THROUGH THE WIRE: NEWS (10/12/10)

It looks like a partnership of injuries will result in a marriage of inconvenience for the Los Angeles Lakers. As the champions open their season they may be down on two knees. We already know that Bynum's definitely a no show but it now looks even more doubtful that Kobe will turn up in time for the Lake Shows first clash of the season. It seems that knee injuries are becoming a pain in the leg for the Lakers who will have to start the showtime without two of their opening acts. Although the Lakers have the talent (even on the bench) to still compete they'll want Bryant and Bynum back as soon as possible. To win the west you need a postman and to win the championship you need a star man. The Lakers will want to guarantee deliveries and wishes on shooting stars.



Kobe isn't the only premier franchise player on the mend. Miami's Dwyane Wade has recovered from a right hamstring strain that left him missing the majority of the big three's first pre-season game. The Heat's original hero has started light exercise and is expected to return in a Flash. Miami's super talent is expected to put on his uniform and cape ready not just for the season opener but the preseason closer. In other Miami news the team showed Euroleague stars CSKA Moscow some Heat with a 96-85 exhibition. Former Duke and Cleveland Cavalier draftee Trajan Langdon notched 20 under the Russian sides belt and Wade of course was out but Chris Bosh put down 17 and 8. Another Heat star left cold with an injury as after 26 minutes and 22 points LeBron left the game with leg cramps. The injury however will not cramp his playing style, LeBron says he's ready to go. The championship favourites will need all three of their lucky charms as they take on the reigning Eastern champs Boston in the season, would be king opener.



More NBA players are filing sick notes as former Sixer now Sacramento Kings centre Samuel Dalembert has strained his left groin muscle. This injury to the tenacious, Hatian, defensive talent could see him miss the first 4-6 weeks of the season. The former Western powerhouse Sacto will miss the energy, emphatic dunks and enthusiasm of Samuel as they try to rebound from the last few seasons and catch a playoff spot. The injury is of stark contrast for the usual iron man Dalembert. The King has recorded a regal 354 consecutive games. Which is the third-longest active game playing streak in the National Basketball Association. TIM DAVID HARVEY.