Zone Defense + Lack Of Point Guard = Series Tied

Boy have I seen this story unfold before. Los Angeles Lakers and Phoenix Suns going at it in the NBA Playoffs. While at one point in time I was on the short end of the stick, I refuse to believe I will witness it this series. So what exactly is causing the Lakers fits? What is this Zone Defense the Suns are playing and how does it affect the Lakers so much so, that they've gone from a 2-0 series lead - to a 2-2 tie?

For the answers to such questions, feel free to check the following link below for more on the zone defense and how it works from every X to every O.

http://ko8e.blogspot.com/2007/05/implications-of-zone-defense-and-its.html

As for the Lakers lack of a point guard, where do I start. Derek Fisher has been great over the years, he's a champion and a highly respected (around the league) veteran who has made a lot of money, while making great contributions to society along the way. Bottom line - he's a great role model; however, he is like you and I in the sense that he too gets old. It's sad and unfortunate, but hey, that's why they draft players like Jordan Farmar right? That's why they trade for players like Shannon Brown right? Wrong and Wrong again. Those of you who know basketball and those of you who are Laker fans know that the Lakers lack of a point guard capable of doing that which is necessary on a consistent basis a-la Rajon Rondo, Steve Nash, Derron Williams, Chris Paul, Roy Williams, Derrick Rose etc. is a thorn in their rears. The Lakers flat out do not have an heir apparent waiting in the wing. Because of this fact, they will continue to struggle against the zone defense.

I played high school ball and organized ball years after that and was pretty good as a guard. The zone "beguiles" you into a false sense of security. It essentially tempts you to shoot 3 pointers. Now, I was going to sit here and explain how I used to break the zone and how Derrick Fisher and Jordan Farmar are not, but I don't want to bore you any further. I will say this, the guards need to attack the zone and kick it out - as well as swing the ball around often and with conviction to tire out the rotating defense. An offensive player (i.e. Gasol, Bynum or Lamar) needs to get to the free throw line and flash, turn and face the basket and hit that shot all day.

Simple.

There are a couple ways you can disrupt the zone though, but the old fashion (dangerous) way is simply to hit your open 3 point shots.

(Insert Old Adage) "Live by the 3 - Die by the 3"

That my friends is a luxury the Lakers just do not have as they do not have a true 3 points threat - other than the Black Mamba, Kobe Bryant himself. Speaking of Kobe, here's a word for you wonderful loungers:

"Jovial" is the word Kobe Bryant used at the post press conference after they lost tonight when asked how he felt and what the team's feeling is right now after the loss.

If looks could kill, the Mamba was not pleased. Yikes. Game 5 in Los Angeles on Thursday is going to be very interesting. The off-season though, and how they will address their lack of point guard is going to be equally interesting.

We have a series people - We have a frickin' series!