging around down 8. Bad pass intended for DeRozan got picked but Raps were fortunate as Lakers could not score. Raps do score on next trip and get the lead to 6. Gasol with a pretty spin move scores and Andersen answers on the other end. Kobe teaches Demar a little something something taking him to school drawing the foul.

Jose a jumper from the top of the key out of a time out and the Laker lead was just 6 with just over 3 to play in the half. We have a Julian Wright sighting and he hooks up Barbosa for 3 Raps get another score and the lead was just 1. Raptors would draw even on a Calderon jumper with the score even at 55. Amir a block on Gasol and it leads to a Barbosa 3 and believe it or not the Raptors have a 58-55 halftime lead. Barbosa was the spark to the Raptor surge and had 15 going into the half.

You have to imagine the Lakers are not amused and this first 5 minutes of the 3rd quarter should tell a lot about Raptors chances in this one. Klezia a spin drive and score a good start anyway. Cue Mr Bryant a couple of free throws and makes a jumper Raptors lead down to 60-59. An Artest 3 ball and Lakers had the lead. But Jack for 2 and Bargnani 3 and Raptors restored their 3 point halftime lead. The Lakers would fight back and tie on a nice dunk by Gasol. Kobe with a couple of free throws reversed the lead on the Raps leading 70-67. Raptors did not hold the lad but still in it after that first 5 minutes. A beautiful spin and score by DeRozan leaving Kobe behind for the easy layup. Raptors were down 1 over halfway through the 3rd. Raptors after the 8 turnovers in the 1st have cleaned that up. More DeRozan as the L.A kid was getting it done then Bargnani scores and Raps restore the 3 point lead at 75-72. Raps were doing a great job on the glass as well helping them hang in this one.

DeRozan got called for a charge on a 2-1 that would have given the Raps a 4 point lead with under 3 to play in the 3rd. Shannon Brown with a big 3 pointer late in the 3rd and Lakers back on top 80-78. An open 3 for Blake was missed and that would have hurt. Some slippage late in the quarter as Lakers built a 4 point advantage and a Bargnani 3 would not fall.

Shannon Brown hit a jumper from the top of the key and Lakers have largest lead in awhile 84-78. Amir Johnson was having his best game of year so far. No fouls and he draws a foul and got to the line and made 2. But just when I say that, Barnes scores on the glass and Amir gets called for one of those questionable techs we have been seeing in the NBA this year. The Gasol a pretty move and Score and Raptors were down 9 and a time out is called.

Out of time out a crazy jumper falls for Barbosa. Amir Johnson gets a bucket and Raptors creep back to with in 5. Johnson a nice play and gets a call as he takes it on the numbers and Barnes called for the charge. Calderon on the next possession makes a jumper and the lead is back to 4. Amir Johnson had a chance to put back a Jose miss but could not and that would have cut the lead to just 2. Instead Lakers get a 3 and lead is 7 and Kobe checks in....Oh Oh. But Amir gets the bucket and cuts the lead to 5. A steal and Calderon scoring on the break and the lead down to 3. Phil Jackson rarely calls a time out but wants one here.

Odom a turnover and Demar a bit out of control and Fisher knocks it out off Demar for back to back turnovers. Kobe draws a foul and makes a pair and Lakers lead was 97-92. Bargnani the drive and score and Raptors back to down 3. Kobe the miss but Gasol the rebound and score on the putback. Bargs takes a tough shot and missed it. Raps get a steal though and both Bargnani and DeRozan miss and that was costly. Fisher the basket and with 2:40 to play Lakers lead it 101-94. Raptors not looking like they are going to come out on top but they are making the Lakers earn this W. Coming in at 5-0 you get the feeling the Lakers thought this might have been an easy one. After the loss against Utah I would have agreed with them. Barbosa a 3 out of time out missed it but Amir draws a foul and heads to the line. Makes them then a Lakers turnover but Barbosa is stripped and losses the ball and turns it over right back. Another Lakers steal and Fisher head mans the ball to Kobe who is fouled and that should end all hope. Raps kept swinging but time was not on their side. Even a late steal forcing Kobe to make a nice block on Kleiza after having it stolen. Even to the final tick Raps had fight a Jack heave for 3 fell but the Raptors were down 8 so it was not enough...108-103 the Lakers take it.

