Moving On

Hi guys. Hope you all are having a splendid week. I'm pretty sure everybody's still celebrating the Lakers' 2020 Championship run. Or having a relaxing bye week like the Raiders after a huge win over the Kansas City Chiefs and gearing up for Sunday Night against the Buccaneers. It's nice to have a week off and reflect on some things and so on and so forth.

I wanted to make this announcement on Sunday, but I've been super busy wrapping up one half of the Fall Semester of my Masters program. And now that's out of the way, I have time to effectively announce my future and the future of this blog. To say I'm "retiring" is not the word I want to throw out there. It's more like I'll be going into a long-term hiatus. I don't know when I'll come back and post content. It could be a year from now. Two years from now. Five years from now. Or maybe fifteen years from now. That's up for me to decide. But, I have decided after witnessing my Lakers' run to the NBA Championship this season, I am effectively moving on from this blog at the conclusion of the Raiders' 2020 NFL Season. 

To be honest, I contemplated about this for a couple of years now. My endgame was that either the Lakers make it to the NBA Finals, win or lose, or the Raiders make it to the Super Bowl, win or lose. Having both scenarios happen would be a plus. But, once one of those scenarios happened, I was going to move on from this blog. When the Lakers won the 2020 NBA Championship, I felt really satisfied and reflected on the 10 years that I've had this blog. I covered what was nearly a decade of mediocrity with both the Raiders and Lakers failing to win championships. Of course, there are a few bright spots like when I recapped the late Kobe Bryant's final game when he dropped 60 points over the Utah Jazz or when the Raiders went 12-4 later in the same year, covering all those come from behind wins. But other than that because the Raiders and Lakers have been terrible through all these years, it has been nothing but pain on this blog. I've been typing out the same regurgitating stuff about what they can do to get better or if certain players or coaches need to get cut or fired. I'm thankful the Lakers got good again with LeBron James and Anthony Davis as I reached my "twilight years" of posting on and managing this blog. And when the Lakers won it all this year, it was right and then and there that this is the decision I wanted to make. 

I made this blog undergo a lot of changes since I first started. I was just beginning my junior year of high school and I lost a lot of writing material because my previous laptop failed and I didn't have a backup drive to save them. I had aspirations to be a writer and the day I lost all of my writing crippled my drive to write again. Starting this blog after that incident in August 2010 was like a haven for me because it was a way to keep my writing style alive. Writing and blogging about my beloved Raiders and Lakers came out of the blue because sports is a consistent topic to blog about.

When I first started, I was actually covering three teams: the then Oakland Raiders, LA Lakers, and the San Jose Sharks. My high school was very religious about Sharks hockey and yes, I do like the Sharks as well. But, I didn't have much knowledge about the NHL or hockey as I did with football and basketball. By the time I transitioned over to college, I dropped the Sharks (still rooted for them though) and stuck to what I knew best and that was Raiders football and Lakers basketball. And that's pretty much when I rebranded this blog as True Raider Laker. By 2013 after doing three years of short recaps and stats highlights, I expanded my posts to share more of my knowledge about the games with the quarter-by-quarter (Q by Q) reactions and full recaps. I just typed what I saw in the games from my perspective. I'm not an expert or anything. It was all subjective on the pluses and minuses after the games.

In 2015, I synergized my YouTube channel, MechG2994, with this blog, starting up TrueRaiderLaker Productions where I simulcasted my hype videos on my channel and on this blog. My 2015 "New Generation" Raiders video caught the eye of a prominent Raiders YouTuber. You may have known him somewhere as "Donkey Lips." But we all know him as Mikey Raider. I was able to drive traffic to my channel, but I missed a big opportunity to drive traffic to my blog. From my 2016 Lakers Hype Video onward, I started watermarking the URL to my blog. I stopped at my 2019 videos because I assumed most of my viewers were annoyed by it. 

2018-2020 was like a "jumbo" era for this blog. I immediately cut off the real-time Q by Q reactions. And as a Raider fan, I pretty much lost my sanity when Jon Gruden infamously dealt Khalil Mack to the Chicago Bears before the season started and eventually Amari Cooper to the Dallas Cowboys in the middle of the season. And of course we had the following year with the saga of Antonio Brown the Clown and the Raiders losing their last home game in Oakland against the lowly Jacksonville Jaguars. Time will tell if Gruden and Mike Mayock rebounded from that mess. There's still a lot of issues, but the Raiders are off to a solid start in their inaugural Las Vegas season. On the Lakers front, it was not as bad, but still bad as the organization couldn't get a plan together and decide if they want championships now or hold onto the young core for long-term sustainability. Rob Pelinka definitely proved naysayers wrong after Magic Johnson resigned, trading for AD and putting a "Plan B" championship team with quality veterans and young players who understood their roles. Like I said, I'm thankful the Lakers got good again to bring some positivity to this blog. By my later years, I started to care less about this blog, but the Lakers' resurgence this past season gave me something to hang onto by a thread.

2020 man, this year has been a year of unpredictability. Kobe Bryant's tragic death sent this world into a tailspin. The following months, all sports have been suspended and we all locked down to contain the spread of COVID-19. And of course on a personal note, I lost my dad overseas and pretty much I have to step up now as the new man of the household. If the NBA continued as planned and the Lakers still won, I would've announced this in June and I wouldn't be around for the first 2020 Las Vegas Raiders season. But life works in mysterious ways. The NBA restarted in July in a bubble setting. The NFL went on as planned with limited to no fans. The Lakers were crowned champions this month, but the Raiders are just getting started. I'll still hang around since football season is current. But like I said, after this season, barring an improbable Super Bowl run by the Raiders, I am moving on to oversee new projects I want to groom and take care of some personal stuff.

