Frank Haith, currently the head coach of Missouri and the former head coach at the University of Miami is in a bit of “hot water”. While at Miami, he has been accused by the NCAA of unethical conduct and of creating an atmosphere of non compliance. Wonder if Miami is glad he left?? He was very successful there. Moving on…
Let’s talk about the Lakers. Everyone else is. On Mike and Mike in the morning on ESPN radio is was a hot topic. Same can be said of ESPN First Take. In fact, Stephen A. Smith had a lot to say. But then again, Stephen A. Smith always has a lot to say! (and that is OK) The Lakers are REALLY struggling, losing again to the Bulls last night. They are now 17 – 24 and have lost 9 of their past 11 games, 6 straight road games. Clearly, they are in trouble, 4 games out of a playoff spot. What is the problem? Well, come on man, there is not just one problem! Gasol comes in off the bench. Really? This guy has won two rings with the Lakers and is one of the most talented and versatile big men in the NBA. So, he is not being utilized properly? Dwight Howard, a great defender but an average offensive player perhaps, there I said it, so does Dwight really even want to be in LA? How would anyone not want to be in LA and be on a team that is one of the most storied and successful in all of the NBA? Kobe, oh my, how Kobe must feel about all of this. The guy has won five rings, is in the latter stages of his career, and now he has this mess to deal with as he nears the home stretch of his glorious career. He just wants to win, and he wants to win another ring. Much of the Lakers problems begin in the front office with management, Jim Buss taking over for his father, Dr. Jerry Buss. Rumor is Jim Buss is not around much. Then there is the hiring of Mike D’Antoni as coach. Is he the right coach for this Lakers team? No question, he is a great coach, but is he not the right hire for LA at this juncture? The Lakers are still trying to play the triangle offense implemented to perfection by Phil Jackson. D’Antoni wants them to be up tempo but they are aging and not really excelling at this type of offense. There needs to be some sort of compromise, both on the part of management and coaching and the players. Time will tell if they can mesh this talent together and get it going in time to make the playoffs. If not,what a horrible way for Kobe Bryant to be spending his remaining time in the NBA.
