A lot of coaches genuinely dislike their rivals, but many of them would never come out and tell you that. The politically correct things to say are “they’re a tough team” and “they’re always prepared and well-coached,” but we know enough by now to know that George Karl is anything but politically correct. The Nuggets coach is not a fan of the Lakers, and he is not afraid to admit that.
“I can’t deny that I just despise the Lakers,” Karl said Monday according to the Denver Post. “There’s a bigger (description) for it (that I can’t use in public). I’ve been beaten by them too many times. I didn’t expect them to be bad this season, but when they got Steve Nash, I can’t deny I was really upset.”
Karl also added that he sent a text message to Lakers executive Mitch Kupchak telling him he believes he keeps a rabbit’s foot up his — well, you know.
Last season, the Nuggets took L.A. to seven games in the postseason before Kobe Bryant and company prevailed. That was the third time in five years the Lakers have ousted Denver in the playoffs, so you can see where Karl would develop his disdain for the perennial powerhouse. If all goes to plan this season at the Staples Center, he may hate the new-look Lakers more than he ever has.
H/T Game On!