I had a great time managing this blog and sharing my fandom for the Silver and Black and the Purple and Gold. But, all good things must come to an end at some point. As I mentioned, I wouldn't say I'm retiring. I won't be around on this blog or post content as much as I used to. However, my TrueRaiderLaker Productions content will hang around as long as I have a visual idea. But, they'll be taking a back seat going forward. I'm thinking about dispersing another niche on my YouTube channel and letting that grow as something new and independent. I'm not gonna close down this blog after this incumbent Raiders season that's for sure. This blog and all of its posts will live on. After all, what happens on the Internet, stays on the Internet. I'll see you guys later.

Changes to the Blog (10/27)

Hey guys, so apologies to that fall out on Thursday. I was supposed to cover the Lakers-Nuggets game here on the blog, but my schedule said otherwise. I'm happy the Lakers got that win though. And they'll look to keep the train rolling tonight against San Antonio in a grudge match from Monday night's gut-wrenching OT loss. Since that set a precedent, I have to start tailoring my schedule of maintaining that work/school/life balance. Obviously weekdays, I work from 8:30AM-5:30PM. A majority of the Lakers' road games are east coast time, so obviously I won't make it too much for road games. Next week, the Lakers play the Timberwolves in Minnesota on NBA TV at 5:00 PM start time. Obviously, they'll be relegated to the new quick recap format I am drawing up right now. For home games and road games that tailor to West Coast time (@ Golden State, @ LA Clippers, @ Phoenix, @ Portland, etc.), I'll have greater availability there since the games usually start at 7:30 PM. Again, to avoid last Thursday's fallout, consider me a game time decision on those days depending on how my schedule works out (that is on my online classes side).

The New Quick Recap Format - Lakers

In the past, I provided quick recaps for games that are not nationally televised. I provide stat lines from the actual NBA.com website and recently, commentary based on the highlights. Starting Monday, I'll have a weekly round up of Laker games that occur during the past week and provide an all-in-one post of those games. That'll include the games I covered that week (like the San Antonio game last Monday night). Instead of putting up stat lines and formal commentary, which people might think is a little passe, I'd thought I put my spin on things in a creative or edgy way. Because honestly, I think this blog needs have a little more attitude put into it. I've been watching a lot UrinatingTree stuff on YouTube lately and me being a former fanfiction writer in my past life, I'd thought I'd rekindle some of that.

The Fate of the Following Raiders Games *NSFW Language*

Ah yes, speaking of a little attitude to this blog, look no further on which of my teams would demonstrate the awesome power of shitposting. If you haven't looked at Week 6's recap where I ripped the team a new one after their abomination in London, you'd probably be wondering where I'm getting at. The Silver and Black Shitshow will be an idea incarnated because of the dumpster fire that is surrounding this team that I used to call the Raiders. The main players that'll revolve around is the Tank Commander himself, the Chuckster, Jon "Spider 2 Y I'm Gonna Trade Ya For Picks" Gruden, "$125 million Checkdown" Derek as they embark on a quest to become the dumpster of all dumpster fires in their road to Vegas, and Mark Davis, whose face looks like it was over cooked in an oven and has a haircut that makes Lloyd Christmas' hair look fairly decent. Perhaps, this is going to be some therapy after eating up a pile of those losses. Because honestly, this team is devoid of a whole lot of talent. The first chapter will premiere on Wednesday before they take on their twin Bay Area Red and Gold shitshow in the final Battle of the Bay showdown on Thursday night. Bragging rights? More like which Bay Area football team isn't absolute shit rights. But first, they get their hands Sunday against the Colts and an Andrew who is down on his Luck.

TrueRaiderLaker Productions #14! - "Pride"

After a fallout with the Paul George hype video (because he re-signed with OKC) and missing out on the LeBron James to the Lakers heat during free agency, I've made a full recovery to get this video out there. Without further ado, I present to you TrueRaiderLaker Productions #14 - "Pride."

This project is a "return to the roots" kind of project for me. If you guys followed me for a while, I uploaded my first Laker hype video in 2012. I went with the old school 2Pac "To Live and Die in LA" song. Lakers and LA are so tightly knitted together. Well, every Laker fan should know that. So, for this project, I wanted to bring that LA vibe for this upcoming hype video. And I found the spiritual successor with "LA" by Ty Dolla $ign, Brandy, Kendrick Lamar, and James Fauntleroy. Unlike my recent Raiders hype video, I wanted to make this Laker hype videos have its own vibe and it certainly reflected that.

There's so much buzz surrounding the Lakers with the arrival of LeBron James and the hype surrounding the young core. We are out of the dark ages and on the Lakers are on their way to remind the NBA who dominated the league besides the Boston Celtics. We might have another chapter brewing in the league's most storied rivalry. It may not be now with the Warriors' dominance, but sooner or later, the Lakers will be back on top. And I made that an emphasis in this video and in the thumbnail as well. Stars of all stars donned the purple and gold and won championships. From Magic and Kareem to Shaq and Kobe to Kobe and Gasol, LeBron and the young blood of Ingram, Zo, and Kuz are next in line. One thing's for certain, the true basketball pride of Los Angeles is back!

Thumbnail

*2018-19 Lakers Regular Season Preview to come. Stay tuned!*

TrueRaiderLaker Productions #13: 2018 Oakland Raiders Hype Video - "IV"

Well, something is better than a nothing. After further delays and some last minute changes, here's is TrueRaiderLaker Productions #13: "IV."

No special titles here on this one. The "IV" obviously represents my fourth Raiders hype video since I first uploaded my first one in 2015 titled "New Generation." Last year's hype video brought a lot of inspiration to make yet another one. While the last year was full of hope, this one is a video with a whole lot of attitude like the Raiders are just ready to kick everyone's *expletive,* especially with the return of Jon Gruden.

