The Los Angeles Lakers have failed to win an NBA championship since 2020. Former NBA star Dwight Howard has openly criticized Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka, holding him responsible for the team’s decline. Howard argues that the Lakers might have stayed in contention had Pelinka not dismantled the championship-winning roster.
“Rob Pelinka kinda messed up the dynasty we were starting. We would’ve had at least two championships and an opportunity to fight for a third one,” Howard said.
Former Lakers assistant coach Phil Handy seemed to agree with Howard’s words. In response to Howard’s comments, Handy simply wrote, “Facts.”
The Lakers concluded last season with a 47-35 record, finishing 8th in the NBA’s Western Conference. Following the underwhelming season, the Lakers decided to part ways with Handy and former head coach Darvin Ham. JJ Redick then took over as the Lakers’ head coach.
Why Is Rob Pelinka Getting Blamed?
Since winning the NBA championship in 2020, the Los Angeles Lakers have only managed to advance past the first round once. Many, including Dwight Howard and Phil Handy, believe that Rob Pelinka is largely responsible for the Lakers’ recent struggles.
Pelinka’s bold strategy to restructure the team after the 2020 NBA title resulted in significant changes to the roster. He decided to part ways with key players such as Howard, Avery Bradley, Danny Green, Quinn Cook, Dion Waiters, and JaVale McGee.
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Before Handy and Ham, Pelinka made the decision to fire championship-winning coach Frank Vogel in 2022. Vogel was let go after the Lakers failed to make the playoffs despite having a star-studded roster.
This move was seen as another attempt to shake things up but ultimately led to more instability within the team. Before his recent take, Howard and other former Lakers have expressed their disappointment with this approach on the “Above The Rim” podcast.
The lack of continuity and the constant reshuffling of players and coaches under Pelinka’s leadership have been cited as key reasons why the Lakers have struggled to find their footing since their 2020 victory.
Also Read: Dwight Howard Takes Shots At Rudy Gobert Over Undeserving DPOY Awards He Has Won Over The Years.
