Preseason Preview

The Lakers have the best record in the league but it’s not a stretch to say they have underachieved. Their record is slightly inflated due to the schedule being front-loaded with home games. They have had to battle through injuries from a couple Pau Gasol hamstring issues, Ron Artest falling down a flight of stairs, Luke Walton’s back injury, and Kobe Bryant’s avulsion fracture. The biggest factor is still Andrew Bynum. Can he learn to play beside Pau Gasol? If their starters can gel and they can get a little more consistency from their bench, they have a great chance to repeat.

Ready to Breakout vs. Reality: Jordan Farmar struggled for playing time early in the season but has seen his role increase with better production over the last month. Shannon Brown though, has made the biggest jump. He has become the only reliable player off the bench and brings a level of excitement they need.

Over the Hill vs. Reality: Lamar Odom was pegged as over the hill but he has been durable so far this season. He has really come on recently as he has had to fill in for an injured Gasol and Artest. Derek Fisher has been the one who has struggled. The biggest change for Fisher is in his three-point shooting. Last year he shot over 42 percent and this year he’s down to 36 percent. He has seen his minutes decrease as Shannon Brown becomes a bigger part of the Lakers’ offense.

Worst Moment: With a fully healthy roster (minus Luke Walton), the Lakers fell to the Cavaliers 102-87 on Christmas day.

Best Moment: December 4, Bryant hit one of the most amazing shots he has ever made to lift the Lakers over the Heat. It was the Lakers eighth win in a row on their way to winning 16 of 17.

Best Case Scenario: The Lakers coast to the top-seed in the Western Conference and their bench players learn their roles and how they can contribute. They repeat as champions and Bryant signs a multi-year deal in the offseason.

Worst Case Scenario: They fall to the Nuggets in the Western Conference finals. The Nuggets are able to get out in transition and wear out the Lakers.

NBA Midseason Reports