The 2010 NBA Draft is today and the entire NBA is geared up for a very talented class. Most teams are worried whether their pick will live up to expectations, but the Lakers have bigger things to worry about. They are more focused on their veterans than their rookies; Fisher’s contract is still being negotiated, and Phil is “leaning toward retirement.”
The links include the latest on the Lakers, some feature good news while the others feature very, very bad news.
Phil Jackson is a man who helped the Lakers win multiple titles, and he is vital to the teams’ success. However, the latest update does not sound promising. [Slam Magazine]
Even though Phil as won 11 titles, and has a chance to win his 12th next season, his decision is not easy. Money is in the mind of everyone, and Phil’s is no exception. [LA Times]
Phil Jackson is “leaning toward retirement” and the Lakers have to try to get him back—fast. [LA Times]
Although all Lakers fans and players want Phil to return, he does have a reason to leave. Phil’s health is a major problem and the rigors of a full season can take its toll. If Phil leaves now, at least he leaves as a champion. [OC Register]
Phil Jackson’s Exit Interview. [BasketBlog]
Despite the bad news about Phil, we fans have something to smile about. Derek Fisher wants to come back to the Lakers. [ESPN Los Angeles]
Derek Fisher’s Exit Interview. [BasketBlog]
Mitch Kupchak’s Draft Podcast. [BasketBlog]
Mitch Kupchak’s Exit Interview. [BasketBlog]
Kobe plans to have surgery on his famous right index-finger. [Slam Magazine]
Many people agree that Kobe is the closest thing to Jordan, and so does Ron Harper. [Pro Basketball Talk]
Kobe Bryant’s Exit Interview. [BasketBlog]
There are many things the Lakers must deal with the offseason, and things look very busy. There is the draft, the coaching issues, the free agents, Chris Bosh and the FIBA World Championships. [Silver Screen and Roll]
There are many trade rumors that are following the Lakers, but there is one that stands out the most. [OC Register]
Great news for all fans who aren’t done with celebrating the Lakers championship; Pau Gasol will be talking to the fans at 5pm. Click the link for more info. [Dime Magazine]
The Lakers aren’t the only team making headlines; here are the links to the news from around the league.
The Timberwolves’ Center Al Jefferson may be dealt to the Pistons, Pacers or Grizzlies. [Dime Magazine]
The defending Eastern Conference Champions, Boston Celtics, are looking to trade their Center Kendrick Perkins. [Dime Magazine]
Rudy Fernandez brought great energy to his Blazers team, but now he is on the trading block. [Slam Magazine]
Star Chris Bosh is ready and excited for this year’s free agency market. [Yahoo Sports]
A potential block-buster trade was discussed; the Wizards and Magic are negotiating a trade swapping Vince Carter and Gilbert Arenas. [Slam Magazine]
The New Jersey Nets are leaning toward drafting the versatile Derrick Favors. [ESPN New York]
The veteran San Antonio Spurs are ready to trade one of the members of their big three, Tony Parker may be traded very soon. [Slam Magazine]
The Miami Heat have traded Daequan Cook and the 18th pick in the draft to the Oklahoma City Thunder for the 32nd pick. [Slam Magazine]
The Chicago Bulls are looking to free up cap space by sending Luol Deng to the Clippers. [Pro Basketball Talk]
A funeral was held on Tuesday for the late Manute Bol. [NBA.com]