Welcome Back Big Fella

And not a moment too soon. B-Daddy here, lifetime Laker fan. (Yes, even when Vlade Divac was the starting center and Nick "the quick" Van Exel ran point.) Dean commented here and here on what a great deal the Pau Gasol trade was for the Lakers. Fast forward a month, and the Lakers go 15-4 and take leadership of the Western conference. Then on March 14, he injured his ankle in a loss to New Orleans and the Lakers drop to a 5 and 4 won-loss record. But he's back in the line up tonight against Portland. As I write, the Lakers have built a ten point lead with Gasol in the line up. No guarantee of a win, but looking good.

I really believe this line up has the talent and desire to contend for the championship. My concern is that with injuries and late season trades, they haven't really played together as a team for very long. Getting by the Spurs, who always play great team ball under coach Pop, will be a big challenge. Still, I look forward to a deep run into the playoffs and a great season next year.