The real Woodland Hills

Let me explain the picture first. On my way to the 24 hour fitness in Woodland Hills yesterday at noon, we drove by this house on Vanowen Blvd a few blocks away from Fallbrook Mall. Obviously I didn't realize that Woodland Hills is the center of what appears to be a crack/meth/weed/whatever drug they might have been selling ring.

This was in broad daylight. Just your typical 10 people standing outside a house with their hands behind their back on a major street and a few police cars on the side of the road. Needless to say, we flipped a bitch to look again and then returned the scene so we can drive by and take this picture. I apologize for the mirror on the left. I'm a writer, not a photographer. Anyways, if you look closely, you can see an old women chilling in a rocking chair on the top left. Apparently, she wasn't being arrested.
Also, since when does it take only two cop cars to arrest multiple people? On cops, there's like 5 cars and 10 officers chasing down one guy. But these alleged felons went down easy?

Two other important things to notice:

Baller 11 15 21 (3:43:54 PM): you have to look really really hard. but the cop on the left has a stache
Baller 11 15 21 (3:45:50 PM): and the two guys in the all black shirt and pants getting arrested look like they have been arrested before, just by looking at their stance

In other criminal related news:

I just recently saw the South Park episode with R. Kelly singing "In the Closet" to Tom Cruise and John Travolta. It's hilarious.

One of coaching's most famous drunk drivers, Eddie Sutton is back replacing former Arizona assistant Jessie Evans as the coach at San Francisco.
If you get insider, Andy Katz blogs about all the shady business behind the hiring. Evans apparently did not want to take his "leave of absence." Kind of interesting that two coaches with Arizona ties are currently on leaves of absence.

Keon Clark says he's never played a game sober. Ahhh. That explains it.

Check it out: My Daily News article on SMU signee Justin Haynes and his Palmdale squad at the Hart Holiday Classic.

Holiday Cheers

Let me start by apologizing to all the faithful fans of Roman's Empire. Recently, I've been the Space Cadet of the blogosphere. In other words, I've been lazy, and kinda out of it. I've thought hard about going into rehab because fantasy football has made me an emotional wreck. Knowing that Peyton Manning, TO, and LT all won't play in a pivotal week 17 final will do that to you.
But there's no crying in fantasy football so I will spare you the rest.
We have a lot to get to.

First and foremost,
I attended the greatest NBA game I have ever been to. The Christmas Day Lakers/Suns extravaganza where the Lakers played their best basketball in the last three years. Here's a quick rundown:

1. 10 highlight plays at least. Trevor Ariza's dunk over Grant Hill will be a top 10 play of the year. Kobe's 180 dunk through the lane was exciting as well. Throw in several alleyoops to Andrew Bynum and one to Ariza, and you had a lot of moments that brought the Laker crowd to its feet. Oh and by the way, Kobe just had 38 points on just 20 shots to go with seven assists. He also wished Merry Christmas to Steve Nash, who he called brother, and to George Lopez , who sat courtside. And Phil Jackson wore a Christmas Bowtie.

2. I sat in a suite with an open bar, all you can eat food (most which I could not pronounce but it was good) and a front row seat in that suite. Did I mention open bar.
Now I've always been against suites, but with the right mindset (I never missed a play and I went with real Laker fans) sitting in a suite is OK. Did I mention it was free?
I will still contend that given the choice I would take a courtside seat over a suite with an open bar any day. But believe me, I'm far from complaining about my day. This Jew had a great Christmas gift.

3. The crowd was on time. Staples Center was completely full before tip-off. There was a buzz in the air, and to throw out the most cliche saying in NBA history, there was a playoff atmosphere. But in this case it's true. The Lakers/ Suns series is developing into a real rivalry after two playoff meeting the past two seasons, and not just a personal rivarly for me, who thinks all Suns fans jumped on the bandwagon starting with the 2004-2005 season.

4. Would you still trade Andrew Bynum for Jason Kidd? In his last 9 games, Bynum has averaged 16.8 points and 11.0 rebounds per game. He's 20 years old and catches everything around the rim, no matter how bad the lob pass. He has great hands, unlike Kwame, and is still just growing into his body. He has improved every year he's been in the league (hard to believe it's already his third year) and he's second in the NBA in dunks, behind Dwight Howard.

5. Trevor Ariza's resurgence. Aside from all the highlight dunks and the joy Ariza brought to Laker fans, he was a real factor defensively in the starting lineup. Take out Luke Walton and insert Ariza, and you have five players on the floor who are at the worst average defenders. Derek Fisher might not be quickest of foot, but he's a smart and capable defender, Kobe is one of the top defenders in the league, Lamar Odom is long and alters shots, Bynum is a terrific last line of defense with his shotblocking, and Ariza can guard three positions. Finally, the Lakers have a lineup that can both defend and score.


Along came a Prince

"We're seeing the emergence of a superstar."

Those words, by ESPN's Karl Ravech, were used to describe none other than J.P. Prince at halftime of a game between Tennessee and Xavier.

Prince scored 16 points, in the first half. He finished with a career high 23 points.
Even in his first two games since he became eligible to play after transferring from Arizona, Prince put up impressive numbers. Thirteen points, seven assists, and four rebounds against UNC Asheville and eight points, seven rebounds, and two assists against Western Kentucky.

He went to his right for a layup, then on the ensuing defensive possession took a charge. You ever think you'd see that?

He has become the Vols sixth man as opposed to being the 13th man for the Wildcats.
I can't say I ever saw it coming. This is the same Prince who lacked any kind of work ethic during his time at Arizona, according to sources, but maybe Bruce Pearl's free to do whatever you want system fits Prince well.

As for the Wildcats, a big game against Memphis coming up on Saturday will be a true test to see exactly where this team stands in the big scheme of things. Memphis, a squad that is still undefeated and playing great basketball, will challenge the notion that Arizona's defense is truly improved.

And then also: My Daily news recap of the Hart Holiday Classic basketball tournament

As always, an updated Lakers +/- (through 28 games) Lakers: 18-10, 6th in West

Fisher +77
Kobe +144
Turiaf -18
Odom +80
Mihm -16
Walton +98
Bynum +137
Farmar +81
Radmanovic +146
Brown -5
Vujacic +18
Crittenton -26
Karl +5
Ariza -35

Up Next: vs. Utah Friday 7:30 p.m. PST FSN

The Lakers of today and yesteryear

In light of the Lakers blowing another fourth quarter lead against the Cavs Thursday night, I have a few fun youtube videos of the Lakers in their prime. It's behind the scenes footage. By the way, here's what Derek Fisher had to say about the Lakers loss:

"We've lost 10 games (this season) and just by my guess, I'd say six have gone the way this one went. We've had leads and didn't finish the third quarter properly or made mistakes in the fourth quarter. "You can't do that in this league. No lead is safe. Teams are too good."

And that's the kind of insight that makes Derek Fisher my favorite Laker, with Ronny coming in at a close second.

Now to the videos:

Must watch Shaq song about Vlade and the Kings

Now you know why Shaq and Kobe hated each other

Check it out: My daily news article on CSUN basketball vs. Vanguard

As always, an updated Lakers +/- (through 25 games) Lakers: 15-10, 6th in West

Fisher +74
Kobe +110
Turiaf -15
Odom +64
Mihm -19
Walton +94
Bynum +117
Farmar +67
Radmanovic +133
Brown -5
Vujacic +14
Crittenton -19
Karl +5
Ariza -21

Up Next: at Philadelphia, Friday 4 p.m. PST (really at 5:30 on KCAL though because of the stupid tape delay)
Everyone has tivo by now, stop showing games on tape delay. This is ridiculous.

Deng or Kobe, hmmm...

Anyone still want Luol Deng? Didn't think so.
Ingnore the numbers from yesterday. Pay more attention to the records of the two teams. The Bulls, toiling at the bottom of a weak Eastern Conference while the Lakers compete with the big boys out west. The Lakers supporting cast is much improved, no doubt. I mean look at Sasha Vujacic's 19 point effort last night, to lead all Lakers, in the 103-91 win over the Bulls. That followed a 14 point game for him against the Clippers. But truth be told, give Kobe the Bulls supporting cast and they would have a better record than Lakers.

Deng is a terrific complementary player. He's a mid range jump shooter with a high basketball IQ. He's Carlton compared to Will Smith. He's great when you put him around stars, but can't carry others on his shoulders.

