Lakers lose home court advantage to Rockets...

A funny thing happened along the way to the Los Angeles Lakers and Cleveland Cavaliers NBA Finals, the Houston Rockets showed that they too want a shot at the Cavs. Last night the Houston Rockets stole home court advantage from the Los Angeles Lakers 100-92 in Game 1. Kobe missed practice on Sunday with flu like symptoms but it didn't really show in his game as he finished with 32 points, 8 boards, and four assists. Kobe hoisted up 31 shots which is never good for the Lakers but he didn't get much help else where with only three other players scoring in double figures. The Rockets showed the heart and determination that they have lacked over the years when it comes playoff time. It's funny people thought the Rockets were dumb for going after Ron Artest but the gamble has paid huge dividends because he has taken up the mantle of being the number two guy in Houston behind Yao Ming. Artest finished with 21 points and seven assists along with Yao's double-double of 28 points and 10 rebounds despite missing some time due to a collision with Kobe. Yao eventually shook off the collision closing the game out with 8 points including knocking down some clutch free throws to seal the win. The Lakers need to wake up and realize that they are in the playoffs now and not the regular season because they don't look anywhere near as dominant as they did last year and this year they have more experience together and a healthy Andrew Bynum. If the Lakers are going to uphold there end of the bargain for the NBA's dream finals then Phil Jackson needs to start motivating these guy to play to their potential.