With the end of trade deadline, Derek Fisher will be leaving LA for Houston
Derek Fisher has been officially traded from the Los Angeles Lakers, according to CBS News.
Fisher, who joined the Lakers in 1996 along with former player Kobe Bryant, has won five NBA titles with the team.
The Lakers traded Fisher for forward center Jordan Hill from the Houston Rockets and sent Fisher to the Lone Star State.
It’s too early to tell if the trade will help benefit the team or if the Lakers’ key player, Kobe Bryant, will be happy about the trade.
General Manager Mitch Kupchak says that he did not speak with Bryant before or after the trade, and after the news surfaced, Bryant canceled an interview with the Lakers flagship radio station.
Kupchak said at the Lakers training complex,
“It’s hard to put into words what he’s meant to this organization, on the court and off the court. It’s one of the hardest parts of the job that a general manager has; separating the emotions of a relationship you’ve had…We think Ramon will make an immediate impact. Despite Derek’s presence, we felt that we needed more speed and more quickness in the backcourt.”
One Lakers player is happy about the trade deadline ending. Paul Gasol spent most of the season uncertain about his future with the team but tweeted his relief.
“The uncertainty has come to an end! Happy to continue wearing the Lakers uniform! Now time to focus (on) playing basketball and winning!”
The Lakers point guards have the lowest average in the NBA this season with only 12 total points per game.
Critics have said that Fisher, starting in every game since he rejoined the Lakers in 2007, is having a difficult time keeping up with faster guards.
The Lakers also welcome Ramon Sessions and Christian Eyenga from the Cleveland Cavaliers.
