NBA GM Morey Says Lakers’ 2020 Bubble Title Will Carry Asterisk

The legitimacy of the Los Angeles Lakers' 2020 NBA Bubble championship remains a contentious topic, largely fueled by Philadelphia 76ers president of basketball operations Daryl Morey, who insists the title should carry an asterisk. Morey argues that while he would have celebrated the championship as legitimate had the Rockets won, there is a private consensus within the league that the Lakers' title does not fully hold up as a genuine championship due to the unique and unprecedented circumstances of the Bubble. However, analysts and insiders emphasize that the Bubble presented a distinct set of challenges, including mental endurance during isolation and no travel, which arguably made the title harder to win. The Lakers were one of the best teams that season, with a dominant record and strong playoff performance, and everyone played under the same conditions. Critics who dismiss the title as less legitimate overlook the mental toughness and resilience required to succeed in the Bubble environment. Thus, while the 2020 championship may be viewed differently due to its context, it remains a significant and deserved achievement for the Lakers.