After losing to the New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday, the Los Angeles Lakers have earned the second-worst record in the NBA. Does that mean it’s time to tank?
A lot has happened within the Lakers organization over the last few weeks. They announced a new president of basketball operations in Magic Johnson, they relieved General Manager Mitch Kupchak of his duties and hired a new one immediately in Rob Pelinka. They also traded away Lou Williams, Marcelo Huertas, and waived Jose Calderon.
Additionally, L.A.’s young core has stepped up their play. Point guard D’Angelo Russell has been especially aggressive in Williams’ absence, to the delight of Magic Johnson. However, the Lakers’ latest changes, including newcomers Corey Brewer and Tyler Ennis, hasn’t translated into a victory. L.A. has yet to win a game since the All-Star break and has lost six in row overall.
More from Lake Show Life
- The 76ers won’t be able to help the Lakers trade for Kyrie Irving
- 3 keys to the Los Angeles Lakers shocking the world next season
- Lakers have unrealistic hopes for Russell Westbrook
- Insider suggests Lakers are saving 2029 pick for a different trade
- Lakers are finally coming to their senses about a Kyrie Irving trade
At 19-44– the second-worst record in the league–L.A.’s main priority needs to be keeping their top three protected pick. If their pick falls out of the top three it will go to the Philadelphia 76ers, meaning it’s time for the Lakers to embrace the imminent tank.
As it is currently constructed, L.A.’s roster doesn’t have enough talent or experience to win consistently, a problem they’ve faced all season that recent changes haven’t fixed. In other words, the Lakers will tank even while trying to win.
It’s important that Luke Walton continues to coach the team the right way. The young core needs to stay aggressive and learn from their mistakes on the court. Intentionally tanking would only hinder their growth. So what should the Lakers do? They must work hard, focus and at least try to get a W even if they fall short.
The silver lining for L.A. not having enough to get the job done is that they can put forth maximum effort and still likely keep their pick in the upcoming draft. Even without trying to tank, that’s exactly the way the Lakers’ season is playing out. At this point, another lottery pick is the best possible outcome for the future of the franchise.
Next: How Lonzo Ball fits on the Lakers' roster
What do you guys think? Should the Lakers embrace their fated tank? Or should they aspire to get out of the bottom four in league standings?