Lakers rumors: Three reasons tanking is bad for Los Angeles

Apr 1, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Clippers center DeAndre Jordan (6) defends Los Angeles Lakers forward Brandon Ingram (14) in the second half of the game at Staples Center. Clippers won 115-104. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 1, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Clippers center DeAndre Jordan (6) defends Los Angeles Lakers forward Brandon Ingram (14) in the second half of the game at Staples Center. Clippers won 115-104. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 26, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers head coach Luke Walton on the sidelines against the Portland Trail Blazers at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 26, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers head coach Luke Walton on the sidelines against the Portland Trail Blazers at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports /

Closing Thoughts

The Lakers rumors don’t stop there, but maybe they should.

In addition to the previous reasons, a final thought on the issue of tanking has to do with their coaching situation. It’s a good thing that the Lakers moved on from Byron Scott and into the world of Luke Walton.

There’s now an atmosphere of appreciation for the young stars that isn’t just a one way street — it’s reciprocated. That kind of respect can help any player no matter how big or small their actual contributions might be.

Verbal affirmation and backing of players like Ivica Zubac, David Nwaba, and even Tyler Ennis have shown that they affect how those players respond.

And it’s always a good reaction.

Being careful is important at this time of year for Los Angeles, but that doesn’t mean that losing intentionally is the answer.

Next: 3 Reasons Lakers Should Draft Josh Jackson

That speaks to now and any time in the near future they might be in this situation.