The hype video hit a snag in the last couple of days when it was in the process of completion. The obvious one was the Khalil Mack trade. I had to put this aside to make the Khalil Mack tribute out of respect since he's the only the good 1st round pick the Raiders made in recent years. Also, I had a lot of sequences for Mack in this hype video prior to the trade. Of course, I had to ask "how will I replace Mack's parts that were awesome here?" So, I had accumulate some more material and it's a good thing P.J. Hall, Maurice Hurst, and Arden Key each recorded sacks in the preaseason, so I replaced them for Mack's parts. To be completely honest, the buzz of this hype video died when the trade happened. And all I can do was quick fixes. I didn't have a lot of time to think since the season opener was fast approaching. I wanted to accumulate more sound bites (I didn't use a lot here because those ideas were at the last moment), but I had a tight window ahead and this is all I got.

Since I did the regular season preview post before the hype video, despite this, yes I'm still not sold on the outlook of the roster since the Mack trade. I still stand by that. But, this video does give me some optimism that the Raiders can return to form.

Thumbnail

TrueRaiderLaker Productions #11! - 2017-18 Lakers - "The Restoration Plan"

"You know MechG2994, your last hype video with the Raiders was pretty damn epic. I was so pumped up for the season to start when I saw that. Without a doubt, it's your best hype video ever."

"Hey, how about giving the Lakers a hype video like that too? It needs some epicness to it. I'm excited for basketball season to start."

Ask and you shall receive. With no further introduction I present to you TrueRaiderLaker Productions #11 - 2017-18 Lakers "The Restoration Plan!"

Description

The conversation above wasn't real, but it certainly left me to think. I'm coming off making an epic hype video about the Raiders, using an epic song by Hi Finesse. When I was pondering about a Lakers video, I at first thought about using some rap. But, that's not the way to follow up an epic hype video! And then it dawned me and asked myself, "hey, why not an encore with Hi Finesse?" 

My latest third Raiders hype video had a lot of storytelling involved. From the clinching the playoff spot to Carr's injury to prepping for a Super Bowl (which is looking bleak at the moment. I wanted to replicate the same storytelling element to the Lakers' incoming first season under the Magic-Pelinka regime.

The last five years under Jim Buss were tough for us Laker fans. There was no long-term contingency plan when Kobe decided to hang it up. After Kobe retired, it was the opportune time for Jim and Mitch Kupchak to build for the future. They did right by hiring Luke Walton and drafting Brandon Ingram in last year's draft. But signing Luol Deng and Timofey Mozgov to mega contracts signaled the demise of the Jim Buss-Mitch Kupchak era. In comes Magic Johnson and Rob Pelinka to right the wrongs. They tell us there's a plan in place and they're making moves to restore the Lakers to greatness. They're starting off on the right foot trading for Brook Lopez, signing Kentavious Caldwell-Pope to a reasonable contract, and drafting Lonzo Ball and Kyle Kuzma. Ball and Kuzma carried the Lakers to a Summer League championship and they will look to build up that confidence in the regular season along with Ingram, Clarkson, Randle, Nance, KCP, and Lopez,. Whether Magic and Pelinka's plan succeeds or fails remains in question. One thing's for certain, they are unified with a common long-term plan to return the Lakers to its former glory. That plan starts on Thursday Night vs. the Clippers. This video is a visual presentation of a restoration plan in motion. Enjoy this 2 minute fury Laker Nation.

Thumbnail

Official thumbnail of the video featuring a landscape view of L.A. and Lonzo Ball and Brandon Ingram all drenched in Purple and Gold. ("But, where's Kyle Kuzma?") 

TrueRaiderLaker Productions #10! - 2017 Raiders Hype Video

In 2015, I made my first hype video titled "New Generation". Last year, I made another one titled "Welcome to the Show". This year, I live up to my own personal promise to complete my Raiders hype video trilogy..."by any means!" And with TrueRaiderLaker Productions installment #10, I give you my latest hype video "From the Ashes"!

Description

When I developed early concepts about my third hype video, I immediately thought back into the last few weeks of the regular season. And they were an emotional roller coaster. On Week 15, against the Chargers, the Raiders clinched a playoff berth for the first time since 2002. We were all happy. Then Week 16, Derek Carr gets hurt. Week 17, the Raiders fumble away the AFC West crown to the Kansas City Chiefs. And finally on Wild Card weekend, the Texans put the final nail in the coffin to the Raiders' dream season of 2016. I thought to myself, I couldn't make a "hype hype" video with the way last season ended. If I'm making a third video, based on how the season ended, this hype video needed to be darker and more serious compared to my last two videos, but at the same time, it needed to be uplifting. Derek Carr is back. The Raiders made some serious upgrades, especially on offense. They're primed to get back up and go after that elusive 4th Super Bowl title. I think this video also highlights the maturation process of my editing since I made the "New Generation" hype video two years ago and the "Welcome to the Show" video last year. There already was a precedent set for me to make a theatrical-style video. That would be my Khalil Mack "Untamable Beast" highlight video. Unfortunately, my theatrical-style videos are at the wrong side of history as they get less views compared to my other work. I'm willing to go all-in that this hype video will get me over that hump.

Another thing I want to address is the question I'm sure everybody's asking me "Why the delay?" Yes, I'd usually release Raiders hype videos just before the first game of the preseason. This video in particular is released a few days before the start of Week 1 and a few hours before the Chiefs and Patriots kickoff opening night! I'm going to be completely honest, if you're an ambitious video editor like I am, you'd try new video editing techniques or start an entirely different series of videos. Basically, shaking up the creative direction a bit. That's what I've been doing the last few weeks/months. I worked on a couple of videos that are completely not associated with TrueRaiderLaker Productions. I sent those videos into music video competitions at a couple of pop culture conventions hosted here in Cali. Just recently, I found out that one of those videos finished 2nd place and I felt ecstatic about that. So, just to let everyone know, I'm calling the shots on a entirely different series of video projects. But, as I mentioned when I managed to squeeze a Lonzo Ball hype video in between, TrueRaiderLaker Productions is here to stay. Don't be alarmed. I'm adding new weapons to the "MechG2994 arsenal" in terms of video projects.

