NBA Insider Chris Haynes believes the Los Angeles Lakers are still optimistic about their chances of winning the title this season.
It’s not been a great run for the side so far, with their latest defeat coming against the struggling Charlotte Hornets. The Lakers have been hamstrung by Anthony Davis’ stress fracture that rules him out indefinitely.
Davis was phenomenal for the side averaging 27.4 points, 12.1 rebounds, and 2.1. blocks this season. While he gutted through his back issues throughout the season, the foot injury comes as a major setback for a side that’s trying to make up for lost ground.
Chris Haynes Says The Lakers Goal Is To Make The Playoffs This Year
Haynes’ comments suggest that Los Angeles isn’t pressing the panic button yet and are looking to make some smart moves during the trade window.
He opined that the Lakers were keen to make the playoffs. An excerpt posted on the Lakers All Day Everyday Instagram page read:
The Lakers’ goal is to make the playoffs…They do not want to miss the playoffs even due to AD’s injury. They are a trade or 2 away from contending in their mind — they like their chances if they are healthy in the playoffs.
While the analyst’s comments suggest optimism, the Lakers are yet to look and play like a unit that can make the postseason. They’re placed 13th in a stacked Western Conference and are struggling to close out games that could put them in a better position.
With Davis out, the Lakers are heavily reliant on James. While the likes of Russell Westbrook, Austin Reaves, and Lonnie Walker IV have been chipping in, it just hasn’t been enough much to the fans’ chagrin.
On the trade front, LA has been linked with some big names in DeMar DeRozan and Zach Lavine. Cam Reddish and Nikola Vucevic have been floated around as well, but much of it is pure speculation at this point.
The Lakers will have to make some moves if they intend to make the postseason. They have been out of contention for two seasons now, and with James producing at a high rate, the front office will have some work to do.
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