Former Los Angeles Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak and late owner Dr. Jerry Buss had enough of the mediocre success displayed during the mid-2000s. It took a patient attitude from both the players and the organization until the right outcome came, as did during the 2007-08 season.
That franchise-altering acquisition was Pau Gasol, immediately shifting the mindset of a battle-tested team heading into the playoffs. Although the early 2000s was the peak of a dynasty, the middle of the decade proved to be a reality check for Kobe Bryant’s career.
The Lakers were in somewhat of a rebuild throughout his prime, until the organization pulled the trigger on trading for Gasol.