The Lakers may be first in the standings, but it seems not everyone is convinced they should be favored to win the West this year.
According to a number of NBA analysts, the Clippers are just a flat-out better team than the Lakers right now, even if the win-loss record doesn’t show it.
“The Lakers have been much better through the first half of the season than I thought they would be. It’s a credit to their staff and players for making it work so quickly, but I still think the Clippers are the best team in the West when healthy. Kawhi Leonard has proved how great he is, and that team has shown it can hit a different level defensively.”
The addition of Marcus Morris gave the Clippers an edge, according to ESPN’s Bobby Marks.
“No, the Clippers have an edge,” ESPN‘s Bobby Marks said. “Adding Marcus Morris Sr. gives Doc Rivers three 20-point scorers. Of course, the Lakers’ roster could change in the buyout market, but their lack of a primary ball handler outside of LeBron James is a concern.”
Four out of five analysts polled by ESPN picked the Clippers over the Lakers, and it’s easy to see why. Their stars are younger and more well-rounded, their coach has Championship experience, and their roster is laced with depth that the Lakers, frankly, just cannot compete with.
Though a number of concerning losses have drawn some questions about the Clippers and the state of their locker room, people are convinced they will come together come playoff time.
I guess we’ll see if they’re right in due time.
