Celtics Rule, Disappointment Reigns

At the beginning of the Finals, it all seemed so promising. It ended with a thud.

As a longtime Laker fan, I have absolutely no problem with the Boston Celtics claiming their 17th NBA championship. They were clearly the better team. No argument from me.

It wouldn’t be the craziest idea in the world to send the Celtics to Beijing this summer and have them represent the U.S. in the Olympics.

My problem is with my “beloved” Lakers. They just flat out quit. In the second half of Game Six, their hearts just weren’t in it. It was like they just texted it in. Phil Jackson wasn’t exactly a coaching genius in this series. He looked more concerned about where to get a crate of walnuts.

The Lakers have a long history of disappointing their fans when it comes to facing the Celtics. No need to re-hash. I’m already feeling bad enough.

Some adjustments need to be made if there is to be an improvement in the end result next season. Lamar Odom needs to go. A new offensive system needs to be put in place. And, I’ll be the one to say it:

Phil Jackson needs to be put to pasture. It appears the game has finally passed him by. He was clearly outcoached by Boston’s Doc Rivers. The Celtics’ coach was also able to out-think Jackson. Clearly. If this had been a chess game, it would have taken Rivers to reach Checkmate in about 12 minutes.

Jackson’s rightful place is now in an office, consulting, scouting, dealing, and conferencing with Jeannie Buss. Not on the Laker bench. Not anymore.

If things stand pat, the same thing will happen again next year. That is if the Lakers are lucky enough to win the Western Conference. You know damn well that the Spurs, Mavs, Kings, and Suns will not stand pat.

Moves must be made, and soon. Dr. Buss, it’s up to you.