The L.A. Lakers won another NBA championship in 09′. This proved to be extra special most will say for Kobe Bryant because this is first championship since 02′ – more importantly the first without Shaquille O’Neal.
The Lakers were one of the few teams in the NBA that showed what they did in regular season didn’t matter. The Lakers weren’t playing for more then 60 wins, having home court advantage or just a finals appearance, their whole season was based on winning the championship.
Pau Gasol is the first second best player on any team in the league. On many teams Pau would be the best player on his team but not with the Lakers obviously. Pau has put up great numbers his entire NBA career but his toughness was questioned. Pau showed how tough he was in the playoffs averaging’ points per game and 8 rebounds per game.
Much of the Lakers’ success last year should be attributed to a lot more than just Kobe himself. This was a team effort through and through.
Andrew Bynum needs to have a break out year this season because he has contributed little in his career thus far. Bynum has improved his scoring average every year he has been in the league but can’t stay healthy. Bynum is a good talent he has size and has shown signs of having the potential to be a great big man.
The Lakers are looking to repeat this season – their chances are very good. The last time a team repeated as champions were the Lakers 01′ & 02′.
It’s hard to repeat as champions in professional sports because players get hurt and more trades happen now then ever before. The Lakers still have Kobe Bryant and he is playing at an elite level.
Then there’s the x-factor, of course. The signing of Ron Artest, one of the best defensive players in basketball. Artest will turn 31, making for a well aged team that has the physical prowess and the knowledge to do anything a team is capable of doing. The Los Angeles Lakers are favorites to repeat entering the season.
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