Jeanie Buss Discusses Lakers' Struggles, Promises Return to Competitiveness

As the Los Angeles Lakers limp to the finish line of the 2014-15 NBA season, team President Jeanie Buss believes brighter days are on the horizon.

According to Mark Medina of the Los Angeles Daily News, Buss is confident in a turnaround and is prepared to make changes if it doesn't come.

"I've been assured by our basketball operations that the team will be back in contention soon. If we are not meeting those goals, then changes have to occur," Buss said. "I have no reason not to believe them when they tell me that's what they can deliver. I don't see what would be holding them back."

The Lakers are a disappointing 16-44, and they are in line to land one of the top selections in the 2015 NBA draft. In addition, they figure to be players in free agency, and there is hope that superstar guard Kobe Bryant will return from injury and be effective.

Prior to last season, the Lakers hadn't suffered through a losing campaign since 2004-05. They have generally been perennial contenders for their entire existence, so it hasn't been easy for Buss to cope with failure, per Medina.

"This is uncharted territory I am not prepared for," Buss said. "I hear the fans and hear their frustration. I'm hoping with every game, it's going to get better. I'm as impatient as any other Lakers fan."

Those involved with the Lakers aren't used to being anywhere other than near the top of the league, so it figures to be an arduous climb back to the pinnacle.

The Lakers have had a penchant for turning things around in a hurry over the years, though, and Buss seems to think the trend will continue moving forward.

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