Did LeBron James send a subtle message to Rob Pelinka after loss to Clippers?

In the battle for Los Angeles, the Los Angeles Clippers secured a 116-102 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers. LeBron James recording a double-double in the loss. After the game, James was open about his thoughts on the Lakers roster after the loss.

LeBron James subtle shot Rob Pelinka

“We have no choice, that’s how our team is constructed.” We have to. We have to play close to perfect basketball,” the Lakers superstar said in an interview afterwards the game.

James’ comments may have come out of frustration after the Lakers lost for the fourth time in their last six games, but head coach JJ Redick provided a realistic view of the team’s chances each time they played. When asked about the stretch in which the Lakers have gone 10 of 12 games in Los Angeles (going 5-5 so far), it was hard to tell whether he was optimistic or resigned to the situation.

James scored 25 points, five rebounds and 11 assists, shooting 9 of 20 from the floor. Meanwhile, Anthony Davis chipped in with 16 points, 10 rebounds and three blocks.

For the Clippers, James Harden had 21 points, four rebounds and 12 assists, knocking down 4 of 9 three-point attempts. Norman Powell added 22 points in the key win, and four starters were in double figures.

The second half was very tough, with both teams scoring 28 points in the third quarter. The Lakers outscored the Clippers 25-24 in the fourth, but their early mistakes proved too costly, allowing the Clippers to secure the win.

LeBron James appeared to be subtly urging Rob Pelinka and the Lakers front office to take action and assemble the supporting cast needed for a championship. Despite the acquisition of Dorian Finney-Smith in December, the Lakers still face key roster gaps that need to be addressed.

I’m trying to fix the Lakers roster

The Clippers outplayed the Lakers, revealing a recurring problem for the Purple and Gold this season. Despite having a solid 22-18 record and sixth place in the Western Conference, the Lakers continue to struggle with significant roster deficiencies.

The Lakers urgently need a reliable center to complement Anthony Davis and strengthen their rotation. Additionally, they need another playmaker to improve their half-court shot creation, especially from recent injury scare for Austin Reevesand point guard to solidify their defensive schemes.

Los Angeles has been without a key piece all season, actively pursuing backup center options in recent weeks. This move must happen quickly if they hope to remain competitive. They have faced difficulties in fighting the big men, and there are rumors about it are targeting Washington’s Jonas Valanciunas.

Reports suggest the Lakers plan to focus on minor roster improvements by using second-round draft picks. However, this approach may fail to attract top role players or influential contributors to the bench.

The Lakers lag behind their rivals in that very area, which has hampered their success, especially during the regular season. Since their championship win in 2020, they have consistently failed to make it past the playoffs and even missed the playoffs on one occasion.

LeBron James and the Lakers will try to bounce back on Tuesday when they face the 6-34 Washington Wizards at home.