LeBron James once again took the subtle route with how the Los Angeles Lakers have apparently been slighted in most awards this year.
The future Hall of Famer kept it simple when asked about Lakers vice president Rob Pelinka finishing in seventh place in Executive of the Year voting.
https://twitter.com/highkin/status/1314281305970884608
https://twitter.com/hmfaigen/status/1314290303046545408
To make matters worse for the Lakers, the award was given to Los Angeles Clippers president Lawrence Frank. Pelinka, however, finished in seventh, with only one vote for first place. Though the award won't mean as much to Pelinka as a championship ring, it's still worth noting how low the GM finished in the results.
Though the Lakers don't boast the most talent outside of James and Anthony Davis, they've been able to develop the players they do have into high-volume role players that've contributed in a major way. Thanks to their efforts, the Lakers were able to secure the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference. Most of their players have also had a significant impact on the outcome of the NBA Finals so far.
Though still full of youthful mistakes, Kyle Kuzma has shown signs of developing into an All-Star at some point in his career. He gave the Lakers a much-needed lift in a Game 3 loss in which he contributed 19 points. His production throughout the season has been moderate for a 25-year-old that is now the third option on the team.
Veteran guard and former champion Rajon Rondo has also provided substance to a team that requires direction without James on the floor to direct traffic. He's returned to the “Playoff Rondo” of his glory days with the Boston Celtics.
A debate can surely be had on whether Pelinka should or should not have been closer in the voting numbers to Frank. Yet the easier conclusion is his deserving of being much higher than No. 7 in the race.
Follow Us
Subscribe