Before I say anything, let’s all agree that there is something to be said for the separation between the art and the artist. You see it in the way we remember our heroes (ie: Michael Jackson) and you see it in sports all the time.
This week Dodger fans will be rooting for Manny Ramirez. Many of them drove to San Diego on Friday to take over Petco Park for ManRam’s return. But at the same time everyone knows he cheated. In this case, I think the “Maniaco” personality is his saving grace. It’s easy to forgive when you already like the guy.
Dodgers Ride Manny Wave To Victory
Many Cheers For ManRam
Press Conference
Meanwhile, a natural villain in Ron Artest will be wearing purple and gold. Sure he’s a great player, but is it not a calculated risk with his spotty past? In this case, I think the passage of time (the Palace seems so long ago) has us only remembering the crazy-competitive Artest we saw in the playoffs. Phil Jackson wants that, and more importantly, Kobe wants that.
Whatever your opinion is on who deserves support, I think we all agree that Artest should wear #99. That just makes sense.