Bhattacharya: Kupchak Takes Responsibility

Mitch Kupchak HOOPSWORLD.com — The front office of the Los Angeles Lakers has been the subject of pointed criticism over the past few seasons as the team has slid from perennial contender to mediocrity. The strongest denigration has come from the fans, angry that Lakers owner Jerry Buss is so unwilling to exceed the luxury tax threshold (read: acquiring talented, but expensive pieces) despite having full pockets fueled by expensive ticket prices and high revenues. The losing has pushed the fans of the forum blue and gold to the point they are now - demanding big moves and seeking someone to blame for the team’s descent.

GM Mitch Kupchak firmly pointed the finger at himself earlier this week. “As an organization, we all share the responsibility, but I’m the guy up front so it falls to me,” he said. “That’s the job of a general manager.”

With the Lakers in disarray since injuries ravaged the squad in January, Kupchak is in charge of overseeing the assessment of and changes to this Lakers squad over the summer. When asked to summarize and detail the disappointment that was the Lakers’ season, Kupchak saw the team’s lack of chemistry as a primary reason for their plunge. “When you put together a team, those are things you take into consideration in terms of the players, complimentary players, lead players, et cetera,” he said, acknowledging his responsibility in not addressing the team’s need for togetherness.

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The article discusses the possibility of the Lakers striking out with Jermaine O’Neal and Kevin Garnett in addition to Mitch Kupchak’s role in rebuilding the Lakers. Can Mitch turn this ship around? What should the Lakers do if they can’t land one of the big fish? Sound off on our ClubLakers.com Forums!