They took the term “franchise point guard” into overdrive
When they drafted Lonzo Ball second overall last summer, it was supposed to give fans hope that their next franchise star was finally here after Kobe Bryant’s retirement a few seasons prior. Instead, all that the team has gotten is drama and controversial statements and situations that were completely avoidable had they handled it differently.
At one point this season, it was even a thought to have Lonzo Ball play from the bench until he overcome severe shooting struggles and let Jordan Clarkson take his place in the starting lineup. However, the Lakers opted to end up dealing Clarkson to Cleveland in part for Isaiah Thomas and a draft pick.
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Thomas’ deal is expiring, but the teamcould still find a way to re-sign himto a reasonable contract if both sides put things in perspective.
But is that really what it’s come to?
Forget the Thomas and Clarkson situations for a second and just try to process that, in less than a full season, the most hot topic type player to come into the NBA in quite some time went from never leaving Los Angeles and having a dream come true to considering taking his talents elsewhere.
We haven’t even reached the All-Star break!
By not humbling Lonzo earlier in the season, it gave more room for LaVar to continue to say whatever he wanted without fear of consequence. And it’s now gotten to the point where, because of the lackadaisical nature of the front office, Ball could end up walking away and they’ll be left with nothing.
Nothing but hindsight, which might not even be 20/20 by then, if we’re honest.
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