Thumbnail

This is the official thumbnail of the hype video featuring: Marshawn Lynch, Head Coach Jack Del Rio, Amari Cooper, Michael Crabtree, Bruce Irvin, Khalil Mack, and Derek Carr.

*2017 Regular Season Preview Post to follow! Stay tuned!*

TrueRaiderLaker Productions #9 - Lonzo Ball - Destined

TrueRaiderLaker Productions is back! I had a contingency plan for a Lonzo Ball hype video and flexed it in through my heavy video production schedule. I present to you my 2nd Laker video in the TrueRaiderLaker Productions era and my 4th overall: "Lonzo Ball - Destined!"

Description

All I needed was two days for this video. I originally wanted to start production immediately after the draft. But, I had to promote another video unrelated to this and I was in LA (no I didn't visit the Lakers facility in El Segundo). But this video is here and in time for Ball's Summer League debut tonight.

As a lifelong Lakers fan, I couldn't recall a top pick that has the Laker Nation divided. You can make the argument that the selection of D'Angelo Russell two years ago also had us at a 50/50 split. But Lonzo Ball's selection stirred up a lot of debates across forums. Some see him as a talent that could change the fortunes of the Lakers franchise. While others see him as an overrated prospect and a possible bust. Then, there is his dad Lavar who has made headlines, glorifying Lonzo and making controversial comments that have a lot of people irate. Prior to the draft, a lot of people didn't want the Lakers to draft Lonzo because most fear that his dad was going to be a big distraction. That's the biggest flaw in evaluating Lonzo because Lavar Ball's controversial antics are completely irrelevant and unrelated to the talent and potential that Lonzo possesses. The Lakers selected him because of his talent, his ability to make other players better, and his high character and work ethic. If UCLA didn't have a problem with his dad, why not the Lakers? Even though he's a homegrown talent and seemed destined to be a Laker, it's in Lonzo Ball's hands to gain some respect and prove a lot of his detractors wrong. That starts tonight as the Lakers start their campaign, coming in as heavy favorites to win the Summer League championship.

Thumbnail

TrueRaiderLaker Productions Entry #8: 2016 Oakland Raiders Hype Video - "Welcome to the Show"

Last year, my "New Generation" hype video was a smash hit. It got across a lot of Raider Nation forums, shared on chatsports, and even shared by some of you may know him outside the Raider Nation for his role as Donkeylips, Mikey Rayder  on raidercentral, a YouTube channel that provides a lot of Raider content and a lot of Raider talk 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. After that video, I followed up with a pair of highlights of the electric AC/DC tandem of Amari Cooper and Derek Carr and the "Untamable Beast," Khalil Mack. So, football season is around the corner and everyone might be wondering "am I going to make another Raiders hype video?" Here's your answer. I give you the true follow up of my "New Generation" hype video and entry #8 of the TrueRaiderLaker Productions: "Welcome to the Show!"

Description

To be honest about the process that went into editing this video, there was a lot of changes on my part to get the production of this video going. One thing to know about me is that I promote competition in the song choices of my videos. It was a three way battle between three songs: "Go Harder" by Future, "My Town" by Hollywood Undead, and "Ladies and Gentlemen" by Saliva. I originally started work with Future's song, but since I already used Rap in a previous highlight video, I wanted to go in a different direction and I was unhappy with the flow of the video in its development stage, so I scrapped the idea with Future's song. I wanted the hype video to go harder (no pun intended) with a much harder track, a track that "packs a punch." I channeled in my video game and WWE savviness and picked out two songs that I knew from the past:"My Town" by Hollywood Undead, used in the dream crossover fighting game, Street Fighter X Tekken and "Ladies and Gentlemen" by Saliva, used as the theme song for WrestleMania 23. After experimenting with the two songs, I was happy in how the hype video worked well with Saliva's "Ladies and Gentlemen" as it clicked better with the Raider clips I used in the production. Albeit, "Ladies and Gentlemen" is a decade old song and we live in an age where nobody listens to 2000's hard rock anymore, it's an underrated gem of the past and a song to get hyped up to.

There's plenty of optimism with the Raiders this upcoming season, even though we're pretty much accustomed to be cautiously optimistic because we've had out optimism die down for 13 years now. But, this is a young, talented team that Reggie McKenzie has assembled for the past 3 years, adding young cornerstones like Khalil Mack, Derek Carr, and Amari Cooper who've all made major strides last season. Under the watchful eye of Jack Del Rio, the Raiders made major, albeit unsatisfactory improvement going from 3-13 to 7-9. However, this offseason proved to be a turning point as Oakland transformed from being the least preferred destination to being an attraction for top-tier free agents as they added 4 top free agents on the market in Kelechi Osemele, Bruce Irvin, Sean Smith, and Reggie Nelson. In the draft, the Raiders emphasized on bolstering the defense, adding a hard hitting safety in Karl Joseph and versatile D-linemen, Jihad Ward and Shilique Calhoun. With these upgrades, it's amazing to see the transformation of this team from Reggie's first year to this year. We've had a lot of roster holes to begin with, limited draft picks, salary cap problems. Now, we have an established core and players that provide more talent and depth on both sides of the field. All of a sudden, the Raiders are the talk of the town. The media who once berated this team for their past dysfunctions are now kissing up and picking them to make the playoffs. The time for talk is over, it's time to hit the field and put in the work. Give us what we want. We want to see Raiders football in January! "Welcome to the show, please come inside ladies and gentlemen!" Enjoy the video.

Thumbnail

The official thumbnail of the video. Featuring: Michael Crabtree, Amari Cooper, Derek Carr, Latavius Murray, Rodney Hudson, Mario Edwards, Jr., Khalil Mack, Sean Smith (original jersey edit by @onlyonenation), Karl Joseph (original jersey edit by @onlyjerseyswaps), and Bruce Irvin. Thumbnail size is 1366 x 768.