Despite the effort with 21 turnovers it is hard to beat anyone. The positives for the Raps we saw Jose Calderon and Amir Johnson both had their best games of the season. The tough part for the Raptors is they have to play Portland tomorrow and they expended a lot of energy in a losing effort. Will be very interesting to see how they handle it. After getting destroyed by Utah they did respond and that is something to feel good about. But despite a lot of positives and moral victories the Raptors are 0-3 on this trip and 1-4 on the season.

The Champs Are Here!!!

So your the Raptors, you have lost 3 of your first 4 games, and you face the 2 time defending Champs. Not exactly great timing for the Toronto Raptors. But that is what they face in L.A, then off to Portland tomorrow who lost to OKC in overtime. Which was a great game if you happened to catch it. But as the saying goes you take them one at a time

The Basics: Lakers 5-0 (They are 3-0 at Staples) Raptors 1-3 ( 0-2 vs the West )

When We Last Saw Them: Do we really need to do this? In case you some how missed it the Raptors got man handled by the Jazz. It was pretty ugly throughout. Deron Williams was so good it caused Jay Triano to drop an F-Bomb like K.G. Aside from a rally in the 3rd quarter the Raptors showed few signs of life. Sonny Weems was one of them and Andrea Bargnani had 9 rebounds and 26 points in a game the Raptors fell behind 41-22 after the first quarter.

The Key Match Ups: I will give you 80 + 1 reasons for who it is? Kobe Bryant and whoever is guarding him. Which I expect will be a number of people before the night is done. First to try his luck will likely be Demar DeRozan who is making his return to L.A. Not exactly a fun way to make a homecoming trying to stop 24 in gold and purple all night. The other match up of note with be Gasol and Bargnani. Andrea tends to do well when matched up with fellow Euros, but Gasol is one of, if not the best. Other guys to keep an eye on will be Lamar Odom who is off to a great start. Also Steve Blake could be that guy that sticks a number of big 3 pointers if not accounted for.

Other Things of Note: This is a really late start at 10:30 pm (Toronto Time) and shifts over to TSN 2 from Sportsnet 1. Which begs the question that my mother asks, will the Raptors ever be on a channel that I can get? Not till November 13th when Chris Bosh will suit up against the Raptors for the first time in his NBA career. Lakers have won 8 straight games vs the Raptors at home. The Raptors did manage to defeat L.A at the A.C.C last season and Bargnani had 22 in that win. Kobe Bryant is averaging 25 points a game and Gasol 23.2 points a game. Lakers also rank first in the league in points with a shade over 113 PPG and lead the league in 3PT % shooting it at 46.8% on the young season. Two ugly signs for a Raptor D that was taken to task vs the Jazz.

Overtime Extra Point: The Raptors chances as the old expression goes are slim and none and slim left town. It might be important for the Raptors to accept their fate sooner rather then later with facing the Blazers on a back to back. How Jay Triano manages minutes in this game might be the most important thing once a victory is out of the equation.

"Jiggly Bits"

So I picked up a pro basketball publication (one of many I read) and two pages in, I see a full page ad with Karl Malone, formerly with the Utah Jazz and Los Angeles Lakers in his NBA playing days. At a first quick glance, you see a head and shoulders shot of Malone, a rifle to the left and "I'm the NRA" in bold text. Now, if he was a current player in the NBA, you wouldn't see this kind of advertisement and you shouldn't. So clearly, Lindy Sports Pro Basketball 2010 and the National Rifle Association of America are pimping out the image and legacy of Karl Malone to promote the NRA. I know, I know. Karl Malone signed a contract and got some serious cash to go along with it for appearing in an ad with a rifle next to his face. I can also appreciate his playing days are done and thus, the NBA cannot tell Karl Malone what to do anymore. I have an issue with hunting considered a sport just like basketball and with Malone's face attached to an ad like this, the magazine is endorsing this kind of classification. Shooting a basket and shooting a deer for fun are two different things and should not be considered in the same category. Further down in the ad, you see an older gentleman with a child looking over a rifle. I would much rather see Karl Malone promoting basketball to our young ones that putting a riffle in their hand. You know, I've heard some people say LeBron James tainted his legacy by how he moved to Miami. For me, Karl Malone just did it with this ad. Until someone convinces me otherwise, this is my stance. Ok, now with that out of the way, let's get down to NBA business.

