A Recession?

The Lakers made a statement yesterday that there is a west coast NBA team to be reckoned with. Popping the Celts 19 game winning streak LA proved they are in the title mix. Pau Gasol and Kobe led the Lakers over the balanced Celtics. I just don't think there is a lot of separation between these two teams.
The Trailblazers again showed they are on the outside looking in with their home loss to the Mavs. It sure seems like the good teams take Portland out of any semblance of offense. PDX has no inside game and they are actually out of control in crunch time. Not the best managed team in the league...
The Bolts move closer to the winner take all match with the Broncs on Sunday. The line has moderately dropped to 8 with SD still the favorite. I think the Chargers are going to do a big number on Denver and it is just the beginning. It's so important to be peaking just prior to the playoffs.
And finally, the Dux move into town to get ready for OSU, naw , the Oklahoma St. type, not the Bevos. This will be a great game with no apparent favorite. Can't wait...
So when I went to the mall there seemed to be as many people there as ever...why is it considered a recession?