Amnesty Watch: Why LA Lakers Must Rid Themselves of Metta World Peace

World Peace is overrated.

No—I’m not bloodthirsty.  Metta World Peace ignited more buzz last offseason than he did on the court this year.  And because of that, the Los Angeles Lakers' amnesty-M16 is aiming at him.

ESPN’s John Hollinger was asked back in February if World Peace was as good as amnestied next season.  His response:

"

Would be shocked if it didn't happen.  Would save L.A. at least $7 million luxury tax, more if they go over line in 2013-14.

"

In the 2011-2012 campaign, World Peace has failed to live up to his contract.  Los Angeles' front office was hell-bent on trading for Michael Beasley at the trade deadline for a reason.  Two words describe MWP's performance this year: offensively challenged. 

He's only averaging 6.7 points per game this season.  His player efficiency rating is a pitiful 9.7.  Comparatively, Matt Barnes’ PER is 14.1.

World Peace’s lone saving grace will be if the Lakers win it all this season.  That, and him evolving back into the same irreplaceable defensive fiend that was a key in their victory over the Boston Celtics in the 2010 NBA Finals. 

But unless both of those things happen, Mitch Kupchak will shoot the star out of Hollywood.

Even with a Lakers title, if World Peace fails to prove his worth, he’s history.  After their 2009 NBA Finals triumph over the Orlando Magic, Kupchak showed Trevor Ariza the door without hesitation.  The man formerly known as Ron Artest just happened to be his replacement.

If the GM believes an opportunity exists to improve the Lakers, he’ll show the same treatment to World Peace.

Loyalty is dead—just ask Derek Fisher.  Minus Kobe Bryant, nobody is irreplaceable.  That fact has never been more apparent than after this season, which featured nearly every single Laker on the trade block.

To prepare World Peace for this inevitable breakup, here’s some age-old advice: Never get a tattoo with your girlfriend’s name on it.

"

I might get a laker tat

— Metta WorldPeace (@MettaWorldPeace) April 9, 2012"

Girlfriend, basketball team—it’s still the same concept.

I don’t know if World Peace has regretted his name change yet, but he’ll without a doubt regret getting some L.A. ink. 

Enjoy the circus while it’s in town.  His days in the City of Angels are numbered.

David Daniels is a featured columnist at Bleacher Report and a syndicated writer.

Follow @TheRealDDaniels