By the way, Ben Wallace had 5 rebounds in 28 minutes. I'll just continue to say I told you so. I bet they wish they had Tyson Chandler back.

Chandler is averaging 11.6 rebounds per game to Wallace's 8.7. On top of that, he adds 11.6 points also, to Wallace's 4.5. He also shoot 58% from the field to Wallace's 34% and makes $5 million a year less than Wallace.
John Paxson= smaaaaart.

And then also:
Kevin O'Neill will officially succeed Lute Olson when Arizona's coach legendary coach decides to retire. That could be sooner than some think. Sources tell me Olson may never coach again. One source even went as far to say that he'd bet $100 bucks Olson would not come back.


As always, an updated Lakers +/- (through 24 games) Lakers: 15-9, 5th in West

(Note: technically the Lakers are 4th in West, but since Denver is leading the Northwest division, they would receive the higher seed. Still, the Lakers, who would face Denver in the first round in the 4/5 matchup, would have the homecourt advantage. Sidenote: Having three divisions is stupid.)

Fisher +64
Kobe +102
Turiaf -17
Odom +61
Mihm -19
Walton +86
Bynum +123
Farmar +81
Radmanovic +137
Brown -5
Vujacic +24
Crittenton -19
Karl +5
Ariza -4

Up Next: at Cleveland, Thursday 5 p.m. PST

Kill Brian Westbrook Volume 1

I'm glad I've had work this week to occupy my mind, because if I didn't I would either be murdering Brian Westbrook or committing suicide.
There are no words for what Brian Westbrook did to me and other fantasy owners who saw their championship hopes dashed thanks to the dumbest decision in fantasy sports history.

Devastation is not what happens in floods, earthquakes, or other natural disasters. Devastation is when you have the best team in your league, get a first round bye, and then lose in the semifinals by 3.8 points when your star player decides not to score a td and stop at the 1 yard line.
He has to be the only NFL player to ever commit this egregious act in the NFL's history.

Just in case you don't know what happened. Philadelphia Eagles running back Brian Westbrook took a handoff from the 25 yard line with his team up 10-6 over the Dallas Cowboys and a little over two minutes remaining, then proceeded to intentionally fall down at the one yard line so his team could run out the clock.

(Notice the video title is selfless Brian Westbrook when it should read Selfish Brian Westbrook)

Touchdowns in our league are worth six points. In my two week semifinal matchup against my old college roommate Duff, I ended up losing by 3.8 points.

I was shocked, saddened, disappointed, angry, vindictive. If you are a poker player, it would be like having pocket aces against a guy who had a 5, 6 off suite and went all in blind at the Final Table at the World Series of Poker. Then the flop comes and you get another ace, only to have the guy get a 7 on the third card of the flop and then runner 8, runner 9 to beat you. You'd never forget it. As good as Westbrook was for my team this year, I'll never forget that play and what it caused.

I have only one explanation for his actions. He's the first player to point shave for a fantasy game. I mean, all the evidence points to that being the case. Duff lives in Vegas so he has access to the major players in the gambling industry. Westbrook was told by a big white guy not to run into the end zone (Jon Runyan).
The Eagles were not favored and thus had already covered the spread since they were winning, so that nixes the gambling on the game theory.

In a league where the Patriots run up the score by passing with 38 point leads, there's no way an NFL player would just stop short of scoring a touchdown. Where are Jeremy Schapp and Rachel Nichols. There needs to be an E60 report on this ASAP.
Where is the loyalty from Westbrook to my team? What could have possibly been going through his mind? He had to be in fear for his life. I demand an investigation.

And then also: The intrigue of the stache

From Paul Shirley's blog: The former NBA journeyman discusses the power of the stache.

"...Next, I made my most important stop of the night. I walked over and inspected a teammate's new mustache.

Marko Marinovic and I had discussed mustaches the day before. It is my dream to play for a team whose players will each agree to grow a mustache. In our discussion, Marko had said he was thinking about shaving his facial hair, leaving only the aforementioned facial accessory. I enthusiastically encouraged him to do so; I had been contemplating how best to broach the conversation with the group. Since my shaving habits had been aping Gandalf's for a while, I pledged to follow Marko into the mustache pool, thinking that two would be a good start to a team full of Wyatt Earps.

I was pleased to see that he had followed through. But now we needed to win. No one would get on the mustache wagon if it was perceived as bringing bad luck...

Marko made the free throw. We won. The crowd went berserk. The other team looked around in disbelief. We lifted Marko into the air like he was a boxer. He forgot to point at his mustache. Oh well. Perfect nights are hard to come by."

Plus:
Remember when I questioned whether any team would sign the players named in the Mitchell Report.
Well the Dodgers answered that question quickly. They signed admitted HGH user Gary Bennett to be their backup catcher.

No word yet on whether they're also trying to trade for Eric Gagne.

Catch up on High School Hoops:
My Daily News recaps of the San Fernando Valley Invitational

The NBDL experience

I attended my first NBDL game yesterday. I would tell you that LA D-Fenders play in front of friends and family, but that would mean they don't have much of either. The Jewish Community Center draws an equivalent amount of fans, although I do put on a good show.

The actual basketball isn't bad. Of course this is coming from a guy who can name where every NBA player went to college, and most high schools for those who apply. There are a number of very good former collegians including Syracuse' Darryl Watkins, who unlike the other D-Fenders doesn't have his last name on the back of his jersey.
Former Seton Hall star Andre Barrett of the Bakersfield Jam just has Andre on the back of his.

Others included former Georgetown and Westchester star Brandon Bowman of the Jam and USC's Erick Craven for the D-Fenders.
Ex- Arizona and Lakers center Sean Rooks is an assistant coach for the Jam. Jim Harrick is the head coach.

In addition, the Jam have a guy named O'Neal Mims, a combination of Shaq and the rapper behind the "jam" this is why I'm hot. Two last names also, a rare combination.

At my courtside seat, I peer over to my right to find AC Green. I can't picture AC without the whole abstinence thing he's known for, so talking to him was out of the question, lest I accidentally bring it up. But I'm glad that he's now getting "his", if you know what I mean.

The D-Fenders won 117-101, not that it matters, and my interview subject, former Canoga Park player Cecil Brown scored 10 points.

Most of my postgame highlights involved walking by Lakers and Clippers.
As Chris Kaman walked by, he almost elbowed me with the backswing of his left arm. The Caveman, AKA Big Silly, does not avoid physical contact.

Here's the full list of people I walked by: Corey Maggette, Brevin Knight, Ronny Turiaf (Note: In my head I told him I was the only one rocking your jersey at Thursday's game), Sasha Vujacic (I almost hit him, and I suspect he would have flopped).

As for the Laker game, which I missed because of my mom's birthday (plus I wouldn't have had a seat), the Lakers beat the Clippers 113-92. Thanks Tivo for your effort. I actually just watched the game today without knowing the score originally. I impress myself sometimes.

A few things that stood out:

Kobe +31 in 36 minutes, almost a full point up per minutes. Guarding him for most of the game was Cuttino Mobley who had a game low-22. Second highest + rating was Andrew Bynum at +17.

Also Brevin Knight is really, really bad. I already despise point guard who can't make an 18 footer, but Knight proves that guys who can't make a 14 footer can still play in the NBA. He was 1-for-6 all on short little jumpers with four points in 24 minutes.

As for the Arizona game, there's not much to report aside from Fresno State doesn't belong on the same court with the Wildcats. Arizona handily tossed the Bulldogs aside 69-50.
Fresno State scored one field goal over an 11 minute span at one point, missing 15 of 16 shots. Freshman Jerryd Bayless, who led the Wildcats with 21, has scored in double digits in every single game. Even for a highly touted freshman, that's impressive. Neither Derrick Rose or Eric Gordon have done that, though Gordon did get hurt.

By the way, Bob Elliott thinks Chase Budinger "doesn't have his legs." If so, that's a problem this early in the season. With all the work Budinger put in, maybe a rest in between would have been beneficial.

Up next for Arizona: at UNLV, Wed. 7 p.m. PST

And then also: I think I speak for all Brian Westbrook owners, when I say: WHAT THE FUCK WERE YOU THINKING, ARE YOU KIDDIN ME?

