I think you should be asking yourself that question, not me. Lakers were 30-16 (Were 1st in the West for a while, then dropped to 2nd, but no lower than that) without Gasol. You sir are a moron. Do not act like you know more than all these experts that are voting for Kobe, there is a reason he is winning MVP, you are just too stupid to recognize it. Kobe is a MUCH better all around player now, and I like how you failed to mention his defense. That is pretty much the biggest part of him winning MVP, he's one of the best defenders in the league. You also did not mention his leadership role on the team now. If you actually do watch NBA, you would notice Kobe becoming much more of a leader this year than any of the others. I'm not saying Kobe is the unanimous pick for MVP, because LeBron, Paul, and Garnett all had great seasons too, but Kobe's was better, not by that much though.
As for the Spurs.. I am pretty sure they are done, Chris Paul is making them look foolish out there. Hornets and Lakers will be a great series to watch. Derek Fisher is going to get absolutely destroyed, lawl.