Time for thanks!

Venice beach, Ca

This past Monday the Los Angeles Lakers kicked off their "A Season of Giving" at the Boys and Girls Club of Venice. Partnered with East West Bank and with food provided by Lucille's Smokehouse BBQ, the Lakers served holiday meals to over 200 boys and girls and their families. Pau Gasol kicked everything off with a message of holiday cheer and then the guests were entertained by musical acts from the clubs members. Lucille's proveided a wonderfully done traditional Thanksgiving spread complete with all the fixins'. There was Turkey, ham, green salad, mashed potatoes (regular and sweet), dressing, and of course, pumpkin pies. Lakers players Bynum, Mihm, Gasol, and Yue alongside their defender counter parts, Joe Crawford, Dwayn Mitchell, and Brandon Heath all participated. The entire Lakers Girls dance squad was on hand as well for the festivities. 

The Laker Girls visited with club members while everyone ate, signing autographs and posing for pictures. Also before everyone left there was a raffle that everyone in attendance was eligable for. The Lakers gave away five sets of 4 tickets to Sunday's game vs the Toronto Raptors. Those who didn't win game tickets still got to leave with a little something to remember their special day. East West Bank gave away holiday bags with Laker goodies, back to school supplies and presents from the bank. Since the year 2000 the Lakers have been giving back to thousands of under privileged children and adults in the community with their "A Season of Giving" campaign. In the past Lakers have also done Turkey dinners, holiday fishing trips for homeless children, holiday grocery giveaways, and a "Wish Night with the Lakers" at home games. Employees of the team have also adopted local children and soliders alike to provide gifts and grant holiday wishes. 

Chula Vista, Ca

Thousands of people lined up outside the Chula Vista Wal-mart store after receiving vouchers for a free turkey dinner. 30 area non profit organizations handed out the vouchers to families in need during this holiday season. With the help of over 200 volunteers and Chargers teammates, LaDainian Tomlinson dished out more than 2,100 turkeys. As L.T. handled the turkeys alongside his wife, Torsha, Darren Sproles, Jacques Cesaire, and Marques Harris handed out the boxes of stuffing, vegetables, and beverages. Matt Wilhelm was also on hand giving out dinner rolls to everyone.

"This is our favorite holiday," said LaDainian, who bought all the turkeys. "It always has been. Growing up I can just about remember every Thanksgiving we've had. So for us, this is the perfect holiday to do this.

"Torsha Tomlinson, lauded those who asked for food. "

I think it takes a lot to humble yourself, and say, 'I need help,' she said noting that the event has qudrupled in size since its first year. "To see this many people come out - who are we to not help them?"

This was the seventh year L.T. has been pleased to give out the fixings for a traditional Thanksgiving dinner as part of his, "Giving Thanks with L.T. and Friends" event. Nobody was turned away even those who didn't have vouchers for their meals. Many praises were sung from the adoring fans in need. So many expressed that with job layoffs and the economy being in it's current state they could not afford a proper Thanksgiving. This was the equivalent to a couple weeks wage for many who showed up. Some as early as 2a.m. to get in line for this years event.

Other Chargers players participated in the 30th annual blood drive and other charity events around town. 

 

Lakers feed the fans!

Los Angeles, Ca

Kobe Bryant was the fifth leading scorer for the Lakers tonight. His 12 pts were enough, as he played a season low 27 minutes and got to sit out the entire fourth quarter again. In fact, it was nice to see all of the starters sitting on the bench with their knees wrapped in ice. It's comforting to know that the deep bench could stave off any efforts from the visiting team in the final quarter. The Lakers, who let the Nets shoot 48% in the first half, got their D in track in the second half and beat New Jersey by 27 pts, 120-93, holding the Nets to 35% shooting on the night. With the win, Los Angeles was able to feed the fans with the ever popular two free tacos promotion offered by area Jack in the Box restaurants by holding their opponents under 100 pts at home. It might be a little early for the 'MVP' chants every time Kobe shoots free throws, but never too early to chant "we want tacos!' from up in the 300's. 

After the game coach Lawrence Frank and Vince Carter both had thoughts on the effort from the Bench Mob;

"Their bench was tremendous," said Carter. "I thought their second unit was the difference. If you do not match their intensity and bring your 'A' game, you will not beat this team--especially here!"

"It just shows your their balance," Nets coach Frank stated. "I think that's the greatness of the Lakers. Kobe is obviously one of the elite players in this league, but they have so much around him. They are a high level team. They're 12-1, and they have Gasol from the beginning now."

Farmar, Slash, and Lamar Odom continue to be huge off the bench. Jordan led the way with 18 points and 4 steals, Trevor had 7 boards, and LO had a +/- of 29. The Lakers will need continued success from the bench to contend in long playoff series down the stretch. Luke Walton, Josh Powell, and Chris Mihm also logged some quality minutes in the final period.

