Ron Artest is going to be a Laker. The guy that almost came to blows with Kobe Bryant during the Lakers-Rockets series will now be his teammate. Kobe, you want to follow in MJ’s footsteps? You now officially have your Dennis Rodman.
More thoughts on this move (and the Pistons signings) over the weekend, but for now let me just say that I really like this move for LA. My respect for Ron Artest jumped about eight levels while watching him play during my US travels in April and May. I genuinely like the guy now. I would love to have him on my team. You might think that he hates Kobe and vice versa, but it couldn’t be further from the truth. When this news becomes official and Kobe responds, he’ll say all the right things about being disappointed by Ariza’s departure and losing a “younger brother”, but deep down inside you can be sure that Kobe Bryant loves this move.
Check these links for more info:
John Hollinger’s take
Forum Blue and Gold
David Aldrige at NBA.com
Lake Show Life
JA Adande at ESPN
Ball Don’t Lie
Sports Illustrated
Tags: Artest to the Lakers
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2 Comments until now.
this is just huge for the Lakers. no more can they be called soft. they now have two of the premier perimeter defenders in the league, and Artest is also a guy that can give you 20-25 on a good night (unlike Ariza).
I’m with you Rob, I think Kobe is loving this and I wouldn’t be surprised if he was a big driver in pushing for Artest. Defense wins championships, and i think the Lakers just became the best defensive team in the league.
Not a big surprise; the Lakers were aiming to get Artest at the start of 08-09 before he went to Houston.
Lakeshow is gonna repeat. DYNASTY BABY!
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