It was a difficult and disappointing run for the Lakers last season, and you can even make a case that they were one of the biggest flops in NBA history.
A team with LeBron James, Anthony Davis and Russell Westbrook finished 33-49 and couldn’t even make the play-in tournament.
But these are the Lakers and as indicated by Jeanie Buss in an interview with
Amin Elhassan and Eddie Johnson of SiriusXM NBA radio, there is no such thing as a rebuild (or “tanking”) when it comes to this franchise.
Buss is the daughter of the late Jerry Buss, and much like he did, she intends to always try to put the Lakers in the best position to contend.
“It’s hard to win in the NBA, as you guys break it down,” Buss said. “I think that you can provide enough resources (as an owner) to make sure that you have a competitive team year in and year out.”
But as for tanking and playing the draft lottery in LA? Yeah, forget it.
“Some people may debate the idea of tanking for several years,” Buss said. “My dad never did that in 32 years. It’s just not the way he would’ve seen the Lakers brand, to be at the bottom of the standings, year after year.
“He always felt that the fans invested their time and their money in your team, and you have to perform for them. If you don’t, then they’re gonna move on and find something else to spend their time and money on. They deserve a quality product.”
Clearly, the Lakers are trying to move Westbrook in an effort to find a better fit alongside James and Davis. Just last week, they acquired guard Patrick Beverley in a trade with the Jazz, making it seem as if they’re even more determined to move Westbrook.
For now, though, the only major change has been hiring former Bucks assistant Darvin Ham as coach.
“Nobody can promise a championship every year, but again, unless you’re in the playoffs, you’re not gonna have a chance to win (one),” Buss said. “So I like to have the time be in position to compete for championships, year in and year out.”
“My father never [tanked] in 32 years”
Jeanie Buss breaks down why she'll always try to put the Lakers in a position to succeed #LakeShow@JeanieBuss | @JumpShot8 | @DarthAmin pic.twitter.com/sISzrwIuM6
— SiriusXM NBA Radio (@SiriusXMNBA) August 30, 2022
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