Apparently, “maintaining” meant for him to continue playing an all-around game that has, perhaps, completely changed the outlook of the team’s situation, because the Black Mamba did it again: 14 points, eight rebounds and 11 assists. Over the past three games, Kobe is averaging a robust 16.3 points, 8.6 rebounds and 13 assists – all victories.
Who would ever have thought that Kobe would take over the play-making duties from Steve Nash? The point guard has averaged just four assists during this winning stretch – the lowest average in a 3-game stretch for him since the 2000-2001 season.
It doesn’t matter, though, because Nash playing off the ball has allowed him to get some great looks, and he is still one of the best in the business when it comes to knocking down shots. Averaging 14.7 points on 59 percent shooting over the past three games proves that notion, and the high percentage in makes is clearly allowing Kobe to trust – something that probably wasn’t going to happen if the receiver of the pass was, say, Chris Duhon.
Webber may not feel as optimistic about what the Lakers may accomplish this season after seeing how bad they have been this season, but it feels as though this team is finally starting to click in a way it hasn’t clicked all season on a consistent level. If you’re a suffering fan who isn’t accustomed to all the losing, that’s all you can ask for at this point.
Tweet of the Day: Danilo Gallinari
Tweet of the Night: Stephen Curry
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zsivkdo4pjg
Webber still bitter his Queens couldn’t beat the Lakers in his prime. Yes, Kobe wasn’t called for bloodying Bibby’s nose in Game 6; but the Kings had a chance in Game 7 in OT at home…and blew it. Sour grapes from Webber. Blew a chance at a championship in college with his technical foul time out and blew a chance at a championship in the NBA at home vs Kobe and Shaq in 2002.