TrueRaiderLaker Productions Entry #7 - 2016-17 Lakers - The Successors + Wallpaper (And Summer League Thoughts)

It's been a while Laker Nation. 2012, I made my first Laker hype video on my YouTube channel with 2Pac's "To Live and Die in LA" playing in the background as they formed a super team consisting of Kobe Bryant, Steve Nash, Pau Gasol, and a Center whose name shall never be mentioned in the Laker books ever again. A year later, I followed up with a motivational vignette titled "Kobe Bryant - The Heart is Still Beating" in the wake of Kobe's return from the achilles injury. Now, I am back to help usher in a new era of Lakers basketball, three years in the making. I present to you the first Laker video in the TrueRaiderLaker Productions era: "The Successors!"

Description

A new chapter in Lakers history is about to unfold. We are moving away from 20 years of Kobe Bryant to Year 1 of the Russell-Clarkson-Ingram-Randle-Nance, Jr. era. It's going to be a rough and weird transition as we grew accustomed to either a #8 or a #24 with the last name "Bryant" on the basketball court. But, this is a fresh start and the core that is assembled by Mitch Kupchak is still relatively young. Last season and in the Summer League (which I'll provide my thoughts a little later), the young core showed some promise at times, but other times, there are holes in their game that we can easily pinpoint that they need to work on and polish more. There's a lot of potential that is untapped with this young group. Hopefully, the leadership under Luke Walton and the coaching staff and the veteran leadership of Mozgov and Deng will help the young core grow faster than normal. 

For this video, I wanted to focus on the Lakers' young core of the future. Russell, Clarkson, Ingram, Randle, and Nance, Jr. each had highlights that provided some optimism. In addition, I wanted to make references to the Lakers' history. The history of the Lakers is rich and glorious from Magic and Showtime to Shaq to Kobe as they helped deliver a grand total of 10 NBA championships to the city of Los Angeles in their respective eras in addition to the first championship won in LA in 1972 when the Lakers posted the then best record of 69-13. I wanted to express that these players that the Lakers have now are the next in line, the new generation. They represent the next chapter in Lakers history. They are going to get some backlash because they are not as great as their predecessors yet. But if they continue to put in the work and give their heart out for the love and the appreciation of the game and this great franchise night in and night out, they can be great and one day, they will lead the purple and gold to a 17th banner.

Wallpaper/Thumbnail

1280 x 720 (Standard)

1366 x 768

1920 x 1080

Like my Kobe Bryant "Thank You" wallpaper, the promotional wallpaper for my video in three alternate sizes. From left to right, the wallpaper includes Julius Randle, D'Angelo Russell, Brandon Ingram, Jordan Clarkson, Larry Nance, Jr. The Staples Center is behind them with the bright purple lights shining on them. The black silhouette is the view of the Greater Los Angeles area from afar. Select your size, right click and save, set it as your desktop background, and enjoy the video.

Summer League

For those of you who are wondering, yes I'm kept track of the Lakers' Summer League play. I think the opener vs. New Orleans and the 3rd game vs. Golden State were impressive. Ivica Zubac has thoroughly impressed me with his offensive and defensive abilities and showing his worth as a 2nd round steal. Zach Auguste and Xavier Munford impressed me and I predict that they'll be on the training camp roster at best. Brandon Ingram looked good early on, but struggled with his shot and that's what Summer League is about. Remember, Russell struggled in his rookie year playing SL basketball and Ingram is going through the growing pains. Speaking of Russell he looked good, but the turnovers and defense still need work. The Philadelphia game and last night's loss vs. Cleveland showed (which I missed) showed that there's still long ways to go for the young core in terms of growth and development. Of course, I heard about Nance's fractured hand last night and I wish him a speedy recovery. You don't want a key cog of your future go down like that, especially in SL when it is supposed to be a series of exhibition games for young players to showcase their talent and refine their game. But overall, I would say I liked what I've seen from SL action, but I wouldn't argue that there's still room for improvement. 

TrueRaiderLaker Productions Entry #7 Teaser

CLICK HERE

TrueRaiderLaker Productions Entry #5: Thank You Kobe!

Standard size: 1280 x 720

Alternate size 1: 1366 x 768

Alternate size 2: 1920 x 1080

Laker Nation, an era is about to end this week and I've cooked up something special while fighting back a wave of emotions in the process. Here, I present to you, the first Laker-related multimedia content since I formed TrueRaiderLaker Productions last summer and the first multiple resolution wallpaper of TrueRaiderLaker Productions: a thank you to a Laker legend and future 1st ballot hall of famer. One of the all-time greats, the Black Mamba, Kobe Bryant!

For 20 years, we've been spoiled to witness the legend of Kobe Bryant unfold from our very eyes, whether we've watched him on TV or seen him live in person. Some grew to hate him, while most of us, we grew to love and admire him. He has engaged in some legendary battles against all-stars, legends, and hall of famers. From the GOAT, Michael Jordan to Tim Duncan to Allen Iverson to Tracy McGrady, Vince Carter, Manu Ginobili, Ray Allen, Kevin Garnett, Dirk Nowitzki, Dwyane Wade, LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Stephen Curry. Kobe Bryant has battled them all and provided a lot of timeless memories for us Laker fans, fans of the opposing teams, and fans of the NBA in general. 

The traits we'll remember the most about Kobe Bryant is his competitive drive to get better every single day, his will to win, and his killer instinct to break the hearts of the home team on the road. There may be promise in the future for the Lakers, but there is no player in my opinion that could replicate the competitive fire of the Black Mamba. We could go on and on reminiscing about the fond memories we have of watching Kobe throughout the years. Now that two games remain in Kobe's illustrious career, all we can do is watch, savor every moment, and appreciate the time Kobe has left on the court. This wallpaper shall serve as a memento of all the memories Kobe has provided us throughout the years, donning the purple and gold. 

