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[Saba Sports News] The Los Angeles Lakers are facing criticism from Derek Fisher, a former player with more NBA championships than LeBron James. Following their recent 124-108 loss to the Chicago Bulls, the Lakers’ struggles continued, marking their third consecutive defeat and fourth in five games since winning the NBA’s first In-Season Tournament (IST).
Fisher, a retired guard who spent 13 seasons with the Lakers and earned five championship rings (2000-02, 2009-10), shared his thoughts on the Lakers’ postgame show on Spectrum SportsNet. He questioned the team’s decision to extensively celebrate their IST victory, including champagne and a banner unveiling, which he believes should be reserved for end-of-season championships.
“I think there’s a reason why you wait until the end [of the season] to celebrate a championship,” Fisher said on the Lakers’ postgame show on Spectrum SportsNet, per Lakers Daily.
The Lakers had performed exceptionally well in the IST, going 7-0, possibly driven by the $500,000 cash incentive. However, Fisher suggests that their post-tournament losses, including significant defeats to teams like the Bulls and the San Antonio Spurs, indicate a potential lapse in focus. Fisher, familiar with the mindset required for true championship success, appears unconvinced by the Lakers’ current approach and performance.