NBA heeds possible terrorist attack warnings in Europe

So the Los Angeles Lakers, the Minnesota Timberwolves and the New York Knicks are in Europe for some pre-season games against each other and against some European teams. According to Minnesota Head Coach Kurt Rambis, the players who go out sight-seeing or attend fan-meet-and-greets are being given extra security detail because of the travel alert issued by the US government urging Americans to be "vigilant in public places, tourist spots and transportation hubs". Some television news outlets are reporting this travel alert was issued based on some intelligence the US government has gathered and they felt this intelligence was serious enough to issue the travel alert. Knicks Coach Mike D'Antoni is saying his players are just following procedure and not receiving any lists of 'do's and don'ts'. The travel alert doesn't seem to be affecting any of the players, either. Amare Stoudemire of the Knicks is vowing to enjoy Paris and have fun, while Pau Gasol says he has no plans to sit in a hotel room, saying "it would be a crime to stay at the hotel". I'm glad players have not been told to change their habits or sightseeing plans, but taking extra care never hurt anyone, travel alert or not. These are guys that are highly visible and in another country, so anything can happen. You can't live everyday in fear someone's out to get you - that's no way to live. Plus, whoever "they" are wins. Still, this is one distraction they don't need. Good thing it is only the pre-season.

Kobe Bryant is putting on a good show

Are the Los Angeles Lakers really falling apart at the seams? Well, let's look at the evidence. Head Coach Phil Jackson says this is his last year. Disappointing but not so bad and understandable. The Lakers are without back-up forward Luke Walton for a few games because of a pulled hamstring. But the real injury of choice seems to make some players 'weak in the knees' so-to-speak. Starting center Andrew Bynum had knee surgery this summer and will be evaluated daily but don't expect him back anytime soon. Now throw in Kobe Bryant and his right knee. Kobe Bryant is saying he wants to put on a good show and take care of his knee at the same time. Really? I know they are in Europe and the fans over there are flocking to Laker games, for the most part, to see Kobe play. But is it really worth risking injury in a pre-season game when you are the common thread which holds your team together? Tough call. Lakers Head Coach Phil Jackson says he "thinks" Kobe will play and is still taking it game by game. He also is saying his regular starters will get about 8 minutes of playing time to start these pre-season games and then the second half depends on how the game goes. Fair. But they can't afford anymore injuries.

Yao Ming - the next Shaquille O'Neal? Yeah Right.

If you haven't seen this story already, you are seriously going to laugh. So a Chinese journalist has been heard saying (on and off the record) that most Chinese basketball fans have given up on Yao Ming being the next Shaq. But wait, it gets better. The Chinese media have an explanation to Yao Ming's inability to reach SHAQdom. They are apparently blaming the ..wait for it..NBA's schedule for Yao Ming's plethora of injuries and is pleading with the NBA to shorten it's schedule. Seriously? I'm sorry guys, but this is what you get when you put all your hopes, dreams and expectations into one player to carry the sport for an entire country. Some in the Chinese media even have the nerve to say the NBA game has worn pour Yao out and he's taken quite a beating due to the long season and high level of play. Really? So what is the NBA supposed to do? Lower their level of play so Yao Ming can keep up with the big boys? Puleeze. We all know Yao Ming trains with the Chinese national team in the off-season, so the real crux for the Chinese Media is this. Decide where you want him to be - is it representing China in the NBA or on the Chinese National Team? Then when you know what side of the fence you are sitting on, let the boy play basketball, get over it and move on.

Basketball Beyond the Floor

Remember to join me here on the DNB this Thursday for a 'youthful' "Basketball Beyond the Floor". We will be looking at two how-to basketball books for the young player: Basketball: Learn to be a star player and The Young Basketball Player: A Young Enthusiast's guide to Basketball. I'll even have some youthful opinions on these two books to see if they are on the money with their target audience. Until then, happy reading.

Jiggly Bits - Danielle de Graauw

So what are you doing for Valentine's Day? I'm spending it watching the classic, yet epic drama that is the NBA All-Star Game. Every year, we talk about who got in and who didn't, who started and who didn't. And to tell you the truth, I agree with the starting line-ups in both the East and the West. However, it would have been nice to see Chris Bosh in that top five. It's too bad the coaches deciding his fate couldn't consider how the Raps have surged foward in the last 5 games. This is his fifth straight all-star game, tying Vince Carter for the most appearances in Raptors history. He's going to be busy between now and the 14th since the game will be played in his hometown of Dallas and everyone will want tickets.

