Thursday, June 4, 2009

News flash: NBA Finals prompt renaming frenzy

It's NBA Finals time again and the Lakers are in the mix for their 15th championship in franchise history. As a Lakers fan, it never gets old seeing the boys in purple and gold advance to the Finals.

Because of this trip's opponent, there needs to be some adjustments made in Lakerdom to keep Kobe & Co. on track. The Orlando Magic, by virtue of their team name, has forced the temporary renaming of some southern California icons and other seemingly mundane things.

Ervin "Magic" Johnson: The Lakers legend will be known as "Laker" Johnson for the duration of the Finals. Indeed, Johnson's play at the helm of the Lakers' Showtime dynasty was magical, but calling him by his supernatural nickname could wear on the Lakers' psyche.

The Magic Kingdom: Disneyland is a southern California hallmark that is known the world over as the Magic Kingdom. Not during the NBA Finals, though. The Lakers Kingdom is proud to welcome you to its gates at least until June 11 and as late as June 18. After that, welcome to the Magic Kingdom again.

Magic Mountain: Another southern California theme park with the bad guys' name in it. Welcome to Laker Mountain, home of Superman The Escape, Deja Vu and Batman The Ride!

Black Magic Woman: The Santana classic rock song will for possible the next two weeks be known as Black Laker Woman. There are actually several Laker Girls that could personify the song's temporary title.

Industrial Light & Magic: George Lucas' motion picture visual effects company will operate as Industrial Light & Lakers for the next week or so.

Magic 8 Ball: Mattel's fortune-telling toy will now be known as Laker 8 Ball. Following is a quick sampling of replies given by the Laker 8 Ball when asked about this year's Finals:
1. Will the Lakers win the Larry O'Brien trophy this year?: As I see it, yes.
2. Will Orlando win a game in the Staples Center?: Ask again later.
3. Will Kobe be held to under 10 points in any of this year's NBA Finals games?: Don't count on it.
4. Will Dwight Howard be slapped with a technical foul during the NBA Finals?: You may rely on it.
5. Will Laker fans arrive late and leave early during the NBA Finals?: Outlook good.

There you have it. Let's hope the renaming of these things will help propel the Lakers to their 15th NBA Championship.

Did I miss any?