Can the Lakers Continue Their Success?

Author: Raul Martinez

Editor: Brian Symons

As the second half of the NBA seasons tip-off, the Los Angeles Lakers are looking to at least stay top five in the west. With new injuries appearing and the trade deadline nearing, the priority of the defending champions right now is to be ready for the playoffs.

With Anthony Davis being out an extra four weeks due to a calf strain, all the load was on LeBron James. James has been having an MVP season by averaging 25.4 PPG, 7.9 RPG, and 7.9 APG. However, on Saturday during the second quarter against the Atlanta Hawks, LeBron went down after trying to keep the ball. He was reported to have a high ankle sprain and is expected to miss seven weeks. While many see this as a downfall for the Lakers, others may see it as a blessing in disguise. Both Davis and James will have all the time to rest and recover until the playoffs. Essentially this means they'll be one hundred percent and be able to play their best basketball.

That being said, the Lakers will most likely fall in the standings. There is a chance that they could find themselves falling sixth or even eighth in the west as other teams will surpass them. Role players such as Dennis Schröder, Montrezl Harrell, and Kyle Kuzma will have to step up during this time. There's a great chance that the Lakers will make the playoffs though if worse comes to shove, they will have Anthony Davis and LeBron James ready for the play-in tournament. According to ESPN's strength of schedule metric, the Lakers have the third easiest first set of games, meaning they should be able to win at least half if not more of those games.

While the NBA schedule is nearing towards the end, the trade deadline has come and gone. The Lakers are in desperate need of a center as starting big man Marc Gasol has been a huge upset. Gasol averaging 4.8 PPG, 4.1 RPG, and 2 APG has been not so impactful for the Lakers. Well, they found their answer, as they have signed Andre Drummond, who is averaging 13.5 RPG and 17.5 PPG. Drummond also creates a strong presence in the paints, as it will be difficult for opponents to pass him.

Overall, the Lakers seem to be in a rather comfortable position despite not having James or Davis. With a trade deadline nearing, the Lakers hope to add the key piece to their back-to-back championships. Expect to see role players step up and advance the Lakers to their sixtieth playoff appearance.

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