Two Laker Letters With No Free-Throw References

Mark Heisler [Nov. 28] concludes the Lakers are going downhill because they haven’t gotten much in return in the recent trades they’ve made.

Actually, many trades are valuable because teams are able to rid themselves of players dragging the team down. The Nick Van Exel deal is a good example. Ditto Elden Campbell.

The Lakers were winning despite not having Kobe. Take a deep breath, Mark; it’s a long season.

RALPH S. BRAX

Lancaster

*

What’s with the purple paint in the key on the Lakers’ court at Staples Center? Didn’t gold serve well enough at the Forum? Which genius made this decision?

Designer building, designer uniforms, designer floor. It is foolish to tempt the sports gods by snubbing so much tradition all at once. Just ask the Dodgers.

CHIMYERE LOVE

Los Angeles