"This season is all I have to give. My heart can take a pounding. My mind can handle the grind. But my body knows it's time to say goodbye." ~ Kobe Bryant, "Dear Basketball"

MechG Update: Ladies and Gentlemen, I Present to You, TrueRaiderLaker Productions

Sup guys, MechG here. You may know me as yours truly, the blogmaster here for the True Raider Laker blog, covering games for the Raiders and Lakers and covering the Super Bowl and NBA Finals regardless. Outside of my blog aside from collaborating with my friend Stillmattic on his blog, there are two hobbies that I like to do, make videos and Photoshop. My Amari Cooper and Derek Carr, AC/DC background wallpaper has gone viral and to all those websites and social media users who used my background, I thank you guys from the bottom of my heart that my wallpaper has gone viral and so has my blog for a short period of time. So, this inspired me to do more. Aside from posting here, I decided to utilize my hobbies with you guys more to provide multimedia content to view, comment, and download. Here, I present to you, TrueRaiderLaker Productions.

What is TrueRaiderLaker Productions?

TrueRaiderLaker Productions is going to be my multimedia subsidiary for this blog that is going to provide background wallpapers to download and videos to view. All of the content will be either Raider or Laker-related and considering that football season is coming, there will be a disparity for more Raider content than Laker content for the meantime. The background wallpapers will either contain cool designs from my hard earned work or reference to pop culture and I have a Raider-related pop culture background in the works, which I will reveal below. In terms of videos, I have made two Laker-related videos that serve as a precursor to the establishment of TrueRaiderLaker Productions: The 2012-2013 Lakers Montage and the Kobe Bryant "The Heart is Still Beating" vignette. Future videos will follow the model for those videos I've made in the past.

How will I showcase my content?

For background wallpapers, I will post them here and then they will go viral on my Instagram account (see "The MechG Network" column for more details). That's how the Amari Cooper, Derek Carr, AC/DC wallpaper I made went viral. If I continue at this pace to provide more background wallpapers, I may start up a Deviantart account and link it to the network in the near future or just let it stay at home base here and you, the follower and the casual viewer can right click and save. 

For the videos, I will simulcast them on three fronts: the blog, my YouTube channel, and my Instagram account (the good 15 second portions of the video). I honestly don't mind the logjam on my YouTube channel as a majority of them contain short videos, song mashups, and Anime Music Video/Game Music Video (AMV/GMV) content. I love to connect to a diverse fanbase out there and whether you love sports, anime, video games, wrestling, or all of them. I will welcome you guys in with open arms. Though those interests may not belong with each other, they do for me and we can probably connect with at least one or two common interest. Don't be afraid to view any of my videos because my number one emphasis on my channel is to promote versatility and diversity.

Content in the Works

Oakland Raiders 2015 Hype - New Generation (Video)

Mack, Carr, Cooper - The Future (Wallpaper) (Will be used as the thumbnail for my New Generation video)

Khalil Mack - Attack on Peyton (Wallpaper) (Reference to popular Anime series, Attack on Titan)

Julius Randle, Jordan Clarkson, D'Angelo Russell - Heirs to the Throne (Wallpaper + Video) (TBD based on my schedule)

I look forward to the success of this stint. Hopefully, I can post the Raiders Hype video by tomorrow before the first preseason game against the Rams. Thanks for your time guys and for your support. I'll see you guys later. 

BAY AREA BRAGGING RIGHTS: RAIDERS vs. 49ers Smack Talk Post (with Stillmattic) Part I

Good evening Raider Nation and welcome to a special Smack Talk post in which my friend, Stillmattic and I, we engaged in a war of words here. Keep in mind, we've had this conversation beforehand and I transcribed all this in a Word document. Considering the length of the conversation this will be split into two parts. I'll say the first part here, we started with some fireworks, then the conversation escalated into a weird @$$ direction thanks to Stillmattic bringing up references to other interests we have in common. Anyway, I'll leave out a key here to denote which one of us is talking and enjoy this entertaining bantering.

KEY: 

MG = MechG

SMT = Stillmattic

*WARNING: EXPLICIT LANGUAGE VIEWER'S DISCRETION ADVISED*

SMT: FUCK YO RAIDAHS! #GOLDBLOODED

MG: #RNFL FUCK THE FORTY WHINERS! 

SMT: Gold outshines Silver boi. You know nothing about the worth of that shiny shine shine.

Yeeeeeeeee

MG: Whatever. Alright guys welcome in to a special smack talk post for the 49ers - Raiders game Let me first welcome in to the True Raider Laker, the T.R.L. Stillmattic of Bleach Zealot.

SMT: WHOOO! And this weekend it's the Battle of the Bay and a storm's coming ladies and gentlemen. It's been years since the two duked it out.

MG: Yeah, I told you he writes the best intros. Lol. Anyway Stillmattic and I go way back. We've had a couple of collaborations on his blog, currently were on our third one. But here is our fourth, only this time I have the home field. Lol.

SMT: Home field advantage or not, we are here to prep up for the upcoming game. Bantering before the game only showcases our incredibly desire to see the game in action. So without further ado, I think Khan from Star Trek said it best, "Shall we begin?"

MG: But first, tell the Raider Nation about yourself. Don't worry, they are not going to completely trash you. Maybe in a second but you get the point. So Stillmateezy how did you become a Niner fan?

SMT: I became a Niner Fan when my family started taking an interest in the team whenever they were in the playoffs. It was an exciting & frustrating time because we never made it to the Super Bowl and it was always some team like the Saints orr Seahawks that managed to win the title in the end. Prior to taking an interest in Football for that matter, I supported my cousins's love for the Denver Broncos. I just recently last year began taking an interest in football so as to create an identity for myself much like my fondness for the Golden State Warriors in Basketball.