NBA ALL-STAR SELECTIONS - Eastern Conference

As you all know, the coaches making selections in both conferences cannot vote for members of their own squad. This year, they've repeated themselves by picking four first-timers as All-Star reserves. Young, too - 23 years old and younger. Al Hortford (23) of the Hawks, Rajon Rondo (23 - he has teammate Paul Pierce for support and guidance in his first all-star appearance) and Bulls point guard, Derrick Rose. Now, Rose has had some injuries to deal with this season and has had to battle back. Since Christmas he has helped the Bulls to a 12-5 record and his personal stats (23.1 points, 6.5 assists, 50% shooting) are totally worthy of a spot on the All-Star Team in the East.

I think the biggest story out of the Eastern Conference Selections with only 6 teams above .500, I don't see any serious snubs. I'm thinking New York Knicks David Lee should have been at least considered. But when you consider the Knicks record so far this season (18-25), you might think this is what held him back. Is this why Chris Bosh was left out of the starting line-up? because of the Raptors record? Some of you might tell me Hedo Turkoglu was passed over, but when you're up against Lebron James, Paul Piece and your own teammate (Bosh) in the forwards category, that's a tough nut to crack. At least he made the list of considerations. Let me know what you think.

NBA ALL-STAR SELECTIONS - Western Conference

Deron Williams must be over the moon to be selected this year. He's led the Jazz to the play-offs for the last 3 years, named to the U.S. Olympic Squad, all-around awesome career so far for someone who's just 25 years old and now he's an all-star. Totally agree with this choice. Other new comers in the Western Conference? Thunder forward Kevin Durant - yes. Zach Randolph of the Grizzlies - yes. But here's where I begin to question things. Of the all-star vets that were chosen (Dirk Nowitzki, Chris Paul, Brandon Roy and Pau Gasol), Gasol is the surprise for me. I know you are probably thinking he would be the first one from that list I would defend. This is his third time being selected as a back-up centre but he wasn't even the "every day center" for the Lakers (Andrew Bynum is). Gasol has also missed 17 games so far this season. Are we thinking his superior games played aside from those missed games were so incredibly awe-inspiring, it out-weighed even his dip in the scoring category? Hmm. Something to think about.

Overall, the selections by the West coaches went pretty much according to schedule. But I thought for sure Chris Kaman was going to get the nod since he's been snubbed for the second time. Just looking at the stats and comparing him to other centres in the West, he's having a great season. Plus, the Clippers are making a real run for the play-offs (just ignore the 20-25 record part of that equation).

Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics and the Dream Team

Yes, there is a connection - sort of. So I was reading an article recently talking about where all the 2010 Winter Olympic Athletes will stay while the games are on. Guess who said this: "I'm a black millionaire - I've earned the right to stay where I want to stay". Give up? Charles Barkley. He was responding to all the hoopla surrounding the U.S. Olympic Basketball team staying at a $900-per-night hotel rather than the Olympic village back in 1992. In 2004, the "Dream Team" stayed on a luxury cruise-liner during the Athens games. Seriously? This SO bothers me. Sure, some countries competing have more money, resources and talent, but it becomes a level playing field when the athletes stay together in the Olympic Village - away from the fans and the media. It takes away from the experience and the spirit of the games when we go galavanting around five-star hotels, whining there isn't a mint on the pillow. Bad move by Team U.S.A. organizers - hope they get it right next time. There - I've said my bit.

Raptors Rewind- Lakeshow Game Notes

So I was off covering Lebron James who had a massive triple double. He had a great night at MSG. 52 points, 11 assists and 10 rebounds. I was surprised in checking in on the Raps game (which is not easy to do) that Raps were hanging with the Lakers. But based on all that happened I may be more discouraged despite what seems like a great effort. But Calderon did not play at all and Bosh would go down with a sprained knee. I mean this totally screws up everything. Bryan Colangelo is really screwed in a couple ways. First and foremost the trade deadline. J.O can not be dealt if Bosh is not healthy. That is not good when you look towards the off-season which despite what some might say is and should be the focus. You also have this Joey Graham surge. I am worried about this. Joey Graham is on fire. I even stated and meant it that Joey should be in the starting line-up. That being said if he keeps on this run is this going will it lead to him getting re-signed here in Toronto? If that happens I may go crazy because I am still not sold. Joey seems to do his best when it means the least. I just do not think he has shown up when this team is playing well and winning. I think re-signing Joey Graham would be a huge error.

