2010–11 Los Angeles Lakers season
Encyclopedia
The 2010–11
Los Angeles Lakers
season was the 65th season of the franchise, 63rd in the National Basketball Association
(NBA) and 51st in Los Angeles. Coming off back-to-back championships, the Lakers attempted their third "three-peat
" in franchise history (1952–54) and (2000–02), but were swept by the Dallas Mavericks
in the Western Conference Semifinals
. The Lakers once again sold out all 41 home games for the season at Staples Center
.
The Lakers clinched the Pacific Division
for the 32nd time in franchise history. Despite winning the same amount of games as last season, they did not win the top seed in the Western Conference
playoffs, finishing the regular season four games behind the San Antonio Spurs
. Lamar Odom
became the first player in Lakers history to be named NBA Sixth Man of the Year
.
, Adam Morrison
, D. J. Mbenga and Josh Powell
were all unrestricted free agents. Jordan Farmar
was a restricted free agent, but the Lakers didn't extend a qualifying offer to him, also making him an unrestricted free agent. Shannon Brown
exercised the player option on his contract and opted out of the remaining year of his contract that would have paid him $2.15 million. Fisher was the Lakers' main priority to re-sign in the offseason, but there was disagreement over the amount of the contract's worth, with both sides arguing between 2.5 and 5 million dollars per season. Fisher eventually agreed to a three year contract worth $10.5 million with a player option on the final year.
On July 2, the Lakers agreed to terms with Los Angeles Clippers
free agent Steve Blake
on a four-year contract worth $16 million using most of the team's mid-level exception. The Lakers officially signed Blake to a four-year contract on July 8. On July 22, the Lakers signed free agent forward Matt Barnes
to a two year deal worth $3.6 million (with a player option on the second year) and center Theo Ratliff
to a one year deal worth $1.35 million. On August 5, Shannon Brown's agent announced that the Lakers will resign Brown to a two year deal worth $4.6 million. Brown turned down more lucrative offers from the Knicks and Hornets and has a player option on his second year.
Backup point guard Jordan Farmar
left the Lakers, indicating his desire to be a starter and signed with the New Jersey Nets
. Backup power forward Josh Powell
left the team and signed with the Atlanta Hawks
. D. J. Mbenga and Adam Morrison
signed with the New Orleans Hornets and Washington Wizards
, respectively. The Lakers also signed both of their second-round draft picks Devin Ebanks
(on August 13) and Derrick Caracter
(on August 14) to non-guaranteed salaries two year deals. Ebanks will earn the minimum rookie salary of $473,604. If he stays with the Lakers, his second year salary would be $736,420. Caracter agreed to a two-year, $1.1 million deal that probably will be partially guaranteed. Caracter will earn $473,604 this season if he makes the team. On April 13 the Lakers signed Trey Johnson due to injury .
Head coach Phil Jackson
also agreed to a one year deal after considering retiring. After Jackson's deal, the Lakers were able to quickly reach agreements with the rest of the coaching staff. Longtime assistants Brian Shaw, Frank Hamblen
and Jim Cleamons
are returning and special assistant Chuck Person
has officially been added to the staff.
In September, the Lakers signed Drew Naymick
, Anthony Roberson
, Trey Johnson
, and Russell Hicks
to the training camp squad, bringing their the total number of players to 18. By the start of the season, the Lakers can have at the most 15 players. The Lakers eventually released all four players in October, bring their roster to 14 players.
. Last year's players and staff received their 2010 NBA Championship rings and the Lakers raised their 16th championship banner in the Staples Center
rafters. With Andrew Bynum
missing the season opener, Pau Gasol
moved from starting power forward
to center
and Lamar Odom
moved from backup forward to starting power forward. The starting lineup to begin the season was:
The Lakers started by winning their first four games while leading the NBA in scoring (113.8), 3-point shooting (46.8%) and offensive rebounds. They would go on to win their first eight games before losing back to back games in November. During their first 14 games, notable performances have included Kobe Bryant
recording a triple double in a November 3 win against the Sacramento Kings
. Matt Barnes
and Pau Gasol became the only players besides Charles Barkley
to record 20 points, five rebounds and five assists without missing on at least five shots from the field and the free throw line. They accomplished this feat two days apart on November 19 and 21, respectively, winning both games.
Several reasons have been given for the Lakers' early success including improved play by Lamar Odom, Pau Gasol and a better bench. The Lakers also have a light schedule during the early part of the season, playing most games at home while only three of the first 14 teams they've played have had winning records. This has also allowed Bryant to play a reduced role and stay fresher. The Lakers managed to jump out to a 13–2 start before losing their final three games of November. The Lakers extended their losing streak to four before beating the Sacramento Kings 113–80 on December 3. The Lakers started a seven game December road trip by beating the Los Angeles Clippers
87–86 after Derek Fisher made the game winning layup as time expired. During the road trip they visited President Barack Obama
in Washington D.C. for the second time in 2010. Bynum played his first game of the season coming of the bench against the Washington Wizards
on December 14 after missing the first 24 games of the season. On December 15, the Lakers were involved in a three-way trade that sent Sasha Vujačić
and a protected (No.1-No.18) 2011 first round draft pick to the New Jersey Nets
in return for Joe Smith and the Nets' second round picks they acquired from the Golden State Warriors
and Chicago Bulls
, respectively. The Lakers will also receive the draft rights to Sergei Lishouk
from the Houston Rockets
, as well as a trade exception.
The Lakers finished their road trip 6–1, before losing at home 98–79 against the Milwaukee Bucks
. Their next game was on Christmas Day against the Miami Heat
, a home game they lost by 16 points. In their next game they fell to the San Antonio Spurs losing 97-82 marking their third straight loss, with all three losses by 15 or more points. The next day the Lakers bounced back with a 103-88 road win against the New Orleans Hornets behind Lamar Odom's 24 points. On January 7 against the New Orleans Hornets, Matt Barnes
tore the lateral meniscus
on his right knee and is expected to be out for eight weeks. On January 11, the Lakers beat the Cleveland Cavaliers
by 55 points, the third largest margin of victory in franchise history. This was part of a seven game winning streak that was snapped in a "road" game versus the Los Angeles Clippers
. The Lakers final seven games before the All-Star Game were on the road while the Grammys were taking place at Staples Center. They started off winning their first four games before losing their final three. In Boston on February 10, Bryant scored 20 of his 23 points in the second half as the Lakers rallied from an early 15-point deficit for a 92–86 win over the Celtics. It was the Lakers first victory of the season against one of the league's top four teams, as they entered the game 0–5 in previous matchups and had been outscored by an average of 11 points. The Lakers finished the trip with a 104–99 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers
, and the Lakers entererd the All-Star break on a three-game losing streak and the league's sixth best record. The Cavaliers entered the game having lost 37 of its previous 39 games including an NBA record 26 consecutive losses and the earlier 112–57 loss to the Lakers. Gasol recorded his first 30-point, 20-rebound game against the Cavaliers. Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak
and the press had discussed trade possibilities, but the trade deadline passed on February 24 without any moves. Both Bryant and Gasol were selected to play in the 2011 All-Star Game
, with Bryant winning the All-Star MVP award.
After the All-Star break, the Lakers started 8–0 including a 16–point blowout against the top ranked San Antonio Spurs
(51–12), whom they led by as many as 32 points in the third quarter. The win also ended the Spurs' franchise-record home winning streak at 22. Jackson conceded that San Antonio's 6½-game lead in the West may be too big to overcome with 18 games left. On March 10, the Lakers ended their winning streak, losing to the Heat 94–88, while the Heat stopped their five-game losing streak. Since the All-Star break, the Lakers rejuvenated themselves with tough defense and strong performances by Andrew Bynum
. On March 20, Bynum was suspended for two games for a flagrant foul against Michael Beasley
. On March 22, the Lakers defeated the Suns 139–137 in triple overtime
. Bryant scored 42 points, and Odom had a season-high 29 points and 16 rebounds while playing over 55 minutes filling in for the suspended Bynum. They followed that victory up with another win, 112–104 over the Los Angeles Clippers
with the help of a 37-point performance from Bryant.
The Lakers improved their record to 17–1 since the All-Star break before losing five straight games, putting them out of reach from the best record in the Western Conference. The losing streak ended with a 102–93 home win over the Spurs, who sat out Tim Duncan
, Tony Parker
and Manu Ginóbili
. However, Bynum sustained a hyperextended right knee when he landed on DeJuan Blair
's foot in the game. He missed the remaining games of the season with a bruised knee, but returned for the playoffs. Blake was diagnosed with chickenpox and missed the rest of the season. During the Spurs' game, Bryant used a derogatory gay term in frustration over a referee’s call and was later fined $100,000 by the NBA. The Lakers and Bryant later apologized for the use of the word while Bryant appealed the fine. The Lakers produced a public service announcement
with Bryant and other Lakers denouncing Bryant's behavior. In the last game of the regular season, the Lakers secured the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference of the 2011 playoffs
with a 116–108 overtime win over the Kings in possibly their last game in Sacramento. The Lakers surrendered a 20-point lead in the fourth quarter, but Bryant made a tying 3-pointer with 4.8 seconds remaining to send the game into overtime.
and his 33 points, 14 assists and seven rebounds. The Lakers had not lost a playoff opener at home in 15 years. Bryant had 34 points on 13-for-26 shooting, while Gasol had eight points on two-of-nine shooting, six rebounds, zero offensive rebounds and poor defense on pick-and-roll plays. "It’s up to me to get myself going, be more aggressive, get myself into rhythm," Gasol said. "He’s not naturally aggressive," Bryant said. Bynum and Barnes played after injuries at the end of the regular season, while Blake remained out with the chicken pox. The Lakers won Game 2, 87–78, led by Bynum's 17 points and 11 rebounds. Odom scored 16 points, and Artest added 15. Bryant had only 11 points, but insisted to Jackson that he guard Paul, who finished with 20 points and nine assists. Gasol had eight points and five rebounds, and shot just four-for-19 from the field in the first two games. Blake returned in Game 2 and did not score but had five assists and three rebounds. Bryant scored 30 points, Gasol added 17 points and 10 rebounds, and the Lakers won Game 3 in New Orleans, 100–86. Bryant again helped to defend Paul, who had 22 points, eight assists, and five turnovers. The Lakers lost 93–88 in Game 4 as Paul had 27 points, 15 assists and 13 rebounds and the smaller Hornets outrebounded the Lakers 39-32 and held a 20-4 advantage second-chance points. Bryant was scoreless in the first half, shooting 0–7, and he finished with 17 points on 5–18 shooting. Bryant sprained his left ankle with 1:32 remaining in the game, and used crutches to leave the arena. Bryant, after refusing to get an MRI exam and X-rays, played in Game 5 and had two spectacular dunks in a 106–90 victory. The larger Laker front line helped the team regain control in rebounds with a 42–25 advantage over the Hornets, resulting in a 22–2 disparity in second-chance points. Bynum had 18 points and 10 rebounds. The Lakers won the series 4–2 with a 98–80 win in Game 6. Bryant scored 22 of his 24 points in the first three quarters, and Bynum had 18 points and 12 rebounds. The Lakers again outrebounded New Orleans, 43–30, and held the advantage in second-chance points, 21–4. Paul had 10 points, 11 assists and eight rebounds. Hornets head coach Monty Williams said, "Kobe's Kobe, but I thought Bynum decided the series. He was that good."
