Ron Artest’s Somewhat Amusing Ballad

The Lakers opened their title defense in October 2010 with almost their entire Championship roster still intact. There was, however, one glaring difference.

Gone was Trevor Ariza, the sinewy hero of the Western Conference Finals and humble yeoman. In his place stood the 6'7" 260 lbs. hulking frame of Ron Artest.

Yes, the instigator of one of the worst brawls in NBA history had found his way to the Purple and Gold. Lakers haters cackled in glee.

Nobody has ever questioned Ron Artest's talent. From strictly a talent standpoint, Ron Artest dwarfed the budding Trevor Ariza. But Ron was seen as a head-case.

Many in the media couldn't believe that the Lakers had gambled their championship chemistry on an enigma like Ron Artest. And many expected the Ron Artest exp...

Read Complete Article at Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
Article is property of BleacherReport.com