Official 2020-2021 Lakers Thread (Defending Champs)

[pingbling23]

Wow, what a wild and short offseason. I hate to see rondo, McGhee, Howard, green, and Bradley gone but do like the pick ups of gasol, harrell, matthews, and schroder. Does kuzma take the leap this year we’ve been expecting? Can Lebron sustain greatness? Does AD continue his progression? It’s gonna be a fun season, let’s make it back to back!!!

[pingbling23]

looks like they are picking up quinn cook again. i dont hate it. he can score when he gets hot and not bad to fill in here and there.

[pingbling23]

possible starting lineup and back ups.
PG: Dennis Schroder, Alex Caruso.
SG: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Wesley Matthews.
SF: LeBron James, Talen Horton-Tucker.
PF: Anthony Davis*, Kyle Kuzma.
C: Marc Gasol, Montrezl Harrell

[brothertona]

According to Rondo he may do some coaching for the Hawks. He apparently was in coaches meetings while he was with the Lakers.

I think the Lakers did really well this offseason, it was one of the best offseasons for a champion in a long time.
God if Kuzma could have a breakout year in a contract year and they could move him for a 3rd piece - Bron could be looking at a 6th ring next year.

[pingbling23]

According to Rondo he may do some coaching for the Hawks. He apparently was in coaches meetings while he was with the Lakers.

I think the Lakers did really well this offseason, it was one of the best offseasons for a champion in a long time.
God if Kuzma could have a breakout year in a contract year and they could move him for a 3rd piece - Bron could be looking at a 6th ring next year.

they did well, i agree. lebron tweeted that he thinks kuzma is going to improve this year so he still has confidence in him. i think kuzma had a better second half of the season. he assumed his role (got rid of the eminem hairdo) and became a better defender. i just want to see him be a consistent scoring threat. 18-20 a night would be perfect.

[Dame]

AD going for the MVP. Only thing that will really hold him back is his health.

This might be the deepest Laker team since 2012, except this has great chemistry.

B2B for sure. MVP/FMVP season for AD. Let’s get it.

[pingbling23]

AD going for the MVP. Only thing that will really hold him back is his health.

This might be the deepest Laker team since 2012, except this has great chemistry.

B2B for sure. MVP/FMVP season for AD. Let’s get it.

i can easily see AD taking another leap, being the clear best player on the lakers this season, and going for mvp/fmvp. lebron i think steps way off the gas this year in the regular season. winning a title with the lakers and fmvp at this stage/age, i dont know if he can keep his motor going for to much longer.

[bberns]

I hope Schroeder comes off the bench. Sometimes too much firepower is redundant in a lineup. Fine with him finishing games though.

[abidtsteele]

Interested to see what Horton Tucker can do. Looked good in small glimpses last year

No chance imo that Lebron takes his foot off. I don't think he really knows how, going full speed ahead until his body just quits.

If anything I think getting this title motivates him more. You know he wants to get back to 6-6 before he retires.

Lakers staff need to be very careful with Bron and AD - can't get injured in this short turn around

[baller232019]

i can easily see AD taking another leap, being the clear best player on the lakers this season, and going for mvp/fmvp. lebron i think steps way off the gas this year in the regular season. winning a title with the lakers and fmvp at this stage/age, i dont know if he can keep his motor going for to much longer.

I actually think lebron can keep going till he is 40 at this level or close to it. I mean, karl malone did, and I am pretty sure bron is better conditioned and takes care of his body better than malone? yes?

[drobfan8]

I've already been betting the Lakers hard to repeat.

I just don't see another proven team that's legit. GS would have given them problems but ultimately AD would be too good for Draymond and Co defending him.

BKN have a good chance, but Kyrie and KD need to be better than AD and Bron. I'd be shocked.

I think AD is the Finals MVP this season, maybe even League MVP.

[pingbling23]

I actually think lebron can keep going till he is 40 at this level or close to it. I mean, karl malone did, and I am pretty sure bron is better conditioned and takes care of his body better than malone? yes?

you bring up a good point.

[pingbling23]

I've already been betting the Lakers hard to repeat.

I just don't see another proven team that's legit. GS would have given them problems but ultimately AD would be too good for Draymond and Co defending him.

BKN have a good chance, but Kyrie and KD need to be better than AD and Bron. I'd be shocked.

I think AD is the Finals MVP this season, maybe even League MVP.

kyrie and kd coming off of injuries dont really scare me. now if they add harden and can somehow have pieces around them then that would be tough. warriors time has passed. even with klay, he was coming off a serious injury and obviously ended up hindering him further.

[PKIPP]

kyrie and kd coming off of injuries dont really scare me. now if they add harden and can somehow have pieces around them then that would be tough. warriors time has passed. even with klay, he was coming off a serious injury and obviously ended up hindering him further.


Yup. With Klsy, his shot will still be great, but I would bet heavily he’s never going to be the same defender he was, and that is crucial for the Warriors just as much as his offensive game. So even with him, I agree they’re done.


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[DajuanWagner]

Wow, what a wild and short offseason. I hate to see rondo, McGhee, Howard, green, and Bradley gone but do like the pick ups of gasol, harrell, matthews, and schroder. Does kuzma take the leap this year we’ve been expecting? Can Lebron sustain greatness? Does AD continue his progression? It’s gonna be a fun season, let’s make it back to back!!!



Lebron can take any scrubs they throw on a team to the promised land.....

[ThoseBackPages]

i hope AC gets a Prizm Base card this year!!!!

