Change is a recurring thing for the Los Angeles Lakers. After an abysmal end to the year, they’ve already got ahead on some of the turnover that was anticipated. The first of which was the firing of Frank Vogel. The next was ending their relationship with Dr. Judy Seto.
Wednesday, it was reported by Dan Woike of the Los Angeles Times that the contract for Seto would not be renewed after expiring this season. Seto had been officially with the team as the director of sports performance after being hired to the role in the 2019 offseason.
Judy Seto, a longtime presence within the Lakers training staff, is no longer with the team after her contract expired, sources with knowledge told The Times.
Although her recent official role only lasted three seasons, Seto’s time with the Lakers dates back to the 1990s. Many fans remember her tenure during Kobe Bryant’s storied career. She spent time as a consultant in training as well. The Lakers don’t plan on filling this position next season, per reports. Roger Sancho was hired as the head athletic trainer for the team last season, and Woike’s report indicates that he will lead the department moving forward.
The Lakers’ slew of injuries are unbelievable over the years. It’s hard to link them with the staff tasked to help them recover and rehab. All that remains is more roles will be shifted in the next few months. The team has to nail down the direction they want to go in every facet. This particular function of the team is important.
We’ve seen renowned training staffs such as the Phoenix Suns help players. Even the Miami Heat have cultivated a culture of top-tier training and fitness. The Lakers could take a similar path and help ensure longer seasons than their players have experienced over the last three years.
