Los Angeles Looks For a Repeat

The Los Angeles Lakers reedemed themselves in the best way. After falling at the hands of the Celtics in the 2008 Finals, they were the ones to have the celebration parade after they won the Championship defeating the Orlando Magic in 5 games. After the championship dust was swept off, there was plenty to deal with for the Lakers organization. Lamar Odom and Trevor Ariza, key players to their championship run, were still in contract situations. Both looking to renew contracts for a larger salary and a secure future with their team. It seems as if the Lakers were more interested in Lamar Odom than Ariza. After trying to agree with Ariza, they traded him to Houston in return for an offensive-defensive beast in the form of Ron Artest. Lamar, on the other hand, is a big question mark because of what he is looking for in a contract. Something like a 4-year 30 Million dollar offer from the teams. The only team to come up with such an offer, are the Heat which offered Lamar a 5-year, 35 Mil contract. Only time will tell if he agrees, but it does seem that, that is the type of contract he is looking for. If he leaves Los Angeles, the Lakers will have a tough task to find someone to fill that void in the bench.

One thing the Lakers do not need to worry about is getting another Foward. LA signed Ron to a 5-year, 33 Mil contract. A definite yes for Ron Artest as he looks for a championship ring. He brings an all-around game and also an infamous passion for the game as well. Last season he averaged 40% FG, 39% in 3-points, 74% FT, 3.3 RPG and 1.5% SPG. So he brings a lot to the table to mix with all the other weapons that the Lakers already have such as Kobe, Pau and Fisher. What is yet to be seen is how Artest will mix with the Lakers, but he has already stated that he and Kobe both respect eachother, even with their physical enconters in the playoffs.

The Lakers have always been a force to be reckoned with in the NBA, but this year with a new hunger, new player and a new perspective, LA looks to repeat as NBA Champions.