NBA Reopens Investigation Into Lakers' Hayes After Damning Video Emerges
Evidence Fuels Allegations of Tampering, Collusion
The NBA has reopened its investigation into the Los Angeles Lakers' dealings with Lonzo Ball after a video emerged that appears to show the team's president of basketball operations, Rob Pelinka, tampering with Hayes.
The video, obtained by ESPN, was recorded in June 2017, shortly after Hayes had declared for the NBA draft. In the video, Pelinka is seen meeting with Hayes and his agent, Rich Paul, at a restaurant in Los Angeles.
During the meeting, Pelinka is heard telling Hayes that the Lakers are "very interested" in drafting him. He also tells Hayes that the Lakers have a "plan" to help him develop into a star player.
The NBA prohibits teams from tampering with players who are under contract with other teams. If the Lakers are found to have violated this rule, they could face penalties, including the loss of draft picks.
The Lakers have denied any wrongdoing. In a statement, Pelinka said that he was simply "talking to a young man who is trying to make a decision about his future."
However, the video evidence is damning. It appears to show that Pelinka was actively trying to recruit Hayes to the Lakers, which is a clear violation of NBA rules.
The NBA is now investigating the matter and is expected to make a decision on whether or not to punish the Lakers in the coming weeks.
Implications for the Lakers
If the Lakers are found to have tampered with Hayes, they could face a number of penalties, including:
- The loss of draft picks
- A fine
- A suspension for Pelinka
The Lakers are already one of the most penalized teams in the NBA. In 2012, they were fined $2.5 million for tampering with Dwight Howard. In 2017, they were fined $500,000 for tampering with Paul George.
If the Lakers are found to have tampered with Hayes, it would be a major blow to the team's rebuild. The Lakers are already struggling to find their footing in the Western Conference. If they lose draft picks or suspensions, it will make it even more difficult for them to compete.
Conclusion
The NBA's investigation into the Lakers' dealings with Lonzo Ball is a major development. If the Lakers are found to have violated NBA rules, they could face serious penalties. The outcome of the investigation will have a significant impact on the future of the Lakers franchise.