A fan’s perspective

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The road less traveled

The phrase “the road less traveled is less traveled for a reason” is a pragmatic reply to Robert Frost’s famous poem “The Road Not Taken,” noting that unpopular paths often involve hidden dangers or practical difficulties. What you just read was AI generated however I believe it might fit almost Laker Jonathan Kuminga, as you are aware he chose the Wolves over the Lakers. “Not to come disrespectful, but I didn’t feel like Los Angeles was the right environment for me. There’s a level of expectation and outside noise (that) surround the Lakers that can become distracting, and I wanted (a) situation where I could stay focused on basketball and my development.”

Those are Kuminga’s words but these are mine, at the time Harry Truman served as president a sign on his desk read; “The Buck Stops Here” indicating to me be prepared for a decision or the pressure that accompanies it. I’m not upset although I claim to be part of Laker Nation, Kuminga kept the Lakers and other NBA teams “on hold” for almost two months. The following are the words for all prospective Lakers. “Kobe believed the Lakers brand sold itself, stating that if a free agent needed to be convinced or recruited to handle the immense pressure of the L.A. dynasty, they were not meant to wear the uniform.” I hope this doesn’t appear I’m hatin’ on Kuminga that is not the case, it’s my belief based on his comment despite potential talent he just might not have been a good fit for my Lakers.

In season, always

Friends and acquaintances of mine have said this to me on more than one occasion, “Why do you write about basketball year round?” The explanation is simple, basketball is in season, always, do you want some examples? How about the breaking news from the NBA offices regarding the Los Angeles Clippers? As most of you are aware this investigation involving Kawhi Leonard was a yearlong investigation, it could have been resolved in April or June but it wasn’t, it was September.

That was just one of a number of stories surrounding the NBA that concluded in the summer. We can also check out the college game as well, as you were aware several college players were granted a 5th year of eligibility by the courts. Mizzou added two players to its existing roster in the August-September time, in addition we have AAU and FIBA basketball being played during the summer. So the truth of the matter, the NFL commands headlines at the time there is no competitive play the same status exists for the sport of basketball.

The second coming of Magic

Ben Simmons had potential superstar written across his chest literally. He’s 30-years old now but his exploits in Australia led us to believe he was the second coming. After all he was taller than Magic Johnson (6-10) and outweighed him and played outstanding at the point. There was little if any range on his jump shot but that didn’t matter, Magic was not a great shooter either but it was the other things he did so well. In addition Magic worked and became much better at shooting by the time his career ended. On his arrival on these shores Simmons played at LSU for a season prior to declaring for the NBA draft.

In 2016 Simmons was made the top pick by the Sixers but missed what would have been his first year due to injury. To provide evidence that the wait proved beneficial he was named to the NBA All-Rookie Team and was also NBA Rookie of the Year for 2018. I am reading between the lines but it appeared criticism of his lack of shooting plus an injury were contributing factors to his downfall. He was traded to the Nets and the change of scenery failed to change his path, Simmons played for the Clippers half of the 2024-25 season, he did not play at all last year. Reports are circulating he wants a return to the NBA but the question might be, is there any team willing to take a chance that Simmons has returned to his Rookie of the Year form? NOTE: As this was completed word came the Kings signed Simmons to a one-year contract, he returns to the NBA after sitting out the 2025-26 season.

Y’all go’ make me

The complete line of the 2000 Hip Hop classic Party Up by DMX, Y’all go’ make me lose my mind Up In here, up in here. Why do some wish to make a story that is no story, that’s what we have here. Former NBA player turned analyst Blake Griffin had a biting commentary on Bronny James. Griffin wasn’t critical of his play rather than the amount of money Bronny was being paid. Here goes and this paraphrases the Griffin statement, “Bronny has a rich parent (LeBron) plus he secured an NIL agreement while in college.”

Finally, this last bit of information “He’s being paid too much considering he was a second round draft pick.” I choose to tear this argument apart, first of all the statement regarding rich parents. Bronny and his siblings were probably denied few things growing up however they are not rich, their parents are. NIL money is none of Griffin’s business and finally the recent contract Bronny signed. It’s likely in meeting with the Laker front office his agent specified the amount of money his client desired. The Lakers said, okay we can do that. I have serious doubts if Bronny arrived in the Lakers office with a weapon threatening anyone. To borrow the LaVar Ball line Blake Griffin needs to stay in his lane, I believe he’s stuck his nose in an area where he’s got no business.