Column: It’s evident what Darvin Ham is saying: Regarding the players of the Lakers
Although the response was meant to convey hope, it actually exposed the extent of the Lakers’ despair.
“Unquestionably.”
When questioned about whether he anticipated Russell Westbrook to stay on the team for the next season, new coach Darvin Ham gave this response on Monday during his first press conference.
The Lakers now seem content to continue with the same three players who were at the centre of basketball’s Titanic-like collapse, indicating that the Super Bowl winner Rams aren’t the only team in town that wants to “run it back.”
It makes sense for Ham to expect more accountability from Westbrook, LeBron James, and Anthony Davis since he can only coach the players he has.
“I have to be able to coach those three guys like I coach the rest of the roster if mistakes are made,” Ham stated.
Ham made it very evident to his team that this was on them.
LeBron James, it’s your turn to play defence. Anthony Davis, it’s up to you to maintain your health. Russell Westbrook, it’s on to you to play well when you don’t have the ball in your hands.
The issue is that they might not be able to do the tasks that are required of them.
James’s birthday is December 38. Over the last two seasons, Davis has participated in 76 games overall. Westbrook is incapable of shooting, and as he ages, his lack of technique and knowledge becomes increasingly apparent.
The majority of fans are aware of this. Rob Pelinka, general manager, also has to be aware.
If so, how is this the Lakers’ off-season strategy?
It’s possible that the Lakers are bluffing and want to trade Westbrook for as little money as possible; in my opinion, this would still be adding by subtraction.
It is more likely that they are realistic about the trade market and realise they are stuck with the same team who let them down the previous season.
