The last time we played the Spurs, I made the statement that the Lakers wanted to “kill” Brokeback Mountain. Well, I didn’t mean that literally…
The passing of Heath Ledger is certainly a shock to this writer. I also find myself in a reflective state, pondering the meaning of life and what mine will be all about when it’s said and done.
On the bright side, the Lakers were able to defeat Denver like they were a junior varsity high school squad. I’m sure Melo’s ankle only helped us win, but it still felt nice. We went on our big run by playing small ball: Farmar at PG, Fisher at SG, Bryant at F, Lamar at PF, and Turiaf at C.
Call it a hunch, but I have a feeling we’ll see more of that line-up in the coming weeks as we wait for our players to rehab their injuries.
The last time we played the San Antonio Spurs, it wasn’t a fair fight. All of our players were healthy except for Brown, but they had their top two starters out. Though the game was competitive, we defeated them well.
Tomorrow is a true test. It’s a test of our mettle. If we were discombobulated against Phoenix, then tomorrow is our chance to prove it. In contrast to the Suns or Nuggets, the Spurs play a legitimate half course defense. Without Socks in the middle, we will need plenty of off the ball movement if we’re to create easy shot opportunities like we had against Denver.
The consensus remains. The Western Conference still goes through the reigning champion Spurs.
If we want to take their glory, then we can make a huge statement in this next game.
Our team has gone a long ways since our first meeting with San Antonio. Back then Phil Jackson made jokes about penetration and kick-out. After shutting out the outside shooters of New Orleans two weeks ago, the Lakers Nation has some level of optimism that we’ll be able to perform in a similar fashion against the healthier Spurs.
Though Heath Ledger’s passing is surely a reminder of how frail life can be, perhaps it also signals the end of Brokeback Mountain games.
At least, in some way, I’m hoping this turns out to be true.
Today we mourn the loss of one of Hollywood’s brightest stars.
Tomorrow we can honor his memory by beating the Brokeback demons.
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