A look at where the Lakers stand next season

Image source: clutchpoints.com

With Lebron James now the Lakers’ leader, it’s time to reevaluate the place of the once-dominant franchise in the Western Conference, and the league.

First, let’s get one thing out of the way.  With James on board, the Lakers have now become an instant playoff team.  But are they title contenders? 

Image source: britopian.com

The biggest hurdle is still obviously the mighty Golden State Warriors, who are head and shoulders above their closest rivals, the Houston Rockets, who are in turn miles ahead of any other team.  To beat the Warriors, the Lakers need to show they can handle the Rockets.  After all, the Rockets and Warriors have very similar run-and-gun strategies. 

So, to be safe, let’s argue that the Lakers are now the third best team in the Western Conference, alongside the OKC Thunder and probably, the Utah Jazz.  Against teams in the Eastern Conference, they’re probably better than most and have a 50-50 chance against the rising Boston Celtics and Philadelphia Sixers.

Is this Lakers team better than Lebron’s Cleveland team last season?  With a legit point guard in Rajon Rondo, Lance Stephenson, JaVale McGee, and up-and-comers in Kyle Kuzma and Lonzo Ball, one may say that this squad may just be as good, however severely untested.

My prediction?  For the 2018-2019 season, the Lakers make it to the second round of the playoffs.  
Hi, I’m James DeVellis. I’m starting my own blog to get ahead of the curve in the sports writing industry. For more about the stuff I love, check this link.