Tom here again, I haven’t signed my last couple of posts. Can you tell the difference between Brandon’s and my own (many can’t tell the difference between us let alone our writing style) and do you care? Answers on a postcard. As an eminent blogger it’s important I have my ear to the ground and right now Lakerland is reverberating with chatter about whether Shannon Brown should be starting instead of Fish. The answer is quite plain and simply ‘NO’. I thought about it and even tried to come up with an academic style debate to show both sides of the argument. I’m sure there is one out there but my brain isn’t big enough. Also I don’t believe there is one.
If you don’t know, the Lakers play something called the triangle offense. I don’t quite know what to suggest for you if you didn’t know this. Suicide perhaps, or worse become a Clippers fan? Well anyway. Fish is a master at this. His stats probably won’t ever amaze you but that’s not important. It’s arguable that he’s doing his job better if they’re not headline grabbing. Why get rid of someone so good at doing something so difficult just because there’s a new kid on the block? I think LA is big enough for them both.
Some have also mentioned that Fish just isn't quick enough to stay in front of quicker guards and is therefore a defensive liability. This is true he can't stay in front of them but that is not his job. His job is to funnel the quicker guards into one of two man mountains. A young playboy bunny carrying giant, or a dirty seven foot Spanish hippy, either one is just fine.
There’s a lot this blog likes about Shannon Brown. A lot. But he’s still learning the intricacies of the triangle and hasn’t yet mastered getting the Lakers organised on offense. You don’t need me tell you this is probably not as easy as it seems, but maybe you do if you’re anti old man Fisher. It’s difficult! This will come with time but right now Fish has it down and shouldn’t have to step aside just because there’s a young whippersnapper throwing down some big dunks. Besides, apart from being Captain 0.4, Fish has just played his 1000th career game (one more than a certain Mr Bryant) and made 1000 career 3-pointers. Now those aren’t stats to sniff at are they?
Fish is 35 and out of contract at the end of the season. Will this be his last as a Lakers. I hope not and I don’t think so. Will this be his last as a starter? Quite possibly. If Shannon is his heir apparent then a few more months watching and learning from a past master can only be good for him and us. So to all those chattering away in my ears, give Fish a break and let Shannon learn in peace and good time. Let’s not put any more pressure on either of them than is necessary.
If you're still in Shannon's camp then let me just mention one thing, Phil keeps Fish as a starter and if you disagree with Phil then you're just wrong.
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