1st Quarter

• Confusion of the tip and Raps get the ball.
• Nice turn around in paint For Bargnani
• Odom a stater again gets a good start.
• J.O with a bucket.
  
• Alley Opp for Kobster misfired
• Air Ball Andrea
• Derek Fisher is under rated in reality, In NBA 2K9 he is not
• Kobester nice mid range jumper.
• Joey G the first of many based on having seen the script
• J.O takes it hard at Gasol for basket and 1
• Joey G with the jammage.
• Fisher contested 3 and miss.
• Raps 10 in paint already....Big 3 line up I hate doing better against Lakers.
• AP 3 and plus 1
• The more uncontested 3 we are use to the Fisher nails.
• Kobster makes the 3 ball look like a chip shot.
• Back to back 3 balls for Cabbie's good friend.
• Andrea drives and draw the foul
• Moon continues to be unimpressive
• Kobe off to a hot start with 14 but missed the free throw
• Shocking Raps lead after 1, more shocking they scored 31

2nd Quarter

• Moon jumper and a miss, I am hating on Moon and it is deserved.
• Pau Gasol is an all star too, he shows you why
• Bosh is all star too
• Odom looking good by the way free agent 2009
• Roko shoots an air ball. That is why Parker is playing point.
• Odom is really good and you forget how much so.
• Easy buck for Farmar
• J.O having a good night as he scores gets a block other end, But Gasol finishes
• Kapono will not 3 peat in 3 point shoot out. He is awful with capital A
• Gasol scores again.
• Moon a finish of alley oop
• Roko drives and scores, I just hope this season does not impact badly on him. He has a chance
• J.O nice turn around
• great ball movement but an Andrea miss from 3.
• Odom finishes some equally impressive ball movement with a score.
• J.O takes elbow to head from Andrea but is ok and gets the score and foul to prove it.
• Joey G for 3? You are kidding me right?
• Graham hustles beat Odom to the ball, hustle did not get rewarded with point on offense.
• Kobe has gone cold. I am sure this will not last.
• J.O hooking up Joey G.
• Kobster still cold.
• Bargnani scores in paint
• J.O finding the fountain of youth lately.
• Raps lead but Laker get bucket at buzzer

3rd Quarter.

• AP working on glass tonight good job
• Lakers get a score.
• Bargnani hooked up by Bosh.
• J.O found fountain of youth on this night
• Kobe is officially uncold.
• Pau Gasol jumper over J.O
• Couple misses for Bargnani and JO
• Parker makes it happen calling his own number.
• and again he has 12 all 5 starter in double figures.
• More Joey G Highlight Material
  
• Gasol scores on offensive glass.
• Raptor offensive game has been good not just jump shots.
  
• More good ball movement leads to Bargnani drive and score
• Kobe with pretty no look pass to Gasol for the jam
• Bargnani shooting not great but made that one
• Lamar Odom picking it up with no Bynum
• Parker makes a 3 ball from his address on Parkerville court.
• Kobe finds open Walton for jumper
• JO hooks up Joey G with a nice pass
• Kobe has game.
• Moon nice board no finish
• JO making blocks and playing a huge roll on both ends
• Odom jammage
• Joey G can't miss he has 20
• Kobe unimpressed nails a shot right back at Joey.
• Roko missed an easy lay up.
• Joey G nice D on Kobe cause him to take to long and missed last second shot

4th Quarter

• Bargnani follow his miss and misses again
• Makes a 3 later
• Bosh does not look right.
• Roko drives and scores.
• Farmar scores on the second chance
• Roko drives and scores again
• Bosh on the bench and head back to locker room to get checked out.
• JO with a huge block his 7th
• Missed a dunk on other end but blocks another shot
• Farmar makes shot after block though
• Kobe with a long range step back 2 pointer. give Lakers lead
• Sasha (Paris Hilton's Favourite Player) for a big 3 pointer.
• Joey Graham easy Jam
  
• Kobe makes a play for a score
• Kobe doing it again and Lakers biggest lead of 6
• Kobe a miss and Parker though he was fouled but no call
• Parker would get a huge 3 to keep hope alive
• Kobe another miss.
• Joey basket and foul
• Kobe makes a big shot to ice it.

