Yannis' Lakers Journal

Nothing better to put away a five game losing streak than a two game winning streak. Blowing out Philly and then beating a tough Clippers team in their building (well sort of). In this winning streak, Kwame has been inserted into the starting lineup. This move was primarily made to give Kwame some confidence, bolster our bench scoring, and help the defense.

In his two starts at the 4, Kwame has done a good job. The story of the winning streak however is Kobe Bryant's 49 ppg average, putting him in the top spot in ppg over Iverson. He's simply willing this team to win and he makes the game so much easier for everyone else.

Brian Cook, who did everything to keep his starting spot, is back coming off the bench. Even coming off the bench, Cook needs to get 12-14 shots. His spotting up ability is simply incredible and with guys who can penetrate like Lamar and Kobe, he gets open shot after open shot. He's becoming one of the most reliable shooters we've had in a long time. It took a few seasons, but Cook looks like a great sleeper pick(24th overall), good job Kupchak.

Chris Mihm has looked pretty good so far in 06. He's done a good job in staying out of foul trouble, and finishing strong above the rim. We're a better team defensively when he can keep him out there on the floor. Him along with Kwame and Lamar gives us one of the biggest front lines in the NBA, and a very strong advantage on the boards.

Decision time is coming for the Lakers, Tuesday is the deadline to sign second round pick Ronny Turiaf. Bill Bertka has been keeping an eye on him, saying he's about 75%. Turiaf is too good of a talent for the Lakers to let go play overseas. He can contribute to this team, not right away, but in time. Cutting Devean Green, who averages .9 points and 1.1 rebound wouldn't hurt the team in the least.

So with the Clippers and Warriors having 17 wins, the Lakers are very much in the thick of it in this division. Catching Phoenix, who will be getting Amare back within a month or so according to reports, may be too much. They need to take care of business at home Monday night against a hurting Indiana Pacers team in order to start breaking away from the pack.

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• #1 Comment from trinitybballteam 
  1/24/06 7:47 AM | Permalink

  hey i love yur journal! it rocks! i also luv the lakers!