[Dame]

https://i.postimg.cc/NM7LcTYG/8001-AB7-C-9106-47-FA-8879-64-D0-EE7-AA6-C9.jpg (https://postimg.cc/njrnKXCN)

[pingbling23]

Pau gonna come back and get to retire a laker? i doubt he has anything left for the court but should be a good locker room presence and good for marc.

[volblorx8634]

I hope Schroeder comes off the bench. Sometimes too much firepower is redundant in a lineup. Fine with him finishing games though.

I agree, I think Schroeder coming off the bench is more valuable to the team than as a starter. I think Caruso is a great complement to LeBron/AD in the starting lineup. Very underrated role player.

[pingbling23]

I agree, I think Schroeder coming off the bench is more valuable to the team than as a starter. I think Caruso is a great complement to LeBron/AD in the starting lineup. Very underrated role player.

Lakers had a ton of success with Caruso coming off the bench and playing with Lebron and the second unit. I don’t know if the lakers will try to change that up.

[volblorx8634]

Lakers had a ton of success with Caruso coming off the bench and playing with Lebron and the second unit. I don’t know if the lakers will try to change that up.You may not be wrong. Like the Warriors when they ran out their big 4 and staggered them. The Lakers stagger LeBron and AD anyway, so who that balance of firepower isn't really as important as it is on other teams anyway. I just think Schroder's value increases slightly off the bench because there's literally no playmaker off the Lakers bench

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[pingbling23]

You may not be wrong. Like the Warriors when they ran out their big 4 and staggered them. The Lakers stagger LeBron and AD anyway, so who that balance of firepower isn't really as important as it is on other teams anyway. I just think Schroder's value increases slightly off the bench because there's literally no playmaker off the Lakers bench

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Lebron is the playmaker for the bench. After ad and Schroeder take their first break, Lebron goes to the bench and Schroeder becomes the primary playmaker. It will be fun to see it play out. If Schroeder comes off the bench it will still be solid.

[volblorx8634]

Lebron is the playmaker for the bench. After ad and Schroeder take their first break, Lebron goes to the bench and Schroeder becomes the primary playmaker. It will be fun to see it play out. If Schroeder comes off the bench it will still be solid.Right, that's something like what I figure they would run if Schroder starts. All I know is I'm excited to finally watch some basketball today!

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[pingbling23]

Well, as we can see in multiple threads, THT is looking great early on.

[pingbling23]

Can’t believe the season starts tonight. Good game tonight against the clippers. Here’s to the start of another championship season. LETS GO LAKERS!!!

[Dodgerfan74]

James Harden will effect if the Lakers repeat as champions. If Harden gets traded to Nets, 76ers, Bucks, Jazz, Nuggets, Mavericks, or Trailblazers

[Bronconation24]

Another year of F the lakers!

[pingbling23]

Another year of F the lakers!

ENJOY!!!!

[pingbling23]

James Harden will effect if the Lakers repeat as champions. If Harden gets traded to Nets, 76ers, Bucks, Jazz, Nuggets, Mavericks, or Trailblazers

Most definitely.

[bleh]

let's go, Lakeshow!

[pingbling23]

Starting lineup to start the year, schroeder, kcp, Lebron, ad, and gasol.

[pingbling23]

Lebron coming out cold for the first game of the season and the clipps can’t miss. Typical.

[pingbling23]

Missing a lot of open 3’s....

[Mahomie]

THT!!

[ThoseBackPages]

BRON!!!!!

[pingbling23]

Pg can’t miss....

[pingbling23]

Dang kcp, hope it’s a cramp.

[PelicanFly]

Vogel's rotation blew this game

[pingbling23]

Well they started flat and slowed a bit towards the end. Whole season ahead, they will be fine. 0-1

[pingbling23]

Vogel's rotation blew this game

Yeah, new team. Vogel will figure it out.

[bleh]

Yeah, new team. Vogel will figure it out.

i agree as well. as much as i don't like it, schroder might need to be a bench player. i think schroder handling the ball disengages lebron on offense and perhaps defense as well.

[pingbling23]

Good first win against the luka mavs on this Christmas night. 138 points, remember last year when some were saying the lakers won’t win because they cant score enough. I’m not sure their defense is tougher but they have a more well rounded offense. 1-1

[Prospectorsadvantage]

Team is deep. Love our dogs.

[pingbling23]

Team is deep. Love our dogs.

i didnt like what harrell did last season but i do love harrell the player. reminds me of rodman on the offensive boards but man can play the post offensively well. he has great touch around the rim.

[pingbling23]

dominant win with no AD. Kuz came out with his best klay thompson impression in the first half. should be a fun one against the blazers tonight. 2-1

[pingbling23]

it was a fun one against the blazers but gary trent jr was to much in the second half, seemed like he was hitting everything from deep. AD has to be better, 13 points... i love what schroeder is bringing to the table!!!! next up is spurs on wednesday. 2-2

[Dame]

lakers are just coasting right now. AD doesn’t even seem to care, i’d imagine it must be boring for them after going through the bubble grind and no fans in the arena.

[pingbling23]

lakers are just coasting right now. AD doesn’t even seem to care, i’d imagine it must be boring for them after going through the bubble grind and no fans in the arena.

True in a sense but they have several new pieces that they have to integrate so they can’t coast to much. But ultimately, health going into the playoffs is always paramount.

