Well, it's that time of year again...

Actually, it was that time of year five months ago, but I think you know what I mean. NBA basketball's shortened 1999 season begins this week to the supposed indifference of the general public. I know nothing of this alleged apathy, as I bought tickets for the Lakers season opener and so did you.

The Lakers will get maybe four more practices in between Sunday and the home opener on Friday against the Houston Rockets. I'd like to say the Lakers are ready to play, but I think it would be safer to assume that none of the NBA teams are "ready to play." (yah, yah - except maybe the Pacers, whatever... CBS Sportsline Power Ranking, whatever.) I know I probably shouldn't even bring up the 2-game Laker preseason. Practically everyone looks good against the Clippers, right? But I think the Lakers showed decent physical conditioning and bench depth. I gotta also mention my fellow Bear Lamond Murray, unstoppable! (sadly for Lamond - Clippers, stoppable, very stoppable.) Ah, memories... Lamond spots up in the corner, the feed from Kidd, 2 points.

I gotta also take this opportunity to wish Mario the best in the Windy City. I will miss his 3.9 points per game. No sarcasm intended here, I truly enjoyed watching Mario Bennett play his seven or so minutes, smiling. I'm struggling not to call him cute here, but he is.

Well, that's enough from me already, but as it is "that time of year," check out the links.

As for the picture below, I just had to look back one last time. Maybe I'll still make it to the game against the Nuggets. (Don't laugh, the Nuggets did sign McDyess...)