The Nets played alright during the first half, keeping the score close despite being seriously hampered by injuries. Devin Harris led the way with 21 pts and 6 dimes, rookie Brook Lopez also added 10 boards and 17 pts after a quick start but cooling off late. Speaking of cooling off late, the Nets shot only 34.5% on 3-19 shooting in the fourth quarter. Stromile Swift (back), Josh Boone (bruised left ankle), and Chris Douglas-Roberts (strained right knee) did not play. Eduardo Najera (back) also missed time, staying back in New Jersey to receive treatment. The Nets go to Sacramento tomorrow as the Lakers wait until 'Black Friday' to host the Mavs.

Is it time for a change?

San Diego, Ca

The Chargers (4-7) have lost four of their last five games. This last loss 23-21 to Indianapolis, was the fourth time this year they have lost in the last 25 seconds. Due to an unexpected Denver upset loss to Oakland and the poor division we play in the Bolts remain only two games out of first place after Sunday's home loss. When a team that was favored to go to and possibly even favored to win the Super Bowl at the start of the season falls this hard, questions have to be asked. You might start with, Why?, How?, or even Who let this happen? I can not say anybody knows exactly why the Chargers are under performing so much this season. The team did lose Pro Bowl players Lorenzo Neal (free agency) and Shawne Merriman (knee surgery). Not change enough.  After a dismal start to the season where the defense looked terrible head coach Norv Turner decided to make some changes. He fired defensive coordinator Ted Cottrell and replaced him with line backers coach Ron Rivera. The defense has stepped up over the last three weeks, even claiming it's first turnover in 42 days when Quentin Jammer picked off Peyton Manning in a losing effort this past Sunday. Was this change enough for a team who's window at a title shot might be closing sooner than expected, with injuries to key players like Merriman and LT? Not in my book, 1 turnover in 42 days, come on.  Maybe the real question should be, is A.J. Smith ready to admit Turner was a mistake, and fire him? I am not too keen on mid-season coaching changes, especially in the NFL where new coaches often try and bring a new identity or culture ideals to a team. I might make an exception to that way of thinking here, at the very least so that by the beginning of next season, the Chargers are firing on all cylinders. I am not however stating his firing is best for this franchise, I am just one of the many that wants to know the answer to that question. Like you, all I can do is speculate what is best for San Diego and its fans. Often when I'm trying to evaluate something, I use the time old trick of one Benjamin Franklin. I fold a paper in half and write all the pros and cons on each side. It doesn't look that good for Turner when I recently did this, especially in the, What have you done for me lately?, NFL. To give you a few of each; on the plus side Turner did lead us to our 1st two playoff wins since '94, he also led the Cowboys to two back-to-back titles as offensive coordinator, and is largely credited with shaping Troy Aikman's Hall of Fame career, something I really thought he would, and could still do for Philip Rivers. On the downside; he has a 72-89-1 record as head coach, he has only tasted the post season twice as the top man, and most importantly, he has made terrible decisions in close games this season. Assuming, that with the support of GM Smith, Turner keeps his post until the season ends some changes need to be made regardless. LT and the run game need to become more of an option, the defense needs to keep improving under Rivera, Rivers needs to protect the ball better, and Turner needs to be better in all aspects of play calling and clock management. If this madness continues and must make a change? My first vote is to get Bill Cowher off the T.V. and onto the sidelines. In a dream world, Turner might even resign and stay on as a a coordinator or quarterbacks coach. 

Back to basics for PJ's squad.

El Segundo, Ca

Phil Jackson as well as Kurt Rambis, Brian Shaw, Jim Cleamons, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Craig Hodges and Frank Hamblen are going back to the drawing boards. The focus lies sharply on defense. After allowing the Kings guards to score 60 of 108 points and shoot an outstanding 57.7% from the floor, timing couldn't be better. Los Angeles has allowed their opponents to net an average of 101 points the last five games after only 88 points per game in the first seven. With their 92.7 pt opponent average, the Lakers rank fifth in the NBA. Los Angeles, however, ranks first in scoring at 105.9 per contest. No team has ever lead the league in both categories since the NBA moved to the four division format preceding the 1970-71 season, and then expanded again to a six division format prior to the 2004-2005 campaign. Twelve times a team has finished the season in the top five in both, and only twice have teams finished in the top three in both areas of the floor. The 1970-71 Milwaukee Bucks did it(1st in Off. 3rd in Def.). Then Phil Jackson's 1995-96 Chicago Bulls team(1st Off. 3rd Def.) did it following a loss to the Orlando Magic in the Eastern Conference Finals the year before. PJ might be trying to duplicate a successful season following tragedy as his Bulls did in 1996, going an NBA record 72-10, and then beating the Seattle Supersonics 4-2 to win the NBA Championship. 

The Lakers now get a good test of that extra days practice when they host the New Jersey Nets at home tonight. The Nets bring in a high flying backcourt duo of  Vince Carter and Devin Harris who are both in the top ten in scoring with 24 and 23 points a game respectively. Kobe Bryant will be tasked with guarding Carter most of the night. These two athletes love facing each other and lead to some entertaining games for the fans. Last season in two games Kobe averaged 18.5 and Carter averaged 23, Bryant had the season high with 31. 

Anaheim, yes, Anaheim, Ca

The Anaheim Angels, who are preparing for a possible loss of 1B Mark Teixeira to the free agent market are setting their sights elsewhere to be safe. The  Angels team website and the LA Times are now reporting that C.C. Sabathia has surfaced on the radar of the team big time. They are reported to possibly be offering C.C. a contract of $137 million over 6 years, somewhat like the Mets gave Cy Young winner, Johan Santana last year. Sabathia went 19-7 and 17-10 over the past two seasons. He is just 28 years old and projects to be a dominant pitcher for years to come. The Dodgers have had no further talks with C.C.'s agent Greg Genske. 

Playoffs? Are you talking about playoffs?

San Diego, Ca

Philip Rivers had lost only twice in his career at Qualcom Stadium until Sunday. With time expiring, one of the most clutch kickers in NFL history, Adam Vinatieri booted the game winner through the uprights from 51 yards out to propel his Colts to a 23-21 victory. Just one year ago Vinatieri missed a 29 yard boot with 1:31 left on the clock allowing San Diego to hold on to a 23-21 win. You just had to know he wouldn't miss twice. This was Vinatieri's 22nd game winning field goal in the last minute of the game or overtime, this however was his longest of such kicks. The Chargers had taken three in a row from Indianapolis, including a 28-24 upset in the divisional round of the playoffs that ended Indy's season. The Colts (7-4) were lead to their 35th game winning drive by Peyton Manning, winning their fourth straight to stay in contention for the wild-card race. Manning threw two TD's on 32 of 44 passing with 255 yards. 

Chargers quarterback Rivers threw for 288 yards and two scores on 24 of 31 attempts with no interceptions. The two time league MVP Manning was picked once by Quentin Jammer. The Chargers played decent football most of the game, even on defense. The bolts recorded one sack and one pick. It was only after stopping the Colts three times from a first and goal on the one that Dominic Rhodes beat linebacker Stephen Cooper for a 1 yd TD near the end of the third to give them a 17-10 lead. After Vinatieri scored converting a 38 yd field goal the Bolts went right back to work. Rivers then hooked up with rookie running back Jacob Hester for a 1 yd score and then Nate Kaeding scored a 48 yd field goal to tie it with 90 seconds remaining. LaDainian Tomlinson summed up the rest,

"I told Darren (Sproles) that we gave them too much time because Peyton has done it over and over again. They know what plays they are going to call. They know how they are going to get it done."

The Chargers now 4-7 remain two games behind first place Denver 6-5, after they were upset earlier in the day 31-10 by the 3-8 Oakland Raiders. In any other division San Diego would be playing for next year. In the AFC West, the gutter of the NFL this year, the Chargers still have a chance. Norv Turner noted truthfully, they are they only 4-7 team in the league that still has a chance. Next Sunday they host Michael 'The Burner' Turner, LT's former back-up and the Atlanta Hawks. Turner was third in the league in rushing with 1,088 yds and LT was tied for 12th with 770 yds on the ground going into Sundays games. Norv Turner's team is running out of time with only five games remaining. The Bolts also signed DE Keith Grennan from the practice squad and dropped S Tra Battle from the 53 man active roster. 

Reading, Pa

Dodgers starter Chad Billingsley suffered a broken bone in his left leg follwing a slip at his home. Billingsley apparently slipped on a patch of ice outside of his home. The result was a spiral fracture of his left fibula, the smaller of the two shin bones. The bone that is in his landing leg will be in a cast for two weeks after a successful surgery on Saturday. The surgery was performed by orthopedic surgeon Dr. Paul Nueman, who inserted a plate in the ace's leg. Dodgers team website reports that Billingsley will be recovered in time to resume throwing bullpen sessions in spring training and should be able to start the 2009 season as scheduled. After his performance last year, emerging as the ace of the staff with 16 wins, I predicted him to be our opening day starter barring a possible huge free agent signing. I wouldn't mind Billingsley having an extra days rest if we landed C.C. Sabathia. 

Still going strong.