[pingbling23]

I didn’t get to watch the game tonight but I see ad had a better game and Schroeder had another good scoring night. It’s nice for the lakers to easily have 3 players a night that should score in the 20’s. 3-2

[pingbling23]

Another one I missed. Stats are so misleading. AD 34/11/5 on 50% shooting 0+/-. Lebron 26/11/10 18+/-. Next game is Sunday against the grizzlies. 4-2

[pingbling23]

nice balanced offense tonight with 6 players scoring in double figures and good defense holding the grizz under 100 points. we play the grizz again on tuesday night. 5-2

[pingbling23]

ugly game but lebron came up clutch down the stretch on both ends of the floor. next up is the spurs on thursday. 6-2

[pingbling23]

props to the spurs for not getting caught in that LA sweep. lakers offense just couldnt get in sync and missed the usual 3's that drop. next up is the bulls tomorrow night. 6-3

[pingbling23]

another slow start but they bounced back. i really like what i see from tht. nice to see wes Mathews hit some shots. next up are the rockets on sunday. 7-3

[pingbling23]

Nice to see kcp back on the floor. 5 players with double figures in scoring, love the balance. Play the rockets again on Tuesday. 8-3

[sebreg]

another slow start but they bounced back. i really like what i see from tht. nice to see wes Mathews hit some shots. next up are the rockets on sunday. 7-3

THT has been looking quite good so far, a great spark. This is a really balanced team, will be interesting to see how they round out as season progresses.

[pingbling23]

THT has been looking quite good so far, a great spark. This is a really balanced team, will be interesting to see how they round out as season progresses.

Yes, he can score from inside and out, has good handles so he can bring up the ball, and he’s a willing defender. He comes across as a slightly better/smarter kuzma.

[pingbling23]

Easy win tonight against the rockets. My favorite thing about the game? Boogie playing almost 20 minutes and earning a double double. After all he has went through it’s nice to see him playing. Next up thunder tomorrow night. 9-3

[Dame]

Cant believe Lebron’s is in early MVP talks again, I was so sure he’s going to slow down in the regular season and let AD shine but he’s quietly carrying the Lakers to the best record in the league.

[drobfan8]

Cant believe Lebron’s is in early MVP talks again, I was so sure he’s going to slow down in the regular season and let AD shine but he’s quietly carrying the Lakers to the best record in the league.

Carrying them :p

Ok. They have AD and they also go 10 deep.

I'm betting them hard to repeat. There just isn't another contender IMO.

[Kingofkings1281]

That LeBron 3 where he turned to the bench before it went in was just fantastic.

[pingbling23]

Cant believe Lebron’s is in early MVP talks again, I was so sure he’s going to slow down in the regular season and let AD shine but he’s quietly carrying the Lakers to the best record in the league.

He will be in the top 3-4 in mvp voting again, which is incredible at this stage in his career, because he can’t go all out every minute of every game like he used to. I’m sure finals mvps are at the top of the list because that means he adds another title to his resume.

[pingbling23]

That LeBron 3 where he turned to the bench before it went in was just fantastic.

Thank goodness it wasn’t a shaqtin a fool moment.

[Ferg1945]

That LeBron 3 where he turned to the bench before it went in was just fantastic.

Thank goodness it wasn’t a shaqtin a fool moment.

Steph makes those 10 times out of 9!!

[pingbling23]

Steph makes those 10 times out of 9!!

Lol, he played like ass tonight and lead his team to a loss in the fourth. He’s gonna have to make 15 out of 9.

[pingbling23]

Almost a 30 point win with Lebron and AD playing less minutes. 6 players in double figures so the balanced offense continues. Pels coming up Friday. 10-3

[brothertona]

They're so good and deep. I think Lebron could be looking for #6 next year.

[pingbling23]

They're so good and deep. I think Lebron could be looking for #6 next year.

So much can happen, but he has a good shot. Lakers management have proven they are willing to do what it takes to have a championship team.

[brothertona]

So much can happen, but he has a good shot. Lakers management have proven they are willing to do what it takes to have a championship team.


Big if, but if Bron gets 6 he's the new 1A greatest player ever. He's 1B now - likely the generation behind the old heads sees him as GOAT but he takes the throne if he gets 6.


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[GeechQuest]

Big road trip coming. I could see them going 5-3 or even 4-4 for the rest of January.

Not that it matters.

My big concern is them matching the Nets offense in the Finals at this juncture and how many minutes they’ll have to give Lebron.

[pingbling23]

Big if, but if Bron gets 6 he's the new 1A greatest player ever. He's 1B now - likely the generation behind the old heads sees him as GOAT but he takes the throne if he gets 6.


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I’m just not giving up the number one spot for Jordan. What Jordan did in the years he played are hard to surpass. There will be a better argument for Lebron but I just can’t do it.

[pingbling23]

Big road trip coming. I could see them going 5-3 or even 4-4 for the rest of January.

Not that it matters.

My big concern is them matching the Nets offense in the Finals at this juncture and how many minutes they’ll have to give Lebron.

They need to be tested but I’ve loved the improvements of schroeder, tht, and Harrell. The lakers chemistry and joy playing together is at an all time high with this era lakers. Def not ready to put the nets in the finals, way to soon.

[brothertona]

I’m just not giving up the number one spot for Jordan. What Jordan did in the years he played are hard to surpass. There will be a better argument for Lebron but I just can’t do it.


I suspect with no disrespect that our generation never will cede the throne to Lebron.


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[pingbling23]

I suspect with no disrespect that our generation never will cede the throne to Lebron.


