I really thought that Payton would keep any complaints inside the Laker locker room. “I’m coming to win a championship, blah, blah, blah.” Karl Malone has been hurt, so at least that prediction is safe until he’s healthy. He’s less likely to complain. Or I hope so. If not, I go 0-2.
Guessing any pampered pro athlete won’t say a transparently silly and selfish thing is not something I plan on doing ever again. The Lakers have been playing well recently. Now Payton wants more minutes. This all seems pretty petty, especially for a veteran player.
If nothing else, why did he have to go to the media? I don’t understand that. Seriously, I really don’t understand any reason for an athlete to do that unless he wants to be traded. If anyone can think of one, please inform.
He’s used to being the star on his team, not a supporting player. I think he’s just being honest about being unhappy with his PT. The team has been good, but not dominant like they were expected to be, and I imagine that’s frustrating to him and the others.
Well, I’m actually surprised it’s taken this long for him to speak out. But I wouldn’t worry too much, he’ll be getting his minutes when Jackson shortens the rotation for the playoffs. That’s when they’ll need him. However, I’ll go out on a limb here and predict that The Glove leaves the Lakers after this season.