There isn't any other way to put it...the Pistons are/were better. The Pistons were a team, they have more talent, and most importantly play better defense.

And I hope all the Kobe/MJ comparisons stop now. Like I've said many times, Kobe isn't even in MJ's zip code, let alone country. Kobe won't ever be the player MJ was because of his selfishness, lack of leadership skills, and inconsistent play both offensively and defensively. Dude just isn't as good as a lot of people say. Anyone who takes Kobe's side should is ignorant. It's not legitament. You won't win.

And I hope we all got a chance to see the Lakers win those titles these last couple of years, because it won't be happening again for awhile. This team is done together. Kobe won't be back, he'll either be in jail or playing for another team. Payton will leave. Phil Jackson is tired of these malcontents that won't listen to him, is it that hard to give Shaq the ball, Kobe? You're not as good as Shaq! Malone won't be back because no one else is coming back. Shaq is staying but that's about it. They're done.

Cody,

Kobe is only 25 won't be 26 until August. Michael did not win his first NBA championship until he was 28 in 1992 (born 63). Kobe already has 3 at age 25 and 4 finals appearences. That selfishness will likely disappear with age and maturity something he does not have as of yet. You sell Kobe short when you forget how young he is and what he has already accomplished.

Without Shaq, no ring. He helped, yes, but the role players stepped up a lot. Kobe choked on the bone this series. The Finals. Jordan didn't ever do that. Jordan didn't ever get stopped. Jordan didn't ever get held to 1 point in a half of a finals game or ever. But I don't hold that against Kobe too much, he is too hyped up, he can't and won't ever live up to what Jordan has accomplished...dude's the best ever.

As far as Championships go, he won't be getting anymore. He's leaving LA. He wants to be "the man." He may or may not improve as a player, but it won't be to Jordan's level.

ROFLROFLROFL At Cody's idol worship. Corey Dillon is the NFL superstar that got the Chiefs offense going too.:D

By the way, Kobe had Shaq and they still lost? Jordan didn't have Shaq. hehe

Jordan used the same method - 3 large centers strictly designed to foul and score underneath.

Jordan is my favourite player of all time and I DO think Kobe is approaching his level. Yes Kobe has Shaq, however, Jordan had one of espn's 50 greatest players ever, Scottie Pippen, in his prime, along with Horace Grant and a much deeper bench than the current Lakers. Kobe is not the player Jordan was yet, but I wouldn't be suprised if he gets there soon. His offense cannot be questioned AND he is a superb defender.

ESPN made an error. Pippen is/was nobody without Jordan.

Kobe isn't even close yet. When MJ's shot wasn't falling he'd drive to the hoop. That would get him going. Kobe just keeps shooting and shooting. Kobe isn't even close to the defender Jordan was either. At least not yet, but he's got some years to go.

Dude, Pippen rules:banghead:

Actually, Jordan ruled - Pippen served

Congratulations Pistons fans. I was hacked at the calls in this game again but it really didn't matter as the Lakers never showed up in this series. The Pistons beat them on both ends of the ball and on the boards. They were definately the better team in this series and deserve to be world champions. Once again congratulations Piston's fans.

Thanks BG for showing up and being a loser with class......SO what moves do you think the Lakers will make this offseason?? Malone, Payton and Kobe gone for sure?

I'm no Piston's fan; but I was happy to see the Lakers go down. :)

Gracious gesture on your part BD... :thumb:

Payton is gone for sure. If Malone doesn't retire there is a chance he will stay but not if Kobe leaves. I have no real feel for Kobe on this. If I was going to bet though I would say he is leaving. I am interested on Phil's take at this point. They need to go get some younger talent. Speed or the lack of it in this series killed them.