He still is a killer, but he no longer gets by people as easily, doesn't jump as high, and does not drive as much. I think this was his last chance to lead a team, he will still be very productive, but I think he is on the decline. DD
Posted it in the game thread DD. I finally agree with you on this one. This is a good sign for the Rockets, especially Battier!
No doubt, but I thought round two was an aberation because of Battier, but it is pretty clear by the other series that he is just not the same player. He is still very effective, but I think the Rockets may be the team to beat next year depending on how Morey uses his tradeable assets. DD
Kobe's increase in BB IQ counterweights his decline physically to a degree that I think he is a better player than he was during his last ring. This Kobe won a ring with a lot less talent around him. That's a statement to his dominance. Physically on the decline? Maybe slightly. Basketball career on the decline? Don't kid yourself, he's better than ever.
Uh, this is about him losing his athleticism, doesn't mean he can't play the game. Context is everything. DD
Yeah, it's understandable that the Battier element might make anyone (except, say, LeBron) look older and slower. But to be honest, I really started noticing this last year during the playoffs. How he almost never drives anymore and how his game is all mid-range, pull ups and fadeaways.
No doubt Kobe is on the decline in terms of athleticism. He's 31 after all. However, with his shooting and passing abilities, he can still be a very effective player (as in top five to ten players in the league) for another 5 years. He doesn't have to be the best player in the league for them to win. In fact Kobe hasn't been the best player in the NBA since a couple of years ago, and the Lakers just won a championship. This Lakers team is not a one shot wonder. They will be a championship contender for the next few years. Kobe, Gasol, and Odom are all in their prime and chances are that Bynum will get better. They may not be able to resign Ariza, which could be a big loss for them.
He may be losing it a bit, but he wants it more, has more drive, and works harder than any player on the planet so that pretty much makes up for it. I predict 2 more championships for him, maybe 3 more.
I agree with your take about Kobe.....but I think this is it for LA.....Odom will be gone, Ariza maybe too.... I think they had to win this year.... Next year the Rockets are going to be RIGHT THERE. DD
ROFL he's been playing for a whole year, once he gets the summer to rest. He'll be ready again, athletically he's declined but as a player he hasn't. LO has already said he is willing to take a paycut and unless someone offers ARIZA rape money, he's not leaving L.A.
Easy there Kobe's fan. If you actually read the posts, DD said that his diminishing athleticism will help the Rockets.
He was league MVP a year ago and he just won a Finals MVP a few minutes ago. Jordan was the MVP of 3 championship teams between the ages of 33-35. Oscar Robertson won his first and only championship at the age of 32. This Lakers team wasn't built for a one and done. They may not win another championship but they will certainly be among the contenders for the next few years. Kobe is 30 going on 31. A lot of players excel well into their 30s even after a decline in athleticism. Kobe is not a low IQ, unskilled player so he doesn't fully depend on his athleticism to be successful. He is also reported to have tremendous work ethic. I wish it was true, DaDa, but I just don't buy it. Kobe and the Lakers aren't going anywhere any time soon. If we want to win a title in the next few years, the path very well may go through L.A.
Oh by the way DD, Kobe won a championship shooting 43% from the field. He is there best player as well. I believe you said you can never win a championship when your top player is inefficient. Explain.
