The LA Lakers are treading some uncertain waters at this point and their fans and supporters are quite vocal about how the team needs to do something, fast. Is this a bunch of overblown hype or has the team really sunk to rock bottom?
The truth is, even the best franchises don’t always win. The Dallas Mavericks are a very strong team so it’s not surprising that they are capable of winning. The Lakers are still a strong team in their own right, but even the strongest teams have an off game here and there. Still, the team is currently in a state of flux, even if only due to the pandemonium of the fans taking over. People are calling for a serious change in roster after the sweep. Some suggest that Kobe Bryant is losing his edge, while others single out other players fit, in their opinion, for the chopping block.
In the end, a team is only as good as their leadership. With Phil Jackson retiring, a new coach is imminent and that coach will likely bring changes to the roster naturally, either directly or indirectly. Letting the dust settle afterward is likely wiser than completely blowing up the roster, as many have suggested.
The next Lakers coach could be anyone, but whoever the team picks one thing is certain: This coach will need to be able to whip the team back into shape. It’s not lack of talent that kept the team from doing what they usually do; they have lost the hunger. The team has become complacent and now suffers from a lack of focus on what is really important which is the very game they’re famous for playing. Most of the star players on the team essentially had side projects that they had to dedicate their time and attention to. From clothing lines to reality shows, the team members definitely had too much on their plates which led to divided focus. Whoever takes over the team will need to be a strong enough personality to command the players undivided attention.
When the dust settles and a new coach is selected, fear should motivate the players to take this next season more seriously if they are allowed to stay on the team. With renewed hunger and a desire to get back on top, the Lakers could already have the makings of a strong season.
