CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - JANUARY 28: (L-R)LeBron James #6, Anthony Davis #3, and Russell Westbrook #0 of the Los Angeles Lakers look on from the sideline during the first half of the game against the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center on January 28, 2022 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)
Los Angeles Lakers fans will be startled after the trade deadline passed with zero deals done before the window’s closing.
The team lacked the flexibility to make very many deals, including one for troubled star Russell Westbrook. According to multiple reports, the Lakers had deals for Cam Reddish, Christian Wood, John Wall and Russell Westbrook which failed to materialize. They’ll now look towards the buyout market, according to multiple reports.
The team has disappointed throughout the season and stand at 26-30 with a 9th position in the Western Conference. With big names like Anthony Davis and LeBron James in the team, they have failed to muster up any kind of consistency this season.
Lakers also reportedly were finding deals for Talen Horton-Tucker and Kendrick Nunn in search of minor upgrades. But. poor form and injuries led to a lower valued package which couldn’t result in decent arrivals.
While some fans believe that LeBron James had an influence in the backroom decisions, he spoke about his team saying: (h/t LakersNation)
“Obviously it’s something that’s weighing on this group that we’re trying to all get through,” James said after the loss to Portland. Almost feels like it’s like fog, just fog in the air and we’re trying to see what’s on the other side of it.”
LA Lakers have less than 30 games to go. With other veterans in the team like Carmelo Anthony and DeAndre Jordan, the roster seems to be leaning towards the experienced. However, the move has failed miserably. The entire roster has been average this season, barring LeBron James who has been immense in many games this season.
James has averaged 29 points in as many games, despite various injuries. The poor form of Anthony Davis and Russell Westbrook has made it harder for coach Frank Vogel. Vogel has been criticised for his handling of the team. He benched Westbrook on two occasions in the final quarter, which raised concern of a rift between them.
The gigantic Lakers have their work cut out ahead of the NBA Playoffs if they plan a deep run this season.
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