Loud!
Despite all the off-court antics and entertainment that is synonymous with the Los Angeles Lakers during this time of year, this year is shaping up to be just like the last for the “Lake Show.” After the usual bickering, questioning, and poor performance, Kobe and the Lakers moved to 10-1 since the All-Star break with a victory of the Orlando Magic. Playing through a sprained ankle, Kobe was more animated than usual on Tuesday. He put in 16 points but his presence on the floor showed his leadership and was apparently motivating to the rest of the team as Gasol, Bynum, Fisher and Odom all scored in double figures.
The only other team in the league that has been as hot as the Lakers since the All-Star break is the Chicago Bulls. With Derrick Rose leading the way, Chicago is tied for the best record in the East after the Celtics lost to the Nets on Tuesday.
With both teams playing at a level the rest of the league can’t seem to maintain, a rematch of the 1991 NBA Finals seems like a pretty good possibility. Back then it was MJ and the Bulls taking the torch from older, Magic Johnson led, Lakers team. Could 2011, 20 years later prove to be the “changing of the guard” for Chicago and Derrick Rose?
It would make a nice story, and a nice anniversary gift for Bulls fans.
