Two former Lakers scapegoats are proving they weren't the problem

Beverley is currently playing for the Philadelphia 76ers. He is ranked in the 88th percentile for defensive estimated plus-minus. EPM factors in the box score data, a player's impact when on and off the court, and is compared with every player in the NBA based on a per-100 possessions metric. The Sixers are fifth in the Eastern Conference. 

Westbrook is also thriving. He voluntarily accepted a bench role to maximize James Harden's skill set. He's playing his role to a high level, and the L.A. Clippers are one of the most talented teams in the league.

So, with Beverley and Westbrook proving they were unlikely to have been the issue and thriving in their new situations, the Lakers need to take a look inward. 

It's too easy to point fingers toward the coaching staff or individual players in the locker room. Instead, there needs to be an investigation as to why multiple iterations of this team have fallen flat in the regular season. 

Until then, Rob Pelinka will continue to find himself under pressure to work miracles at the trade deadline. The Lakers will continue to hand over valuable draft assets for a short-term shot at success. And LeBron James will likely continue to grow frustrated at a consistent struggle to create a winning culture. 

Los Angeles has some tough discussions that need to be had. Then, they need to take action on whatever those discussions produce. They need to become a functional front office who are aligned with their desired path forward. 

A haphazard approach got them into this situation. It's going to take a logical one to get them out of it.