At 16-14 on the season, it is clear that the Lakers are still trying to figure things out as Christmas Day approaches.
On Friday, the Purple and Gold suffered an especially deflating loss against the mediocre Timberwolves. After the game, Derek Fisher laid into the squad for their efforts and applauded the young Wolves for showing confidence against an older and more experienced team.
“There were enough Lakers players talented enough to figure out how to win this game. Everybody’s going to have to go through this at some point…
…you tip your hat to Minnesota to some degree,” said Fisher. “[But] it was a lot of clown type of action. You know that the Lakers had one hand tied behind their back. Act like you’ve won a basketball game before. There was a lot of showing out and extra stuff that I hope the Lakers remember.”
The Lakers have suffered losses all season, but games when their opponents are having fun really drive home the fact that this team is not feared like other contenders in the West.
Besides lethargic play, the Purple and Gold have been prone to letting their foot off the gas and giving up big leads.
For some, it’s a roster issue. For others, it’s a leadership issue.
“So they keep this storyline with the Lakers that’s really not a storyline – they suck. That’s some of the stuff, man RIP Kobe, one thing about Kobe he didn’t do the type of friendly s**t with you after a loss like that. When he sees you again, your a** better be on the court. You better not be in the training room. You better not be getting your ankles taped. You need to be out there shooting some shots or Kobe going to be on you.”
“That’s what I think the Lakers are missing. They’re missing that leadership. Everyone’s so friendly, they’re slapping hands. That’s one thing about Kobe. He’ll be your friend sometimes. But when you’re not doing your job, he’ll be on you.”
Whatever is plaguing this Lakers team, they have to figure it out quick before their early hole gets too deep to pull themselves out of.
As the 6th seed in the West, L.A. remains within striking distance of the elites — but we’ll see soon enough if they have what it takes to establish themselves as true contenders this season.
If not, major changes could be soon to follow.
