Quote:
Originally Posted by bluegoose
Do the Lakers consider the Jazz a "main rival", or is it just the Jazz fan that thinks this way? Ihaven't followed the NBA very closely the past several years. But I just don't remember the big Lakers-Jazz rivalry you guys refer to. From my experience, I would think the Bulls and the Kings would have a bigger claim on being hated rivals to the Jazz than the Lakers.
|
Like I said in my original post, being an avid Laker fan I have never thought of the Jazz as a rival. I think it's Jazz fans that think it's a rivalry.
I do understand the evil empire claim. I hate the Yankees for those same reasons. However, I think baseball is an entirely different beast because of the lack of a salary cap that tempers other leagues. Even though I hate the Yankees I still respect their organization. Say what you will, Steinbrenner is committed to winning. And he'll do whatever it takes. The pennants speak for themselves.
It's interesting that so much of the hate for the Lakers is derived or intensified by Kobe Bryant. Had Bryant stayed with Hornets and played his entire career with that franchise do you think the hate for the Lakers would be as deep? And how much of the hate for Kobe would be diminished if he never played for the Lakers?
I love how everyone faults Kobe...for his affair, for modeling his game after MJ. Shouldn't the best always be the benchmark and the person you emulate? MJ's extracurricular activities off the court are well documented. And I am not talking about his gambling habits either.
Besides, I'd like to see all the Kobe haters inherit Bryant's talent and skills and not be cocky or arrogant. Hell I don't have 1/1000th the game he does and I still talk smack. UtahDan can attest to that.