Lakers not done...yet

Kobe and Howard, despite previous problems, have figured out
how to play together on the court and have won three straight.
 Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports)

Kobe, Lakers build momentum before road trip

Jonathan Thompson

    Five days ago just about everyone, including many Laker fans, were ready to write the Lakers off. Sure, maybe they'll make the playoffs but no chance for a championship or even a chance at going deep in the playoffs.

     Now, after a team meeting and 3 victories, Los Angeles seems to see some light at the end of the tunnel. Is that light a championship? Not exactly. Three wins doesn't mean anything has changed necessarily. If you watch this team, however, it is a different type of basketball.

     Kobe Bryant, who personally I believe takes too many shots, deserves a lot of credit because he's forfeited shots for the team. He's passing more and really playing well with Howard, whom apparently have had some off the court issues.

     Bryant has had double-digit assists in all three wins. Kobe has 39 assists over the past three games which is the most he has ever had over a three game stretch.

     Head coach Mike D'Antoni also deserves tons of credit. He came to a Laker's team with old starters and not much of a bench. He's been willing to try just about everything to find something to work and maybe they've found what they need.

     Times get tougher for the Lakers, who after beating New Orleans, go on the road for seven games away from the Staples Center. Los Angeles doesn't have many losses to spare being five games under .500 at 20-25. It will be interesting to see if the Lakers can keep the momentum going on the road.

     The Lakers still face some questions concerning Howard, D'Antoni, and their future. And don't think this season is going to be a success just off of these three games. But for now, with Kobe playing defense and passing dimes, the Lakers seem to be headed in the right direction.