Plus: Rich Eisen is the man

As always, an updated Lakers +/- (through 22 games) Lakers: 14-9, 6th in West

Fisher +61
Kobe +89
Turiaf -11
Odom +43
Mihm -19
Walton +84
Bynum +105
Farmar +72
Radmanovic +140
Brown -5
Vujacic +18
Crittenton -19
Karl +5
Ariza -4

Up Next: at Chicago, Tuesday 5:30 p.m. PST

Two steps forward, one step back

It's not as disconcerting that the Lakers lost while Kobe clanked his way to a 6-of-23 evening as the fact that the Lakers were in control of the game. The Warriors led once in the first half and had at most a two point lead in the third quarter. The Lakers were up by as many as 11. They led 102-94 with just 3:18 left.

After that, the Lakers shot 0-of-4 and 3-of-6 from the free throw line. The misses from the line were by Kobe, Lamar, and the reliable 93% free shooter Derek Fisher. Throw in two turnovers in the last three minutes to boot.

The problem, closing out games, is similar to last season. The Lakers are the second youngest team in the league and that is substantial but thus far this season, it appears they aren't learning from their mistakes.

The Warriors ended their nine game losing streak to the Lakers, and Baron Davis blew kisses to the crowd after Golden State's 108-106 victory.
As Lakers beat writer Mike Bresnahan put it, "that's never a good thing."

And then also: The Dodgers signed Japanese pitcher Hiroki Kuroda. The starting rotation now looks like this: Penny, Lowe, Billingsley, Kuroda, and Schmidt/Loaiza.


As always, an updated Lakers +/- (through 22 games) Lakers: 13-9, 6th in West

Fisher +49
Kobe +58
Turiaf -13
Odom +33
Mihm -21
Walton +70
Bynum +88
Farmar +65
Radmanovic +129
Brown -5
Vujacic +14
Crittenton -21
Karl +5
Ariza +3

Up Next: vs. Clippers, Sunday 6:30 p.m. PST

Bynum ejected, Turiaf dances Lakers to win

Last night I attended my first home Laker game since Kobe scored his 10, 000 point. I know it's been a long time but my blogging salary doesn't allow for extravagant expenses.

My Ronny Turiaf jersey was a success. Turiaf replaced the ejected Andrew Bynum, played 24 minutes and scored 8 points to go along with 6 rebounds, 2 blocks, 2 assists, 1 steal, and plenty of energy and dancing. LA fans apparently haven't caught on though. I didn't see another Turiaf jersey in the crowd but one of the guys selling t-shirts thought I was wearing a Michael Cooper jersey. Have no fear, the Ronny show is just beginning.

Without Bynum, the bench stepped up and led the Lakers to a 102-97 victory over the defending champion San Antonio Spurs, sans Tim Duncan and Tony Parker, who both missed the game with injuries.

Speaking of Bynum, the 20 year old was ejected for the first time in his career. He bumped Fabricio Oberto as he was running down the floor and then went after the officials. It wasn't quite the infamous Bynum/Shaq bumping of two years ago, but it was significant.

Bynum apologized to everyone after the game for getting ejected. His teammates, the fans, the coaches.

But I don't need an apology from him. I like his competitive spirit. I like that he cares. The knock on him coming out of high school was his dedication to the game. Did he really enjoy basketball or was he just a 7-footer forced into the sport?

"Andrew should be proud of himself," Kobe Bryant said after the game. "First ejection. He went out in style."

Now that's what I'm talking about. An aggressive, angry, and competitive 7-foot center. Where have we seen that before? And best of all Kobe likes the fire he sees from the youngster.

And also: Kobe says he's happy to be here

Not smarter than a fifth grader: Asked for a one word assessment of his team, Mets GM Omar Minaya said, "championship caliber."

Sinking ship: You know hockey is dead when the league takes out an advertisement section for its players in Sports Illustrated because the magazine and its writers never cover the league.


As always, an updated Lakers +/- (through 21 games) Lakers: 13-8, 5th in West

Fisher +53
Kobe +57
Turiaf -12
Odom +27
Mihm -21
Walton +72
Bynum +89
Farmar +63
Radmanovic +135
Brown -5
Vujacic +17
Crittenton -21
Karl +5
Ariza +5

Up Next: vs. Golden State 7:30 p.m. PST

Cheaters

Fifty names aren't close to enough to the amount of players actually using steroids in the past decade. Unfortunately for the players in the report, they will be the ones to have to answer on behalf of at least 20-30% of major leaguers. If you ever saw Kevin Brown and the way he oiled up his arms before starts, you would have known it was inevitable his name would pop up on this list. Though guys like Eric Gagne and Paul LoDuca would have been easy to suspect (see Gagne's injuries and LoDuca's lone 20 homer seasons) it is disappointing to find their names.
A number of guys who played for the Dodgers are on this list and blame should be spread to those who stood silent while watching the slander of baseball. Owners, managers, and front office executives should also be held accountable.
Here are some of my thoughts after reading some of the report.

• The two major sources, Kurt Radomski and Brian McNamee are screwed and should be fearful for their lives. Scott Boras is likely hiring mercenaries as we speak.
  
• With all the evidence (signed checks, personal notes) how will the players on the list defend themselves and will anyone believe them?
• Will Major League Baseball actually strengthen the drug testing program?
• Will ESPN's Fernando Vina, an ESPN analyst defend himself on ESPN?
• Will Roger Clemens, the man who appeared in the most ESPN commercials, be vilified on ESPN like Barry Bonds has been?
• Will Clemens be a Hall of Famer while Bonds is excluded?
• Where is Brady Anderson (50 homers in 1996, no more than 24 in any other year) and Luis Gonzalez (57 homers in 2001, no more than 31 in any other year)?
  
• Will other names come out in future journalistic reports?
• Will teams pursue players who appear on the list and how will fans of those teams react?
  
• Senator Mitchell wants everyone to focus on the recommendations but it doesn't take a genius to realize the answers are tougher testing by an independent source. The Olympics figured that out a long time ago. Or as Bob Ley said, "duh."
  

Here are the details on Brown, LoDuca, and Gagne
Kevin Brown
Radomski said that Paul Lo Duca referred Brown to him in 2000 or 2001 when
Brown and Lo Duca were teammates with the Dodgers. Brown called Radomski and they spoke about human growth hormone for one or two hours. Radomski said that Brown was “very knowledgeable” about human growth hormone. Brown was placed on the disabled list in June 2001 with a neck injury and in July 2001 with an elbow injury. After Brown got hurt, he called Radomski again and asked for human growth hormone.
Radomski said that he sent human growth hormone to Brown by overnight mail
and called Brown several times to make sure he had received it. Brown finally returned Radomski’s call and confirmed he had received it. Soon thereafter, Radomski returned home one day to find an express delivery package from Brown on his doorstep, wet from the rain.
When he opened it, he found that it contained $8,000 in cash. Radomski called Brown and told him not to check the signature waiver box on the overnight delivery package when he was sending cash, because the envelope was left on Radomski’s doorstep for several hours and could have been taken.
According to Radomski, over the next two or three years he sold performance
enhancing substances to Brown five or six times. Radomski recalled that Brown usually purchased multiple kits of human growth hormone. Brown sent cash, sometimes as much as $10,000, to Radomski by overnight mail, and he used his agent’s business address as the return address. At one point, Brown asked Radomski for Deca-Durabolin to help with an ailing elbow, and Radomski sold it to him. (In 2002, Brown was placed on the disabled list with an elbow injury.)
Brown’s name, with an address and several telephone numbers, is listed in the
address book seized from Radomski’s residence by federal agents. Agents also seized an Express Mail receipt dated June 7, 2004 addressed to “Kevin Brown, [address].” A copy of that receipt is included in the Appendix and is shown below.
In the notes of the October 2003 meetings among Dodgers officials, it was
reportedly said of Brown:
Kevin Brown – getting to the age of nagging injuries . . . Question what kind of medication he takes . . . Effectiveness goes down covering 1st base or running bases. Common in soccer players and are more susceptible if you take meds to increase your muscles –doesn’t increase the attachments. Is he open to adjusting how he takes care of himself? He knows he now needs to do stuff before coming to spring training to be ready. Steroids speculated by GM.
Less than two months later, the Dodgers traded Brown to the Yankees.
In order to provide Brown with information about these allegations and to give
him an opportunity to respond, I asked him to meet with me; he declined.

