By Craig Kwasniewski
Allen Iverson and the Denver Nuggets roll into Staples Center tonight. This will be the first time that I'll ever see AI in the intimidating/daunting/imposing powder blue uniforms. I stayed away from checking them out on TV knowing that I'll see them tonight high up in section 316.
Given the recent criticism of the trade, you may think that I'm not a big Iverson fan. Actually, I love watching the guy play live. He's easily one of the top 5 draws in the game and whenever he come to town there's a good vibe to Staples Center.
From a distance, this game looks very winnable for the Lakers. But given last night's overtime win over Sacramento, the Lakers (especially Kobe) will be fatigued for the game. Did you see Kobe in the post-game interview with David Aldridge last night? Gone was the deep Jordanesque voice with the whole "it's a great challenge" cliché. Instead he was speaking in softer tones... he looked exhausted.
By the way, Sacramento took awhile, but they finally caught on to how to beat the Lakers. Simply double-team Kobe in the 4th quarter all over the floor and force him to pass. Who would you rather take a shot, the best player in the league or a bunch of stiffs with both hands around their neck like Smush Parker, Brian Cook and Sasha Vujacic? I expect more of the same defensively from Denver.
The Nuggets have gone 2-4 since the AI trade. Injuries, player suspensions and the AI learning curve all contributed to the slow start. Once they get everyone back from suspensions, I expect the Nuggets to roll off a nice winning streak after All-Star break. Still, with George Karl as a head coach, I guarantee a meltdown by April and a disappointing post-season for Denver.
Hard to pick tonight's game given that both rosters are depleted. The Lakers being tired will counter the home court advantage. I expect a close game with both AI and Kobe having great finishes... the Lakers win a close one 107-104.
the kings finally figured out how to beat the lakers by double teaming kobe . huh .
i thought by having charles barkley in the tnt tv booth for the game analysis .
Posted by: NIKEY | January 05, 2007 at 08:13 AM
Dont kid yourself, the Kings haven't figured out how to beat anybody. You can blame their management for that.
Posted by: Schism | January 06, 2007 at 11:41 AM
Schism, I understand your frustration. I actually miss having the Kings be a playoff contender. The NBA needs good rivalries and the Lakers-Kings one ranks up there.
Maybe the Kings can get some quality players for Artest.
Posted by: Craig | January 06, 2007 at 11:55 AM
A.I. is really good with the Nuggets. I am surprised that he would help us win so meny games.
A.I. has let the dog out of his cage. RUN!!!!!!
keep going A.I.
for shizle I will zizel
Posted by: Cody Van Ry | May 17, 2007 at 01:41 PM
A.I. is really good with the Nuggets. I am surprised that he would help us win so meny games.
A.I. has let the dog out of his cage. RUN!!!!!!
keep going A.I.
for shizle I will zizel
Posted by: Cody | May 17, 2007 at 01:43 PM