Comments Related To: Lakers make key move to return to top, sign Ron Artest

Great pick up, but I'm going to miss Trevor Ariza! Personally, if I had the choice between Trevor and Artest, I would pick Trevor for my Laker team. With the exception of big game winning steals, Artest can match Ariza's defense. However, Artest is a scorer by nature, and the Lakers don't need any more offense. Ariza was such a perfect fit because he played great D and allowed offense to take it's course naturally. Kobe could penetrate and kick it out to Trevor who would almost certainly knock it down. Artest, on the other hand, is the kind of guy who likes to create offense for himself (sometimes with bad shot selection). With Kobe and Gasol, I don't think that's a need, and it has the potential to interfere with the team's rhythm. Plus, Ariza is younger, and with all the problems and controversy surrounding Artest, it's a questionable move. Nevertheless, if he can stay focused on the game, and concentrate mainly on defense with offense being a byproduct, look out for this team! I'm hoping Artest can make the appropriate adjustments and help bring another Championship for the Lakers. REPEAT TIME!

Artest is such a bull-dog... He is the last player I would want to face on the floor because of his aggression and relentlessness. Artest manipulates the mental state of every player, and effects their game. His presence dictates much of the floor and outcome. I will miss Ariza in LA though. I feel his departure will highten the drama for next season, and further swell the rivalry between LA and Houston. Ariza must have even more reason to "bust" it now, I think next season will be even more intense.