, who advanced past the Portland Trail Blazers
, 4–2. In Game 1 of the series, the Lakers lost a close match to the Mavericks 96–94 after blowing a 9-point lead at halftime. Then in Game 2, the Lakers lost another game by a wider margin, 81–93. The Lakers also lost Ron Artest
for the end of Game 2 and for Game 3 after he hit Dallas player J.J. Barea in the face in the closing moments of the game. Following Game 2, Andrew Bynum
told the press that the team was having "trust issues", a comment that sparked doubt of the Lakers' ability to win the series and the playoffs. After losing both home games, the Lakers headed to Dallas hoping to patch up the 0–2 hole by snatching up a win or two and taking the series back home. But, things looked bleak as they entered the highly partisan atmosphere of the American Airlines Center
at Dallas. The Lakers ended the first quarter of Game 3 down 2 points, but made a surge during the next two quarters to take a 6 point lead. However, the Mavericks dominated the fourth quarter and took 32 points in that quarter to seal the game in their favor, 92–98, leaving the Lakers in an 0–3 hole. This intensified the doubts of the Lakers' attempt to make a three-peat, since no team in NBA history had ever climbed out of a 0–3 hole in the playoffs to win a series. The Lakers tried to make a last-ditch effort to win their final game in Dallas in Game 4, but were overwhelmed by Dallas in an 86–122 victory marked by a playoff record-tying 20 3-point field goals, many by Jason Terry
, the star of the game. The Mavericks' bench scored the same as the whole Lakers roster. Andrew Bynum
and Lamar Odom
were also ejected from the game after flagrant foul
s on Dirk Nowitzki
and J.J. Barea, respectively. What became the Lakers' last stand in the 2010-11 postseason was also marked by coach Phil Jackson
's retirement. The Dallas Mavericks swept the Lakers with ease and moved on to the conference finals for the first time since 2006. The Lakers missed a chance for a record third three-peat and were swept for the seventh time in franchise history.
Former Laker and ESPN analyst Magic Johnson
was disgusted with the Lakers' performance in Game 4, and stated in the ESPN Game 4 halftime report that the first half was "the worst that I've ever seen the Lakers play in a game that they need ... like they're already on vacation." During the series, it seemed as if the Lakers had uncharacteristic problems with closing out their games, something that they are usually famed for. The Lakers were swept for the seventh time in franchise history, but this sweep by the Mavericks is only the second time that the Lakers have been swept with home-court advantage. The Lakers lost by 30-plus points in a playoffs game for the fourth time in franchise history; the Mavericks won over the Lakers with the largest margin of victory in a game that clinched a sweep in the playoffs.
| Ron Artest
|| style="background:#ffcd35;color:#6137ad;"| 82 || style="background:#ffcd35;color:#6137ad;"| 82 || 29.4 || .397 || .356 || .676 || 3.3 || 2.1 || style="background:#ffcd35;color:#6137ad;"| 1.5 || .4 || 8.5
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Matt Barnes
|| 53 || 0 || 19.2 || .470 || .318 || .779 || 4.3 || 1.3 || .7 || .4 || 6.7
|- style="text-align:center;" bgcolor=""
| Steve Blake
|| 79 || 0 || 20.0 || .359 || .378 || .867 || 2.0 || 2.2 || .5 || .0 || 4.0
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Shannon Brown
|| style="background:#ffcd35;color:#6137ad;"| 82 || 0 || 19.1 || .425 || .349 || .911 || 1.9 || 1.2 || .8 || .2 || 8.7
|- style="text-align:center;" bgcolor=""
| Kobe Bryant
|| style="background:#ffcd35;color:#6137ad;"| 82 || style="background:#ffcd35;color:#6137ad;"| 82 || 33.9 || .451 || .323 || .828 || 5.1 || style="background:#ffcd35;color:#6137ad;"| 4.7 || 1.2 || .1 || style="background:#ffcd35;color:#6137ad;"| 25.3
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Andrew Bynum
|| 54 || 47 || 27.8 || style="background:#ffcd35;color:#6137ad;"| .574 || .000 || .660 || 9.4 || 1.4 || .4 || style="background:#ffcd35;color:#6137ad;"| 2.0 || 11.3
|- style="text-align:center;" bgcolor=""
| Derrick Caracter
|| 41 || 0 || 5.2 || .485 || .000 || .739 || 1.0 || .2 || .1 || .20 || 2.0
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Devin Ebanks
|| 20 || 0 || 5.9 || .412 || style="background:#ffcd35;color:#6137ad;"| .400 || .783 || 1.4 || .1 || .20 || .25 || 3.1
|- style="text-align:center;" bgcolor=""
| Derek Fisher
|| style="background:#ffcd35;color:#6137ad;"| 82 || style="background:#ffcd35;color:#6137ad;"| 82 || 28.0 || .389 || .396 || .806 || 1.9 || 2.7 || 1.2 || .1 || 6.8
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Pau Gasol
|| style="background:#ffcd35;color:#6137ad;"| 82 || style="background:#ffcd35;color:#6137ad;"| 82 || style="background:#ffcd35;color:#6137ad;"| 37.0 || .529 || .333 || .823 || style="background:#ffcd35;color:#6137ad;"| 10.2 || 3.3 || .6 || 1.6 || 18.8
|- style="text-align:center;" bgcolor=""
| Lamar Odom
|| style="background:#ffcd35;color:#6137ad;"| 82 || 35 || 32.2 || .530 || .382 || .675 || 8.7 || 3.0 || 0.6 || .7 || 14.4
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Theo Ratliff
|| 10 || 0 || 7.0 || .167 || .000 || .000 || 1.3 || .3 || .2 || .5 || .2
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Joe Smith || 12 || 0 || 3.7 || .167 || .000 || style="background:#ffcd35;color:#6137ad;"| 1.000 || 1.5 || .3 || 0 || .3 || 0.5
|- style="text-align:center;" bgcolor=""
| Luke Walton
|| 54 || 0 || 9.0 || .328 || .235 || .700 || 1.2 || 1.1 || .2 || .1 || 1.7
|}
2010–11 NBA season
The 2010–11 NBA season was the 65th season of the National Basketball Association . The 2011 NBA All-Star Game was played on February 20, 2011 at Staples Center in Los Angeles, California. The Dallas Mavericks defeated the Miami Heat in six games, 4 games to 2, to win their first NBA title, and...
Los Angeles Lakers
Los Angeles Lakers
The Los Angeles Lakers are an American professional basketball team based in Los Angeles, California. They play in the Pacific Division of the Western Conference in the National Basketball Association...
season was the 65th season of the franchise, 63rd in the National Basketball Association
National Basketball Association
The National Basketball Association is the pre-eminent men's professional basketball league in North America. It consists of thirty franchised member clubs, of which twenty-nine are located in the United States and one in Canada...
(NBA) and 51st in Los Angeles. Coming off back-to-back championships, the Lakers attempted their third "three-peat
Three-peat
Three-peat is a contraction of the words three and repeat, which has been trademarked for commercial use by retired basketball coach Pat Riley; the active trademarks in force are registered under numbers 1552980, 1878690, and 1886018...
" in franchise history (1952–54) and (2000–02), but were swept by the Dallas Mavericks
Dallas Mavericks
The Dallas Mavericks are a professional basketball team based in Dallas, Texas. They are members of the Southwest Division of the Western Conference of the National Basketball Association , and the reigning NBA champions, having defeated the Miami Heat in the 2011 NBA Finals.According to a 2011...
in the Western Conference Semifinals
2011 NBA Playoffs
The 2011 NBA Playoffs was the postseason for the National Basketball Association's 2010–11 season. Eight teams from each of the league's two conferences qualified for the playoffs, all seeded 1 to 8 in a tournament bracket, with all rounds in a best-of-seven format. The 2011 NBA Playoffs began on...
. The Lakers once again sold out all 41 home games for the season at Staples Center
Staples Center
Staples Center is a multi-purpose sports arena in Downtown Los Angeles. Adjacent to the L.A. Live development, it is located next to the Los Angeles Convention Center complex along Figueroa Street. Opening on October 17, 1999, it is one of the major sporting facilities in the Greater Los Angeles...
.
The Lakers clinched the Pacific Division
Pacific Division (NBA)
The Pacific Division is one of the three divisions in the Western Conference of the National Basketball Association . The division consists of five teams, the Golden State Warriors, the Los Angeles Clippers, the Los Angeles Lakers, the Phoenix Suns and the Sacramento Kings...
for the 32nd time in franchise history. Despite winning the same amount of games as last season, they did not win the top seed in the Western Conference
Western Conference (NBA)
Below is a list of current Western Conference NBA team rosters.-Western Conference:There are a total of 15 teams in the Western Conference. The current leading team of the Western conference are the Dallas Mavericks....
playoffs, finishing the regular season four games behind the San Antonio Spurs
San Antonio Spurs
The San Antonio Spurs are an American professional basketball team based in San Antonio, Texas. They are part of the Southwest Division of the Western Conference in the National Basketball Association ....
