Mychal Thompson Talks Buss

As a radio analyst for the Los Angeles Lakers, Mychal Thompson has been able to see what has gone wrong with the Lakers firsthand. Thompson joined the BFT on Monday to talk about the team, All-Star weekend and the passing of Lakers owner Jerry Buss.

Right away, Thompson talked about the legacy of the recently-passed Lakers owner. Immediately, Thompson highlighted the fact that Buss was not only extremely approachable,  but that he treated everyone with respect.

“He didn’t look down on anyone no matter what your job was or what your status was in life,” Thompson said of Buss. “He would take the time to talk to you as if you were Kobe Bryant or any Joe or Jane off the street.”

Thompson went on to explain that this humility and universal respect for others originated from Buss’ humble beginnings, saying that a poor upbringing and the recognition that “not everyone is born into royalty” kept the Lakers owner from allowing his success to go to his head.

Before the passing of their owner, the Lakers were already struggling on the court. The team is currently 25-29, and is running the risk of missing the playoffs for just the third time since Buss purchased the team in 1979. Thompson talked about how the Lakers have failed to meet the expectations many placed on them after offseason acquisitions of All-Stars Dwight Howard and Steve Nash.

“So far, it has been a disaster,” said Thompson. “All we are hoping for down here is just get to the playoffs, try to pass Portland and try to catch Houston.”

As the conversation transitioned to the All-Star weekend, Thompson called the titular game featuring the best players in the NBA a “joke.”

“It’s an embarrassment watching the lack of effort in these All –Star Games the last several years,” said Thompson. “They look like they’re not even trying.”

To listen to the entire interview, click below: