The Achers

The first month of the NBA season often winds up confounding analysts and flummoxing prognosticators. For example, no one in his right mind could have predicted that both the Knicks and the Nets would be floundering far below .500, or furthermore that only two teams in the entire eastern conference...

By Rob Kroehler

December 19, 2013

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The first month of the NBA season often winds up confounding analysts and flummoxing prognosticators. For example, no one in his right mind could have predicted that both the Knicks and the Nets would be floundering far below .500, or furthermore that only two teams in the entire eastern conference would wrap up November with a winning record. So much for parity.

One thing that was rather easy to predict was the ongoing change of guard in Los Angeles. With Kobe hobbling his way back from a torn achilles and Steve Nash hobbling his way towards retirement with a failing back, the Lakers have all but handed the scepter of So-Cal basketball royalty over to the Clippers. But, alas, the ever brash and boisterous Lakers retinue will be out in full force when the languishing Lakers visit the Phoenix Suns at US Airways Center, 201 East Jefferson Street, on Monday, December 23. Tipoff is at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $80. Visit www.nba.com/suns or call 602-379-2000 for details.

Mon., Dec. 23, 7 p.m., 2013

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