The Raptors did play very well. But I really did not like the tone of everyone. It was like the Raptors were being rewarded with praise for bringing effort. Guess what this is professional basketball you should bring it 82 nights a year. Raptors played up to the competition on this night. We are far beyond the point of moral victories. I am also sick of hearing how few games Raptors are out of the playoffs despite their awful record. Look they are in 14 place and as I explained that fact is far more important to me. That means you have far to many teams you have to pass to get it. Not to mention 2 of your best 3 players are hurt. No offense intended to JO and Joey Graham who were fantastic. But at this point if that is suppose to get me excited that 2 players that I don't see as part of this team's future had great nights, I am not into it. I am not being negative about things I am being realistic there is a huge difference. I would love to tell you I think this means something. However Bosh with strained knee and Calderon with a bum hammy means far more than any moral victory or great performances from anyone. 32 losses and we have not even got to the All Star break. No Bosh and Calderon you will be hard pressed to get any wins in the 4 remaining games. Not saying they will lose them all but the margin for error has got very small.More thoughts tomorrow but I don't expect to change my mind. I almost forgot the boxscore:

Raps/Lakers Boxscore

Raptors Rewind- Going Hollywood Edition

So the challenge tonight for the Toronto Raptors was a large one. They were up against the best team in the NBA lead by the defending M.V.P. Kobe Bryant has had a welcome documented history of success against the Raptors. Every time he plays this team for the rest of his career people will reference the 81 points he scored against this team. But that was an entirely different Raptor squad. Chris Bosh is a lot better now than he was then. Chris would need to show that as he would be playing once again with out J.O. He was out again for the 3rd straight game. The help for Bosh has come from unlikely source in Joey Graham over the last two games. Jason Kapono who played at UCLA and is a L.A guy will also look to build off his 16 point performance in the last game. But let's be honest the Lakers have scary depth and for evidence of that you have a talent player like Lamar Odom coming off the bench. Nothing is impossible but the Raptors would need an amazing performance just to have a chance to get a win.


The Lakers are 13-1 which is truly impressive. That is being done with Kobe scoring less and playing less minutes. Chris Bosh can only imagine what less minutes feels like. He has been playing heavy minutes and using that floor time to put up some impressive performances. No doubt mission number one for Phil Jackson's Lakers will be to stop CB4. Jackson respects Bosh as much as anyone. He in fact was fined a few years back for saying he would love to have him in Laker gold and purple. So with an A-list crowd in the building it was time to play some basketball.

1st Quarter

Kobe Bryant could make some history tonight. If he got 38 points he would become the youngest player in NBA history to reach 22,000 points in his career. The Raptors were in the black alternates in this one and they would win the tip but ended up losing possession Andrew Bynum would score for the Lakers. Jose Calderon would respond with a drive and score on the other end. We were off and running in L.A. Chris Bosh wanted to rip down the net at Staples and he tried to go in and dunk. He would be fouled and only get 1-2 from the line, 4-3 Lakers early. Kobe would get his first two point of the night from the line and Lakers were still in front by 3 early on.

Andrea Bargnani had his first two of the night. That would be answer by Pau Gasol. Andrea would then get a 3 pointer on the other end. Raptors still trailed 13-10. Raptors showed some hustle as Bynum would miss, Kobe had the rebound stole away by Jamario Moon. It would lead to a chance from line for Andrea Bargnani. This game was being played at a high tempo. Which would seem to favour the Lakers. But Raptors were hanging in the game early. Anthony Parker would cut the 6 point lead down to three points with a 3-ball. He would unfortunately head to the bench not long after picking up his second foul. But the Raptors would score in transition as Andrea Bargnani would score on a dunk as the trailer on the play. Raptors were down just 19-18 now. Jason Kapono would but the Raptors in front with their first lead of the night at 20-19. Pau Gasol would make that lead short lived. But Jamario Moon answered with a 3-ball. Gasol had another 2 points and it was all even at 23 with just under 5 minute to play in the quarter.

A Derek Fisher 3-ball put the Lakers back in front. Bosh was off to a slow start as he was 1-4 shooting to start this game. But Andrea Bargnani had picked up the slack looking good early. He had 8 points on 3-4 shooting for the Raps. Jose Calderon looked more healthy than he has in the this last stretch since his hamstring injury. He drove and scored a basket looking more quicker and effective. But the Lakers would respond as Kobe Bryant had a long mid-range jumper. Pau Gasol would then score in transition. Bosh had a jam to try and shake off his slow start. He went right at Pau Gasol just like he did in China when it was U.S.A vs Spain. Jason Kapono would make a running jumper. Pau Gasol had 12 for the Lakers but Raptors were still in it down 32-29 after 1 quarter.

