Los Angeles Lakers: Why Struggles and Trade Rumors Are Just What L.A Need

The Lakers are just 6-4 in their last 10 games and just 10-5 in the month of January.

They have yet to beat the leagues top teams and have suffered devastating losses to the some of the league's worse teams. They were crushed by Miami on Christmas day, and by Boston last Sunday. They have already lost as many games at home that they suffered all of last season.

Although the Lakers on-court struggles are evident for everyone to see, they are still the number two seed in the Western Conference.

An ongoing criticism of this team was their motivation, their lack of hustle, their age. Although the "Jekyl and Hyde" Lakers came up in discussions in years past, this team has never played so inconsistently in years past.

It seems they are finally getting the attention of ESPN and media sources alike after winning the championship last season, just not the type of attention the Lakers were aiming for.

Laker mastermind General Manager, Mitch Kupchak, went on record earlier this week stating that he would consider trade opportunities because the team was under-performing.

Laker greats Magic Johnson and Mr. Logo himself, Jerry West, took jabs at the Lakers, as they suggested that the Lakers looked unmotivated and did not have a chance at the title.

It's difficult to endure so much criticism from within your own organization, but it just might be necessary.

During the 2008-2009 Championship run, the Lakers looked motivated. Fresh off an epic crushing by the Boston Celtics, the Lakers were poised and focused in their pursuit, and crushed many opponents on their way to glory.

The 2009-2010 Championship run was no different, and an all-too-familiar foe sparked hunger and passion in the Lakers when it mattered the most, despite going just 3-8 in the final regular season games leading to the playoffs.

But what exactly is the motivation for the Lakers this season?
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers