JA slide show

DJ Mbenga gives Lakers a jolt of energy

Thursday, 12 March 2009 07:49 administrator
E-mail Print PDF

This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it LAKERS

 
The backup center isn't always smooth, but Coach Phil Jackson likes Mbenga's quickness, strength and effort -- all of which were on display in Tuesday's victory over Memphis.

By Broderick Turner
March 5, 2009

It was more than just his stat line of four points, two rebounds, three blocked shots and one steal in 19 minutes in the Lakers' win over the Memphis Grizzlies on Tuesday night.

It was his hustle, drive and determination that Lakers reserve DJ Mbenga played with that was most impressive
Mbenga averages only seven minutes per game, and even when he does play, he's not always the smoothest player on the court.

But that's not what the Lakers want out of the 7-foot, 255-pound Mbenga.
The Lakers like when he plays with effort, like Mbenga did Tuesday night at Staples Center.
Write comment (72 Comments)
Last Updated ( Thursday, 12 March 2009 08:02 ) Read more...
 

Mbenga has seven blocked shots, Lakers win

Sunday, 25 October 2009 18:16 administrator
E-mail Print PDF
New Page 3

Mbenga has seven blocked shots, Lakers win

October 22, 2009 |  8:04 pm

Lakers1_300 The Lakers played without Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum, but DJ Mbenga was plenty healthy.

The third-string center had seven blocked shots, and the Lakers defeated the Denver Nuggets, 106-89, in an exhibition game Thursday at the Honda Center.

Bynum was out because of a strained rotator cuff in his right shoulder, and Gasol was out because of a strained right hamstring, forcing Coach Phil Jackson to start Mbenga to counteract physical Denver center Nene.

It definitely worked.

In addition to his blocked shots, Mbenga outscored Nene, 8-3.

Gasol will also sit out Friday's rematch against the Nuggets in San Diego. In fact, he might miss the season opener Tuesday against the Clippers, Jackson said.

Kobe Bryant had 23 points and Lamar Odom had 17 for the Lakers, who improved to 6-1 in exhibition play. Denver forward Carmelo Anthony had 28 points.

-- Mike Bresnahan

Photo: Lakers forward Lamar Odom challenges the shot of Nuggets guard J.R. Smith during Thursday night's exhibition game at the Honda Center. Credit: Francis Specker / Associated Press

Write comment (23 Comments)
Last Updated ( Sunday, 25 October 2009 18:17 )