So yesterday the Lakers and Rockets of the NBA essentially traded each other for small forwards, Trevor Ariza for Ron Artest. Yes the same Artest that started the brawl in Detroit so many years ago. The same Artest that seemed like he wanted to fight Kobe in the playoffs. The same Artest that is crazy and can fly off the handle on a whim.
But we’re forgetting something. The comedy gold that can come out of this, for at least an entire year. Like this.
Seriousness after the
In all seriousness though, this move (to my hockey playing self) makes sense. Yes Artest is 6 years older than Ariza but, he won the leagues Defensive player of the year award in “04 and is still in his prime. Last year Artest averaged 17.1 PPG and 5.2 RPG, while Ariza averaged 8.9 PPG with 4.3 RPG.
Sure Ariza was more of a substitute, and played great for the last month of the playoffs, but that’s the thing. He played great ball for 1 month, roughly, and for being dynamite beyond the 3 in the playoffs he’s a career .299 from that range. For perspective, Artest has a career average of .342 from beyond the arc, as well as being a shut down defender.
If Odom does return like he want’s to, it makes this team a legitimate contender for next year’s title, although all defending champs should be. The big questions that remain all play out in the Eastern conference. Are the Cavs going to be able to add another piece. Will Vince Carter be the guy who quit on Toronto or, does he play like he gives a fuck. And lastly, does Rasheed Wallace have anything left in the tank for the Celtics/does Garnett’s knee hold up.
From The Basketball Jones via @RockabyeArena
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Man, there is no way this is a bad call. Unless Ron Ron starts stealing Kobe’s numbers. If Ron picks up a lot of helpers in the first couple games, makes his shots, doesn’t try to upstage ol’ Black Mamba he should be okay. Though I would definately love a fight and some good ol’ suspentions!
While a fight would indeed be interesting, I’m in reality a non basketball hick, and somehow cheer for the Lakers. I hope that it works out, and provides comedy for me to write on. I think the “Zen Master” may possibly be able to corral these two fuckers.
/Thumbs crossed.