Los Angeles, Ca

The Lakers continue to roll with a second win over in conference Denver Nuggets 104-90 Friday night. Five Lakers scored in double figures. Kobe Bryant had an efficient night scoring 29 pts in 29 minutes despite shooting a 30ft air ball in the third, Bynum and LO had 13 a piece, Pau had 12, and Slash continued his solid efforts with 11 points off the bench. Andrew also had 13 boards along with his 13 pts for his second double-double of the season. Los Angeles finished the game shooting 48% after a solid 62% in the first half against a Denver team that looked outmatched most of the evening. Denver stars, Carmelo Anthony and Chauncey Billups were held to 11 of 31 shooting, netting only 25 points. They did get 18 from Nene, but that was not enough to stop the Lakers from beating them for the 9th straight time, including last years sweep in the first round of the playoffs. 

Los Angeles now hosts the Sacramento Kings on Sunday evening at 6:30. The Kings (5-9) are coming off a 117-96 loss to the Trailblazers on Friday. The Lakers have won 4 of the last 6 vs Sacramento at Staples. Those wins coming by way of an 18.5 point margin. Kobe Bryant is averaging just over 25 pts in 35 career games against the Kings.

Land of the setting sun.

Phoenix, AZ

It seems to be the land of the setting Shaq in Phoenix these days. Shaquille O'neal, who only seems to be half of his former monster self, shot 50% from both the field and charity stripe, ending his effort with 15 points and 4 turnovers. His three personal fouls were three more than blocked shots, zero. O'neal did have one nice basket early, putting a spin move on young Andrew Bynum for an easy lay up off the glass. The Lakers effectively double teamed Shaq early and often so Phoenix couldn't establish the post game. Los Angeles would double him early, then when he passed out of the lane would reset with another double preventing the pass right back to him. Kobe Bryant, who seemed friendly with his former teammate before game time played well, despite poor shooting. Bryant ended his bid in the 105-92 victory with 24 pts. and 5 assists. At the end of the first half the Lakers led 50-44, only one more point for Phoenix than the entire Bench Mob ended the game with. The Lakers bench, scoring 43 points, were able to pick up the slack of Kobe's poor shooting night, 8-23. Keeping guys fresh is probably going to be of just as much importance down the stretch for this Lakers team. The Bench Mob are playing so well that the likes of Bryant, Fisher, Gasol, and even 6th man, Lamar Odom are able to rest for good minutes during games so far this season. The Lakers are winning by more than 13 pts a contest. Vladimir Radmanovic also shot very well making 5 shots from outside the arc after poor shooting the last three games. Vlad-Rad ended with 15, missing only one shot, none from outside. after the game Shaq had some comments on the Lakers.

"They're the best team. They're 9-1. They're playing good. Kobe's playing team ball, keeping everybody involved. He's got a lot of shooters around him. They're a very dangerous team."

That sentiment might be shared by many throughout the league. The Lakers are playing great defense and are also playing well as a team. Los Angeles heads back to Staples now for a five game home stand. New look Denver, lead the charge into town, with Kobe and co. look to show Chauncey Billups and the rest of the Nuggets how you really play defense. George Karl's team is 7-1 since the acquisition of Billups, improving seemingly over night on the defensive end. 

Dodger Stadium, Ca

According to reports on the Dodgers team website, free agent Ace C.C. Sabathia could be offered a contract from the GM Ned Colletti. The Dodgers are rumored to be offering, if not already offered, the top pitcher in this years market, a six year deal worth somewhere between $110-120 million dollars. The general consensus as of late is that if Sabathia was to be offered something close to what the Yankees offered, $140 million for six years, he would much rather play in southern California. C.C. owns property in Fairfield Ca, just outside of Vallejo, his child hood home town. Unfortunately, the Giants also appear to be getting in the mix. San Francisco is rumored to be offering somewhere between the $1oo million Brewers offer and that of the Yankees. Fairfield, a little East of Napa, is only about 50 miles Northeast of the bay. Hopefully Carsten Charles wants a Hollywood lifestyle. 

Heartache at Heinz!

Pittsburgh, Pa

If I was only given one word to sum up the Chargers season thus far...Heartbreak! As I write today my windows are closed due to the falling ash from these ever present Ca wild fires, it took another gut wrenching defeat that made me shut my blinds so I can be alone in the dark. I'll be OK I promise, not so sure about the team I root for. The San Diego Chargers lost to the Steelers 11-10 Sunday afternoon in Pennsylvania. The first time ever an NFL game ended in that score. To add insult to injury the players all had to wait on the field for over 2 minutes while the officials reviewed the final play of the game up in the booth. The play of the game had to be Troy Polamalu's diving interception catch to end the Chargers first drive. Polamalu was also involved in the games odd ending. The game ended on a last attempt multiple lateral play. That's when Polamalu reached up and batted the ball out of the air, eventually taking it to the end zone for a score. It got interesting when the officials declared a TD 1st, then reviewed the play and overturned it on an alleged illegal forward pass ending the play. Official Scott Green noted after the game that the officials got it wrong and the TD should have counted. The results would have been the same, no harm done, unless you bet on football.  Ron Rivera's defensive unit came out fighting however, pushing Pittsburgh to a missed field goal attempt and a turnover on downs after a huge 4th and 1 stop in the first quarter. In the second, the blitz package was evident and the defense held the home team to 3 punts and a field goal. To my personal chagrin the Chargers seemed to abandon the blitz in the second half and allowed two more field goals. With Phillip rivers throwing a red zone interception for the second time four weeks, even field goals proved to be too much to overcome.

