6th Man of the Year?

OK, calm down. No I’m not saying Kobe is going to be the 6th man of the year (I’m not Bill Simmons), but if you take another look at the picture you’ll see who I’m talking about. It’s all those people around Kobe, yes the media. As the champs gear up for a repeat, this year produces several unique circumstances that the Lakers will have to deal with and depending on how much attention the media gives certain players or incidents, it could either strengthen our group or create dissent amongst the ranks.

Now keep in mind,  the role of the 6th man in basketball is to bring much needed energy, chemistry and help off the bench. Just as integral to the makeup of the team as the starters, the 6th man plays a key role to any successful team. Just take a look at Lamar last year, Ginnobli to the Spurs, and Terry for the Mavs. The 6th man is the glue that bridges the gap between starters and reserves. The media, in essence, will play that roll this coming year for the Lakers. With so much extra attention brought upon the Lakers after a championship and animated offseason, they are now easily amongst the most watched and scrutinized franchises in professional sports.

Let’s take a look at some of the issues that are on the table for the the media to play around with this coming season:

1) Vanessa vs Khloe– I’m saying it. I’ll try to keep this brief, but  I’m hoping that these two get along because can you imagine what a field day the media would have if they didn’t? I can see the headlines now “Vanessa and Khloe– beauty meets beast”

2) Ron-Ron — So much could be said here. He’s hands down one of the most interesting players in the league. While we’ve all enjoyed the extra information via twitter and his youtube, the question here is whether or not  his extracurricular activities will add fuel to the fire for a hungry media. Ron brings a lot of baggage and Phil’s already said that the team will “monitor his activities” as the season progresses. I love him, but essentially trading Trevor for Ron, the question is and always has been, how much is too much?

3) Lamar- He’s already known to have a bit of Jeckyl/Hyde syndrome. With his TMZ offseason let’s hope he comes into the season with the appropriate amount of focus. Here’s to hoping that Lamar’s personal life stays away from his professional.

4) Farmar- This may come as a bit of a suprise, but I think that it’s important for Farmar to find a role on this Laker team before his frustration turns to dissent. We are all aware of his ongoing struggles with the coaching staff, but with Fisher returning and Shannon Brown hungry, Farmar needs to find a way to channel his discontent into results on the floor. In the end, he’s in charge of his destiny in our dynasty.

5) Bynum- The only weight he should be carrying on his shoulders this season should be making the All-Star team.

6) Kobe- Like any great conqueror, once your flag has been raised in enemy territory the primary objective is no longer seizing power, but instead shifts to keeping power. For Kobe this year will be career defining. With Lebron and Shaq teamed up (the Laker equivalent of Kim Jong il teaming up with Osama), the Celtics geared up for perhaps their last real shot, and Dwight and the Magic reloaded… It’s Kobe against the world.

The extent to which these aforementioned issues are a blessing or a curse for the Lakers can only be determined as the season plays out. Only one thing is certain: if we want to repeat, the media must look upon our team with a kind eye. Too much to ask for? Probably, but then again, the role of the 6th man is never easy.