With our economy in recession, many have had to make some changes to their lifestyles nationwide and it’s no different in the NBA. Many teams have had to induce major pay cuts in order to balance their economy. It seems that some of the budget changes have been made solely for economic purposes, but when it comes to the Lakers, their choices are based around the game and what will benefit the team.
The Lakers definitely acknowledge the need to make a few changes in order to stay within their particular economic standing. In an interview on Lakers.com, Lakers General Manager Mitch Kupchack had this to say about the hard economic times, “It is obviously a tough economic environment right now with a lot of uncertainty going forward. It is essential that all NBA teams and the NBA in New York pay close attention to the economy and how it may affect this great game in the short term so as to ensure its success in the long term.”
The Lakers have decided not to cut all salaries, but to make some specific adjustments with the salaries of those players who have not been “contributing in a major way,” says Kupchack.
Two examples of this are the recent trades of Chris Mihm to the Memphis Grizzlies and Vladimir Radmanovic to the Charlotte Bobcats.
“We did a couple of deals that we think solidifies our roster a little bit and gives us some flexibility down the road,” Kupchak said. “For obvious reasons, we’re very comfortable with our team and we didn’t look to tinker with the core.”
Although it may seem that these trades were made only to save the Lakers some money, they insist that their first priority is the benefit of the team. It is true however that money has helped make some decisions as with the example of Mihm and Radmanovic. Such trades were made in order to relieve the Lakers from giving major paychecks to players who have not had a lot of playing time.
Kupchack explained that, “Players that play will continue to be paid, and paid accordingly to how they’re valued in the league. If you have players that aren’t playing and you feel comfortable with your depth situation, then you may look to make a move with those players.”
The ultimate goal of the Lakers is to build and maintain a strong winning team and while our struggling economy will be remembered when important decisions are being made, the Lakers will strive to uphold the Los Angeles legacy.
“Dr. Buss has always fielded the best possible teams within reason,” said Kupchak. “He wants to win. I think his record as the owner of the Lakers speaks for itself.”