 The Bolts just might need lightning to strike now if they want a chance at the post season.With the loss San Diego falls to 4-6, as division rival Denver 6-4, got a win in Atlanta earlier in the day. The two teams meet December 28th for the last game of the season, Denver won the first match up between the teams in week two. Good news is the Broncos only have to lose one more game than San Diego the rest of the way and the Chargers can make their own destiny by winning that rematch. LT and co. now look to bounce back with a three game home stand. Chargers start next Sunday vs. the Colts, Dirty Birds, and Raiders. 

U-G-L-Y UGLY!

Los Angeles, Ca

The Lakers were out rebounded and just plain out played Friday night at Staples. In a game that was ugly from start to finish, the Lakers just seemed to be wearing soggy shoes all night long. In the first half they had 10 offensive rebounds. Other than that, the effort was just offensive. Detroit, who have just owned Los Angeles as of late, 7-3 in the last ten, had the answer again. Allen Iverson in 41 minutes, scored 25 points, to go along with 4 steals, and 4 assists. Rasheed Wallace added 25 points of his own and Tayshaun Prince also scored 18. In a game that saw AI acting like himself early, the Lakers, who played from behind most of the night, just could not get it done. Kobe finished with 29, passing both Larry Bird and Gary Payton for sole possession of 22nd place all time. I imagine he'd trade his 29 for 0 if it came with a W. Being true to himself the only things PJ could muster after the loss were quick quips like, "I guess we're not going 82-0?", and "we looked human." Not much more to expect there. I did see good things during the game however, a little silver lining during some key timeouts. Jackson was counseling his team to 'not foul, don't forget to rebound, we're being selfish with our shots right now, remember to get that extra pass.' What we saw following those timeouts was a Lakers team looking to get back on the offensive, all while playing good defense. If the Lakers could have brought energy all evening like they did in the last 9 minutes of the fourth, the results would have been much different. 

After a couple of nights where Los Angeles has found themselves coming from behind, they were handed their first loss 106-95. This is not the end of the world for a Lakers team that still leads the league in most offensive and defensive stat categories. Now with a chance to get back to the practice facility in El Segundo, they have a chance to get back on track. The Lakers should be able to get off to a good start with their upcoming opponents. Starting Tuesday we face Chicago, Phoenix, Denver, Sacramento, New Jersey, Dallas, and closing out the month on the 30th, Toronto. Four of those teams have losing records, two of them the Lakers have already beaten, albeit Denver will have a new look this time around with Chauncey Billups in the lineup. Looks to be an exciting week in the NBA.

Dodger Stadium, Ca

Dodgers GM Ned Colletti has officially withdrawn his offer from outfielder Manny Ramirez. The offer was believed to be in the area of two years $45 million, with the possibility of three years $60 million. Chance of signing the slugger still seem optimistic. Colletti was quoted as saying, "We still have an interest in him", and "We'll have conversations and sometimes your able to sign the player and sometimes your not." The other good news for Dodger fans is, according to the team website, the market for Manny might be small. With only the Yankees, Angels, and Dodgers realistically in the market. The Yanks and Halos seem to really favor free agent first baseman Mark Teixiera. Also as dark horses usually surface, this season eyes are watching out for the hated rival Giants. If somehow San Francisco was able to steal Manny away from LA, huge amounts of pressure would be squarely on the shoulders of Colletti. That could all be lifted if the Dodgers were able to come away with a Teixiera or Sabathia. 

Last of their kind.

New Orleans, La

Down in the big easy, it seemed just that for a Lakers team that gave up only 30 first half points. Thats right, 30 points. The Lakers came out playing great defensive basketball and limited the Hornets to 28% shooting the first half. In the second half we saw a Hornets team that we expected to see. Chris Paul, who continues to rewrite the record books, had his 7th straight 20/10 game to start the year. He finished with 30 points 13 dishes and 7 rebounds. CP3 is for real. Probably the best point guard in the association right now. With New Orleans picking up the pace considerably in the second half, they were able to get the Lakers out of rhythm. CP3 who stole the ball on the opening possession for LA took an easy one down the court for a lay-up that set the tone. Tyson Chandler was also the recipient of a few Paul alley-oop assists. The Lakers, who never trailed in the game, eventually put together a few stops to hold of the Hornets. 