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It definitely helps growing up watching or just being able to watch a players career in general. I began watching the bulls and loving mj during the first 3 peat when bulls mania was sweeping the nation. I first heard of Lebron when I was in high school and I couldn’t stand him or all the hype he was getting. Just another player like Kobe they are trying to hype to be the next mj. But when I started watching Lebron I was amazed at his court vision and the way he played the game. A player that is more focused on setting up his teammates but still somehow easily averages 25-30 a night, crazy. I’ve been one of the biggest Lebron fans on the boards. I defended him when everyone was saying he was a loser, while I was saying he’s an all time great, give it time he will win a championship. I defended him when people said he was a choker, and then watched how he’s become one of the most clutch players ever. I defended him when people said he’s done and on the decline after leaving the heat, and then watched as he dismantled the 73-9 warriors to bring Cleveland a title and put the lakers back on top of the map. Lebrons career has been unbelievable. For anyone to have the pressure on him at 18 like he had, to amass the accomplishments he has is amazing. Mj left me in awe most of the time and accomplished more in less years then Lebron and for that I won’t be able to have Lebron over Jordan. But being top 2-3 all time is incredible.

[brothertona]

It definitely helps growing up watching or just being able to watch a players career in general. I began watching the bulls and loving mj during the first 3 peat when bulls mania was sweeping the nation. I first heard of Lebron when I was in high school and I couldn’t stand him or all the hype he was getting. Just another player like Kobe they are trying to hype to be the next mj. But when I started watching Lebron I was amazed at his court vision and the way he played the game. A player that is more focused on setting up his teammates but still somehow easily averages 25-30 a night, crazy. I’ve been one of the biggest Lebron fans on the boards. I defended him when everyone was saying he was a loser, while I was saying he’s an all time great, give it time he will win a championship. I defended him when people said he was a choker, and then watched how he’s become one of the most clutch players ever. I defended him when people said he’s done and on the decline after leaving the heat, and then watched as he dismantled the 73-9 warriors to bring Cleveland a title and put the lakers back on top of the map. Lebrons career has been unbelievable. For anyone to have the pressure on him at 18 like he had, to amass the accomplishments he has is amazing. Mj left me in awe most of the time and accomplished more in less years then Lebron and for that I won’t be able to have Lebron over Jordan. But being top 2-3 all time is incredible.


If you saw Michael in his prime it's hard to argue anyone else. That's why I say the next generation will definitely have a much easier decision. The farther you get from MJ the easier it is to miss the greatness.


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[Prospectorsadvantage]

Lakers in 5. AD is the best player in the nba.

[brothertona]

That's also why I say no disrespect intended. Lebron has done everything he's had to do to create the debate. The fact that he can be considered a 1A or B is proof enough of his impact


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[pingbling23]

If you saw Michael in his prime it's hard to argue anyone else. That's why I say the next generation will definitely have a much easier decision. The farther you get from MJ the easier it is to miss the greatness.


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Exactly. I’ve seen the stats, heard the stories, and watched replays of all time greats of old but it doesn’t compare living in the moments.

[brothertona]

Lakers in 5. AD is the best player in the nba.


AD will abuse Durant, Bron will own Harden like he always has


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[pingbling23]

Lakers in 5. AD is the best player in the nba.

Hope he plays like it. So far this season he has regressed and is playing under his last year and career averages.

[GeechQuest]

They need to be tested but I’ve loved the improvements of schroeder, tht, and Harrell. The lakers chemistry and joy playing together is at an all time high with this era lakers. Def not ready to put the nets in the finals, way to soon.

Yeah I don’t disagree with what you’ve said.

Been a Lakers fan my entire life and I liked the squad better last year with Javalle and Dwight.

I think the offense was just a tad better with those 2 switching time. The size was unstoppable.

I have the same fear this year that I did last; when Lebron sits the offense comes to a halt (not literal). No team could match them last year, I think the Nets offensive firepower does this season.

Lots of season left!

[pingbling23]

Yeah I don’t disagree with what you’ve said.

Been a Lakers fan my entire life and I liked the squad better last year with Javalle and Dwight.

I think the offense was just a tad better with those 2 switching time. The size was unstoppable.

I have the same fear this year that I did last; when Lebron sits the offense comes to a halt (not literal). No team could match them last year, I think the Nets offensive firepower does this season.

Lots of season left!

I loved having javele and Dwight as well but more so on the defensive end.
When Lebron is on the bench the lakers have Schroeder, Caruso, tht, and ad that can create their own or for others. With Wes Mathews, kcp, kuzma and Harrell waiting to be fed they are fine. Harrell is better at creating for himself then I realized. I haven’t looked at simple or advanced stats but my eyes tell me their offense is better this year.

[pingbling23]

zion is a go tonight. you know the ex lakers will want to prove something tonight, should be a fun game.

[pingbling23]

The way the lakers played the first quarter I thought it was going to be a blowout. Well it turned into a blowout. Win streak up to 5. One last home game featuring the warriors on Monday and then a long road trip. 11-3

[alwayson22]

11-3 and haven’t had to shift into high gear. They look even better than last year.

[pingbling23]

11-3 and haven’t had to shift into high gear. They look even better than last year.

I agree with this. I think a monkey was lifted off several people’s backs and they are playing freer. Look at kcp, he’s not scoring much but 3 pt percentage is 53% up from 39% last year. That can be big in the playoffs.

[bberns]

This is such a fun season. Health permitting, the are going to destroy the NBA. So deep 1-11.

[Dame]

Unlike last year Bron and AD don't have to be GREAT for this team to win.

Most stacked team since 2010.

[sebreg]

Lakers are looking very strong. Much better flow, and much stronger in half-court compared to last year, at least from what I can tell. The half court offense last year was grindingly ugly. Much more balance and depth on this squad.

If it comes down to a Lakers/Nets Final, it's going to be so interesting to see how that showdown plays out.

