Will this be the final agitator to force Ron Artest to proclaim he wants out of L.A.?
There has been uncertainty surrounding Artest's future after a source close to him expressed he wanted to be traded to a different team last week.
Artest refuted these statements, and he responded to reporters, "I feel good every day. We've got a chance to win multiple championships here trying to work towards another banner."
However, during the interview, he did say, "Obviously, when I was on other teams, I got a lot of touches," which is a strong indicator Artest does have some issues with how the Lakers are handling him.
Since 1999, the journey-man has sported the uniforms of Chicago, Indiana, Sacramento and Houston before coming to the Lakers. It is clear he eventually becomes a clubhouse distraction and the welcome mat is swept off his feet.
Ron Artest's playing time has dropped dramatically recently, and he has not been used late in games. His shot has been off this season and his rebounds are down this year, too.
Simply, Artest is not the same player he was last season.
If the Lakers were to successfully complete a trade for Carmelo Anthony, the city of Los Angeles may want to keep their roads clear for the storm of Ron Artest may be brewing.
The trade of Carmelo Anthony would mean Artest would be seeing less of the court and more of the bench.
Would the fiery Artest accept the role as the sixth man?
I highly doubt it.
Ron Artest is a competitor, and he does not like watching everyone else bask in the glory.
The Lakers have to trade Artest before they do any kind of transaction involving Carmelo Anthon...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