Phil Jackson was quick to point out that the Lakers gave up a lead of 21 pts. after Sasha Vujacic made two free throws to start the fourth quarter. In a post game interview he said, "We sucked the joy out of a good victory". PJ was also sure to make note of some failed fast break opportunities, most notably a missed dunk attempt by Vladi in the third quarter. On deck for the Lakers is a math up with the Detroit Pistons. Newly acquired, Allen Iverson, hopes to continue his success against Los Angeles. He scored a series high 51 vs LA at the Pepsi center 12/14/07 as a member of the Denver Nuggets. The Lakers have struggled on the road lately vs Detroit, losing their last 6, but have fared pretty well at Staples Center, having gone 8-2 in the last ten. The Lakers 7-0 start is now officially the best in the league as a buzzer beater by Bostons Paul Pierce helped topple the previously unbeaten Atlanta Hawks, 104-103.

Chavez Ravine, Ca

So come this Friday all the baseball hounds, at least the ones with deep pockets, will have had a chance to sniff out a deal with slugger Manny Ramirez. For us Dodger fans, we can just hold on to the hope that Manny really does like LA, and will sign for something in the range of 3-4 years. Hopefully not to exceed $100 million, don't I sound like Dr. Evil? Wait, doesn't that distinction go to F. Scott Boras? I mean jeez, 1oo million big ones, that can buy a lot of foreclosed homes in this struggling economy, but it might not even be enough to land one Mr. Ramirez in time for spring training. Perhaps the one year delays to Dodger stadium renovations and the spring training facilities in Glendale, AZ are to free up more petty cash to throw at Manny. Whatever unfolds will surely bring joy to thousands of fans and heartache to the ones who's GM just couldn't get the deal inked. Los Angeles has showed loyalty to our team, proven by the 3 million plus that pass through the turn styles, and deserves to see a quality product fielded before us. Manny Ramirez could be that product. If not, I'm officially declaring C.C. watch at high alert. 

Streaking in L.A.

Dallas, Tx

So, the Lakers were out rebounded for the first time this season. Streak over. Other than that and another early three quarters of sloppy play, the Lakers streaks are going well. The Lakers came from behind for the second time in three nights to keep one streak alive. Now 6-0, Los Angeles, looks to win for the first time this season on back to back games traveling. New Orleans, being the second match up of the back to back, should be a formidable foe. The two teams split the season series a year ago, each winning one at home and one on the road. The Lakers beat the Hornets in their last meeting, 107-104 and clinched the Pacific Division title with the victory. In Tuesday nights match up vs the Mavs, the Lakers again relied on steady bench play to dig themselves out of a hole. Being one of the deepest teams in the NBA is proving already to be a huge advantage for this Lakers team that leads the league in both scoring and points allowed. The Mavericks relied heavily on the outside shot early and looked to command the game. Insert the Bench Mob, who shored up the defense and produce some key turnovers that lead to fast break points. Pau Gasol and Bynum also took care of the paint, with the Lakers winning that battle as well. The Lakers, behind Phil Jackson, seem to be making all the right second half adjustments. They held Dallas to 39 points in the second half. PJ also kept a streak going for himself. He has now coached in 1,400 NBA games. His record, in keeping even with his zen philosophies, is an astounding and even 982-418. Just about 70% as he gets through the early goings of his 18th season holding the clip-board and drawing up plays.

Los Angeles, Ca

Streak reaches 3. The LA Kings, in front of another solid effort in net by goalie Erik Ersberg, got the shootout win Tuesday night vs Dallas. Solid net play continues to be a factor for the Kings 6-6-2. The Kings had goals from Jarret Stoll in his 300th game, and Dustin Brown. Almost half way into the second period Brown lined up Stephane Robidas for a huge hit that sent Robidas completely over the boards and into the King Bench. Brown led the league in hits last season with 311. The Kings now look to distance themselves further from the last place Stars when they finish this home and home in Dallas on Thursday night. Look out for improved play by rookie Wayne Simmonds, who scored in the shootout, and Anze Kopitar who continues to improve his productivity. Kopitar had two assists on the night. 