MG: See I told you guys, the guy used to be a Donkey fan until we dropped a fifty burger on them in their own stadium!

SMT: HEY! I resent that notion. Though my cousin still adores the Broncos, I'm now and forever will always be rocking the gold blooded. Peyton Manning or not, my heart shines for the red & gold. Kaepernick needs to step his game up and not sock ya hear. That last game was a disappointment and Sherman once again getting a little too cocky. I believe the 49ers may have a chance if we follow 3 words: DON'T FUCK UP!

MG: Kaepernick? More like Krapperdick. But no worries yeah that was a Thanksgiving day every Niner fan wants to forget about. Hey look on the bright side, my Raiders just got shut out 52-0 against the Rams

SMT: My mind is scarred still ladies and gentlemen. It was such a lovely Thanksgiving dinner until the Fire Nation (49ers) got their @$$e% handed to them by the Water Tribe (Seahawks).

MG: See guys the thing about Stillmattic is that he hasn't suffered that much as I did.

SMT: But I believe we can beat a team that lost to the Rams. Literally, they got Rammed in the Arses 52-0. I have yet to suffer as MechG said, but I'll soon be on my way.

MG: Dude, you have 7 wins and still in the playoff hunt. We just only got 1 win and playing for a top 5 pick in the draft!

SMT: 7's a lucky #. All you guys did was take a piss. You're getting crapped on and f*ed on all sides. Face it ~ the epic showdown we're seeing this weekend comes down you guys taking a #2 or us winning 8 games, which in the Bible means "A New Beginning." A new beginning for us means there's hope yet. Jim, I gotta tell ya, we need you more than ever ya sexy bastard you. Oh btw, this here poster signifies the epicness of this week's game:

MG: Yes that is epic. But you want to know a secret about Jim that will possibly scar you for life?

SMT: What's that?

MG: He got his first coaching gig from the Raiders.

SMT: He realized then that Silver doesn't shine as bright as the 49ers and hence why he's aiming for GOLD

MG: Nah man there's a reason why he wears black all the time. Look at his cap, look at his long sleeve all black. He has the look, the attitude of a RAIDER! It's too bad he's on a Niner team that has Squidward as a Quarterback and an ass of an offensive coordinator. #JimHarbaughtoOakland

SMT: The 49ers love Jim. Jim stay because you can turn the team around so that we don't suck dick like what happened in the last game. Be smart with the plays and follow through. Kae has to not worry about getting pummeled. Ji may have the attitude of a Raider, but his heart belongs now to the 49ers. #Jimisthemanwiththeplan

MG: Your owner and GM is saying otherwise. Kaepernick is not a QB. We have what the Niners do not have and that's the QB of the future. And that QB is DEREK CARR! It's too bad he's surrounded with a SHITTY SUPPORTING CAST AND A SHITTY COACHING STAFF!

SMT: Derek Carr, more like Derek Hardy Har Har. And you want to know something coincidental MechG?

MG: What? Or enlighten us.

SMT: My gurl right here is rocking the 49ers Red, Black, & Gold. We mustn't lose our way! #Ryuko49er

MG: How come you guys keep losing your way to Seattle then? Huh? HUH?

SMT: Sometimes a winding road is difficult to cross. It's a sign that we need to focus more on the road rather than getting lose in it. Pitt said it best ~

MG: Lol...

SMT: This is going to be a Battle of the Bay played out in bantering & Memes! If that's how you wanna play ya Gayder, then it's on like Donkey Kong!

MG: Hey you may have Ryuko riding the Blood and Piss oops I mean Red and Gold. But I got Lightning repping the Silver and Black!

SMT: Then why she always so emotionless? It's like you guys are trying to fuck up. Lol yet she sports some gold....a traitor perhaps?

MG: Before I resume, if you guys don't what Stillmattic and I are doing. Go to Bleach Zealot and look through all the Fight Night archives or check my YouTube channel youtube.com/mechg2994 for the references.

MG: Hey I see a little orange in Ryuko. Those are not Whiner colors. Those are Donkey colors. And I hate em either way.

SMT: Ryuko's scissor blades will cut through all black & silver.

MG: Ok, ok I think we're plugging something unrelated just a little too much. It's good to draw in some Anime and Video Game fans who are Niner and Raider fans, but let's get back on topic.

SMT: Hey, Chelsea's on our side too. She rocking the red & black. She got a heart of Gold behind her mischief And Akame as well. But.....I digress.

MG: Ok, lol. First Kill la Kill, then Final Fantasy, now Akame ga Kill, I don't even know where this is even going.

*Part 2 posted below*

RAIDERS-49ers Smack Talk Post Part II (with Stillmattic)

This is the final part of our banter. The first part was basically an appetizer and basically both me and Stillmattic exchanging insults and memes and it got to the point where we really went off topic and start referencing stuff that we have in common like Anime and video games. In this part, this is where we get to the meat of the whole conversation. We start being more analytical and start exchanging cold hard facts regarding both of our teams and their respective fanbases, the Niner Empire and the Raider Nation. Enjoy. 

KEY:

MG = MechG

SMT = Stillmattic

*WARNING: EXPLICIT LANGUAGE VIEWER'S DISCRETION ADVISED*

SMT: This is bringing in the best of both worlds. Cuz we Soaring and Flying over the Raider Nation. It's Leonides vs. Xerxes ladies and gentlemen. Leonides leads us into battle while Xerxes (Carr) just waits for us to attack

MG: Why do you guys even call yourselves the Niner Empire then if you're going to reference the Niners as Leonidas and the 300 spartans? No Xerxes is Kaepernick while Carr is Leonidas. The Niner Empire is the Persian Empire and the Raider Nation is SPARTA! GET IT RIGHT! Because we will fight to the death to remain in Oakland to remain in the Bay Area and what better way to shock the Bay Area by beating the best in the Bay!