. Lamar Odom
Lamar Odom
Lamar Joseph Odom is an American professional basketball forward with the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association.-Early life:...
became the first player in Lakers history to be named NBA Sixth Man of the Year
NBA Sixth Man of the Year Award
The National Basketball Association's Sixth Man of the Year Award is an annual National Basketball Association award given since the 1982–83 NBA season to the league's most valuable player for his team coming off the bench as a substitute . A panel of sportswriters and broadcasters from throughout...
.
Key dates
- June 24 – The 2010 NBA Draft2010 NBA DraftThe 2010 NBA Draft was held on June 24, 2010 at the Theatre at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York. The draft, which started at 7:00 pm Eastern Daylight Time , was broadcast in the United States on ESPN. In this draft, National Basketball Association teams took turns selecting amateur...
was held in New York CityNew York CityNew York is the most populous city in the United States and the center of the New York Metropolitan Area, one of the most populous metropolitan areas in the world. New York exerts a significant impact upon global commerce, finance, media, art, fashion, research, technology, education, and...
. - July 1 – The free agencyFree agentIn professional sports, a free agent is a player whose contract with a team has expired and who is thus eligible to sign with another club or franchise....
period begun. - October 26 – The Lakers' regular season began with a home game versus the Houston RocketsHouston RocketsThe Houston Rockets are an American professional basketball team based in Houston, Texas. The team plays in the Southwest Division of the Western Conference in the National Basketball Association . The team was established in 1967, and played in San Diego, California for four years, before being...
. The previous year's players received their championship rings and the team raised their 16th championship banner into the Staples CenterStaples CenterStaples Center is a multi-purpose sports arena in Downtown Los Angeles. Adjacent to the L.A. Live development, it is located next to the Los Angeles Convention Center complex along Figueroa Street. Opening on October 17, 1999, it is one of the major sporting facilities in the Greater Los Angeles...
rafters. - February 20 – The 2011 NBA All-Star Game2011 NBA All-Star GameThe 2011 NBA All-Star Game was an exhibition basketball game that was played on February 20, 2011 at Staples Center in Los Angeles, California, home of the Los Angeles Clippers and the Los Angeles Lakers. This game was the 60th edition of the National Basketball Association All-Star Game and was...
takes place in Los Angeles. - February 24 – NBA trade deadline.
- March 20 – The Lakers clinched the Pacific DivisionPacific Division (NBA)The Pacific Division is one of the three divisions in the Western Conference of the National Basketball Association . The division consists of five teams, the Golden State Warriors, the Los Angeles Clippers, the Los Angeles Lakers, the Phoenix Suns and the Sacramento Kings...
title, clinching a playoff spot and at least the fourth seed in the playoffs. - April 14 – The Lakers finished the regular season with a win against the Sacramento KingsSacramento KingsThe Sacramento Kings are a professional basketball team based in Sacramento, California, United States. They are currently members of the Western Conference of the National Basketball Association...
, clinching the 2nd seed in the Western ConferenceWestern Conference (NBA)Below is a list of current Western Conference NBA team rosters.-Western Conference:There are a total of 15 teams in the Western Conference. The current leading team of the Western conference are the Dallas Mavericks....
playoffs in the process. - May 8 – The Lakers were swept by the Dallas MavericksDallas MavericksThe Dallas Mavericks are a professional basketball team based in Dallas, Texas. They are members of the Southwest Division of the Western Conference of the National Basketball Association , and the reigning NBA champions, having defeated the Miami Heat in the 2011 NBA Finals.According to a 2011...
in the second round of the Playoffs, ending the hopes of a three-peat.
Free agency
Entering the offseason, Derek FisherDerek Fisher
Derek Lamar Fisher is an American professional basketball point guard for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association . His NBA career has spanned more than 14 years, during which he has won five NBA Championships...
, Adam Morrison
Adam Morrison
Adam John Morrison is an American basketball player who is currently free agent after being released from KK Crvena zvezda....
, D. J. Mbenga and Josh Powell
Josh Powell
Josh Powell is an American professional basketball player.-Early life:While playing at NC State, Powell averaged 12.4 ppg and 5.2 rpg in his sophomore year . He was not selected in the 2003 NBA Draft and played in Europe...
were all unrestricted free agents. Jordan Farmar
Jordan Farmar
Jordan Robert Farmar is an American professional basketball point guard for Maccabi Tel Aviv of the Israeli Basketball Super League and Euroleague. He is also under contract with the New Jersey Nets, and is expected to return to the team after the 2011 NBA lockout ends.In high school, he was the...
was a restricted free agent, but the Lakers didn't extend a qualifying offer to him, also making him an unrestricted free agent. Shannon Brown
Shannon Brown
Shannon Brown is an American professional basketball player who plays at the shooting guard and point guard positions. He last played in the National Basketball Association for the Los Angeles Lakers. Brown attended Proviso East High School in Maywood, Illinois, was named Illinois Mr...
exercised the player option on his contract and opted out of the remaining year of his contract that would have paid him $2.15 million. Fisher was the Lakers' main priority to re-sign in the offseason, but there was disagreement over the amount of the contract's worth, with both sides arguing between 2.5 and 5 million dollars per season. Fisher eventually agreed to a three year contract worth $10.5 million with a player option on the final year.
On July 2, the Lakers agreed to terms with Los Angeles Clippers
Los Angeles Clippers
The Los Angeles Clippers are a professional basketball team based in Los Angeles, California, United States. They play in the Pacific Division of the Western Conference of the National Basketball Association...
free agent Steve Blake
Steve Blake
Steven Hanson "Steve" Blake is an American professional basketball point guard for the Los Angeles Lakers. Previously, he played for the Washington Wizards, Milwaukee Bucks, Denver Nuggets, Portland Trail Blazers and the Los Angeles Clippers.-High school:Blake spent his freshman and sophomore year...
on a four-year contract worth $16 million using most of the team's mid-level exception. The Lakers officially signed Blake to a four-year contract on July 8. On July 22, the Lakers signed free agent forward Matt Barnes
Matt Barnes
Matt Kelly Barnes is an American professional basketball player who currently plays for the Los Angeles Lakers in the National Basketball Association.-High school years:...
to a two year deal worth $3.6 million (with a player option on the second year) and center Theo Ratliff
Theo Ratliff
Theophilus Curtis Ratliff , better known as Theo Ratliff, is an American professional basketball player who last played with the NBA's Los Angeles Lakers. Primarily a center, he was an excellent shot-blocker who has led the league three times in blocks per game...
to a one year deal worth $1.35 million. On August 5, Shannon Brown's agent announced that the Lakers will resign Brown to a two year deal worth $4.6 million. Brown turned down more lucrative offers from the Knicks and Hornets and has a player option on his second year.
Backup point guard Jordan Farmar
Jordan Farmar
Jordan Robert Farmar is an American professional basketball point guard for Maccabi Tel Aviv of the Israeli Basketball Super League and Euroleague. He is also under contract with the New Jersey Nets, and is expected to return to the team after the 2011 NBA lockout ends.In high school, he was the...
left the Lakers, indicating his desire to be a starter and signed with the New Jersey Nets
New Jersey Nets
The New Jersey Nets are a professional basketball team based in Newark, New Jersey. They are members of the Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference in the National Basketball Association...
. Backup power forward Josh Powell
Josh Powell
Josh Powell is an American professional basketball player.-Early life:While playing at NC State, Powell averaged 12.4 ppg and 5.2 rpg in his sophomore year . He was not selected in the 2003 NBA Draft and played in Europe...
left the team and signed with the Atlanta Hawks
Atlanta Hawks
The Atlanta Hawks are an American professional basketball team based in Atlanta, Georgia. They are part of the Southeast Division of the Eastern Conference in the National Basketball Association .-The first years:...
. D. J. Mbenga and Adam Morrison
Adam Morrison
Adam John Morrison is an American basketball player who is currently free agent after being released from KK Crvena zvezda....
signed with the New Orleans Hornets and Washington Wizards
Washington Wizards
The Washington Wizards are a professional basketball team based in Washington, D.C., previously known as Washington Bullets. They play in the National Basketball Association .-Early years:...
, respectively. The Lakers also signed both of their second-round draft picks Devin Ebanks
Devin Ebanks
Devin Ebanks is an American professional basketball player selected 43rd overall by the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2010 NBA Draft...
(on August 13) and Derrick Caracter
Derrick Caracter
Derrick Caracter is a power forward–center for the Los Angeles Lakers.Caracter grew up in Fanwood, New Jersey. He played high school basketball at St. Patrick High School as a freshman, and attended Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School as a sophomore, to team with fellow SPF native, and subsequent...
(on August 14) to non-guaranteed salaries two year deals. Ebanks will earn the minimum rookie salary of $473,604. If he stays with the Lakers, his second year salary would be $736,420. Caracter agreed to a two-year, $1.1 million deal that probably will be partially guaranteed. Caracter will earn $473,604 this season if he makes the team. On April 13 the Lakers signed Trey Johnson due to injury .
Head coach Phil Jackson
Phil Jackson
Philip Douglas "Phil" Jackson is a retired American professional basketball coach and player. Jackson is widely considered one of the greatest coaches in the history of the National Basketball Association . His reputation was established as head coach of the Chicago Bulls from 1989 through 1998;...
also agreed to a one year deal after considering retiring. After Jackson's deal, the Lakers were able to quickly reach agreements with the rest of the coaching staff. Longtime assistants Brian Shaw, Frank Hamblen
Frank Hamblen
Frank Hamblen is a National Basketball Association coach and scout, and a former college basketball player at Syracuse University. He has served as an interim head coach for two different teams; for the Milwaukee Bucks in 1992 and the Los Angeles Lakers in 2005...
and Jim Cleamons
Jim Cleamons
James Mitchell "Jim" Cleamons is a retired American professional basketball player and current coach. He played collegiately at The Ohio State University, and was selected by the Los Angeles Lakers with the 13th pick of the 1971 NBA Draft...
are returning and special assistant Chuck Person
Chuck Person
Chuck Connors Person is a retired American National Basketball Association player and current assistant coach for the Los Angeles Lakers.-High school and college:...
has officially been added to the staff.