Eric Gagne
Although he is not sure when, Radomski recalled that Lo Duca called Radomski and told Radomski that Gagné was with him and wanted to buy human growth hormone. Gagné then came onto the phone and asked Radomski a question about how to get air out of a syringe. This is the only time Radomski spoke to Gagné. Radomski said that Lo Duca thereafter placed orders on Gagné’s behalf.
Radomski said that he mailed two shipments to Gagné, each consisting of two kits
of human growth hormone. One was sent to Gagné’s home in Florida; the other was sent to Dodger Stadium. Federal agents seized from Radomski’s home a copy of an Express Mail receipt showing a shipment to “Dodger Stadium, c/o Eric Gagne – L.A. Dodgers Home Club, 1000 Elysian Park Ave., Los Angeles, California 90012” dated August 9, 2004. A copy of this receipt is included in the Appendix and is shown below. Radomski said that this was for one of the shipments of human growth hormone to Gagné.
Lo Duca paid Radomski for one of the shipments to Gagné by cashier’s check in
the amount of $3,200. The Lo Duca checks supplied by Radomski reflect two payments of $3,200 (each the cost of two kits) within a six-week time frame during the summer of 2004.
Radomski said that, on one other occasion, Gagné sent Radomski $3,200 in cash by FedEx. According to notes of the October 2003 meetings of Dodgers officials, it was reportedly said of Gagné that: “he probably takes medication and tendons and ligaments don’t build up just the muscle.”
When the Boston Red Sox were considering acquiring Gagné, a Red Sox official
made specific inquiries about Gagné’s possible use of steroids. In a November 1, 2006 email to a Red Sox scout, general manager Theo Epstein asked, “Have you done any digging on Gagne?
I know the Dodgers think he was a steroid guy. Maybe so. What do you hear on his
medical?” The scout, Mark Delpiano, responded, Some digging on Gagne and steroids IS the issue. Has had a checkered medical past throughout career including minor leagues. Lacks the poise and commitment to stay healthy, maintain body and re invent self. What made him a tenacious closer was the max
effort plus stuff . . . Mentality without the plus weapons and without steroid help probably creates a large risk in bounce back durability and ability to throw average while allowing the changeup to play as it once did . . . Personally, durability (or lack of) will follow Gagne .

Paul LoDuca
Todd Hundley referred Lo Duca to Radomski when Lo Duca played for the
Dodgers. Radomski estimated that he engaged in six or more transactions with Lo Duca. In some transactions, Radomski sent the performance enhancing substances by overnight mail to Lo Duca’s home or to the Dodgers clubhouse and Lo Duca sent Radomski a check a week or so later.
Radomski produced copies of three checks from Lo Duca, each in the amount of
$3,200. All are included in the Appendix. Radomski said that each check was in payment for two kits of human growth hormone.
Lo Duca’s name, with an address and telephone number, is listed in the address
book seized from Radomski’s residence by federal agents. During that search, federal agents also seized a note from Lo Duca to Radomski.
It read: Kirk, Sorry! But for some reason they sent the check back to me.
I haven’t been able to call you back because my phone is TOAST! I have
a new # it is [Lo Duca’s phone number is listed here]. Please leave your #
again because I lost all of my phonebook with the other phone.
Thanks
Paul
In 2002, Lo Duca was quoted by Sports Illustrated in an article responding to Ken
Caminiti’s admission of steroid use. Lo Duca was reported to have said: “If you’re battling for a job, and the guy you’re battling with is using steroids, then maybe you say, ‘Hey, to compete, I need to use steroids because he’s using them . . . Don’t get me wrong. I don’t condone it. But it’s a very tough situation. It’s really all about survival for some guys.”
According to the notes of an internal discussion among Los Angeles Dodgers
officials in October 2003 that were referred to above, it was reportedly said of Lo Duca during the meetings:
Steroids aren’t being used anymore on him. Big part of this.
Might have some value to trade . . . Florida might have interest.
. . . Got off the steroids . . . Took away a lot of hard line drives.
. . . Can get comparable value back would consider trading. . . . If
you do trade him, will get back on the stuff and try to show you he can have a good year. That’s his makeup. Comes to play. Last year of contract, playing for 05.419
On June 26, 2004, Lo Duca wrote a check to Radomski for $3,200. On July 30,
2004, the Dodgers traded Lo Duca, Guillermo Mota, and Juan Encarnacion to the Marlins.
On August 7, 2004, Lo Duca issued another check to Radomski for $3,200. In January 2005, Lo Duca signed a three-year contract with the Marlins.
The handwritten note shown below on Dodger Stadium stationary from Lo Duca
to Radomski was seized from Radomski’s house during a search by federal agents. Radomski said that this note was included with a check Lo Duca sent Radomski as payment for human growth hormone.

Mailbag

1. benjaminsbacon: you think AZ will make the tourney?

I know what you're saying. Are you kiddin me, the Wildcats just knocked off Texas A&M and Illinois. First of all, the question was posed prior to both games. (I'm sorry, send more emails/ims). Second, Illinois is unranked and the Texas A&M game was a comeback of epic proportions. The win over the Illinois was also a great comeback. Can the Cats continue to play 20 good minutes of basketball and still knock off quality teams? Unlikely.

Without Laval Lucas Perry who transferred (see post below), the Wildcats' depth is that much thinner. An injury to any of the top three (Bayless, Budinger, or Hill) would likely be too devastating for a run at over .500 in the Pac-10. With that said, Arizona will make the tournament barring a catastrophic injury, but it's looking more like another 8 or 9 seed, which means yet another first or second round exit. Better hope Jerryd Bayless sticks around or these 8 and 9 seeds will be all too commonplace.

2. Doofyuofa: you think lute is gonna come back?

My initial reaction to Olson's statement that he'll be back in 2008: He's just trying to make sure Brandon Jennings and the other recruits don't go anywhere. Abdul Gaddy, the Wildcats prize recruit of 2009 told goazcats.com he's committed to Arizona and not to Olson, but teenagers minds change more often than BCS standings.

Still, it's hard to imagine that Olson will want to go out in such a tainted manner. The man hasn't missed a year of coaching in over 50 years. Like Bobby Bowden and Joe Paterno, this is a man who lives the game and yearns to teach. He's healthy, despite the rumors and if his family situation is resolved (which is questionable) there is no question he will be back. If it is not, his return may be delayed, but regardless Olson will be back on the sidelines coaching the Wildcats at some point.

3. Who will be the third assistant?
Now that Kevin O'Neill is the head coach, Miles Simon and Josh Pastner are the only assistants on the staff, even though NCAA rules allow three assistants. There are several options for the Wildcats.

1. Hire no one and promote coordinator of basketball operations, Jessie Mermuys, to assistant coach along with his other duties, while having Matt Brase learn the ropes of Mermuys job.

2. Bring former assistant Jim Rosborough back. That sounds good on paper, but coming back for a half season would be a huge hit to the ego, even if Rosborough is a great person. Few people would be willing to take a job knowing they will essentially be asked to step down for a second time.

3. My personal favorite. Bring in Sean Rooks. The Wildcats have lacked a real big man coach for as long as I can remember. Rooks is one of Arizona's great big men and is looking for a coaching opportunity. I spoke with him at the Long Beach Summer League two summers ago and he is enthusiastic about teaching the game. Hopefully for the Wildcats, Josh Pastner takes a head coaching job somewhere and Rooks can stick around. If not, Rooks adds a solid coaching position to build his resume. Everyone wins.

4. Did I get a Ronny Turiaf jersey?
Yes, check it out.

Did you know? Both Budinger and Bayless are shooting over 45% from three point range. The last Wildcat to shoot that well from beyond the arc was Salim Stoudamire.

NCAA hoops coaches thank Shawn Kemp's baby mamas: Shawn Kemp Jr. has received offers from Clemson, Georgia, and Ole Miss.

Ouch: Check out the Nutty Buddy
(courtesy of Jason Kleinman)

And then also:

Zach Randolph said he's bothered by the openness of fans' animosity.

"It's real hard. I ain't never been in a situation like that and I don't understand," Randolph said. "I guess they say it's New York fans, but you know it's real tough. Honestly. Especially for me, because I've never experienced every time a player walks off the court you're booing.

