D’Antoni vs Jackson: a Contrast in Coaching Styles

Los Angeles Lakers GM Mitch Kupchak said he chose to hire Mike D’Antoni over fan-favorite and 11-time champion Phil Jackson because he felt D’Antoni’s system would be a better fit for the Lakers current roster. Only time will tell though if he made the right decision.

Now no one doubts that D’Antoni’s system can be implemented on the fly much quicker than the triangle system that Jackson prefers, but Jackson’s coaching style and familiarity with the team’s core players may have ultimately led to more team success.

Thunder’s Kevin Durant being exposed defensively in Finals

The Oklahoma City Thunder practically stormed through the playoffs on the way to their first NBA Finals appearance since moving to Oklahoma. And no one is more responsible for the Thunder’s magical run than Kevin Durant.

Durant has been otherworldly with his ability to score points in bunches and hit shots from just about anywhere on the floor. He is averaging 28. 3 points-per-game while shooting 51.8 percent from the field.

Kobe’s absence good for the Lakers?

Can the Los Angeles Lakers win without their superstar shooting guard Kobe Bryant in the lineup? Well Bryant has only been out five games while resting his bruised shin but the Lakers are 4-1 in his absence.

Everybody has pitched in to help keep the Lakers in the win column but if there is one lesson that L.A.’s big men will learn from Bryant’s absence is that things are so much easier when the Black Mamba is in the lineup.

Fall from Grace for Lakers, Mavs?

Two championship caliber teams have started the season 0-2. While it’s too early to pronounce impending doom for the Los Angeles Lakers and Dallas Mavericks, there may be a lesson to be learned from their combined 0-4 start.