In September, the Lakers signed Drew Naymick
Drew Naymick
Drew Naymick is an American professional basketball player with the ČEZ Nymburk of the Czech basketball league. He played collegiately at Michigan State...
, Anthony Roberson
Anthony Roberson
Anthony Roberson is an American professional basketball player who has played for four National Basketball Association teams and four foreign teams in his six-year pro career...
, Trey Johnson
Trey Johnson
Clinton "Trey" Johnson III is an American professional basketball player. Johnson played college basketball with the Alcorn State Braves and the Jackson State Tigers in the Southwestern Athletic Conference . During his senior year, he won the SWAC Player of the Year award...
, and Russell Hicks
Russell Hicks
Russell Hicks was an American film actor. He appeared in nearly 300 films between 1915 and 1956. His first appearance was an uncredited role in The Birth of a Nation . He often appeared as a smooth talking confidence man, as in the W.C. Fields film, The Bank Dick...
to the training camp squad, bringing their the total number of players to 18. By the start of the season, the Lakers can have at the most 15 players. The Lakers eventually released all four players in October, bring their roster to 14 players.
Draft picks
| Round | Pick | Player | Position | Nationality | College/Team |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 43 | Devin Ebanks Devin Ebanks Devin Ebanks is an American professional basketball player selected 43rd overall by the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2010 NBA Draft... |
SF Small forward The small forward, or colloquially known as three, is one of the five positions in a regulation basketball game. Small forwards are typically somewhat shorter, quicker, and leaner than power forwards and centers, but on occasion are just as tall... |
West Virginia West Virginia Mountaineers men's basketball The West Virginia Mountaineers men's basketball team represents West Virginia University in NCAA Division I college basketball competition. It is a member of the Big East Conference. West Virginia most recently reached the Final Four of the 2010 NCAA Men's Division I Basketball Tournament, led by... |
|
| 2 | 58 | Derrick Caracter Derrick Caracter Derrick Caracter is a power forward–center for the Los Angeles Lakers.Caracter grew up in Fanwood, New Jersey. He played high school basketball at St. Patrick High School as a freshman, and attended Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School as a sophomore, to team with fellow SPF native, and subsequent... |
PF Power forward (basketball) Power forward is a position in the sport of basketball. The position is referred to in playbook terms as the four position and is commonly abbreviated "PF". It has also been referred to as the "post" position. Power forwards play a role similar to that of center in what is called the "post" or "low... |
UTEP UTEP Miners men's basketball The UTEP Miners basketball team is an NCAA Division I men's college basketball team competing in the Conference USA. Home games are played at Don Haskins Center, located on University of Texas at El Paso's campus in El Paso.-Don Haskins Center:... |
Roster
Depth chart
| Pos. | Starter | Bench | Reserve | Inactive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C Center (basketball) The center, colloquially known as the five or the post, is one of the standard positions in a regulation basketball game. The center is normally the tallest player on the team, and often has a great deal of strength and body mass as well... |
Andrew Bynum Andrew Bynum Andrew Bynum is an American professional basketball player who plays for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association . He was drafted 10th overall by the Los Angeles Lakers in 2005. Bynum became the youngest player ever to play an NBA game later that year, breaking Jermaine... |
Theo Ratliff Theo Ratliff Theophilus Curtis Ratliff , better known as Theo Ratliff, is an American professional basketball player who last played with the NBA's Los Angeles Lakers. Primarily a center, he was an excellent shot-blocker who has led the league three times in blocks per game... |
||
| PF Power forward (basketball) Power forward is a position in the sport of basketball. The position is referred to in playbook terms as the four position and is commonly abbreviated "PF". It has also been referred to as the "post" position. Power forwards play a role similar to that of center in what is called the "post" or "low... |
Pau Gasol Pau Gasol Pau Gasol Sáez is a Spanish professional basketball player for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association . He was born to Marisa Sáez and Agustí Gasol, and he spent his childhood in Spain... |
Lamar Odom Lamar Odom Lamar Joseph Odom is an American professional basketball forward with the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association.-Early life:... |
Joe Smith | yle="color:#5c2f83;">Derrick Caracter Derrick Caracter Derrick Caracter is a power forward–center for the Los Angeles Lakers.Caracter grew up in Fanwood, New Jersey. He played high school basketball at St. Patrick High School as a freshman, and attended Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School as a sophomore, to team with fellow SPF native, and subsequent... |
| SF Small forward The small forward, or colloquially known as three, is one of the five positions in a regulation basketball game. Small forwards are typically somewhat shorter, quicker, and leaner than power forwards and centers, but on occasion are just as tall... |
Ron Artest Ron Artest Metta World Peace is an American professional basketball player and rapper who is currently with the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA. World Peace gained a reputation as one of the league's premier defenders as he won the NBA Defensive Player of the Year Award in 2004... |
Matt Barnes Matt Barnes Matt Kelly Barnes is an American professional basketball player who currently plays for the Los Angeles Lakers in the National Basketball Association.-High school years:... |
Luke Walton Luke Walton Luke Theodore Walton is an American professional basketball player for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association . His primary position is at small forward. After the 2010 NBA Finals, Walton and his father Hall of Famer Bill Walton became the first and only father and son to... |
"color:#5c2f83;">Devin Ebanks Devin Ebanks Devin Ebanks is an American professional basketball player selected 43rd overall by the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2010 NBA Draft... |
| SG Shooting guard The shooting guard , also known as the two or off guard, is one of five traditional positions on a basketball team. Players of the position are often shorter, leaner, and quicker than forwards. A shooting guard's main objective is to score points for his team... |
Kobe Bryant Kobe Bryant Kobe Bean Bryant is an American professional basketball player who plays shooting guard for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association . Bryant enjoyed a successful high school basketball career at Lower Merion High School, where he was recognized as the top high school... |
Shannon Brown Shannon Brown Shannon Brown is an American professional basketball player who plays at the shooting guard and point guard positions. He last played in the National Basketball Association for the Los Angeles Lakers. Brown attended Proviso East High School in Maywood, Illinois, was named Illinois Mr... |
||
| PG Point guard Point guard , also called the play maker or "the ball-handler", is one of the standard positions in a regulation basketball game. A point guard has perhaps the most specialized role of any position – essentially, he is expected to run the team's offense by controlling the ball and making sure that... |
Derek Fisher Derek Fisher Derek Lamar Fisher is an American professional basketball point guard for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association . His NBA career has spanned more than 14 years, during which he has won five NBA Championships... |
Steve Blake Steve Blake Steven Hanson "Steve" Blake is an American professional basketball point guard for the Los Angeles Lakers. Previously, he played for the Washington Wizards, Milwaukee Bucks, Denver Nuggets, Portland Trail Blazers and the Los Angeles Clippers.-High school:Blake spent his freshman and sophomore year... |
"color:#5c2f83;">Trey Johnson Trey Johnson Clinton "Trey" Johnson III is an American professional basketball player. Johnson played college basketball with the Alcorn State Braves and the Jackson State Tigers in the Southwestern Athletic Conference . During his senior year, he won the SWAC Player of the Year award... |
Season summary
The Lakers started the season at home versus the Houston RocketsHouston Rockets
The Houston Rockets are an American professional basketball team based in Houston, Texas. The team plays in the Southwest Division of the Western Conference in the National Basketball Association . The team was established in 1967, and played in San Diego, California for four years, before being...
. Last year's players and staff received their 2010 NBA Championship rings and the Lakers raised their 16th championship banner in the Staples Center
Staples Center
Staples Center is a multi-purpose sports arena in Downtown Los Angeles. Adjacent to the L.A. Live development, it is located next to the Los Angeles Convention Center complex along Figueroa Street. Opening on October 17, 1999, it is one of the major sporting facilities in the Greater Los Angeles...
rafters. With Andrew Bynum
Andrew Bynum
Andrew Bynum is an American professional basketball player who plays for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association . He was drafted 10th overall by the Los Angeles Lakers in 2005. Bynum became the youngest player ever to play an NBA game later that year, breaking Jermaine...
missing the season opener, Pau Gasol
Pau Gasol
Pau Gasol Sáez is a Spanish professional basketball player for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association . He was born to Marisa Sáez and Agustí Gasol, and he spent his childhood in Spain...
moved from starting power forward
Power forward (basketball)
Power forward is a position in the sport of basketball. The position is referred to in playbook terms as the four position and is commonly abbreviated "PF". It has also been referred to as the "post" position. Power forwards play a role similar to that of center in what is called the "post" or "low...
to center
Center (basketball)
The center, colloquially known as the five or the post, is one of the standard positions in a regulation basketball game. The center is normally the tallest player on the team, and often has a great deal of strength and body mass as well...
and Lamar Odom
Lamar Odom
Lamar Joseph Odom is an American professional basketball forward with the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association.-Early life:...
moved from backup forward to starting power forward. The starting lineup to begin the season was:
- C – Pau GasolPau GasolPau Gasol Sáez is a Spanish professional basketball player for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association . He was born to Marisa Sáez and Agustí Gasol, and he spent his childhood in Spain...
- PF – Lamar OdomLamar OdomLamar Joseph Odom is an American professional basketball forward with the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association.-Early life:...
- SF – Ron ArtestRon ArtestMetta World Peace is an American professional basketball player and rapper who is currently with the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA. World Peace gained a reputation as one of the league's premier defenders as he won the NBA Defensive Player of the Year Award in 2004...
- SG – Kobe BryantKobe BryantKobe Bean Bryant is an American professional basketball player who plays shooting guard for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association . Bryant enjoyed a successful high school basketball career at Lower Merion High School, where he was recognized as the top high school...
