Kobe Returns with 48

by Craig Kwasniewski

After sitting out two consecutive losses to Utah, Kobe returned with a very efficient 48 points in a 119-93 victory over Philadelphia at Staples Center. Here are a few observations from my view high up in the rafters:

-Brett, you called it right with Kobe dropping 40 and the Lakers winning. Heath Ledger is dropping by for a courtesy reach-around.

-Kobe had a very effective shooting night. All of his points came within the flow of the game. Plus it didn't hurt that he got scorching hot from downtown in the second half (7-7 for the game). Easily, Kobe could have had 50 plus, but he sat for much of the 4th. No surprise that one year after running Rudy Tomjanovich's chuck-and-duck offense, Kobe isn't complaining that the Triangle Offense is boring.

-It's really tough to see C-Webb struggle under the boards. The guy just can't jump anymore. Hard to see the likes of Brian Cook and Devean George (???) lock him up down low. Four years ago this guy had one of the quickest hops in the game. He used to run roughshod in the paint, dunking put backs left and right. He's still a good player, just not the man-child of the Fab Five days. (Another Fab Five Pic)

-I forgot the added bonus of Philly fan when the Sixers come to town. Like A.I., they always bring their A game to the arena; loud, sporting colors and popping off. Their noise died down as Kobe was banging threes in the 3rd quarter.

-The Kobe-A.I. feud didn't materialize. A.I. had a good game (31 points off 11-22 from the field), but the game wasn't close enough to get their blood boiling. Smush Parker matched up on A.I. for most of the game.

-I actually like the mix of talent that Philly has. Staring with the veteran scoring and leadership from A.I. and Webber, they mix in young athletic talent in Iguodala, Dalembert and Salmons plus Korver's shooting. I hope GM Billy King adds some depth to the bench and gives this team some time to gel. They could be very good next year.

-Finally, the previous post was our 100th so far. Thanks to everyone that has stopped by to take a look at the infant stages of this thing and thanks to all for the links and participation. Congratulations Brett!

Comments

[rem]

we all expected Kobe to score 30 to 40+ but i am sure that not even u guys expected his 7 three pointers

it saddens me though to see A.I. still have no real supporting cast (i admit its getting better but they are still a ways off if they seriously want to contend in the East). He's been in the league now what, 10 years and look at what he's got to work with...

Here's to hoping the same doesn't happen to Mr. Mamba

BTW...congrats on 100th post
keep up the good work

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