Mitch Kupchak: Jim Buss “gets way too much criticism”

--The Times’ Mike Bresnahan talks with Lakers General Manager Mitch Kupchak, who argues that executive Jim Buss gets way too much criticism for the team’s front office decisions. Kupchak also disputes Magic Johnson’s recent assertion that Buss runs the front office.

--NBA.com’s David Aldridge reports the Washington Wizards have enough cap space to absorb the remaining $38.2 million left on Gasol’s contract.

--The Orange County Register’s Kevin Ding looks at how Pau Gasol is handling the trade rumors.

--Ball Don’t Lie’s Kelly Dwyer remains skeptical it’s the right move for the Lakers to trade Gasol.

--Fox Sports’ Randy Hill believes there won’t be much movement involving trades.

--ESPN Los Angeles’ Brian Kamenetzky outlines three choices the Lakers can make approaching the trade deadline.

--The Daily News’ Elliott Teaford highlights the Lakers hope they can end their road troubles.

--Silver Screen and Roll’s Actuarially Sound highlights some trends regarding the Lakers’ road struggles.

Tweet of the Day: “I’m almost hoping for not a single trade - it would be epic given the energy spent all season on this stuff . .” -- EricPincus (Hoopsworld’s Eric Pincus)

Rick Friedman Reader Comment of the Day: “This is the most troubling aspect of this is supposively trading Odom was NOT a cost saving move..Obviously it was. The Lakers dont want to spend the same money they wouldve spent with Odom to become a better team.. A real shame.” -- mdonstad