Chavez Ravine, Ca

The Dodgers wait out their final day as the only team to have exclusive negotiating rights with all-star free agent Manny Ramirez. The Los Angeles Times reports, that after Thursday the current offer from the club could expire. Currently the Dodgers are offering 2 years at about $45 million. Ramirez would make $15 million in 09 and then $22.5 million in 2010. The Dodgers could then buyout a club optioned third year for $7.5 mil. or pick up the option paying Manny an additional $22.5 million, bring the three year deal to $60 million. The Times also reports that owner, Frank McCourt could also bolster the deal by guaranteeing the third and final year of the teams initial offer. Super agent Scott Boras, who represents Ramirez, insists the offer is too short in terms of years. Manny seeks a 6 year deal that will take him through to his 42nd birthday. Boras also concludes that his client should be paid in a manner that other uniquely talented players, like that of Barry Bonds and Alex Rodriguez, have been paid in previous years. A-rod signed a 10 year $275 million dollar deal with the Yankees. Just 29 years ago, Nolan Ryan was the first in player in MLB to get $1 million per year, boy have times changed. 

Milestone day in San Diego

Qualcom Stadium, Ca

It started slow again for the Chargers Sunday afternoon. Looking like they were content to bring the 'Teddy Bear Cottrell' soft defense, and giving way to Chiefs young starter, Tyler Thigpen. The Chiefs struck first with a thirty yard post route from Thigpen to Mark Bradley. Tony Gonzalez added two more TD receptions for the Chiefs. Thigpen tallied 266 yards and 3 TD passes, including one with 29 seconds left that struck fear in the hearts of many uneasy Charger fans.

Finally, after a long three quarters, the Ron Rivera era looked to be riding a lightning bolt into the stadium in the fourth. With LT having a pretty quiet day, only 78 yards and Phillip Rivers throwing 2 picks, despite hurling for 316 and 2 TD's, it was up to the defense late in the game. Just 46 tics left in the contest, Thigpen attempted a pass to TE Tony Gonzalez at the goal line. A questionable defensive pass interference was called on S Clinton Hart to put the ball on the SD 1 yard line. That set up a Tony G. touchdown and Herm Edwards immediately motioned to go for two. This time Clinton Hart stepped up again and batted down the pass attempt, the ball landing in the hands of a sprawled out Quentin Jammer in the end zone. Next up, TE Brandon Manumaleuna, son of former Chiefs LB Frank Manumaleuna snatched the onside kick attempt out of the air to put a cap on the win for the bolts.

This was the 11th game between the Chiefs and Chargers that was decided by one point or less. The most of any NFL series since 1960. Tony Gonzalez has a reception in 124 straight games. With 870 in his career, he moves past WR Jimmy Smith 863, into 10th all time. Next up is Keenan McCardell with 883. LaDainian Tomlinson, not looking to be outdone, passed O.J. Simpson and Corey Dillon for 15th place on the all time rushing list with 11,279 yards.

 Los Angeles, Ca

The famous 'Lights Out' stage at Staples had been set, and waiting empty for four days with the Lakers last playing on Wednesday night against the Clippers. It showed early as Kobe and crew committed 8 first quarter turnovers and scored a season low 16 points. The only thing worth seeing so far was Kobe's big block from behind on the 7'6" Yao Ming. Down 28-16 to start the second, coach Phil Jackson turned to the bench mob and they didn't disappoint either. A huge onslaught of D, led by Farmar and Trevor, err, Slash Ariza got the Lakers back in touch with the rhythms of an NBA game. Slash, always busy on the floor as if every shot will be a miss consistently finds himself in the right place. The Lakers didn't pay for anything in the second, they stole the show. Amassing 8 steals, 3 by Ariza, 2 for Jordan Farmar, and one more each from Sasha, Lamar, and Bynum. Scoring 34 points in the second 12 minutes, the Lakers came from a twelve point deficit to being up by two. The third quarter brought more of the same. By mid 3rd, the twin towers of Bynum and Gasol seemed to be blocking and gobbling up all rebounds. The scoring kept pouring on as a result of fine defensive play. None looked more upsetting to Rockets coach Rick Adelman than LO's huge triple in the dying seconds of the third quarter.

I feel obligated to at least mention the Rockets here, even though they were lost in transition vs the dominating Lakers. Early in the fourth, Mr. Brooks (Aaron), who had 20 points off the bench, stopped the bleeding at 81-69 with a three from way outside the arc. Later on, he loosened his wallet with a technical foul at 6:44 to go. I should also mention the Rockets were without star forward Shane Battier, suffering from a bone bruise in his left foot.

Closing out the game the Lakers went on a 95-50 run from the second quarter on. With just under 3 to go, Ariza crashed wildly through the lane, saved himself and the ball, and drained a three. Even he looked surprised as he jogged back up the floor and the Lakers lead hit 27 over a Houston team that is supposed to contend in the West. Final score LA on top, 111-82.

The Rockets (4-3) now head to Phoenix to take on Shaq and the Suns (5-2) on Wednesday. The Lakers (5-0) next play on Veterans Day, Tuesday, vs the Orlando Magic (4-2) in Florida. It should be fun to see our bigs go up against Dwight Howard. The Atlanta Hawks (5-0) are the leagues only other undefeated team.

Dynamic Defensive Duo!