"Everywhere else, in Portland, fans were a big part of our team. Fans are a big part of every team everywhere you go. We need the fans to be supportive with us, even when we're down."

Apparently, Randolph only remembers Portland fans cheering him. He forgot, however, that they were cheering his exit out of town. The city was sick of players like Randolph on its team and now that Randolph is in New York, that city is sick of him too. Get used to the booing Zach.

Up next for Arizona: Sunday vs. Fresno State 12 p.m. PST

Wildcats losing players and recruits

Laval Lucas Perry saw the writing on the wall. He saw what happened to the career of Daniel Dillon. Lots of partying and not much success on the basketball court. He saw Nic Wise tearing it up, saw Brandon Jennings and Abdul Gaddy coming in to the program in the next few years. He realized playing time might not only be scarce this year, but may be scarce for his entire career. So Perry, decided to transfer.

Add to that the uncertainty of Lute Olson's future and you can understand why he made such a decision, even if it did catch many by surprise. Perry was supposed to the be tough nosed football player type who was going to change the culture of the program. The defensive minded bull who would complement the finesse guards. Now the freshman class is down to four. Two of them are impact players. Jerryd Bayless may be gone after this season. That leaves the Wildcats with Jamelle Horne, Alex Jacobsen, and Zane Johnson, plus a lot of what could have beens. It's a part of big time programs to lose players to transfer. Just last year, the highly touted J.P. Prince left. Soon, we may find out Perry's reasoning, but whatever it is, there will be plenty more who leave like him for years to come.

Meanwhile, the Wildcat football team lost the best running back on rivals.com to rival ASU.
Mike Stoops saved his job late in the season, but it's becoming more apparent, he will have to attempt to save his job against next season.

Throw Back This

The only thing better looking than the throwback jerseys the Lakers wore last night (in picture above) was the way they played. Andrew Bynum tied a career high with 20 points, the Lakers controlled the pace, running selectively, and slowing it down to run the triangle when appropriate, and they came out with their ninth straight win over the Warriors, 123-113.

Without Luke Walton, Trevor Ariza showed why the Lakers traded for him. Against a team like the athletic Warriors, Arizona is better suited to be on the floor than Walton anyway. Ariza scored 11 points and grabbed four rebounds, but more importantly, he got to the free throw line 10 times. Against an aggressive and attacking team, he was the aggressor. Maybe against a team like the Spurs, Walton's basketball IQ and his ability to move the ball and be in the right position will help the Lakers. It's now nice to have two guys in the back up small forward role who the Lakers can use to their advantage. Good riddance Brian Cook and Maurice Evans.

As for Bynum, he continues to show improvement.

"I thought that was one of the keys, to have Andrew and Ronny (Turiaf) effectively tag-team with each other out there," coach Phil Jackson said, according to the LA Times.

And then also: CSUN gets pounded by Gonzaga

Plus: Jason Richardson used to play Hockey

As always, an updated Lakers +/- (through 20 games)

Fisher +57
Kobe +64
Turiaf -21
Odom +33
Mihm -21
Walton +76
Bynum +93
Farmar +54
Radmanovic +118
Brown -5
Vujacic +4
Crittenton -21
Karl +5
Ariza +3

Up Next: Thursday vs. San Antonio 7:30 p.m.

Pass that douby

Since no one watches the Clippers, here's what you're missing. This is an actual conversation in the second quarter of the Clips/Kings game between play by play man Ralph Lawler and analyst Mike Smith.

Lawler: "Only 24 today, is how old Al Thornton is. Happy Birthday to Al.
Smith: What'd you get him?
Lawler: Douby. (Quincy Douby was shooting a three from the corner)
Smith: (incredulously) You got him a douby?
Lawler: (Laughing) I got him a douby. And I wrapped it real nice, in special douby packaging.


I feel like you need to know these things.

And then also:

Erik Bedard was 4th in the AL in ERA, last year, ahead of Josh Beckett and CC Sabathia.
He was second in WHIP behind Johan Santana.

Plus: Marcus Williams isn't even making this much:
"Salaries in the D-League range from $12,000 to $27,000 per season. Of the 10 players on every NBDL roster, two will reportedly make $27,000, two will make $18,000, and the other six will make $12,000. NBA players that are assigned to the D-league will be paid by their NBA teams according to the contracts they signed with them, making their paydays at least 15 times as much as the highest paid non-NBA developmental league players." (courtesy of NBA Draft Express)

Arizona trivia
Antoine Cason won the Jim Thorpe Award, given to the top defensive back in the country.
The last Wildcat football player to win a major award was Steve McLaughlin who won the Lou Groza Award in 1994, given to the best kicker.

Northridge in for a challenge against Gonzaga

Editor's Note: Since the Daily News doesn't print my previews of Northridge basketball games, I'll be posting previews of some of the bigger games here.

For the first time since their loss to No. 12 Kansas in the 2001 NCAA Tournament, Cal State Northridge will face a ranked non conference opponent. The Matadors are in Spokane, Wash. today for their toughest test of the season against No. 17 Gonzaga at McCarthey Athletic Center.

“It’ll be a great experience for our guys,” Northridge coach Bobby Braswell said. “The reason we scheduled this game was we wanted to get our guys ready for conference and everything else.”

The Bulldogs (7-2) are coming off a 51-47 loss to No. 8 Washington State but present a challenge unlike any of the teams Northridge has faced while winning seven of its first eight games.

Rodrigue Mels, the Matadors sixth leading scorer at 8.5 points per game is “day to day” according to Braswell. Mels didn’t suit up Wednesday against Utah Valley State after reaggravating a groin injury. However, the Matadors will have the services of freshman forward Michael Lizarraga, who was cleared to play after his appeal to the NCAA was granted.

Lizarraga, who is deaf and played at the California School for the Deaf, has had to adjust to the Matadors signals, Braswell said. He dressed and participated in warm-ups Wednesday but did not play. Braswell said there will be times this season when the Matadors will need his 240 pound body inside.

“He’s very strong, very tough kid, gives us a physical presence on the inside that sometimes we miss a little bit,” Braswell said.

Despite Northridge’s gaudy record early in the season, the Matadors face an uphill battle playing in one of the toughest arenas in the country. Still Tremaine Townsend, who’s averaging close to a double double at 11 points and 9.9 rebounds per game, thinks they have a chance.

“We expect the crowd to be loud and maybe underestimate us and look past us,” Townsend said. “But we’re going into practice (Thursday) working hard and getting ready because we’re not gonna let no team look past us and we’re gonna come and give it all we got.”

Gonzaga’s early season schedule, as always, has been one of the most demanding in the country. Already the Bulldogs have played against Texas Tech, at St. Joseph’s, at Connecticut, and versus Washington State. Coming off a loss should only serve as motivation. Gonzaga scheduled the Matadors along with Northern Colorado in what appears to be a chance to relax before it plays Oklahoma, Tennessee, Utah, and Georgia in a brutal four game stretch.

The last time Northridge made a blip on the national radar was in 2001 when it beat No. 12 UCLA early in the season. Now the Matadors have another chance.

“We’re going to have to play perfect basketball to beat them,” Braswell said. “There’s no doubt about it.”

Lute Olson files for divorce

According to the Arizona Daily Star, Lute Olson filed for divorce.

Apparently the marriage rumors were true after all. There's more to it than meets the eye as well. An issue within Lute's family made the marriage, which was already rocky, even tougher and Lute decided to go in a different direction. Many close to the team thought this day would come a lot quicker.

Also, Christine didn't like basketball as much as she let on. Originally, she didn't know anything about the game, but she told the public that she had picked it up fast and appeared to be Arizona's biggest cheerleader. That was a front. She wanted more time with Lute and basketball took him away too much. She's heavily involved with the Republican Party and enjoys the control. In this case, she didn't have it.

It's a tough situation, but for everyone involved with Arizona hoops, it was time to put the issue out there and halt the uncertainty surrounding the program. I'm glad Lute will be back next year because he's still a legend in college basketball and whenever he decides to leave, it will be a sad moment in Tucson.

Lute out for the season

Lute Olson will return to the Wildcats. But not until the 2008-2009 season, according to FoxSports.com.
Still no word as to why Lute has been out, but one good point I heard today: "He didn't miss a year for Bobbi's death."

