As the reigning Sixth Man of the Year, Montrezl Harrell was viewed as a major component of the Clippers roster.
In the aftermath of LA’s shortcomings in the Orlando bubble playoffs, however, the tune around Harrell began to change, as fans blamed him for failing to step up.
When he signed with the Clippers earlier this week, it was seen as the ultimate betrayal to his now-former ball club.
Interestingly enough, it might actually be the other way around…
When asked if he felt Clippers wanted to re-sign him, Montrezl Harrell said, "Apparently not, if I'm on the other side."
— Lakers Nation (@LakersNation) November 23, 2020
Harrell didn’t elaborate on any more details from the Clippers’ end, but it seems like they either lowballed him or just outright decided to let him go.
Either way, joining the Lakers was not a rash decision for Trez and it seems he gave it a lot of thought.
Montrezl Harrell on signing with the Lakers: "Honestly, it was a business decision. I felt it was the right decision for me. … I'm definitely going to be with a team that wanted me and with a group of guys I feel I'm going to gravitate well to and build chemistry fast."
— Matthew Moreno (@Matthew__Moreno) November 23, 2020
The Harrell signing was just one of many big moves the Lakers made this summer, and their roster is looking even better than it did last season. And with the addition of Serge Ibaka, the Clippers will be right up there with them competing for the crown.
It’s a rivalry that is only growing with intensity, and Harrell’s cross to the other side only adds to the heat.
It will be interesting to see who is able to come out on top.
