There are certain inalienable truths about the Los Angeles Lakers so far this season—such as a 3-21 record that puts them so far out of contention in the playoff race that it’s not even worth debating.
This is a team whose win averages have declined steadily over the past five years, from .621 in 2011-12, to .549, .329, .256 and .125 at present. L.A. now appears primed for an absolute historical nadir.
But as unappealing as it may be to watch a legendary franchise in free fall, it can also be instructive—especially if lessons can be applied in such a way as to ultimately benefit the organization.