The LA Lakers mixed results over the past month have provided a variety of perspectives on teams’ opportunities heading into the playoffs.
Heavy schedules and inconsistent play left the LA Lakers abandoning their second position and dropped to fourth in the Western Conference.
Along with Luka Doncic, Lebron James and the emerging Austin Reaves, the Lakers have the opportunity to blow their enemies away with their attacks. But the question has always been about their defense.
The cracks are beginning to show amid a difficult run, with the low point allowing 146 points at the Bulls’ home.
The big gamble the team made was a failed move to sign the centre at trade deadlines.
After sending Anthony Davis to the Dallas Mavericks to acquire Luka Donsic, the Lakers clearly lacked size in that position.
The team took Mark Williams to send Dalton Knecht, Cam Reddish and the first round pick of 2031, withdrawing trade after being scared by health concerns.
NBA commentator Chris Vernon spoke to Bill Simmons’ podcast and said he believes the decision will ultimately cost money.
After the Lakers beat the Grizzlies, Vernon said:
“I think Memphis was close to 70 points in Paint last night. If you pass them (nothing) you can drive out the Reaves.
“Maybe it’s going to turn into the playoffs… There’s really no one there in there to discourage you. They play Jackson Hayes, they play Vand and everyone plays…
The Lakers now have a faith in Jackson Hayes as their starting center. However, this is the default, but because there are no other options.
Alternatives include the disastrous Alexren and Tray Jemison, who is still in a two-way contract.
Hayes has proven he can be an invaluable player on the roster, but the Lakers want to show their hands and sign the center in an attempt to land Mark Williams.