Meanwhile, without Lute, the Wildcats play nine games over "winter break. "Here's a breakdown of what to watch for by my boy Michael Schwartz.
By the way I appreciate the love from the people commenting on that story.

And on a side note, no longer having a winter break saddens me immensely.

Oh, and by the way. Daniel Dillon started three games this year and played in all six games before getting the dreaded DNP-CD against Texas A&M. And this was explained where? As always there is some cover up going on in the Arizona program and I guarantee Dillon just didn't "match up" well against the Aggies. I'm gonna go with either "conduct detrimental to the team" or the good ol "breaking team rules." Come on Tucson journalists, get to the bottom of this. I'd like to know why a senior starter and the man who was supposed to be this year's defense stopper played 0 minutes against a top 10 team.

Just a thought: Why would baseball players receive shipments of HGH or whatever drug they were getting at their home address? Why not either have it sent to A) P.O. Box or B) a friend/relative/middle man's house who wouldn't be under the public or government scrutiny. I think that would make sense, to not leave your footprints all over the place when you're doing illegal activities. But they are just baseball players I guess.

Defending Juan Pierre:
Let me preface by saying I already think Keith Law's opinion is clouded because he actually liked the Andruw Jones signing. But he also has this passionate hatred for Juan Pierre.
"Any scheme that puts Pierre in an everyday role hurts their offense almost as much as it hurts my eyes," he wrote.

Why do you hate Juan Pierre so much? Granted he's overpaid, just like Andruw Jones and half of all other MLB players, but he's a guy who batted .293, stole 64 bases, and never strikes out. His OBP isn't great, but it's only .06 lower than Alfonso Soriano and higher than guys like Ryan Zimmerman, Jason Bay, J.J. Hardy, and Andruw Jones. Hmmm.

He plays hard, messes with pitchers heads using his speed on the basepaths, and can hit in any situation. You can hit and run, run and hit, suicide squeeze, or run any play in the book with Pierre. Having a guy like that is a huge advantage for any manager though with the lineup Torre had in New York, it's unclear whether he still remembers that bunting is a part of baseball.

Dodgers break their piggy bank

Let me make this crystal clear. Signing Andruw Jones to a two year 36.2 million dollar contract was not a good move. Sure it makes a splash, but ultimately throwing huge money at overrated players will drown your team. You'd think the Dodgers would have learned.

They've signed floundering veterans before. Jason Schmidt for two years comes to mind. How'd that work out? The Darren Dreifort deal is one of the most notorious but that was before the current administration. Then there were two Scott Boras clients like Andruw Jones. Kevin Brown and J.D. Drew, and Dodger fans couldn't be more elated when the two were run out of town.

Andruw Jones was a superstar. The emphasis is on the was.

As ESPN's Rob Neyer said, "Sure, Jones was a great player for a few years, mostly because of his stellar defense. But while he's still a Gold Glove-quality center fielder, his defense has slipped and will only slip further. Meanwhile, fundamentally he's never been a truly great hitter. Now past his prime, Jones' career hitting stats -- .342 on-base percentage, .497 slugging -- are merely good, and he's finished higher than eighth in MVP balloting just once in his career. And again, he's past the age at which we would expect him to get better. So that's where the market's at: $18 million per season for good players."

In a recent poll of 15 AL GMs, 14 said they'd go with Torii Hunter over Andruw Jones. The other said he'd take either.

Jones stats last year fall short of underwhelming. The only thing worse than his .222 average was his .311 OBP. He had a career worst 26 home runs, not counting his rookie season.

In his book, Jayson Stark labeled Jones the most overrated centerfielder of all time.

Though Hunter is making $18 mill a year also, he did sign for five years. However, he had a very good season, hitting .297 and winning his seventh gold glove award in centerfield. He, unlike Jones is in good shape, and most importantly doesn't appear to be declining.

The Dodgers signed an overweight, underachieving, and fading star to a contract where he makes $18 million a year. Moreover, one of the Dodger rising young outfielders (Matt Kemp, Andre Ethier) will either have to take a back seat or will be involved in another trade.

Furthermore, Jones has struck out at least 100 times in every year he has been in the major leagues. He's a rally killer. While the Dodgers had guys like Juan Pierre, Nomar Garciaparra, and James Loney who rarely struck out, you can add a guy to the lineup who will be feast or famine. And judging from the direction his career is heading, it'll be more famine than feast.

You just know Jones, Schmidt and Boras all sit around with umbrella drinks laughing about how great Ned Colletti is.

And then also:
Check out the Clippers playoff chances.
Not looking too good. More importantly, the Bobcats chances aren't much better, so it looks like I'll be $20 richer at the end of the season. Thanks Todd.

Plus: Thanks for listening ESPN. The Worldwide leader is giving more airtime to Mercury Morris, who apparently raps.
I promise you this is hilarious. Someone get this man a variety show.

Must read: Northridge basketball is off to its best start in 19 years.

So much to talk about:

This post is already too long, but I will mention that I am excited about how the Lakers played last night. Overcoming a monster 51 point effort by Allen Iverson, digging to win despite foul trouble for Kobe and Lamar, and executing late in the game. The 111-107 win on the road in a the second of back to backs was a joy to watch.

As always an updated Lakers +/- (through 19 games)

Fisher +45
Kobe +42
Turiaf -16
Odom +11
Mihm -21
Walton +76
Bynum +78
Farmar +49
Radmanovic +113
Brown -5
Vujacic +15
Crittenton -13
Karl +5
Ariza +10

Up Next: Sunday vs Golden State 6:30 p.m. PST

Wolves provide holiday for Lakers

The Minnesota Timberwolves would be better suited matching up against UCLA, North Carolina, or Memphis than anyone in the NBA. With about 10 fans in attendance because of a snowstorm, the Lakers polished of the T-Wolves 116-95. Javaris Crittenton, Trevor Ariza, and Sasha Vujacic all got extended minutes and Chris Mihm played well. That's all you really need to know.


And then also:
After his guest spot on Monday Night Countdown and his hilarious commentary on the Patriots from a golf course, I think Mercury Morris deserves his own show.

Kobe and Ron Artest wish you a happy chanukkah

Two pretty sick white rappers freestyling

The Tigers traded for Miguel Cabrera and Dontrelle Willis. Their lineup of Granderson, Polanco, Cabrera, Sheffield, Ordonez, and Guillen will now kill opposing pitching. On behalf of the Dodgers front office and Kyle from South Park, I'd just like to say... You Bastards!

As always an updated Lakers +/- (through 18 games)

Fisher +44
Kobe +33
Turiaf -16
Odom +1
Mihm -12
Walton +86
Bynum +65
Farmar +47
Radmanovic +103
Brown -5
Vujacic +17
Crittenton -11
Karl +5
Ariza +12

Up Next: today at Denver

Where is Lute?

I can't count the amount of times people have asked me over the past month, where is Lute? And when is he coming back. After the initial period of allowing Lute to have his privacy, speculation has increased with each passing day without an explanation.

Greg Hansen of the AZ Daily Star suggests Lute Olson might not be coming back at all.

I've heard a lot of rumors, most of which I don't want to disclose because I think they are complete bullshit. Some may have merit, and whenever Lute resolves this issue, I hope he doesn't continue to keep everyone in the dark.

At this point, I'm not so sure even the players know exactly what's going on, and my sources have their opinions but have not heard directly from Lute.

In the meantime, Jay Bilas made some good points last week that many other media outlets failed to point out. Here's what he wrote:

"Arizona coach Lute Olson took a leave of absence Nov. 4, more than three weeks ago, and we certainly all wish Olson the very best. While it went unnoticed to some, Olson's announcement was not prepared by the school, but by a private firm, which was quite unusual. As of Sunday's battle with Kansas, nobody at Arizona had any real idea when Olson might be back to coach the team. About a week ago, interim coach Kevin O'Neill said Olson told him he'd be back soon. But there is no timetable for Olson's return."

"While other coaches have taken leaves of absence before, Olson's situation is a strange one, and I wonder whether Olson needs some time to assess whether he still wants to coach. In other situations in which a coach took a leave of absence, there was certainty. We knew the reasons behind the leave, and when or if the coach would return. In Olson's situation, he has not yet spoken to the team and has not let his coaches or administrators know what is going on. Programs need certainty, and right now there is uncertainty surrounding the Arizona program."