2nd Quarter

So far so good if you are the Raptors. Still in the game and able to find some scoring from a number of sources shooting 48% for the quarter. Both teams would miss as Bynum was unsuccessful on one end and Bosh on the other. Paris Hilton's favourite Lakers Sasha Vujacic had an easy bucket down low in the paint. Chris Bosh would head to the bench for a break, Jose Calderon was already there as well. Could the reserves lead by Roko Ukic at the point stay in the game. Well Joey Graham was doing what he had been of late in driving to the basket. He would be rewarded with a trip to the line. He would get 1-2 and Raptors were down 36-33. Andrea Bargnani not a reserve but on the floor would get a tap back to score another 2 for him on the night. When these two teams met in pre-season the Laker reserves crushed the Raptor reserves and it was the key to victory on that night. Perhaps the Raptors remember that as to this point they were holding their own. Pre-Season can mean a little something?

Jordan Farmar had a big game in that pre-season tilt and he was on the floor and had a score. Roko Ukic would respond with a rare score for him. Kris Humphries forced a shot that would get rejected he would hustle back and commit the foul on the laker break that resulted. Laker made both from the line and had a 42-37 lead. Chris Bosh was back in but Jordan Farmar hit a 3-ball to extend the lead to 8 points and that was cause for Sam Mitchell to call a time out.

A Kapono miss and it would go out of bounds. The Lakers would take that next possession and make the lead climb to 10 points. Another failed trip and Lakers again convert and were up by a dozen 49-37. Soccer star David Bekham was among the famous on lookers that were watching the hometown Lakers start to pull away. On of the reason for that beyond the Raptors struggles on the offense, was the Lakers getting on the offensive glass with 7 rebounds giving them second chances to score. Lakers lead 51-38 as Chris Bosh would look to change his teams fate getting to the line via a Bynum foul. He made both but Luke Walton had an answer with a pass to Kobe Bryant leading to a score for Lakers on the other end of the floor. Still Bosh was not going to give it up as he would hit a jump shot to make the score 53-44 Lakers.

Still 3 minutes left in the half. Kobe Bryant was having a good start and he made another basket and had 15 points of the 38 points it would take to put him in the history books. But Jamario Moon would find his way to the line and make a pair. Andrea Bargnani making the play on defense with the block. Bosh would find an open Anthony Parker would would make a 3 pointer. Kobe Bryant would respond with the next 4 points for the Lakers. Excuse me let's make that 6 straight points. The Raptors had climbed back to within 4 points and thanks to Kobe that lead was now back to 10 points at 61-51. A Bryant miss but another one off those key offensive rebounds gathered in by Lamar Odom. It would give Derek Fisher a chance to make the lead a dozen at the half but he could not deliver. Still like the good teams do the Lakers closed out the quarter strong and had a 61-51 lead to take to halftime as a result.

3rd Quarter

It would be key for Raptors to start the second half strong if they had any ideas of pulling off an amazing upset. Lakers were being lead by Gasol and Bryant who had combined for 37 in the first half ( Bryant 21 Gasol 16 ). Bryant would need 17 points in this half to make that bit of history I mentioned off the top. I think my money is on Kobe getting it done based on the first half. Bosh would need to pick it up for his side as he had just 9 point in the first half on him. Andrea Barganani lead the Raptors with 10. More impressive for Bargnani was he had 7 rebounds to go along with that. But the Lakers were killing Toronto on the glass 27-16 with 10 of those on the offensive end.

The second half scoring would start with Andrew Bynum going 1-2 from the line. After Raptors failed to score he would get 2 more points. A Raptor turnover and Lakers made the Raptors pay and they had a 5-0 start to the half and the largest lead of the night at 15 points. That was not the start that Sam Mitchell was looking for from his team. A time out to try to figure out what went wrong in the opening moments of the second half for Toronto.

