Unfortunately, Peja has now created a no-win situation for himself. His pouting has made him the fall guy regardless of what occurs. If he comes out and dominates the rest of the season with renewed energy, reboounding, and aggresiveness then is will be obvious he was tanking it. What message does this send to teammates? Trust and chemistry are based on the assumption that each and every player gives their all EVERY NIGHT, not just when they feel like it.
On the other hand if Peja continues to play as if he is disinterested and soft, everyone will see he can't lead a team. His shortcomings will become even more obvious without Webber to deflect the attention. If he struggles the rest of this season and next does anyone actually expect him to stay here? So the Kings will have lost their team leader and one of the most undervalued players in the game for three average and undersized power forwards.
Many fans refer to the mystical start the Kings had last year without Webber, but forget that the 2003/2004 team also included Vlade, Christie, Peeler, and a healthy Bobby Jackson. Those players are long gone and currently replaced by less capable substitutes.
Hopefully the new players will find a niche and keep the Kings competitive, Peja will be able to evolve as a more complete player, and fans will remain supportive of a seemingly declining overall product.
