40 Years Later, Lakers to Face Rockets on Monday

"Mr. Clutch"

Jerry West of the Los Angeles Lakers flies toward the seats as he attempts to grab a loose rebound in the 2nd quarter of game 3 of the final NBA playoffs with the Boston Celtics at the Boston Garden on April 27, 1969. At this point, the Lakers lead in the series 2-0, but lose game 3--and eventually the title in a dramatic game 7. The only consolation was Jerry West's MVP award--sullied by the green Volkswagen Beetle he also was awarded.

Beginning Monday, May 4, 2009, the Lakers face the self-proclaimed "Kobe stopper" Ron Artest of the Houston Rockets in a home-court advantage.

What Are the Odds?

Phil "Zen Master" Jackson in an undated newswire photo circa 1967-1978
from the SPORT Magazine Archive

Phil Jackson, a former professional basketball player (New York Knicks 1967-1978, New Jersey Nets 1978-1980) and the current coach of the Los Angeles Lakers confirmed his reputation as the spiritual and holistic guide of the award-winning Chicago Bulls before coming to Los Angeles in 2000 and guiding the Lakers to three consecutive NBA titles. In total, Jackson has won nine NBA titles, which he may pass this year. Currently he is tied with Arnold 'Red' Auerbach for most NBA titles.

Biggest NBA Rivalry Renewed Tonight!

"Rivals" SPORT Magazine Photograph

NBA's most storied rivalry by far is renewed tonight of Boston vs. Los Angeles; not by Bill Russell and Wilt Chamberlain as in the 1968-69 season pictured above, but by their successors led by The Big Three of Boston and Kobe and Pau of the Lakers.

The 1969 NBA Finals were taken by the Celtics as were the 2008 NBA Finals. The Lakers are hoping to change that this year, and lead the season series 1-0 as they head into tonight's challenge.