Chris Bosh would miss on a drive to the basket out of the time out. But a rare empty Laker trip on the offensive end would be taken advantage of by Jamario Moon with a 3 pointer. Another chance to cut into the lead and Chris Bosh had made a 3 pointer. The Lakers answered with a 3-ball for them. But Anthony Parker had the third straight 3 pointer for the Raptors. Despite all of this the Lakers still lead 69-60. A jump ball between point guards would be won by Derek Fisher who had got Jose Calderon upset. But Lakers failed to turn it into points and Anthony Parker would get the 2 pointer this time for the Raptors. Kobe Bryant had seen enough and would make a basket for the Lakers. The Jose Calderon and Fisher war of words continued leading to both getting a technical foul. Calderon looked to get it going for himself he would miss on a 2-ball but he would later make a 3-pointer. The Raptors were back to within 8 points. The Lakers had build the lead back up to 11 prior to the Calderon triple.

Andrew Bynum would get it deep in the paint and after his first attempt was blocked he got it back and jammed it home. Jamario Moon made a sweet pass as it looked like he was going to take a 3 pointer. But he would instead find an open Anthony Parker for the easy lay-up. Later Moon would take a 3-ball as he was wide open and missed badly. But the Lakers would get the rebound and turn it over looking for the long pass to cash in the miss on the other end. Lamar Odom had check in and he had a basket and the Lakers were back on track. The would get another score on a Bryant feed to Gasol. Laker now lead 82-69. The Raptors would turn it over and the Lakers would score again and the Raptors were back to being down 15.

Chris Bosh was struggling as well going only 4-12 from the field on the night. Jason Kapono would get a 3-ball and Lakers would respond with a 2 pointer. But just like earlier the Raptors had Anthony Parker hit a 3 pointer. Raptors were on another run. Jose Calderon would get it to Anthony Parker off a Laker turnover. Parker was slow to get up before he would head to the line. Give Raptors some credit they were not willing to just roll over and die for the Lakers. A last second Jason Kapono shot would bounce around the rim but just not fall. The score was 90-81 and despite a huge effort from the Raptors they in the end could only cut 1 point off the Lakers 10 point halftime lead. Jose Calderon already had a double double with 12 points and 12 assists. Andrea Bargnani also had a double double of 12 points and 11 rebounds. But the Lakers had done a good job at slowing down Chris Bosh and that was a big key. Bosh had 12 points on 12 shot attempts not a good ratio.

4th Quarter

The Raptors were having a great night from behind the 3 point line. They were 10-19 from the field and that had kept them in it some what. But you had the feeling the Lakers were just the better team and could respond when needed to get this win. Bosh's tough night would continue in the 4th quarter as he missed a long jumper to start the 4th quarter for him. Anthony Parker had got to the line he had a rare free throw miss but was leading the Raptor with 19 points at this point. Roko Ukic would drive and score with a unique looking lay up. Raptors had cut the lead down to just 6 points. Sasha would drive and score for the Lakers to get the first points of the quarter for them. Sasha then hooked up Trevor Ariza with a bullet pass for a lay-up. Andre Bynum had a monster jam and the Lakers flex their muscles and go back up by a dozen.

Keep in mind the Lakers were doing this with both Gasol and Bryant watching on and resting. Bynum was at the line now and he pushed the Lakers over 100 with over 7 and half minutes to play. The Lakers were all the way back to a 15 point lead now on an Ariza dunk. The score was 103-88 and the Lakers may not need to have Bryant or Gasol return. Kobe would have to pass on making history but he would gladly trade that for another win for the Lakers. The record of Wilt Chamberlin will likely remain as Kobe showed no signs of returning.

The wind seemed to be out of the Raptors sails as they had really tried hard but just were not good enough. The Lakers had now their largest lead of 19 points. Both teams seemed content to let the reserves play this basketball game to it's finish. The Raptors would be looking for a better fate versus Denver who since bringing in Chancey Billups for a second tour of duty with the Nuggets had looked great. The Nuggets were winners over Rockets earlier 104-94. But they would do it without Carmelo Anthony who left the game with a sore elbow. Perhaps the Raptors could catch a break and avoid Melo. But it would still be a tough task. The Lakers meanwhile were cruising a long with a 110-90 lead. The Raptors had just 3 made field goals in over 10 minutes of action in the 4th quarter. Jack Nicholson was convinced enough to beat the traffic and leave early. But for the Raptors despite maybe wanting to follow him could not. Roko Ukic would get his first NBA 3-ball but it was not memorable as the Lakers win 112-96 in convincing fashion.

The Raptors move on to Denver as mentioned on Tuesday. To see the ugly details of this one the boxscore is below for the brave folks out there that choose to click on it.

Lakers/Raptors Boxscore