Thanks for reading and commenting, Buba. I’m not a religious person but willingly admit there are things in this universe that are beyond my ability to conceptualize. The Mamba Mentality link between Bean and Russ is one of those magical unknowns.
Frankly, I have this feeling in my heart that Russ coming to the Lakers is in a way a form of rebirth or reincarnation of the Mamba Mentality that we lost in last season’s Covid chaos but I’m hoping we rediscover this season. It’s hard when I watch Russ play not to remember the ferocity with which Kobe played.
For me, this is going to be the Mamba Season as we watch Russ’ bully ball attack mode terrorize opposing defenses and turn Lakers games into routs with the starters rooting from the bench as Frank and Rob unveil the LAL version of load management that has LA’s superstar big three resting most fourth quarters.
I’m most excited by the pace we’re going to play and how Russ and AD are going to dominate the non-LeBron minutes. Lakers will be top-five in offense and defense this year as they win their record setting 18th NBA championship.
Man, there’s a lot of good ball players on that list.
Some guys got paid more than ever expected.
And some made decisions to win to set up future money.