Mike D’Antoni really knows how to put his foot in it.

After tonight’s 117-90 loss to the Phoenix Suns, D’Antoni reacted rather angrily when asked about discouraged Laker fans.

via 710 ESPN Los Angeles:

[pullquote]Why would I be discouraged? We’re fine with a bunch of good guys that have played well before and will play again. If [the fans] are discouraged, you know, find another team to root for. I’m alright. We’re not gonna give up. Are you kidding me? Discouraged? That’s not even fair to these guys.[/pullquote]

Now, I know where D’Antoni is coming from – this team is battling serious injury problems and has guys playing their hearts out every single night – though the way he responded is bound to draw him criticism.

D’Antoni is already widely disliked by the Lakers’ fan base and statements like this don’t help his case. I know this isn’t a popularity contest and he’s defending his players, but I’m not so sure the Lakers as a brand will appreciate their head coach telling the fans to go and root for another team.

There’s a way of saying certain things and still getting your message across – this isn’t it.