[pingbling23]

Ah the ole typical dominate the entire game, get lazy, give up the lead in the fourth, and lose.... inexcusable 11-4

[pingbling23]

Big game tonight against the bucks. Hopefully they play interested the whole game tonight.

[sebreg]

Big game tonight against the bucks. Hopefully they play interested the whole game tonight.

Should be fun, hope we get a high quality game.

[pingbling23]

Nice bounce back after the mental lapse against the warriors. That was a fun game, seemed like the bucks were gonna go on a run when they let giannis steamroll everyone in the paint. Jrue looked great early but seemed like they went away from I’m in the fourth. Lebron looking like Reggie Miller out there and great game from the role players. Bulls coming up on Saturday night. 12-4 and 8-0 on the road.

[pingbling23]

looks like ad was cooking last night, 37 points in 28 minutes. nice for the stars to get to play under 30 minutes and still get a double digit win. coach got to spread the time out as no player played over 30 minutes. next up is the hot cavs on monday night. 13-4

[pingbling23]

lebron turning back the hands of time with a little 46 piece on 73% shooting. i figured the lakers would drop this game with the cavs playing hot lately but lebron put on a show. possible finals preview on wednesday against the sixers. 14-4

[pingbling23]

Ugh, first road loss. At least it was basically an end of game shot to lose by one on the road to the number 1 team in the east. This would be a hell of a finals. Next up is the worst in the league pistons tomorrow night. My guess is ad rests, his knee wasn’t looking good tonight. 14-5

[pingbling23]

I know it’s the second game of a back to back, I know ad is resting, I know everyone plays as hard as they can when facing the champs, but got damn. Lose to the pistons..... they were poised to comeback and win getting within 1 point in the fourth and then the pistons went on a 40-0 scoring run (that’s how it felt). Whatever. Maybe the Celtics on Saturday will have their attention. 14-6

[MikawlBBC]

I know it’s the second game of a back to back, I know ad is resting, I know everyone plays as hard as they can when facing the champs, but got damn. Lose to the pistons..... they were poised to comeback and win getting within 1 point in the fourth and then the pistons went on a 40-0 scoring run (that’s how it felt). Whatever. Maybe the Celtics on Saturday will have their attention. 14-6

I’m a laker fan, they have some pitiful games and play down to their completion and just try and coast, just don’t see them winning back to back championships.

[blackandgold]

I’m a laker fan, they have some pitiful games and play down to their completion and just try and coast, just don’t see them winning back to back championships.

I really don’t think the regular season much matters The Lakers can put it into another gear when AD is on the court The only way I don’t see them winning is if Lebron/AD is not healthy.

[pingbling23]

Looks like I missed a good one last night. A win against the Celtics is a good win. Last game of the road trip against the hawks on Monday. 15-6

[jw8]

Looks like I missed a good one last night. A win against the Celtics is a good win. Last game of the road trip against the hawks on Monday. 15-6Good game, lakers were leading by about 8 midway into 3rd, Celts caught up, cat and mouse from there and lakers were up by maybe 5 or 6 with 2 min in the 4th, Tatum 2 nice floaters in the lane with under 30sec, lakers up by 1, Thiem had a nice putback layup look at the buzzer off a Brown? miss that would've won them the game.

Don't know why I typed this out but the final 5 min of the 4th is worth a watch.

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[pingbling23]

Lebron coming up in the clutch with a big block and scoring 9 points in the final minute of the game. Good one coming up on Thursday with the lakers back home hosting the nuggets. 16-6

[pingbling23]

Not a bad 7 game road trip going 5-2. Wins against the bucks and Celtics but horrible loss to the pistons and getting beat by a last second shot against the sixers. Now the lakers need to start playing better at home.

[pingbling23]

good western conference showdown tonight. rested AD, i expect a big game from him.

[pingbling23]

lebron just passed wilt the stilt for 3 on the all time field goal made list.

[pingbling23]

well ad was non existent, offense was out of rhythm, and defense was mediocre. they got work to do in the second half.

[pingbling23]

imagine that, they start playing defense and the offense follows. beat the nuggets by 20 in the third quarter. finish it off!!!

[abidtsteele]

Caruso/THT with some solid defense to offense tonight. Trez playing bully ball. Bron and AD just plugging along. Easy win

[pingbling23]

the ole tale of two halves. lakers turned up the defense and outscored the nuggets by 33 points in the second half. hopefully a revenge game on saturday night against the pistons. 17-6

[pingbling23]

Caruso/THT with some solid defense to offense tonight. Trez playing bully ball. Bron and AD just plugging along. Easy win

i love the energy caruso and tht bring every night. always a spark plug off the bench.

[pingbling23]

il also add props to kuz. his scoring isnt what we all want but he has definitely turned up the intensity he plays with. seems like hes always getting good blocks that change momentum.

[blackandgold]

well ad was non existent, offense was out of rhythm, and defense was mediocre. they got work to do in the second half.

When Lebron retires you can put a bow on it. AD isn’t leading any teams to a championship Seems he’s content being second fiddle

[tjforce]

When Lebron retires you can put a bow on it. AD isn’t leading any teams to a championship Seems he’s content being second fiddle

But he's a champion already, so he's got that going for him over guys like Malone, Barkley, Ewing.

Not bad.

[pingbling23]

When Lebron retires you can put a bow on it. AD isn’t leading any teams to a championship Seems he’s content being second fiddle

i agree, he needs to amp it up but as long as hes 100% come playoff time, thats whats important. but lets not act like hes not a champion now and played really well to earn the ring.