Los Angeles, Ca

In a tale of two locker rooms, you can see two teams as different as apples and oranges. The Lakers and Clippers share an almost identical statistic for scoring margin at 20 points per game. Difference is the Lakers, 4-0 are winning, and the 0-5 Clips are definitely not. It doesn't appear to be on their immediate horizon as they face the new look Rockets tonight. After sloppy play and a poor shooting effort Wednesday night, the Lakers flexed their defensive muscle late in the game. Going on a 22-0 run in the fourth quarter relying heavily on a defense that lacked in the opening quarters. The big man in the middle, Andrew Bynum, dominated the boards all night, tying a career best 17 rebounds. He also looked good altering shots and amassing 4 blocks on the night. More important was the level of confidence he displayed. Going to the bench late in the game, Bynum appeared comfortable and even joking with teammates. He seems much more outgoing on and off the floor. Trevor Ariza, a defensive specialist, played his role well. He finished with 2 steals and seemed to always be in the right spots. I think its time to start conjuring up nicknames for Ariza, maybe Slash, who seems to move so well without the ball for the Lakers on both ends of the court. Ariza even slammed home an errant shot attempt by Kobe in the early goings of the the second quarter. The duo of Bynum and Ariza seem to be coming into their own quickly, promising for Lakers fans that saw their team fall short to a stronger defensive Celtics team in the NBA finals, five months ago.

Now the Lakers keep practicing and playing inter-squad games until they host Houston, Sunday night at 6:30. The rockets won the season series last year, 2-1, with the last win culminating in their 22 game win streak, which was snapped a day later by Boston. Houston holds a 3-2 record so far this season. 

El Segundo, Ca

A day after beating the Florida Panthers 3-2 at staples, Erik Ersberg seems to be locking up his spot as number 1 goaltender in Los Angeles. Coach Terry Murray, again giving him the nod for Saturdays match up with the St. Louis Blues. In beating the Panthers the Kings snapped a five game losing streak, and kept the skid going at five straight losses for Florida. The Kings, although tied for last with Dallas in the Pacific division, should remain optimistic about the young season. They are among the league leaders in a few key stats. Ranking 5th in penalty killing, 1st in shots allowed at 24 per contest, and 6th in face offs won. This leads me to speculate, that if they can put the puck on net and get more production out of their scorers, they could easily be one of the top tier teams. Dustin Brown also leads the league in hits, which seems to be the attitude of the team this year, trying to be tougher for a full 60 minutes.

History Made in the USA

Chicago, IL

After a morning shoot-around with friends, Barack Obama calmly went about his day leading to one of the most historic moments in the United States history. It would be foolish of me not to mention this historic feat. With a message of hope and unity,  Obama seemed to captivate and compel the nation. In a race that looked like that of Barbaro's in the 2006 Kentucky Derby, this one was decided early. Though the entire left coast was still open for discussion, the talks were over. Barack Obama is the new President Elect, and will be the 44th to lead our great nation. As Jackie did for baseball, and Earl Lloyd did for the NBA, he will be the first African American to cross a 221 year old Presidential color line and usher in a new era. 

As I sat in my California home and watched the returns, having already voted in the am, I sat amazed. It was not just seeing Sen. Obama elected to office that had me so affected. I eyed the tube and saw genuine excitement across the country, even the world. It was the mass gathering of our country's citizens in Chicago and Times Square,  New York. This same electricity was present in Seattle and Denver,  again in Atlanta. Even more moving, was witnessing cheering tribes in Kenya gathered around small radios and dancing with white, plastic chairs. I think this is when it hit me. This is for real, this is for change, this is forever. No matter what happens from here, we were a part of something special... something historical.

El Segundo, CA

A day after a tough 1-0 loss against the Ducks, the Kings are home getting ready to go against the Florida Panthers. Head coach, Terry Murray, was confident in what he saw of the 26 year old net minder Ersberg. Confident enough to go right back to him tonight. Erik Ersberg played well allowing only one goal in the loss and making a couple of big saves in the second period. The Kings look to improve with some good stats on their side. They are second in the league in shots allowed and 3rd in face-offs won, behind only San Jose and Detroit, respectively. Also, looking towards Saturday and St. Louis, it will be Murray's 750th game as coach in the NHL.

Los Angeles, CA

Clippers, still playing for their first win, hope to bounce back as they lost their home opener to the Lakers by 38 points a week ago tonight. Every Laker scored at least 4 in that match up. Opening up 3-0, the Lakers look to start 4-0 for the tenth time in franchise history. The best season start,  11-0 belongs to the 1997-98 squad. Andrew Bynum is expected to start, after straining his right rotator cuff attempting to block a shot in practice this week. Marcus Camby will also play tonight, only his second game of the year, after missing time with a heel injury.