Lakers...End of an Era?

The Los Angeles Lakers opened the second round of the Western Conference playoffs against a new opponent, the Dallas Mavericks.  With home court advantage and a history of the Mavericks falling apart in the playoffs, it seemed already predetermined that this series would be quick.  NBA Zone Press had the series going 5 games.  Now after two road wins for Dallas, the series could go 5 games... to Dallas. 

If the Lakers aren't able to dig their way out of the hole they find themselves in, it is time to wonder if this is the last time we see the Laker's competing for awhile.  There were already times this season when the Lakers looked lethargic and apathetic.  Even as the playoffs started against New Orleans, the Lakers looked bored with the series. 

Now, down 2 games, the Lakers need to find all of their fire to get through the series. Nobody knows this more than Kobe, who has been dishing out quotes about his team's current situation.  When asked if the team was desperate now, Kobe replied, "Desperate, that's a strong word. I think when you play desperate you don't play your best basketball. What we need to do is relax, focus on what we're doing wrong and the mistakes that we're making. We have plenty to review and lock in on."

If the Lakers relax too much, this could be the end of their run a 3-peat.  With a salary cap maxed out, and Kobe and Pau getting a year older, it might be the changing of the guard in the West.