L.A. Lakers: Why Ron Artest’s "Transformation" Is Hurting the Lakers

Ron Artest is going through the ultimate transformation. The guy who was once arguably the most controversial player in the league, is now turning into the Yoko Ono of basketball.

Prior to the 2009-10 NBA season, the Los Angeles Lakers were fresh off the first of their back-to-back NBA titles. A key role player in that series and throughout the playoffs was small forward Trevor Ariza. He provided defense, long-range shooting and athleticism to help the Lakers win the championship.

Then, during the offseason, the Lakers did something very puzzling.

They decided not to resign Trevor Ariza and instead acquire Ron Artest via free agency.

What the Lakers saw in Artest was defense, ...

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