- PG – Derek FisherDerek FisherDerek Lamar Fisher is an American professional basketball point guard for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association . His NBA career has spanned more than 14 years, during which he has won five NBA Championships...
The Lakers started by winning their first four games while leading the NBA in scoring (113.8), 3-point shooting (46.8%) and offensive rebounds. They would go on to win their first eight games before losing back to back games in November. During their first 14 games, notable performances have included Kobe Bryant
Kobe Bryant
Kobe Bean Bryant is an American professional basketball player who plays shooting guard for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association . Bryant enjoyed a successful high school basketball career at Lower Merion High School, where he was recognized as the top high school...
recording a triple double in a November 3 win against the Sacramento Kings
Sacramento Kings
The Sacramento Kings are a professional basketball team based in Sacramento, California, United States. They are currently members of the Western Conference of the National Basketball Association...
. Matt Barnes
Matt Barnes
Matt Kelly Barnes is an American professional basketball player who currently plays for the Los Angeles Lakers in the National Basketball Association.-High school years:...
and Pau Gasol became the only players besides Charles Barkley
Charles Barkley
Charles Wade Barkley is a former American professional basketball player. Nicknamed "Sir Charles" and "The Round Mound of Rebound", Barkley established himself as one of the National Basketball Association's most dominating power forwards...
to record 20 points, five rebounds and five assists without missing on at least five shots from the field and the free throw line. They accomplished this feat two days apart on November 19 and 21, respectively, winning both games.
Several reasons have been given for the Lakers' early success including improved play by Lamar Odom, Pau Gasol and a better bench. The Lakers also have a light schedule during the early part of the season, playing most games at home while only three of the first 14 teams they've played have had winning records. This has also allowed Bryant to play a reduced role and stay fresher. The Lakers managed to jump out to a 13–2 start before losing their final three games of November. The Lakers extended their losing streak to four before beating the Sacramento Kings 113–80 on December 3. The Lakers started a seven game December road trip by beating the Los Angeles Clippers
Los Angeles Clippers
The Los Angeles Clippers are a professional basketball team based in Los Angeles, California, United States. They play in the Pacific Division of the Western Conference of the National Basketball Association...
87–86 after Derek Fisher made the game winning layup as time expired. During the road trip they visited President Barack Obama
Barack Obama
Barack Hussein Obama II is the 44th and current President of the United States. He is the first African American to hold the office. Obama previously served as a United States Senator from Illinois, from January 2005 until he resigned following his victory in the 2008 presidential election.Born in...
in Washington D.C. for the second time in 2010. Bynum played his first game of the season coming of the bench against the Washington Wizards
Washington Wizards
The Washington Wizards are a professional basketball team based in Washington, D.C., previously known as Washington Bullets. They play in the National Basketball Association .-Early years:...
on December 14 after missing the first 24 games of the season. On December 15, the Lakers were involved in a three-way trade that sent Sasha Vujačić
Sasha Vujacic
Aleksandar "Sasha" Vujačić is a Slovenian basketball player who has played in Italy, the United States , and more recently for Anadolu Efes S.K. in Turkey...
and a protected (No.1-No.18) 2011 first round draft pick to the New Jersey Nets
New Jersey Nets
The New Jersey Nets are a professional basketball team based in Newark, New Jersey. They are members of the Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference in the National Basketball Association...
in return for Joe Smith and the Nets' second round picks they acquired from the Golden State Warriors
Golden State Warriors
The Golden State Warriors are an American professional basketball team based in Oakland, California. They are part of the Pacific Division of the Western Conference in the National Basketball Association...
and Chicago Bulls
Chicago Bulls
The Chicago Bulls are an American professional basketball team based in Chicago, Illinois, playing in the Central Division of the Eastern Conference in the National Basketball Association . The team was founded in 1966. They play their home games at the United Center...
, respectively. The Lakers will also receive the draft rights to Sergei Lishouk
Sergei Lishouk
-Pro career:Lishouk was selected by the NBA's Memphis Grizzlies in the 2004 NBA Draft. On February 21, 2008, his NBA draft rights were traded to the Houston Rockets in exchange for the draft rights to Malick Badiane...
from the Houston Rockets
Houston Rockets
The Houston Rockets are an American professional basketball team based in Houston, Texas. The team plays in the Southwest Division of the Western Conference in the National Basketball Association . The team was established in 1967, and played in San Diego, California for four years, before being...
, as well as a trade exception.
The Lakers finished their road trip 6–1, before losing at home 98–79 against the Milwaukee Bucks
Milwaukee Bucks
The Milwaukee Bucks are a professional basketball team based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States. They are part of the Central Division of the Eastern Conference in the National Basketball Association . The team was founded in 1968 as an expansion team, and currently plays at the Bradley Center....
. Their next game was on Christmas Day against the Miami Heat
Miami Heat
The Miami Heat is a professional basketball team based in Miami, Florida, United States. The team is a member of the Southeast Division in the Eastern Conference of the National Basketball Association . They play their home games at American Airlines Arena in Downtown Miami...
, a home game they lost by 16 points. In their next game they fell to the San Antonio Spurs losing 97-82 marking their third straight loss, with all three losses by 15 or more points. The next day the Lakers bounced back with a 103-88 road win against the New Orleans Hornets behind Lamar Odom's 24 points. On January 7 against the New Orleans Hornets, Matt Barnes
Matt Barnes
Matt Kelly Barnes is an American professional basketball player who currently plays for the Los Angeles Lakers in the National Basketball Association.-High school years:...
tore the lateral meniscus
Lateral meniscus
The lateral meniscus, also called the external semilunar fibrocartilage, is a fibrocartilaginous band that spans the lateral side of the interior of the knee joint. It is one of two menisci of the knee, the other being the medial meniscus. It is nearly circular and covers a larger portion of the...
on his right knee and is expected to be out for eight weeks. On January 11, the Lakers beat the Cleveland Cavaliers
Cleveland Cavaliers
The Cleveland Cavaliers are a professional basketball team based in Cleveland, Ohio. They began playing in the National Basketball Association in 1970 as an expansion team...
by 55 points, the third largest margin of victory in franchise history. This was part of a seven game winning streak that was snapped in a "road" game versus the Los Angeles Clippers
Los Angeles Clippers
The Los Angeles Clippers are a professional basketball team based in Los Angeles, California, United States. They play in the Pacific Division of the Western Conference of the National Basketball Association...
. The Lakers final seven games before the All-Star Game were on the road while the Grammys were taking place at Staples Center. They started off winning their first four games before losing their final three. In Boston on February 10, Bryant scored 20 of his 23 points in the second half as the Lakers rallied from an early 15-point deficit for a 92–86 win over the Celtics. It was the Lakers first victory of the season against one of the league's top four teams, as they entered the game 0–5 in previous matchups and had been outscored by an average of 11 points. The Lakers finished the trip with a 104–99 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers
Cleveland Cavaliers
The Cleveland Cavaliers are a professional basketball team based in Cleveland, Ohio. They began playing in the National Basketball Association in 1970 as an expansion team...
, and the Lakers entererd the All-Star break on a three-game losing streak and the league's sixth best record. The Cavaliers entered the game having lost 37 of its previous 39 games including an NBA record 26 consecutive losses and the earlier 112–57 loss to the Lakers. Gasol recorded his first 30-point, 20-rebound game against the Cavaliers. Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak
Mitch Kupchak
Mitchell "Mitch" Kupchak is a retired American basketball player and current general manager of the Los Angeles Lakers since the 2000–01 NBA season after predecessor Jerry West moved to the Memphis Grizzlies organization....
and the press had discussed trade possibilities, but the trade deadline passed on February 24 without any moves. Both Bryant and Gasol were selected to play in the 2011 All-Star Game
2011 NBA All-Star Game
The 2011 NBA All-Star Game was an exhibition basketball game that was played on February 20, 2011 at Staples Center in Los Angeles, California, home of the Los Angeles Clippers and the Los Angeles Lakers. This game was the 60th edition of the National Basketball Association All-Star Game and was...
, with Bryant winning the All-Star MVP award.
After the All-Star break, the Lakers started 8–0 including a 16–point blowout against the top ranked San Antonio Spurs
San Antonio Spurs
The San Antonio Spurs are an American professional basketball team based in San Antonio, Texas. They are part of the Southwest Division of the Western Conference in the National Basketball Association ....
(51–12), whom they led by as many as 32 points in the third quarter. The win also ended the Spurs' franchise-record home winning streak at 22. Jackson conceded that San Antonio's 6½-game lead in the West may be too big to overcome with 18 games left. On March 10, the Lakers ended their winning streak, losing to the Heat 94–88, while the Heat stopped their five-game losing streak. Since the All-Star break, the Lakers rejuvenated themselves with tough defense and strong performances by Andrew Bynum
Andrew Bynum
Andrew Bynum is an American professional basketball player who plays for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association . He was drafted 10th overall by the Los Angeles Lakers in 2005. Bynum became the youngest player ever to play an NBA game later that year, breaking Jermaine...
. On March 20, Bynum was suspended for two games for a flagrant foul against Michael Beasley
Michael Beasley
Michael Paul Beasley, Jr. is an American professional basketball player for the Minnesota Timberwolves of the National Basketball Association . He plays both forward positions, and shoots his jump shot left-handed, though he is also ambidextrous...
. On March 22, the Lakers defeated the Suns 139–137 in triple overtime
Overtime (sports)
Overtime or extra time is an additional period of play specified under the rules of a sport to bring a game to a decision and avoid declaring the match a tie or draw. In most sports, this extra period is only played if the game is required to have a clear winner, as in single-elimination...
. Bryant scored 42 points, and Odom had a season-high 29 points and 16 rebounds while playing over 55 minutes filling in for the suspended Bynum. They followed that victory up with another win, 112–104 over the Los Angeles Clippers
Los Angeles Clippers
The Los Angeles Clippers are a professional basketball team based in Los Angeles, California, United States. They play in the Pacific Division of the Western Conference of the National Basketball Association...
with the help of a 37-point performance from Bryant.
