Kobe Bryant doesn’t seem to get along with Lakers coach Mike D’Antoni, though that’s a message sent through anonymous sources.
Want a Lakers veteran willing to go on the record about his issues with D’Antoni? Look no further than Chris Kaman.
Mark Medina of the Los Angeles Daily News:
Chris Kaman said he hasn't talked to Mike D'Antoni in the past 3 weeks. Only found out he's starting tonight by lineups
— Mark Medina (@MarkG_Medina) March 26, 2014
Chris Kaman on starting tonight after having string of DNP's this season: "I’m thrilled! I’m enthralled! I’m ready to go!"
— Mark Medina (@MarkG_Medina) March 26, 2014
Chris Kaman said this has been his hardest NBA season "by far." He then added, "ten fold."
— Mark Medina (@MarkG_Medina) March 26, 2014
Safe to say, Kaman’s excitement was sarcasm.
He hadn’t played in the Lakers last 10 games and has missed 35 games overall due to injury and DNP-CDs. This obviously isn’t the season Kaman envisioned when he signed with the Lakers to provide depth for a veteran team eyeing the playoffs.
Instead, the Lakers are headed toward the lottery. Wisely, D’Antoni is playing young players, getting them experience and increasing the Lakers’ lottery odds.
Kaman is getting the minutes he deserves. But he also deserves an explanation.
That’s on D’Antoni.
Kaman, whose contract expires after the season, won’t see his opinion carry the weight of Kobe’s within the Lakers’ organization. But this is another example of D’Antoni failing to run this team in a well-functioning manner.
It could cost him his job after the season.