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.