SMT: Talk the Talk, Walk the Walk, but you're no bite. You bit off more than you can chew. Talk is cheap and unless you prove this weekend, the Empire crushes Nations. We shall overcome because we are headstrong.

MG: Well I'm not gonna sugar coat that. Our last regular season win against you guys was in 2000. Almost a decade. I bet you didn't know that fact did you? See that's how you separate the bandwagoners from the loyal and dedicated fans. Funny thing is you weren't even a Niner fan when they won against us 2002, 2006, and 2010 so how can you brag when you still have to witness a win first hand as an actual fan?

SMT: I'm like a baby taking his first steps. I've been informed about our past victories and I can proudly say, I am glad you were crushed. #Newbeginnings #Themoreyouknow

MG: And apparently that baby tends to cry and whine whenever the Niners lose. Just like every Niner bandwagoner out there. And you know what grinds my gears?

SMT: Your team sucking this weekend?

MG: The have the nerve to take their frustrations out on us every single fucking time they lose! Even in the years we're not playing against each other. Here is the basic algorithm for Niner fans:

Did the Niners win?

YES => Talk Shit about the Raiders

NO => Talk Shit about the Raiders

SMT: We're a proud team. Everyone else is the enemy. We like the Terminators, ya'll are targets

MG: And then there's the Shermanator that kills those Terminators. But you know something? It's Kaepernick's lucky day! He gets to throw to another #25!

SMT: He better not F up this time. This is the BATTLE OF THE BAY. Bay Area be going apesh*t over this. We've been waiting for this ever since it was announced. Kaepernick, you DO NOT WANT TO DISAPPOINT US BY PASSING IT TO SOMEONE ELSE!

MG: I could totally imagine "Kaepernick throws IT'S INTERCEPTED BY D.J. HAYDEN! You know who we also got? Your former teammates who know you guys inside and out. Tarell Brown and Carlos Rogers! Except Rogers is out for the season, but still we got Tarell!

SMT: Teamwork is the key this. Where was yours during the RAMS game?

MG: Where was yours when the RAMS shocked you in your own house? Because Kaepernick was fumblin and tumblin. 

SMT: Seems like your coordination was a bit off and your perceptions were off as well. So what makes you so sure that this weekend won't be the next Masscare? We both got F'd in the RAMs It's like they want us to pit against one another and the winner dukes it out with them in a rematch. You guys will be fumblin, tumbling, jumblin, crumbling.

MG: Do you even see the games? Your offense is not that good and Kaepernick looks lost out there. I see all the games, I hear the complaints from Niner fans. Hey just be lucky you guys have a solid defense because your offense ain't doing shit

SMT: That's why we prepping. Prepping and ya'll be wiping yo candy @$$es

MG: By the way, guys in the comments section who do you think is winning these war of words? Comment Stilmattic or MechG below and let us know.

MG: Don't let the next game against the Seahawks at Seattle get through your head. Ask the Chiefs they were looking ahead to Denver over us for 1st place in the AFC West and you know what happened? We caught them by surprise and gained our first win. Cuz we're the RAIDERS and even though we don't have a winning season in the past 12 years, we find ways to spoil the hopes and dreams of playoff and potential Super Bowl contenders and catch those motherfuckers by surprise!

SMT: Highlander: There can only be one. This Weekend ~ Battle of the Bay.

MG: I think that's good place to stop. So time for some final thoughts. What do you think the Niners should do to get this win?

SMT: And what do you the Raiders need to do to amp up their game? Comment below and let us know

MG: So Stillmattic, what do your Niners need to do?

SMT: 

1) Not F Up

2) Not choke

3) No passing it to the other team

4) Keep our Cool

5) Be Aggressive

6) Offense & Defense needs to be balanced

7) No Fumbles

8) Try to get 1st Down quickly

9) Think before you act

10) Kiss your biceps long

And what of you MechG, what is your strategy that you'd recommend to the Raiders?

MG: Well this is where my football expertise comes to play:

1) Defense has to show up (Jason Tarver's playcalling included)

2) Give Marcel Reece the ball

3) Give Latavius Murray the ball

4) Greg Olson has to stop calling pussy ass offensive plays

5) O-line's gotta contain Ahmad Brooks, Justin Smith, and Aldon Smith from getting to Carr

6) No quick 3 and outs

7) Turn Khalil Mack and Sio Moore loose, they have the speed to get after Kaepernick

8) This is in OAKLAND! And this may be the last Battle of the Bay game if the Raiders decide to move out of Oakland after this season

9) Derek Carr, like Tony Sparano said this is your team, this is also a game for bragging rights, make good decisions and override Olson's boring @$$ playcalling if needed

10) Receivers, CATCH THE GODDAMN BALL WHEN DEREK CARR THROWS TO YOU! Get separation too and run the right freakin' routes!

SMT: 10vs10 Perfect!

MG: Well, looks like that wraps it up. Stillmattic a pleasure working with you. We managed to get through this without any fist fights or brawls happening. Anyway Battle of the Bay Week 14 49ers vs. Raiders I will provide the Q-by-Q, Halftime, and Full Recap posts on Sunday. Kickoff is at 1:25 PM Pacific Time. Be sure to check out Stillmattic's blog on bleachzealot.blogspot.com to keep track of our current collaboration. And Stillmattic, say what you always say every time you wrap up a post. 

SMT: Thank You again. It was pleasure! Be sure to check for updates during the game

MG: Dude where's your catchphrase?

SMT: Stay Classy! May the best team win *cough* 49ers

MG: Raiders! Ok guys, I'll see you on Sunday.

49ers vs. Raiders, kickoff at 1:25 PM Pacific Time on Sunday, Q-by-Q, Halftime, and Full Recap post will be provided. Remember to check out Stillmattic's blog on bleachzealot.blogspot.com to see our current Fight Night collaboration.