[pingbling23]

man these pistons play the lakers tough but lakers eeked out a win in double overtime. hosting the thunder on monday night. 18-6

[bleh]

man these pistons play the lakers tough but lakers eeked out a win in double overtime. hosting the thunder on monday night. 18-6

that's always been the lakers m.o. for years. we always ease off the pedal and never or rarely have that killer instinct. I was gonna go off if we lost to them again though. haha!

[pingbling23]

that's always been the lakers m.o. for years. we always ease off the pedal and never or rarely have that killer instinct. I was gonna go off if we lost to them again though. haha!

I use to feel the same way pulling for the Jordan bulls. I always thought they were capable to go undefeated if they didn’t have to play weak teams. It makes sense, it’s hard for top contenders to get up and go all out against weak teams but those weak teams want to play their best when going up against the best. It’s sports and it always happens.

[pingbling23]

Really kcp, you’re up 3 in the final seconds and foul someone shooting a 3....

[anusinha]

When Lebron retires you can put a bow on it. AD isn’t leading any teams to a championship Seems he’s content being second fiddle

When Lebron retires, Lakers will find a way to get Giannis or Luka on the team.

[Spacemanspif]

Really kcp, you’re up 3 in the final seconds and foul someone shooting a 3....

It took Shai so long to bring it up I don’t know why he didn’t take the foul when he crossed half court

[abidtsteele]

Really kcp, you’re up 3 in the final seconds and foul someone shooting a 3....

I had to make sure it wasn't JR b/c it was just such a JR play

[pingbling23]

I had to make sure it wasn't JR b/c it was just such a JR play

Lol so true. Lakers survived though. 19-6

[bleh]

i still think we need to trade for or sign a true center. that or someone tell vogel to run more pick and roll with harrell.

[pingbling23]

3 straight overtime wins. Wins are great but the lakers should be handling these lesser teams with less effort. Next up is the grizzlies on Friday night. 20-6

[pingbling23]

Ad and Lebron doing their thing but props to kuz. He was all over the floor tonight and crashing the boards. Headed to Denver for a Sunday espn game. 21-6

[pingbling23]

I hope AD is ok going forward, injuries suck. 21-7

[pingbling23]

lakers back on the winning train. hopefully when ad gets revaluated in a few weeks it will positive news. lakers hosting the nets on thursday, hopefully the role players step up. 22-7

[pingbling23]

gonna be a long night. down your second and third best 2 way players going against the best offense in the league.

[pingbling23]

yep, bout what i figured. maybe they will have better luck against the heat on saturday. 22-8

[pingbling23]

Rough stretch. Times are tough when Dudley is playing almost 15 minutes lol. Lakers gotta get healthy and they will be fine. 22-11

[sportzluvr1]

Rough stretch. Times are tough when Dudley is playing almost 15 minutes lol. Lakers gotta get healthy and they will be fine. 22-11

Dang, Dudley getting 15?!

[drobfan8]

Dang, Dudley getting 15?!

Dudley got 13 minutes because the game was over at half.time..

What an azz whooping

[bleh]

lakers need another big man to protect the paint when the lineup changes because Harrell isn't gonna cut it. if anything, I would run pick and roll with Harrell and tucker.

[pingbling23]

lakers need another big man to protect the paint when the lineup changes because Harrell isn't gonna cut it. if anything, I would run pick and roll with Harrell and tucker.

harrell is a great player but his energy doesnt beat skilled size/height, i love him playing the 4. i would love for the lakers to somehow get drummond.

[pingbling23]

Dang, Dudley getting 15?!

yeah, it was a tie ball game when he came in the first quarter. he was subbed out with 7 to play in the second and it was an 11 point game. lakers never recovered after that big run. jazz played well as expected, lakers just dont have enough right now. its hard to expect your role players to play like all stars.

[bleh]

harrell is a great player but his energy doesnt beat skilled size/height, i love him playing the 4. i would love for the lakers to somehow get drummond.

I wouldn't be against a Demarcus cousins reunion. hopefully, he's healthy enough

[pingbling23]

I wouldn't be against a Demarcus cousins reunion. hopefully, he's healthy enough

i havent researched anything but heard he was on the trading block. if healthy he would be great coming off the bench and the chemistry seemed to be good with him and the team last year.

[pingbling23]

Happy to see schroeder back, happy to see them play with energy again, and happy to see a win. Warriors on Sunday. 23-11

[pingbling23]

schroeder has made such a difference being back and played great d on curry tonight. lakers had a scoring feast against the 4th ranked defense in the league. 2 straight wins against west playoff teams and back to 2nd in the west. 24-11

[pingbling23]

nice little 4 game win streak and back to second in the west. still down 2 starters but the role players are playing with alot of heart and intensity. lamelo was fun to watch tonight, i havent gotten to see to many of his games. next up is the hawks on saturday. 28-13

[pingbling23]

A much needed win last night. Hopefully the lakers can pick up Drummond, we need something positive after this injury ridden season. Maybe they can get another win against the struggling magic on Sunday. 29-17

[chetb]

A much needed win last night. Hopefully the lakers can pick up Drummond, we need something positive after this injury ridden season. Maybe they can get another win against the struggling magic on Sunday. 29-17


+1. Hopefully they can continue to eke out a win here and there so the situation isn’t too dire when AD and Bron get back.

Would love to see Drummond signed.

[pingbling23]

when drummond clears waivers at 5 pm he intends to sign with the lakers. get a win against the magic tonight and it makes for a great day!!!

[jw8]

when drummond clears waivers at 5 pm he intends to sign with the lakers. get a win against the magic tonight and it makes for a great day!!!This is pretty big... I'm not expecting AD like performance but he should help with boards. Think all that's needed now is a shooter.

