The Los Angeles Lakers had an eventful NBA trade deadline. Overall, many fans are pleased with the moves that the team made to not only improve the talent on the roster but to also get younger in the process.
Perhaps the most surprising move was the team trading Thomas Bryant to the Denver Nuggets for three second-round picks. In the grand scheme, this was great as LA got assets and added a better stylistic fit in Mo Bamba. But it was still surprising.
It came out after the trade that Bryant was frustrated with his role in Los Angeles and requested a trade. That is right: we are getting eighth men off the bench demanding a trade in today’s NBA. Bryant has played three games for the Nuggets and not counting his first game where he only got two minutes, he has averaged 14 minutes off the bench. He averaged 21 minutes in LA.
So Bryant’s role in Denver is actually smaller than it was in Los Angeles, so he obviously did not accomplish his goal. That did not stop Bryant from potentially sending a subtle shot toward the Lakers when he shared just how over the moon he is in Denver right now.
Thomas Bryant on being with the Nuggets:
— Katy Winge (@katywinge) February 16, 2023
Smiling at the podium, “I’m very happy to be here.” Said he already feels a part of the team camaraderie.
“You can tell these guys really care about each other.”
Said it’s like a brother ship over here.
Thomas Bryant might be taking a subtle shot at the Lakers.
To be fair, Bryant isn’t going to tell reporters that he is absolutely miserable on his new team. That would not be great for the locker room morale. However, his added emphasis on how great it is in Denver and the team comradery should make a Lakers fan turn their head.
It is no secret that Los Angeles was not the most cohesive unit prior to the trade deadline and if Bryant wanted to be traded he obviously was not very happy with his situation. Just being off the Lakers seems to be a great thing for him, even if his role is smaller in Denver.
At the end of the day, the trade deadline created a better situation for everyone. Those that were not happy in Los Angeles can now find new homes and the roster itself has gotten better. Not only is there more talent on the roster, but the morale in Los Angeles is higher as well.
You can see it on the court with the new players. This is a team that is playing with more effort and genuinely seems happier. If all parties are happier with their situation, then so be it.