The Lakers improved their record to 17–1 since the All-Star break before losing five straight games, putting them out of reach from the best record in the Western Conference. The losing streak ended with a 102–93 home win over the Spurs, who sat out Tim Duncan
Tim Duncan
Timothy Theodore "Tim" Duncan is an American professional basketball player for the San Antonio Spurs of the National Basketball Association . The 6-foot 11-inch , 255-pound power forward/center is a four-time NBA champion, two-time NBA MVP, three-time NBA Finals MVP, and NBA Rookie of the Year...
, Tony Parker
Tony Parker
William Anthony "Tony" Parker is a French professional basketball player who currently plays for the San Antonio Spurs of the NBA....
and Manu Ginóbili
Manu Ginobili
Emanuel David "Manu" Ginóbili is an Argentine professional basketball player. Coming from a family of professional basketball players, he is a member of the Argentine men's national basketball team and the San Antonio Spurs in the National Basketball Association .Ginóbili spent the early part of...
. However, Bynum sustained a hyperextended right knee when he landed on DeJuan Blair
DeJuan Blair
DeJuan Lamont Blair is an American professional basketball player who currently plays for the San Antonio Spurs of the National Basketball Association . Before turning pro Blair played center for the University of Pittsburgh men's basketball team from 2007 to 2009...
's foot in the game. He missed the remaining games of the season with a bruised knee, but returned for the playoffs. Blake was diagnosed with chickenpox and missed the rest of the season. During the Spurs' game, Bryant used a derogatory gay term in frustration over a referee’s call and was later fined $100,000 by the NBA. The Lakers and Bryant later apologized for the use of the word while Bryant appealed the fine. The Lakers produced a public service announcement
Public service announcement
A public service announcement or public service ad is a type of advertisement featured on television, radio, print or other media...
with Bryant and other Lakers denouncing Bryant's behavior. In the last game of the regular season, the Lakers secured the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference of the 2011 playoffs
2011 NBA Playoffs
The 2011 NBA Playoffs was the postseason for the National Basketball Association's 2010–11 season. Eight teams from each of the league's two conferences qualified for the playoffs, all seeded 1 to 8 in a tournament bracket, with all rounds in a best-of-seven format. The 2011 NBA Playoffs began on...
with a 116–108 overtime win over the Kings in possibly their last game in Sacramento. The Lakers surrendered a 20-point lead in the fourth quarter, but Bryant made a tying 3-pointer with 4.8 seconds remaining to send the game into overtime.
New Orleans Hornets
In the first round of the playoffs, the Lakers played the New Orleans Hornets, a team they beat four times in the regular season. The Lakers lost 109–100 in their opener in the playoffs to the Hornets, who were led by Chris PaulChris Paul
Christopher Emmanuel Paul is an American professional basketball point guard for the New Orleans Hornets.Paul was born and raised in North Carolina. Despite only playing two varsity basketball seasons in high school, he was a McDonald's All-American and accepted a scholarship with nearby Wake...
and his 33 points, 14 assists and seven rebounds. The Lakers had not lost a playoff opener at home in 15 years. Bryant had 34 points on 13-for-26 shooting, while Gasol had eight points on two-of-nine shooting, six rebounds, zero offensive rebounds and poor defense on pick-and-roll plays. "It’s up to me to get myself going, be more aggressive, get myself into rhythm," Gasol said. "He’s not naturally aggressive," Bryant said. Bynum and Barnes played after injuries at the end of the regular season, while Blake remained out with the chicken pox. The Lakers won Game 2, 87–78, led by Bynum's 17 points and 11 rebounds. Odom scored 16 points, and Artest added 15. Bryant had only 11 points, but insisted to Jackson that he guard Paul, who finished with 20 points and nine assists. Gasol had eight points and five rebounds, and shot just four-for-19 from the field in the first two games. Blake returned in Game 2 and did not score but had five assists and three rebounds. Bryant scored 30 points, Gasol added 17 points and 10 rebounds, and the Lakers won Game 3 in New Orleans, 100–86. Bryant again helped to defend Paul, who had 22 points, eight assists, and five turnovers. The Lakers lost 93–88 in Game 4 as Paul had 27 points, 15 assists and 13 rebounds and the smaller Hornets outrebounded the Lakers 39-32 and held a 20-4 advantage second-chance points. Bryant was scoreless in the first half, shooting 0–7, and he finished with 17 points on 5–18 shooting. Bryant sprained his left ankle with 1:32 remaining in the game, and used crutches to leave the arena. Bryant, after refusing to get an MRI exam and X-rays, played in Game 5 and had two spectacular dunks in a 106–90 victory. The larger Laker front line helped the team regain control in rebounds with a 42–25 advantage over the Hornets, resulting in a 22–2 disparity in second-chance points. Bynum had 18 points and 10 rebounds. The Lakers won the series 4–2 with a 98–80 win in Game 6. Bryant scored 22 of his 24 points in the first three quarters, and Bynum had 18 points and 12 rebounds. The Lakers again outrebounded New Orleans, 43–30, and held the advantage in second-chance points, 21–4. Paul had 10 points, 11 assists and eight rebounds. Hornets head coach Monty Williams said, "Kobe's Kobe, but I thought Bynum decided the series. He was that good."
Dallas Mavericks
In the second round, the Lakers faced the Dallas MavericksDallas Mavericks
The Dallas Mavericks are a professional basketball team based in Dallas, Texas. They are members of the Southwest Division of the Western Conference of the National Basketball Association , and the reigning NBA champions, having defeated the Miami Heat in the 2011 NBA Finals.According to a 2011...
, who advanced past the Portland Trail Blazers
Portland Trail Blazers
The Portland Trail Blazers, commonly known as the Blazers, are an American professional basketball team based in Portland, Oregon. They play in the Northwest Division of the Western Conference in the National Basketball Association . The Trail Blazers originally played their home games in the...
, 4–2. In Game 1 of the series, the Lakers lost a close match to the Mavericks 96–94 after blowing a 9-point lead at halftime. Then in Game 2, the Lakers lost another game by a wider margin, 81–93. The Lakers also lost Ron Artest
Ron Artest
Metta World Peace is an American professional basketball player and rapper who is currently with the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA. World Peace gained a reputation as one of the league's premier defenders as he won the NBA Defensive Player of the Year Award in 2004...
for the end of Game 2 and for Game 3 after he hit Dallas player J.J. Barea in the face in the closing moments of the game. Following Game 2, Andrew Bynum
Andrew Bynum
Andrew Bynum is an American professional basketball player who plays for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association . He was drafted 10th overall by the Los Angeles Lakers in 2005. Bynum became the youngest player ever to play an NBA game later that year, breaking Jermaine...
told the press that the team was having "trust issues", a comment that sparked doubt of the Lakers' ability to win the series and the playoffs. After losing both home games, the Lakers headed to Dallas hoping to patch up the 0–2 hole by snatching up a win or two and taking the series back home. But, things looked bleak as they entered the highly partisan atmosphere of the American Airlines Center
American Airlines Center
The American Airlines Center is a multi-purpose arena, located in the Victory Park neighborhood, near downtown Dallas, Texas.It is home to the Dallas Mavericks of the NBA, and the Dallas Stars of the NHL....
at Dallas. The Lakers ended the first quarter of Game 3 down 2 points, but made a surge during the next two quarters to take a 6 point lead. However, the Mavericks dominated the fourth quarter and took 32 points in that quarter to seal the game in their favor, 92–98, leaving the Lakers in an 0–3 hole. This intensified the doubts of the Lakers' attempt to make a three-peat, since no team in NBA history had ever climbed out of a 0–3 hole in the playoffs to win a series. The Lakers tried to make a last-ditch effort to win their final game in Dallas in Game 4, but were overwhelmed by Dallas in an 86–122 victory marked by a playoff record-tying 20 3-point field goals, many by Jason Terry
Jason Terry
Jason Eugene Terry is an American professional basketball player playing with the NBA's Dallas Mavericks. He plays shooting guard, although he also can play point guard. His nickname, "JET," derives from his initials...
, the star of the game. The Mavericks' bench scored the same as the whole Lakers roster. Andrew Bynum
Andrew Bynum
Andrew Bynum is an American professional basketball player who plays for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association . He was drafted 10th overall by the Los Angeles Lakers in 2005. Bynum became the youngest player ever to play an NBA game later that year, breaking Jermaine...
and Lamar Odom
Lamar Odom
Lamar Joseph Odom is an American professional basketball forward with the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association.-Early life:...
were also ejected from the game after flagrant foul
Flagrant foul
A flagrant foul is a serious contact foul involving unnecessary, excessive, or intentional contact in sport. There is a specific National Basketball Association foul termed a flagrant foul.-NBA flagrant fouls:...
s on Dirk Nowitzki
Dirk Nowitzki
Dirk Werner Nowitzki is a German professional basketball player who plays for the Dallas Mavericks of the National Basketball Association...
and J.J. Barea, respectively. What became the Lakers' last stand in the 2010-11 postseason was also marked by coach Phil Jackson
Phil Jackson
Philip Douglas "Phil" Jackson is a retired American professional basketball coach and player. Jackson is widely considered one of the greatest coaches in the history of the National Basketball Association . His reputation was established as head coach of the Chicago Bulls from 1989 through 1998;...
's retirement. The Dallas Mavericks swept the Lakers with ease and moved on to the conference finals for the first time since 2006. The Lakers missed a chance for a record third three-peat and were swept for the seventh time in franchise history.
Former Laker and ESPN analyst Magic Johnson
Magic Johnson
Earvin "Magic" Johnson Jr. is a retired American professional basketball player who played point guard for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association . After winning championships in high school and college, Johnson was selected first overall in the 1979 NBA Draft by the Lakers...
was disgusted with the Lakers' performance in Game 4, and stated in the ESPN Game 4 halftime report that the first half was "the worst that I've ever seen the Lakers play in a game that they need ... like they're already on vacation." During the series, it seemed as if the Lakers had uncharacteristic problems with closing out their games, something that they are usually famed for. The Lakers were swept for the seventh time in franchise history, but this sweep by the Mavericks is only the second time that the Lakers have been swept with home-court advantage. The Lakers lost by 30-plus points in a playoffs game for the fourth time in franchise history; the Mavericks won over the Lakers with the largest margin of victory in a game that clinched a sweep in the playoffs.
Season
|- style="text-align:center;" bgcolor=""| Ron Artest
Ron Artest
Metta World Peace is an American professional basketball player and rapper who is currently with the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA. World Peace gained a reputation as one of the league's premier defenders as he won the NBA Defensive Player of the Year Award in 2004...
|| style="background:#ffcd35;color:#6137ad;"| 82 || style="background:#ffcd35;color:#6137ad;"| 82 || 29.4 || .397 || .356 || .676 || 3.3 || 2.1 || style="background:#ffcd35;color:#6137ad;"| 1.5 || .4 || 8.5
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Matt Barnes
Matt Barnes
Matt Kelly Barnes is an American professional basketball player who currently plays for the Los Angeles Lakers in the National Basketball Association.-High school years:...
|| 53 || 0 || 19.2 || .470 || .318 || .779 || 4.3 || 1.3 || .7 || .4 || 6.7
|- style="text-align:center;" bgcolor=""
| Steve Blake
Steve Blake
Steven Hanson "Steve" Blake is an American professional basketball point guard for the Los Angeles Lakers. Previously, he played for the Washington Wizards, Milwaukee Bucks, Denver Nuggets, Portland Trail Blazers and the Los Angeles Clippers.-High school:Blake spent his freshman and sophomore year...
|| 79 || 0 || 20.0 || .359 || .378 || .867 || 2.0 || 2.2 || .5 || .0 || 4.0
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Shannon Brown
Shannon Brown
Shannon Brown is an American professional basketball player who plays at the shooting guard and point guard positions. He last played in the National Basketball Association for the Los Angeles Lakers. Brown attended Proviso East High School in Maywood, Illinois, was named Illinois Mr...
|| style="background:#ffcd35;color:#6137ad;"| 82 || 0 || 19.1 || .425 || .349 || .911 || 1.9 || 1.2 || .8 || .2 || 8.7
|- style="text-align:center;" bgcolor=""
| Kobe Bryant
Kobe Bryant
Kobe Bean Bryant is an American professional basketball player who plays shooting guard for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association . Bryant enjoyed a successful high school basketball career at Lower Merion High School, where he was recognized as the top high school...
|| style="background:#ffcd35;color:#6137ad;"| 82 || style="background:#ffcd35;color:#6137ad;"| 82 || 33.9 || .451 || .323 || .828 || 5.1 || style="background:#ffcd35;color:#6137ad;"| 4.7 || 1.2 || .1 || style="background:#ffcd35;color:#6137ad;"| 25.3
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Andrew Bynum
Andrew Bynum
Andrew Bynum is an American professional basketball player who plays for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association . He was drafted 10th overall by the Los Angeles Lakers in 2005. Bynum became the youngest player ever to play an NBA game later that year, breaking Jermaine...
|| 54 || 47 || 27.8 || style="background:#ffcd35;color:#6137ad;"| .574 || .000 || .660 || 9.4 || 1.4 || .4 || style="background:#ffcd35;color:#6137ad;"| 2.0 || 11.3
|- style="text-align:center;" bgcolor=""
| Derrick Caracter
Derrick Caracter
Derrick Caracter is a power forward–center for the Los Angeles Lakers.Caracter grew up in Fanwood, New Jersey. He played high school basketball at St. Patrick High School as a freshman, and attended Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School as a sophomore, to team with fellow SPF native, and subsequent...
|| 41 || 0 || 5.2 || .485 || .000 || .739 || 1.0 || .2 || .1 || .20 || 2.0
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Devin Ebanks
Devin Ebanks
Devin Ebanks is an American professional basketball player selected 43rd overall by the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2010 NBA Draft...
|| 20 || 0 || 5.9 || .412 || style="background:#ffcd35;color:#6137ad;"| .400 || .783 || 1.4 || .1 || .20 || .25 || 3.1
|- style="text-align:center;" bgcolor=""
| Derek Fisher
Derek Fisher
Derek Lamar Fisher is an American professional basketball point guard for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association . His NBA career has spanned more than 14 years, during which he has won five NBA Championships...
|| style="background:#ffcd35;color:#6137ad;"| 82 || style="background:#ffcd35;color:#6137ad;"| 82 || 28.0 || .389 || .396 || .806 || 1.9 || 2.7 || 1.2 || .1 || 6.8
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Pau Gasol
Pau Gasol
Pau Gasol Sáez is a Spanish professional basketball player for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association . He was born to Marisa Sáez and Agustí Gasol, and he spent his childhood in Spain...
|| style="background:#ffcd35;color:#6137ad;"| 82 || style="background:#ffcd35;color:#6137ad;"| 82 || style="background:#ffcd35;color:#6137ad;"| 37.0 || .529 || .333 || .823 || style="background:#ffcd35;color:#6137ad;"| 10.2 || 3.3 || .6 || 1.6 || 18.8
|- style="text-align:center;" bgcolor=""
| Lamar Odom
Lamar Odom
Lamar Joseph Odom is an American professional basketball forward with the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association.-Early life:...
|| style="background:#ffcd35;color:#6137ad;"| 82 || 35 || 32.2 || .530 || .382 || .675 || 8.7 || 3.0 || 0.6 || .7 || 14.4
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Theo Ratliff
Theo Ratliff
Theophilus Curtis Ratliff , better known as Theo Ratliff, is an American professional basketball player who last played with the NBA's Los Angeles Lakers. Primarily a center, he was an excellent shot-blocker who has led the league three times in blocks per game...
|| 10 || 0 || 7.0 || .167 || .000 || .000 || 1.3 || .3 || .2 || .5 || .2
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Joe Smith || 12 || 0 || 3.7 || .167 || .000 || style="background:#ffcd35;color:#6137ad;"| 1.000 || 1.5 || .3 || 0 || .3 || 0.5
|- style="text-align:center;" bgcolor=""
| Luke Walton
Luke Walton
Luke Theodore Walton is an American professional basketball player for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association . His primary position is at small forward. After the 2010 NBA Finals, Walton and his father Hall of Famer Bill Walton became the first and only father and son to...
|| 54 || 0 || 9.0 || .328 || .235 || .700 || 1.2 || 1.1 || .2 || .1 || 1.7
|}
Awards
- Lamar OdomLamar OdomLamar Joseph Odom is an American professional basketball forward with the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association.-Early life:...
was named NBA Sixth Man of the YearNBA Sixth Man of the Year AwardThe National Basketball Association's Sixth Man of the Year Award is an annual National Basketball Association award given since the 1982–83 NBA season to the league's most valuable player for his team coming off the bench as a substitute . A panel of sportswriters and broadcasters from throughout...
, becoming the first player in Lakers history to do so. - On April 26, Ron ArtestRon ArtestMetta World Peace is an American professional basketball player and rapper who is currently with the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA. World Peace gained a reputation as one of the league's premier defenders as he won the NBA Defensive Player of the Year Award in 2004...
won the J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship AwardJ. Walter Kennedy Citizenship AwardThe J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award is an annual National Basketball Association award given since the 1974–75 NBA season to a player, coach, or trainer who shows "outstanding service and dedication to the community"...
.
Week/Month
- On November 1, Pau GasolPau GasolPau Gasol Sáez is a Spanish professional basketball player for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association . He was born to Marisa Sáez and Agustí Gasol, and he spent his childhood in Spain...
was named Player of the Week for games played October 26 through October 31. - On March 28, Kobe BryantKobe BryantKobe Bean Bryant is an American professional basketball player who plays shooting guard for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association . Bryant enjoyed a successful high school basketball career at Lower Merion High School, where he was recognized as the top high school...
was named Player of the Week for games played March 21 through March 27. - Phil JacksonPhil JacksonPhilip Douglas "Phil" Jackson is a retired American professional basketball coach and player. Jackson is widely considered one of the greatest coaches in the history of the National Basketball Association . His reputation was established as head coach of the Chicago Bulls from 1989 through 1998;...
was named Coach of the Month for March. - Kobe BryantKobe BryantKobe Bean Bryant is an American professional basketball player who plays shooting guard for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association . Bryant enjoyed a successful high school basketball career at Lower Merion High School, where he was recognized as the top high school...
was named Player of the Month for March.
All-Star
- Kobe BryantKobe BryantKobe Bean Bryant is an American professional basketball player who plays shooting guard for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association . Bryant enjoyed a successful high school basketball career at Lower Merion High School, where he was recognized as the top high school...
was voted as an All-Star starter for the 13th consecutive time. - Pau GasolPau GasolPau Gasol Sáez is a Spanish professional basketball player for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association . He was born to Marisa Sáez and Agustí Gasol, and he spent his childhood in Spain...
was selected as an All-Star reserve for the 4th time. - Kobe BryantKobe BryantKobe Bean Bryant is an American professional basketball player who plays shooting guard for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association . Bryant enjoyed a successful high school basketball career at Lower Merion High School, where he was recognized as the top high school...
was named the 2011 NBA All-Star MVP for a record-tying 4th time.
Records
- On November 3, Kobe BryantKobe BryantKobe Bean Bryant is an American professional basketball player who plays shooting guard for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association . Bryant enjoyed a successful high school basketball career at Lower Merion High School, where he was recognized as the top high school...
played his 37,493rd minute, passing Kareem Abdul-JabbarKareem Abdul-JabbarKareem Abdul-Jabbar is a retired American professional basketball player. He is the NBA's all-time leading scorer, with 38,387 points. During his career with the NBA's Milwaukee Bucks and Los Angeles Lakers from 1969 to 1989, Abdul-Jabbar won six NBA championships and a record six regular season...