"As this situation drags on, expect more and more questions to arise regarding the reasons behind Olson's leave. And the longer this goes, the harder it will be on the players and coaches. There is nothing wrong with Olson taking leave, but it will soon be necessary to determine whether he will come back this season or not. It would not serve the Wildcats program well to have this kind of uncertainty going into December. Fortunately, this is not O'Neill's first rodeo, and he has the experience to handle uncharted territory."

The most interesting thing about Bilas' opinion is the fact that Lute wouldn't let the program handle the public relations work. Obviously, he doesn't trust that the team and those close to it to keep the issue to themselves and he thinks this issue is so private that he can't even let the players he coaches know when he's coming back.

Without Lute, Arizona made a 20 point comeback against No. 9 Texas A&M on the backs of Jerryd Bayless and Chase Budinger. Apparently, Kevin O'Neill was listening when I wrote that Bayless needs to play the two guard. Nic Wise played 26 solid minutes against the Aggies and allowed Bayless to come off screens and shoot his way to a career high 26 points. When he wasn't shooting, Bayless was feeding the ball inside to Jordan Hill off curls that gave Bayless the option to shoot or pass. I fathom to say that Lute might not have made that offensive adjustment at halftime.

While Arizona had a nice afternoon, the Lakers continue to be inconsistent, blowing a lead in a 104-97 loss to the Orlando Magic.

As always an updated +/- (through 17 games)

Fisher +34
Kobe +17
Turiaf -16
Odom -8
Mihm -29
Walton +71
Bynum +65
Farmar +37
Radmanovic +93
Brown -5
Vujacic +10
Crittenton -10
Karl +5
Ariza 0

And then also: If you love high school girls' soccer, then my Daily News article is for you

Back down to earth

The question prior to last night's Laker game against the Utah Jazz was, can the Lakers play consistently? The loud and clear answer is NO! Defense was again the main culprit, particularly stopping penetration and even more particularly, the penetration of Deron Williams.

The Jazz point guard now becomes the 2,345th point guard to break down the Lakers defense. So it's a problem, and one the Lakers have had since Phil Jackson came on board. They no longer have the excuse of Shaq not playing well against the pick and roll. It's now purely a lack of man to man ball defense by Derek Fisher, Jordan Farmar, and Kobe when he continuously gambles for steals.

After the euphoria of the win against the Nuggets, the Lakers came back down to earth. It appears the ups and downs won't go away any time soon.

And also: When you just can't hold it in

It would have great television if ESPN's cameras went to Walker relieving himself the sideline. That commentary would have been priceless. If only Rick Majerus was there.

As always, Lakers +/- (through 16 games)

Fisher +30
Kobe +26
Turiaf -15
Odom -3
Mihm -32
Walton +80
Bynum +74
Farmar +48
Radmanovic +95
Brown -5
Vujacic +6
Crittenton -10
Karl +5
Ariza 0

Crank that Sasha Vujacic

I can't contain my excitement.
I want to dance like Ronny Turiaf, swinging and waving his arms like a lunatic on the sideline. Kobe Bryant, who sat the entire fourth quarter in the Lakers 127-99 win over Stephen A Smith's pick to win the NBA Championship, the Denver Nuggets, looked at Ronny and probably thought to himself, who is this crazy guy on my team?
The Lakers were fun to watch tonight. The Cowboys won in a shootout, and all my fantasy players in the game did well (TO, Greg Jennings, and Donald Lee). And to put the icing on the cake, Sasha Vujacic had a career high 22 points along with a post game interview with Cheryl Miller. Now Sasha will never top Slava Medvedenko's classic after he had a career high, but Sasha was entertaining in his own right.
He attributed the bench's second half performance to "meditation with Phil Jackson before the Staples." Then he gave a shout out to the fans getting tacos, twice. Sasha has come under a lot of criticism for under performing, but you can't question his effort and his heart. He's a big reason the chemistry of the bench has been so good. Like he said, "it's all about having fun."
He's a fun loving kid and it's nice to see him do well.

As for Kobe, he continues to do things no one else in the NBA can come remotely close to doing. Recently, he's begun to enjoy making no look passes. When Andrew Bynum and Ronny Turiaf are in the game, guys who can actually catch passes and finish, Kobe looks to get in the lane and dish. Check out his 7 assists in 29 minutes, to complement his 24 points and six rebounds. Best of all, Kobe isn't isolated. He's part of the conversations on the bench. He laughs, jokes, and appears like he wants to be here. He looks like he's having a good time and that's the sign of a good team. Watch the Knicks body language. There's a reason they lose by 50. Those guys don't want to be around each other, they don't want to be at the game, and they don't want to compete. The Lakers are competing and I'm enjoying watching them play.

Phil isn't going anywhere
The LA Times reports Phil Jackson is staying for another two years.
Best coach in the business so no complaints about the high salary from me.

And then also:
I'll let this video speak for itself

As always, Lakers +/- (through 15 games)

Fisher +51
Kobe +46
Turiaf -8
Odom +26
Mihm -31
Walton +79
Bynum +102
Farmar +50
Radmanovic +90
Brown -5
Vujacic +16
Crittenton -4
Karl +5
Ariza +2

Bayless should play the two

If you were around Arizona basketball last year, you may remember the is Arizona basketball elite question? I didn't ask it and didn't necessarily agree at the time, but with the way this season has started, there is at least some legitimacy to the question. I bring this up because I was searching for a box score for today's Arizona game, and I couldn't find one. There was no gamecast, no play by play. Nothing on espn.com or cbssportsline. Elite programs get updated boxscores or at least a boxscore shortly at the end of the game.

Now I still think Arizona is an elite program. Witness the No. 2 ranked recruiting class next year with the help of the No. 1 recruit Brandon Jennings. Witness their blowout of Cal State Fullerton today. Witness their impressive performance at Kansas, despite a lack of execution down the stretch.
Arizona is an elite program, but for the third straight year, this is not an elite team.

My other talking point regarding Arizona is the confusion at the point guard position. The Wildcats started with Jerryd Bayless playing the point and realized in the first five minutes of the Kansas game when they fell behind by double digits that Bayless is better served playing the two. Of course the problem is Arizona has no one to play the one, even though Nic Wise had the game of his life against Kansas.

Still, the Wildcats are better suited throwing Wise into the pg slot and letting Bayless do what he does best. And that's score. Admit the mistake, Kevin O'Neill and Lute Olson, and play Bayless at the two. Let him be the No. 2 option behind Chase Budinger because the toll it takes to handle the ball, distribute, and score is too much.
Yesterday against Cal State Fullerton, Bayless played both guard positions and Laval Lucas Perry saw some time at the one. Maybe, the coaching staff is catching on. Let's hope they find more and more time for Bayless at the two.

There is an elephant in the room
I hate to talk about the Sean Taylor for two reasons. 1. What happened was a tragedy. 2. I don't know the facts.
However, I strongly doubt that this was a random burglary as the police are currently reporting. Sean Taylor's murder not random. Antrel Rolle, one of his best friends, certainly doesn't think so.
The intruder or intruders didn't take anything. How many burglaries involve nothing being stolen?

"This was not the first incident," Rolle said. "They've been targeting him for three years now."

Rolle said many former "friends" had it in for Taylor, who was trying to build a more stable life.

When his best friend, who has known him since they were six years old, comes out and says something like that, you have to question how this possibly could have been a random attack. Put that together with the fact that there was a break-in at his house eight days earlier and someone left a knife on his bed, you don't have to be Sherlock Holmes to figure out there is something shady going on.

Jose Calderon vs. T.J. Ford

I don't want to yell reverse racism, but I have no other explanation for why Sam Mitchell plays TJ Ford over Jose Calderon. And I'm not just saying that because Calderon just put up back to back games of 7 points and 13 assists and then 19 points and 14 assists without Ford in the lineup.

Why are people not outraged over this egregious lapse in judgment?

According to 82.games.com adjusted +/- for the Raptors they are +2.9 points with Ford on the floor and +4.1 when he's not on the floor. When Calderon is on the floor, the Raps are +5.5. Without him they are +1.7. If you haven't figured it out, my visual analysis is supported by the mathematical analysis. Memo to Sam Mitchell: The Raptors are better with Jose Calderon on the floor.

