Today we've heard some eyebrow-raising remarks from Lakers GM Mitch Kupchak, who spoke to reporters in the wake of yesterday's battering at the hands of the Boston Celtics. The general assumption has been that the team would stand pat as the February 24th trade deadline nears, but you know, repeatedly getting plowed by other top contenders can make a GM consider a move or two. Lay it on us, Scott Howard-Cooper of NBA.com:
"Regarding a trade, I may have to," Kupchak said at the team's practice facility a day after the convincing loss to their heated rivals, the Celtics. "I'm not saying that I've made calls today or I'll make them tomorrow. But I just don't think that we're playing as well as our talent level should allow us."
That's true. I don't think they are, either. But has he talked to Jerry Buss about this?
More importantly, while saying he had not talked to owner Jerry Buss since being controlled by the Celtics in the fourth quarter at Staples Center, Kupchak said, "I'd be surprised if he feels any different."
I... see. (*squints, rubs chin pensively*)
The NBA blog-twitter hivemind has yet to start buzzing about any specific deals involving the Lakers. If we catch wind of something not patently ridiculous, we'll be sure to let you know. But I suspect the public nature of Kupchak's comments is very, very intentional. I do believe he's starting to consider a roster shakeup, but this is also a shot across the nose of certain players. Though Kobe is untouchable, of course, everyone else is on notice: get it together, or come late February you could find yourself condo-shopping in Detroit.
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