In a short message on X, former NBA forward Evan Turner kept it real amid the rumors about the Lakers’ interest in Kyle Lowry. According to Turner, Lowry should avoid the Lakers at all costs, as should any player who has a disdain for being the “fall guy” when things go wrong.
“Kyle, Do not go to the Lakers, they are trying to make you the fall guy,” wrote Turner. “Think about your legacy…”
Lowry, 37 has been the subject of countless trade rumors as the Heat look for an upgrade at his position. The Lakers are one team that is rumored to have an interest in the veteran guard but it remains to be seen if they are willing to pay the price. Clearly, not everyone feels that a move to the Lakers would be in Lowry’s best interest and it’s hard to deny the risk involved with joining such a complicated. Regardless, Lakers fans were letting Turner have it in the comments and started to attack his legacy in retaliation to the controversial post.
Lakers Fans Fire Back
Evan Turner, a 10-year veteran, never got the chance to play on the Lakers during his career but it seems he still harbors some bitter feelings toward the franchise and how they treat their players. Russell Westbrook’s tenure is the perfect example of this mistreatment, as he became the scapegoat for a failure on multiple fronts.
As several fans pointed out, Evan doesn’t have the track record or resume to call out an entire fanbase like this and it’s no surprise that his lackluster numbers became a subject of conversation.
u cant be mentioning the word "legacy" with these type stats bro pic.twitter.com/By7GKg8xlI
— ADHD (@ADHDGoat) January 27, 2024
Many Lakers fans denied the notion of wanting Kyle Lowry at all and expressed confidence that their season will turn around with the guys they have in place.
Oh no not a washed 35 year old. Bruh we have like 4 point guards already Gabe Vincent’s injured but will be back eventually we good.
— customizeaplate (@customizeaplate) January 27, 2024
No matter what happens, there is a glaring difference between Westbrook and Lowry. At the time, was making max-level money and expectations were different for the kind of impact he could provide. In the case of Lowry, he’s likely a year or two removed from retirement and would cost, at most, a minimum-level contract.
Yea the plan is to make a 37 year old minimum signing the fall guy. When has a buyout ever been a fall guy?
— Mike (@Octuple_Double) January 27, 2024
Clearly, the fans weren’t going to let Turner slide with his remarks but it doesn’t change the perception from players around the league toward Lakers fans. Thanks to years of turmoil and finger-pointing, the team has built up a reputation for selling out their players when the going gets tough.
Life Is Different As A Laker
While fans can often get carried away with their support and critique, such is the reality for the Lakers and their players. As 17x NBA champion, the Lakers face heightened expectations year after year, and anything short of a long playoff run amounts to a failure in the eyes of the fans and front office. Despite the glitz and glamour that comes with being a Laker, it’s not easy to live up to championship-level expectations every single night and it’s not something that’s cut out for everyone.
This season, we’re seeing firsthand how difficult it can be to play under the pressure. At .500 through the first half of the campaign, desperation is already boiling over and trades are considered likey across the roster. In truth, it’s not always easy being a Laker and if Kyle Lowry isn’t ready to face the scrutiny, then he may be wise to take Turner’s advice.
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