's record for all-time minutes played as a Laker. - On November 14, Kobe BryantKobe BryantKobe Bean Bryant is an American professional basketball player who plays shooting guard for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association . Bryant enjoyed a successful high school basketball career at Lower Merion High School, where he was recognized as the top high school...
became the youngest player in NBA history to reach 26,000 career points. - On December 10, Kobe BryantKobe BryantKobe Bean Bryant is an American professional basketball player who plays shooting guard for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association . Bryant enjoyed a successful high school basketball career at Lower Merion High School, where he was recognized as the top high school...
moved past John HavlicekJohn HavlicekJohn J. "Hondo" Havlicek is a retired American professional basketball player who competed for 16 seasons with the Boston Celtics, winning eight NBA titles, half of them coming in his first four seasons....
into 11th place on the NBA career scoring list. - On January 4, Kobe BryantKobe BryantKobe Bean Bryant is an American professional basketball player who plays shooting guard for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association . Bryant enjoyed a successful high school basketball career at Lower Merion High School, where he was recognized as the top high school...
moved past Dominique WilkinsDominique WilkinsJacques Dominique Wilkins is a retired American professional basketball player who primarily played for the Atlanta Hawks of the NBA...
into 10th place on the NBA career scoring list. - On January 7, Kobe BryantKobe BryantKobe Bean Bryant is an American professional basketball player who plays shooting guard for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association . Bryant enjoyed a successful high school basketball career at Lower Merion High School, where he was recognized as the top high school...
moved past Oscar RobertsonOscar RobertsonOscar Palmer Robertson , nicknamed "The Big O", is a former American NBA player with the Cincinnati Royals and the Milwaukee Bucks...
into 9th place on the NBA career scoring list. - On January 28, Kobe BryantKobe BryantKobe Bean Bryant is an American professional basketball player who plays shooting guard for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association . Bryant enjoyed a successful high school basketball career at Lower Merion High School, where he was recognized as the top high school...
moved past Hakeem OlajuwonHakeem OlajuwonHakeem Abdul Olajuwon is a retired Nigerian-American professional basketball player. From 1984 to 2002, he played the center position in the National Basketball Association for the Houston Rockets and Toronto Raptors. He led the Rockets to back-to-back NBA championships in 1994 and 1995. In 2008,...
into 8th place on the NBA career scoring list. - On February 27, Kobe BryantKobe BryantKobe Bean Bryant is an American professional basketball player who plays shooting guard for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association . Bryant enjoyed a successful high school basketball career at Lower Merion High School, where he was recognized as the top high school...
moved past Elvin HayesElvin HayesElvin Ernest Hayes is a retired American basketball player and radio analyst for Houston Cougars men's basketball, where he played college basketball...
into 7th place on the NBA career scoring list. - On March 8, Kobe BryantKobe BryantKobe Bean Bryant is an American professional basketball player who plays shooting guard for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association . Bryant enjoyed a successful high school basketball career at Lower Merion High School, where he was recognized as the top high school...
moved past Moses MaloneMoses MaloneMoses Eugene Malone is a retired American Hall of Fame basketball player who starred in both the American Basketball Association and the National Basketball Association...
into 6th place on the NBA career scoring list. - On March 26, Kobe BryantKobe BryantKobe Bean Bryant is an American professional basketball player who plays shooting guard for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association . Bryant enjoyed a successful high school basketball career at Lower Merion High School, where he was recognized as the top high school...
passed Kareem Abdul-JabbarKareem Abdul-JabbarKareem Abdul-Jabbar is a retired American professional basketball player. He is the NBA's all-time leading scorer, with 38,387 points. During his career with the NBA's Milwaukee Bucks and Los Angeles Lakers from 1969 to 1989, Abdul-Jabbar won six NBA championships and a record six regular season...
and played the most games of any Lakers player with 1,094th game.
Milestones
- On October 29, Phil JacksonPhil JacksonPhilip Douglas "Phil" Jackson is a retired American professional basketball coach and player. Jackson is widely considered one of the greatest coaches in the history of the National Basketball Association . His reputation was established as head coach of the Chicago Bulls from 1989 through 1998;...
won his 1,100th game. - On December 7, with Andre MillerAndre MillerAndre Lloyd Miller is an American professional basketball player, currently with the Denver Nuggets of the National Basketball Association.- College career :...
sitting out a game due to suspension, Derek FisherDerek FisherDerek Lamar Fisher is an American professional basketball point guard for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association . His NBA career has spanned more than 14 years, during which he has won five NBA Championships...
became the NBA's active leader in consecutive games played with 434.
Trades
| December 15, 2010 |
To New Jersey Nets New Jersey Nets The New Jersey Nets are a professional basketball team based in Newark, New Jersey. They are members of the Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference in the National Basketball Association... Sasha Vujačić Sasha Vujacic Aleksandar "Sasha" Vujačić is a Slovenian basketball player who has played in Italy, the United States , and more recently for Anadolu Efes S.K. in Turkey...
|
To Houston Rockets Houston Rockets The Houston Rockets are an American professional basketball team based in Houston, Texas. The team plays in the Southwest Division of the Western Conference in the National Basketball Association . The team was established in 1967, and played in San Diego, California for four years, before being... Terrence Williams Terrence Williams Terrence Deshon Williams is an American professional basketball player with the Houston Rockets of the National Basketball Association. Williams was drafted 11th overall in the 2009 NBA Draft by the Nets. He was the senior co-captain for Rick Pitino's 2008-09 University of Louisville Cardinals... |
To Los Angeles Lakers Los Angeles Lakers The Los Angeles Lakers are an American professional basketball team based in Los Angeles, California. They play in the Pacific Division of the Western Conference in the National Basketball Association... Joe Smith |
Additions
| Player | Signed | Former Team |
|---|---|---|
| Steve Blake Steve Blake Steven Hanson "Steve" Blake is an American professional basketball point guard for the Los Angeles Lakers. Previously, he played for the Washington Wizards, Milwaukee Bucks, Denver Nuggets, Portland Trail Blazers and the Los Angeles Clippers.-High school:Blake spent his freshman and sophomore year... |
Signed 4 year contract for $16 Million | Los Angeles Clippers Los Angeles Clippers The Los Angeles Clippers are a professional basketball team based in Los Angeles, California, United States. They play in the Pacific Division of the Western Conference of the National Basketball Association... |
| Derek Fisher Derek Fisher Derek Lamar Fisher is an American professional basketball point guard for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association . His NBA career has spanned more than 14 years, during which he has won five NBA Championships... |
Signed 3 year contract for $10.5 Million | Los Angeles Lakers Los Angeles Lakers The Los Angeles Lakers are an American professional basketball team based in Los Angeles, California. They play in the Pacific Division of the Western Conference in the National Basketball Association... |
| Matt Barnes Matt Barnes Matt Kelly Barnes is an American professional basketball player who currently plays for the Los Angeles Lakers in the National Basketball Association.-High school years:... |
Signed 2 year contract for $3.6 Million | Orlando Magic Orlando Magic The Orlando Magic is a professional basketball team based in Orlando, Florida. They play in the Southeast Division of the Eastern Conference of the National Basketball Association and are currently coached by Stan Van Gundy... |
| Theo Ratliff Theo Ratliff Theophilus Curtis Ratliff , better known as Theo Ratliff, is an American professional basketball player who last played with the NBA's Los Angeles Lakers. Primarily a center, he was an excellent shot-blocker who has led the league three times in blocks per game... |
Signed 1 year contract for $1.35 Million | Charlotte Bobcats Charlotte Bobcats The Charlotte Bobcats is a professional basketball team based in Charlotte, North Carolina. They play in the Southeast Division of the Eastern Conference of the National Basketball Association. The Bobcats were established in 2004 as an expansion team, two seasons after Charlotte's previous NBA... |
| Shannon Brown Shannon Brown Shannon Brown is an American professional basketball player who plays at the shooting guard and point guard positions. He last played in the National Basketball Association for the Los Angeles Lakers. Brown attended Proviso East High School in Maywood, Illinois, was named Illinois Mr... |
Signed 2 year contract for $4.6 Million | Los Angeles Lakers Los Angeles Lakers The Los Angeles Lakers are an American professional basketball team based in Los Angeles, California. They play in the Pacific Division of the Western Conference in the National Basketball Association... |
| Trey Johnson Trey Johnson Clinton "Trey" Johnson III is an American professional basketball player. Johnson played college basketball with the Alcorn State Braves and the Jackson State Tigers in the Southwestern Athletic Conference . During his senior year, he won the SWAC Player of the Year award... |
Terms Undisclosed | Bakersfield Jam Bakersfield Jam The Bakersfield Jam is an expansion franchise of the National Basketball Association Development League that began play in 2006-07. It plays its home games at the newly-built Jam Events Center in Bakersfield, California, United States, which had been built as their practice facility... |
Subtractions
| Player | Reason Left | New Team |
|---|---|---|
| Jordan Farmar Jordan Farmar Jordan Robert Farmar is an American professional basketball point guard for Maccabi Tel Aviv of the Israeli Basketball Super League and Euroleague. He is also under contract with the New Jersey Nets, and is expected to return to the team after the 2011 NBA lockout ends.In high school, he was the... |
Free agent | New Jersey Nets New Jersey Nets The New Jersey Nets are a professional basketball team based in Newark, New Jersey. They are members of the Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference in the National Basketball Association... |
| Josh Powell Josh Powell Josh Powell is an American professional basketball player.-Early life:While playing at NC State, Powell averaged 12.4 ppg and 5.2 rpg in his sophomore year . He was not selected in the 2003 NBA Draft and played in Europe... |
Free agent | Atlanta Hawks Atlanta Hawks The Atlanta Hawks are an American professional basketball team based in Atlanta, Georgia. They are part of the Southeast Division of the Eastern Conference in the National Basketball Association .-The first years:... |
| Adam Morrison Adam Morrison Adam John Morrison is an American basketball player who is currently free agent after being released from KK Crvena zvezda.... |
Free agent | Washington Wizards Washington Wizards The Washington Wizards are a professional basketball team based in Washington, D.C., previously known as Washington Bullets. They play in the National Basketball Association .-Early years:... |
| D. J. Mbenga | Free agent | New Orleans Hornets |