Hollinger's PER Diem: Oct. 29, 2008

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Greg Oden is the headline, obviously, and for selfish reasons, I hope he's back soon. (Reporting on Joel Przybilla versus Yao Ming on Nov. 6 won't have quite the same ring to it.)

But while we wait for the MRI results, let's look at the other half of the equation from Tuesday night: The Lakers looked good in their 96-76 win. In particular, their defensive intensity seemed a few notches higher, helping to keep the Blazers out of the paint and limiting them to 34.5 percent shooting.

Daily Gems

John Hollinger takes a look at Wednesday's matchups and gives us five observations to look out for. Insider • Is Andrew Bynum worth the big bucks? • A long year ahead for Milwaukee • Nuggets and Linas Kleiza close to a deal • Al Harrington's trade demands • Will Leon Powe struggle with assists?

It's only one game, but the Lakers' important development is worth watching. If L.A. defends this well all year, it will be nigh unbeatable because you know this group will score its share of points. Although I didn't pick the Lakers to win the Western Conference, I do believe this team has the highest ceiling of any club in basketball. In the opener, at least, the Lakers seemed much closer to reaching that ceiling than I'd presumed.

John Hollinger writes for ESPN Insider. To e-mail him, click here.

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