Sent from my SM-G975U using Tapatalk

[pingbling23]

This is pretty big... I'm not expecting AD like performance but he should help with boards. Think all that's needed now is a shooter.

Sent from my SM-G975U using Tapatalk

drummond is a big pick up. they need the toughness they lost in the paint. drummond is a great rebounder and someone that can consistently score around the rim. the lakers have alot of different ways to play now. i like the thoughts of a schroeder, kuz/tht/kcp, lebron, ad, and drummond lineup. i like ad at the 4 spot. harrell has been outstanding as well.

[pingbling23]

i know its just the cavs and magic but 2 wins in a row without ad and lebron is exactly what they need to do. they have to get these "easy" wins. next up is the bucks on wednesday. will drummond be ready to roll? 30-17

[chetb]

Good to see some positive momentum for sure!

[pingbling23]

Drummond getting his first game tonight as a laker. Gonna be a tough one, bucks will be hungry for a win.

[jw8]

Drummond getting his first game tonight as a laker. Gonna be a tough one, bucks will be hungry for a win.Super pumped for it...is Giannis still out? Would've liked to see that matchup.

Sent from my SM-G975U using Tapatalk

[chetb]

First half got my hopes up.

Then the second half happened.

Wasn’t expecting a win, but sure would have been nice. Unfortunately it’s looking unlikely right now in the 4th.

[pingbling23]

Did Drummond really lose a toenail? Lakers can’t catch a break this year.

[chetb]

Kuz with 30!

[pingbling23]

Kuz with 30!

Man I wish he was consistent. He has the talent to be a 20 point a night player but he’s so streaky. Still holding on to that fourth spot. 31-18

[pingbling23]

Lakers sign the game changer Ben mclemore. Hopefully he can bring that 40% from 3 that’s he’s capable of. Lakers up 26 at the half against the raptors.

[pingbling23]

Lackluster finals rematch with bron and brow out. Hopefully Drummond plays a lot and gets settled.

[chetb]

Solid win against the Nets tonight, which I was not expecting.

Nice to see the new guys playing well too.

And Bron and AD both expected back in the next 10-14 days.

[pingbling23]

Solid win against the Nets tonight, which I was not expecting.

Nice to see the new guys playing well too.

And Bron and AD both expected back in the next 10-14 days.

Definitely didn’t expect a win tonight when Brooklyn had kd and kyrie. Lakers missing ad, Lebron, and kuz. Solid win. Drummond can get back into game shape and the role players can keep getting better. I hope when they come back it’s for good. 33-20

[Mahomie]

Lakers sign the game changer Ben Mclemore. Hopefully he can bring that 40% from 3 that’s he’s capable of.

This was a great addition.

[pingbling23]

Unfortunately lebrons uneducated tweets will overshadow the return, but tonight hopefully marks the return of AD. The role players have done a great job keeping the lakers in good position heading to the post season. Fingers crossed health is not an issue going forward for the lakers. Get to work Brow!!!

[tjforce]

Unfortunately lebrons uneducated tweets will overshadow the return, but tonight hopefully marks the return of AD. The role players have done a great job keeping the lakers in good position heading to the post season. Fingers crossed health is not an issue going forward for the lakers. Get to work Brow!!!

Love to see it. About 3 weeks play to get into playoff shape.

[pcptrade]

With Harden out indefinitely and KD's ongoing thigh I jury issues, Lakers have a good chance to win the championship again.

[Dame]

With Harden out indefinitely and KD's ongoing thigh I jury issues, Lakers have a good chance to win the championship again.

Good chance? They are the favorites. 5-5 record without Lebron and AD, now both are coming back after being on paid leave for a quarter of the season.

Pretty much B2B (if healthy)

[pcptrade]

Good chance? They are the favorites. 5-5 record without Lebron and AD, now both are coming back after being on paid leave for a quarter of the season.

Pretty much B2B (if healthy)

Meant to say very good chance :)

[pingbling23]

Lebron returning tonight against the kings. Hope the lakers get in prime game shape and are firing on all cylinders for a repeat run.

[bleh]

please get rid of Vogel!

[chetb]

It has not been a great week for Lakers fans.

[Dame]

Meant to say very good chance :)

Not too sure about this now :/

We are in shambles. AD had not looked right.

-29 in net rating

Lakers are 1-6 since he came back.

[pcptrade]

Not too sure about this now :/

We are in shambles. AD had not looked right.

-29 in net rating

Lakers are 1-6 since he came back.

Haha, I jinxed it but I faith in them:)

[pingbling23]

They will be fine.

[chetb]

Really nice to see a win last night. And AD looking better too. That block in the final seconds was a satisfying ending.

[chetb]

Looking like Lakers are play in tournament bound :(

On the flip side, if they do manage to reach the finals after falling to the play in tournament, that will make the feat all the more dramatic and memorable. Not holding my breath though.

[pingbling23]

AD looked great last night. loved seeing him in the paint again and not just playing perimeter ball. team defense was great in the first half.

[chetb]

Slow start, down 7 in the first quarter despite only one Curry field goal —hope they heat up soon!

Feel like there's a decent chance they'll be playing the Grizzlies.

[pingbling23]

They showed up in the second half. Leclutch strikes again, how many is that? Phoenix here we come!!!

[chetb]

Happy to have been wrong. What an ending.

[pingbling23]

Happy to have been wrong. What an ending.

It was a terrible offensive first half but they came together in the third quarter. The starting lineup doesn’t have a lot of time together and there was obvious rust on Lebron and schroeder. They pulled through.

[chetb]

Question is how heavily do they lean on Drummond going forward?

Things sure started looking up once he left the game.

