They made it to the NBA Finals during the 2007 season. Sadly, they got beaten by the Boston Celtics in six games.
They returned last season, this time facing the Orlando Magic. The Lakers won this one in six games.
They had some good acquisitions before the season started this year, most notably Ron Artest. Artest came up big in Game Five vs. the Phoenix Suns in this series, pulling up a game-winning buzzer-beater.
Kobe Bryant came up big today in Game Six of the Western Conference Finals; tallying 37 points, six rebounds, two assists, and two steals to lead L.A. towards a 111-103 victory.
But it only gets better.
Yes, we all know the Lakers have beaten the Suns. But it also means another thing: they have made it to the NBA Finals three times in a row.
Three times in a row!
Now that is quite an accomplishment.
It all changes a lot. This also marks the Lakers' sixth time for this decade in the Finals as well. Many people do not credit Kobe for the first three championships.
Well, now, for these recent three where he led them: he should receive all the credit, no doubt.
Bryant had a record of eight straight games with 30-point closeouts.
"I always thought he was the best player in basketball," Phoenix coach Alvin Gentry said.
This may also mark Phil Jackson's last year coaching the Lakers, or maybe even coaching any NBA team at all. Jackson looks to bring his last one, if this was his last season.
This would be his fifth with the Lakers if he wins, and 11th for his total.
"Kobe was the man tonight," he said.
The Suns were down during most of the game. But they came back after a 91-74 deficit. They came back and were down by scores like 99-92 and 103-96 during the fourth quarter.
"With a 3-point shooting tea...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
