“We wanted to go inside, and we did,” Lakers coach Phil Jackson said. “We just kept rolling. We had a size advantage.”
64 points in paint? Yea, they had a size advantage but wow! One thing is clear; the Bulls need better interior defenders. The usually soft-looking Gasol had 34 on the night. The Lakers really didn't have to worry because they had too many stars on their side. Kobe only had 21 but looked as if he were out at the Rucker rather than an NBA season game. With behind-the-back passes, fancy dribbling, and his nonchalant attitude, the Lakers easily cruised to a 116-109 win.
Derrick Rose was the only bright spot for the Bulls who scored 25 points and had nine assists on 11-18 shooting. This kid can really shoot the jumper. So now that they have an established guard, the Bulls should look towards getting rid of two or three of their guards on that team. Maybe Hinrich or Gordon. Anyway, back to the Lakers.
Bynum had 18 points, nine rebounds, and three blocks on the night. As the season progresses, watch for the chemistry between Gasol and Bynum to grow. They'll learn how to play better defense together. And what I just noticed was the young/old combo the Lakers have going on at different positions.
At the guard spot you have Derek Fisher and Jordan Farmar. Then you have Kobe Bryant and Sasha Vujacic. Then for the big men you have Gasol and Bynum, and Lamar Odom and Trevor Ariza. You think Phil did this on purpose? (I'm guessing Shaq would think so)
Lakers improve to 8-1 and they play Phoenix on Thursday.
I'm out.
