:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/56462491/801644722.0.jpg)
The NBA has fined the Los Angeles Lakers $500,000 following their findings in an investigation into tampering with Paul George, and the purple and gold intend to accept the judgment.
The findings concluded that Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka communicated with Paul George’s agent in a way that was inappropriate for a player still under contract, but that no evidence existed pointing to the two sides making plans for the future together.
The franchise released a brief statement, acknowledging the ruling while providing a quote from Pelinka.
“We respect and accept the NBA’s decision regarding this matter. On behalf of the Los Angeles Lakers, I want to express our regret over this unfortunate incident to both our fans and the NBA,” the statement from Pelinka reads.
The punishment is a kick in the wallet for the Lakers, but the situation could have been much worse for Los Angeles. Loss of future draft picks, suspensions of team executives and restrictions on signing George could have been on the table pending the findings of the investigation.
Thankfully the Lakers can put this behind them now and continue looking ahead to a fresh season.