Since T.J. Ford is continuously injured and in and out of the lineup, it makes sense to start Calderon to give the team a constant at point guard. Let Ford come off the bench and be an energy spark. Of course, the Raptors traded for Ford, who's got a nice big contract, and they want to see the return on their investment. If he goes to the bench, management would be criticized, despite the fact that Bryan Colangelo wasn't around for that deal.

By the way, Sam Mitchell has also taken Andrea Bargnani and Jason Kapono (both white) out of the starting lineup. Just saying.

And then also:
I bet even Sam Mitchell would like to see Marko Jaric playing for his squad as long Marko's hot ass girlfriend Adriana Lima is in the stands.

Much Respect to Tracy McGrady for going to visit Darfur and telling his story.

Vlad the Not so Great

Vladimir Radmanovic, the Lakers current starting power forward is 1 for his last 13. He's 0-8 from 3-point range in the past two games. Against other teams' second units, the Space Cadet was fine. In fact he was thriving as witnessed by his +/-. Against teams' starting power forwards? Not so much.

Now for the good news. The Lakers snapped their three game losing streak with a 106-99 win over Seattle.

Kobe had a monster game. 35, 8, and 6. He was in attack mode. Stu Lantz attributed his poor performance the past couple of games to a cold. Stu is trying to pull out all the stops since Chick passed away. When Chick did games, Stu's job was to take the broadcast into commercials. Aside from that, we rarely heard from him. And that was a good thing. Stu was great in small doses.
"And Derek Fisher said 'take that young fella' on the Lakers back to back to back championship basketball network."
Too much of Stu (including his halftime analysis) is too much for me.

And then also: Choke job
For the second time in three nights, a player had a chance to tie a game with three free throws. After Kobe made the first two and missed the third against the Nets, JR Smith did the same against the Pacers last night.

(through 14 games)

Fisher +38
Kobe +39
Turiaf -20
Odom +13
Mihm -34
Walton +54
Bynum +94
Farmar +40
Radmanovic +71
Brown -5
Vujacic -4
Crittenton -9
Karl +5
Ariza -3

Lessons in how to lose

In light of Sunday's Laker and Arizona games, and the disastrous events that occurred in those games, here is a guide to losing basketball games:

1. When the game is on the line, have Vladimir Radmanovic and walk-on Bret Brielmaier take potential game winning shots. This is especially important when Radmanovic was 0-9 prior to the shot and 0-6 on 3-pointers. Even more important when you have the game's best player on the floor (one Kobe Bryant) and he has brought you back to tie. If you have Chase Budinger who scored 27 points or a good shooter in Jerryd Bayless, make sure you pass to your walk-on power forward and have him take a deep two pointer.

2. If you're down by three points with about 45 seconds left and you have time to make a defensive stand and tie the game, make sure you foul. If you foul, make sure your best player (Budinger) commits the foul. If he already has four fouls, even better.

3. Blow leads. Of course it's easy to lose right from the start, but why not make it more agonizing for everyone involved by not executing down the stretch. If you're Arizona, then flirt with a four point lead with 3:30 left to play and a two point lead with 30 seconds left. If you're the Lakers, better make the lead double digits. Fourteen points in the first half and a seven point lead in the third quarter will do.

4. Don't guard the lob play. No matter how many times you get burned, continue to let Brandon Rush and Darrell Arthur get behind the defense for easy dunks.

5. Miss big free throws. If you need one free throw to tie after you got fouled on a three point shot (Kobe) make the first two, then miss the last one. If you're down 67-65 in overtime, miss the front end of a one-and-one (Budinger). Nothing starts other teams' runs like missed front ends.

6. Turn the ball over. A lot. Arizona turned it over 25 times. Bayless had seven. Niiiice. The Lakers turned it over 18 times.

7. Get in early foul trouble. When you already have little depth on the front line, it's important to pick up two quick ones (Jordan Hill). Have your bench players (Brielmaier) and stars (Budinger) foul out. That always helps.

8. Whatever you do, don't make smart decisions in key situations. Not making boneheaded plays leads to wins. Wins lead to the absence of criticism. And then what will you use as motivation?

Now go out there and play not to lose. I mean win.

The NBA: Where Sasha happens
Rands' response to Sasha hitting the big 3-pointer to put the Lakers up 96-94 with 1:28 left in the second half.
By the way, after the game we found out that an overly friendly Richard Jefferson actually knew who Sasha Vujacic was. He even pronounced his last name correctly when he could have called him Vuja-kick.

He still got his
Brandon Rush talking about having to chase Chase Budinger around screens.
"They was moving a little bit on the screens but I ain't complaining. He still got his but we're just happy to get the win right now."


Elite Eight baby
My article on the USC soccer team advancing to the Elite Eight

Very interesting
NFL mock draft with NBA players

The SEC: Where great football games happen
Hope you weren't at the gym for these two thrillers. No. 1 LSU lost in triple OT to Arkansas. Razorback running back Darren McFadden played quarterback, running back, returned kicks, filled up water bottles and gave post game massages.
Tennessee held off Kentucky in 4 overtimes to secure a spot in the SEC title game.

And for good measure after this crazy Thanksgiving weekend of sports, here's an updated +/- for the Lakers. As always Chris Mihm rounds out the bottom of the list.

(through 13 games)

Fisher +19
Kobe +23
Turiaf -10
Odom -1
Mihm -44
Walton +50
Bynum +97
Farmar +52
Radmanovic +65
Brown -5
Vujacic +5
Crittenton -9
Karl +5
Ariza -3

$50 to get Chris Mihm off the Lakers

Here's what I don't understand.

The Lakers have two go-to players. Kobe and Lamar Odom. What kind of sense does it make to take out both Kobe and Lamar at the same time? Wouldn't it benefit Lamar to "get his" while Kobe is out of the game? Wouldn't the Lakers offense have someone to throw the ball to with the shot clock running down when Kobe is out of the game?

Apparently the Zen Master is set on going 5 in 5 out like Rick Pitino did with Kentucky and my old sophomore coach did in summer league. The offense, like it did in the 107-94 loss to the Celtics last night, sputtered. The Lakers missed 15 of their first 20 shots, and couldn't muster enough of a run to ever get back in the game.

The most disconcerting aspect of the second consecutive loss for the Lakers is the fact that I was actually asking for Kwame Brown back. While Kwame's hands still resemble a slip n slide, at least he defends. On the other hand Chris Mihm could win the award for biggest waste of space in the NBA. Mihm has an agonizingly atrocious -44 this year. When Chris Mihm is on the floor, the Lakers can't score, while the other team scores at will. It's so painful to watch, Buller, Todd, and I discussed how much money we would pay to have Chris Mihm kicked off the team.

For the record, I offered $50.

Lakers updated +/- (through 12 games)

Fisher +9
Kobe +14
Turiaf -5
Odom -15
Mihm -44
Walton +70
Bynum +93
Farmar +64
Radmanovic +73
Brown -5
Vujacic +4
Crittenton -9
Karl +5

Lakers suffer setback, Cats Cruise

Redd slows Kobe to get Bucks to fourth straight win.
That's the AP headline for the Lakers loss last night. I didn't realize you can slow someone to 27 points and 11 free throw attempts.
The NBA: Where anyone can win on any given night in the regular season happens.
The Lakers shouldn't have lost night. They played lackadaisical in the fourth quarter and they got burned.
But it was the second game of a back to back on the road so all is forgiven. Bad losses are going to happen.

Meanwhile, Arizona got ready for Thanksgiving by giving thanks to its schedule maker. The Wildcats blew out D II Adams State 88-64.

Lakers updated +/- (through 11 games)

Fisher +30
Kobe +28
Turiaf +4
Odom 0
Mihm -25
Walton +64
Bynum +94
Farmar +56
Radmanovic +74
Brown -5
Vujacic +3
Crittenton -9
Cook -9
Evans +31
Karl +5


And then also: I'm an idiot because after touting Andray Blatche for so long, I dropped him in my fantasy league only to see him go off for 26 points and get picked up right away. He's got a bright future.

Plus: Blatche said he's coming out with a blog:
"I'm getting me a blog. Y'all stay tuned. Coming to a town near y'all, I'm getting my blog. It's going to be: 'When keeping it real goes wrong.'"

Shout out to Blatche for the Dave Chappelle reference.

Check out: My Daily News article on Cal State Northridge's win over Bakersfield