[gopowergoh]

Drummond and Schroder man.... Time to go to last year's recipe. I would rather have Caruso and Keef out there. Wes Matthews was good today too.

[pingbling23]

Question is how heavily do they lean on Drummond going forward?

Things sure started looking up once he left the game.

Warriors are a small team so it makes the lakers bigs obsolete. Depending on matchups Vogel can utilize the bigs. Tonight wasn’t the night.

[pingbling23]

Drummond and Schroder man.... Time to go to last year's recipe. I would rather have Caruso and Keef out there. Wes Matthews was good today too.

And we saw Vogel take out schroeder and rely on Caruso. I was surprised keef didn’t see any time. Lakers have the luxury of playing big or small and that helps in the playoffs.

[bleh]

vogel's gameplan was terrible (like most all season): play 2 bigs against a small line up and have AD shoot from the perimeter. i'm just glad he finally made the adjustment after 3+ quarters to move AD to the 5. it should be a great series against the suns!

btw, the 3 rims was too much though :D

[chetb]

today was ... rough

[pingbling23]

lakers starting to show some heart, having fun, and gelling together again. unfortunately i think health will be a major factor for them this post season.

[pingbling23]

we havent gotten to see much of keef and trez this series, but gasol has been playing well and wes matthews has even came alive. as always, i like kuzmas energy but man, please hit your wide open 3's.

[chetb]

Wishful thinking, but man I’d love to see #RevengeSzn2 next year. Just give me one more stellar year from LeBron before he hangs it up.

[pingbling23]

not the finish to the season we hoped for but thats what happens when injuries effect the season and youre playing the team with the second best record in the league for the first round. hats off to the suns and booker, he played like a stud and they deserve to move on. hopefully the lakers come back next season rested, healthy, and ready for another run.

[bdoody42]

not the finish to the season we hoped for but thats what happens when injuries effect the season and youre playing the team with the second best record in the league for the first round. hats off to the suns and booker, he played like a stud and they deserve to move on. hopefully the lakers come back next season rested, healthy, and ready for another run.

I believe it will be a very different looking team next.

[pingbling23]

I believe it will be a very different looking team next.

probably so. i really liked this team but ad and lebron being injured throughout the year and ad getting hurt in the playoffs is always a what could have been. i think this squad was capable of repeating if everyone was 100%. i just dont understand what was going on in the locker room. trez not getting many minutes in the playoffs, drummond dnp coachs decision in game 6. just a frustrating way to end the season.

[ninjacookies]

Dlo and Vandy already paying dividends.


2nd unit seems to flow so much better without Westy's ball dominance.

[drobfan8]

Dlo and Vandy already paying dividends.


2nd unit seems to flow so much better without Westy's ball dominance.

Can't tell if serious.

Surely you mean without LeBron's BS

[jcardstore]

Dlo and Vandy already paying dividends.


2nd unit seems to flow so much better without Westy's ball dominance.

I still can't believe minny and utah gifted the Lakers a get out of jail free card...

I would be getting worried if I were a western conference team. No WB, add in a microwave scorer who can shoot, don't need to worry about him passing or running point because you've got LeBron.

Vandy/(fully healthy)AD front court is insane to think about. Vandy is an amazingly versatile defender, great rebounder, and can hit the occasional corner 3.

Lakers are looking really interesting right now. Wouldn't want to have to face them in a series.

[BlueXtreme]

I still can't believe minny and utah gifted the Lakers a get out of jail free card...

I would be getting worried if I were a western conference team. No WB, add in a microwave scorer who can shoot, don't need to worry about him passing or running point because you've got LeBron.

Vandy/(fully healthy)AD front court is insane to think about. Vandy is an amazingly versatile defender, great rebounder, and can hit the occasional corner 3.

Lakers are looking really interesting right now. Wouldn't want to have to face them in a series.

Malik Beasley is a nice addition of the bench who can shoot as well.

[6celtics33]

I still can't believe minny and utah gifted the Lakers a get out of jail free card...

I would be getting worried if I were a western conference team. No WB, add in a microwave scorer who can shoot, don't need to worry about him passing or running point because you've got LeBron.

Vandy/(fully healthy)AD front court is insane to think about. Vandy is an amazingly versatile defender, great rebounder, and can hit the occasional corner 3.

Lakers are looking really interesting right now. Wouldn't want to have to face them in a series.

I was thinking they might be worth $100 if they are gonna give 25-30 to 1 on winning the title. It’s just too wide open.

[jcardstore]

I was thinking they might be worth $100 if they are gonna give 25-30 to 1 on winning the title. It’s just too wide open.

+5500 on Fanduel right now. I think that's great value

Mavs/Clippers I would bet the Lakers over easily. Nuggets are +750 and I just don't buy their title hopes. Grizzlies are +1900 but I doubt they could beat anyone out east.

[rhigh2390]

I still can't believe minny and utah gifted the Lakers a get out of jail free card...

I would be getting worried if I were a western conference team. No WB, add in a microwave scorer who can shoot, don't need to worry about him passing or running point because you've got LeBron.

Vandy/(fully healthy)AD front court is insane to think about. Vandy is an amazingly versatile defender, great rebounder, and can hit the occasional corner 3.

Lakers are looking really interesting right now. Wouldn't want to have to face them in a series.

Good to see that you've come around.

[jcardstore]

Good to see that you've come around.

Come around? The team has changed significantly, it would be dumb to not change your opinion as the facts and context changes. Nobody predicted they would trade for an elite defensive talent, an above average shot creator, and a great bench shooter. All while giving up nothing of value and cutting their worst player.