Buha: Most around the NBA see the Lakers as a play-in team
The Los Angeles Lakers have been relatively quiet this off-season, making few additions to their roster. Their current lineup looks remarkably similar to the one that ended last season, with the exception of draft picks Dalton Knecht and Bronny James. While Knecht’s impressive performance in the Summer League might offer a glimmer of hope for the future, it’s clear that the Lakers need more than just one rookie to become legitimate championship contenders.
The question on everyone’s mind is: how good can this Lakers team realistically be? According to Jovan Buha, not very good.
In an article for The Athletic, Buha reveals that many NBA insiders believe the Lakers need a significant roster upgrade to make a deep playoff run. After surveying over a dozen front-office executives, coaches, scouts, and agents at the NBA Summer League, the consensus was that the Lakers are likely to be a Play-In team, with their seeding potentially ranging from fifth to tenth in the Western Conference.
The lack of belief in the team stems from two major roster holes: the need for two-way wings and a reliable backup center for Anthony Davis. This, coupled with the fact that almost everyone surveyed expects the Lakers to make a trade before the 2025 trade deadline, paints a picture of a team struggling to find its footing in a competitive Western Conference.
- Many NBA insiders view the Los Angeles Lakers as a play-in team for the upcoming season.
- The Lakers are perceived to have significant roster holes, particularly in the need for two-way wings and a reliable backup center for Anthony Davis.
- Expectations are that the Lakers will likely make a trade before the 2025 deadline to address their roster deficiencies.
- The team’s success hinges on acquiring additional talent to complement LeBron James and Anthony Davis, who are crucial but aging stars.
The Lakers’ 2023-24 Season: Play-In Bound?
The Lakers finished the 2022-23 season with a 47-35 record, showcasing a strong offensive performance in the latter half of the season. However, their inconsistent play against inferior opponents, coupled with head coach Darvin Ham’s constant lineup shuffling throughout the season, cast a shadow of doubt on their overall consistency.
The Lakers’ struggles with two-way wings and backup centers are well-documented. The team’s reliance on LeBron James and Anthony Davis, who are both approaching the twilight of their careers, to carry the load offensively and defensively leaves them vulnerable in certain matchups. The lack of a reliable perimeter defender and a reliable backup center to take pressure off Davis can be exploited by opposing teams, especially in the playoffs.
While the Lakers have a strong core with LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Dennis Schroder, their lack of depth, particularly in the form of versatile wings and backup centers, raises serious questions about their ability to compete with the Western Conference’s elite teams. The Play-In scenario for the Lakers seems increasingly likely, especially if they fail to address these roster deficiencies.
The Lakers’ Roster: A Need for Improvement
The Lakers’ roster currently lacks the necessary depth and versatility to compete for a championship. Their reliance on LeBron James and Anthony Davis, while a major asset, also poses a significant risk. The team needs to find reliable contributors who can step up alongside their veterans and provide a balanced offensive and defensive approach.
The Lakers’ need for two-way wings is a major concern. A player who can guard multiple positions and contribute offensively would provide much-needed flexibility and balance. Additionally, a reliable backup center who can provide consistent scoring and rebounding would alleviate the pressure on Anthony Davis and give the Lakers more options on the court.
The Lakers’ current roster lacks the necessary depth at these key positions. While players like Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura have shown flashes of potential, their consistency and ability to contribute consistently at a high level remain to be seen. The Lakers need to find players who can provide immediate impact and enhance the team’s overall competitiveness.
The Lakers’ Trade Deadline: A Time for Change?
The Lakers have a history of making major moves at the trade deadline, and this year will be no different. With the trade deadline looming, the Lakers have a critical opportunity to address their roster deficiencies and improve their chances of competing for a championship. The team’s lack of reliable two-way wings and backup centers will likely be a major focus as they look to make moves to bolster their roster and increase their competitive edge.
The Lakers are expected to be active in the trade market, looking to acquire players who can fill their roster holes. Their willingness to part ways with draft picks and young players demonstrates their commitment to building a championship-caliber team. The trade deadline will be a crucial juncture in the Lakers’ season, and their ability to make the right moves will determine their success in the coming years.
What the Lakers Need to Do
The Lakers need to make some significant changes to their roster if they want to be a contender for a championship. They need to find a way to acquire a reliable two-way wing and a backup center who can provide consistent scoring and rebounding. They also need to find a way to make sure LeBron James and Anthony Davis can stay healthy throughout the season.
If the Lakers can address these needs, they will be a much more formidable team. However, if they fail to do so, they will likely be a play-in team at best. The Lakers’ off-season moves will be crucial to their success in the 2023-24 season and beyond.
The Lakers have a long and storied history, and their fans are always hopeful that they will be able to contend for a championship. However, the team’s current roster needs some significant upgrades if they want to make a serious run at the title. The trade deadline will be a key opportunity for the Lakers to improve their roster and make a statement to the rest of the NBA.
