Former Los Angeles Lakers point guard Dennis Schroder has been heavily criticised by NBA experts, fans and even players for turning a big-money deal of $84 million over four years with the Lakers. The Purple and gold army lost in the first round of the playoffs against the Phoenix Suns last season and Schroder fell completely flat for the former champions. Hence he decided to move on and start afresh.
The German point guard was simply not himself as he finished with 0 points in a pivotal Game 5 against the Suns. Schroder went through a lot in that phase as he did not receive any offers in free agency. Schroder won the ‘Sixth Man of the Year’ in the earlier season and hence Lakers rope him in. He was a senior figure at the franchise last season especially in LeBron James and Anthony Davis’ absence. However, the responsibility was a bit too much for the 25-year-old.
He has now joined Boston Celtics in a $5.9 million deal for one year. The German is eager to rejuvenate his career and the Celtics can be the perfect team for him to shine.
Portland Trail Blazers star CJ McCollum who was recently appointed as the president of the players’ association spoke about Schroder’s issue in his Pull Up podcast. CJ commented, “It was reported that he turned down that 4-year 84 million allegedly. We’re not sure if he did or not. But so many people are reporting it, I think there is some truth to it.”
He explained Schroder’s situation and how he will be heading into the upcoming season. He explained, “I think one of the best things about going through struggles or potentially turning down money is that you come in motivated and you also understand what’s at stake. So if he did turn down that money, he knows a lot is at stake this season. And I think his approach, his mindset and his mentality is gonna be different going into this season.”
He continued, “For me personally, I’m a fan of maximising your worth, but also understanding that certain pressures are unnecessary. You can’t control injury, you can’t control certain situations. But you can control your work ethic, your approach, being ready for those things usually translate into success.”
“Maybe he felt he was worth more, he could have been greedy. For me personally, don’t turn down money you don’t have!” CJ concluded.
It will be interesting to see how Schroder teams up with the likes of Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown and Marcus Smart.
