It isn't just the losing. Teams go through ups and downs and not every team stays dominant for the entirety of its existence. However, the events of the past two seasons have shown that the Lakers' demise is self-inflicted.
Compile their slew of unfortunate mistakes with an unfortunate series of injuries and you have the recipe for one of the most catastrophic falls from grace this side of the New York Knicks.
While even the most passionate fans weren't optimistic about the Lakers' playoff chances, the team looked like it had a fighting chance to start out the season before things came crumbling down.
It was clear that a couple of crucial mistakes the Lakers made completely crippled their season and ensured that they were headed toward the lottery.
Mike D'Antoni's Unwillingness to Compromise
After a 10-9 start, the Lakers looked like they had a chance to make a playoff run. They had a scrappy bunch of guards and one of the most energetic benches in the league.
However, like most teams that Mike D'Antoni has coached, the Lakers played little to no defense and focused way too much on small-ball offense. On a roster with competent interior players like Chris Kaman and Pau Gasol, D'Antoni elected to rely on his guard-heavy lineup. While players like Steve Blake, Xavier Henry and Nick Young played admirably, relying on his guards for heavy minutes and placing the offensive burden on their shoulders caused them to wear down.
When Kobe Bryant returned, it was to the tune of a myriad of injuries. Jordan Farmar, Henry, Young and Blake all missed time. Upon his return from a very serious Achilles tendon injury, Bryant was required to play just under 30 minutes...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
