Lakers reportedly relying on $51M inconsistent starter for playoff success alongside LeBron James
The Lakers are going to need some major success from this piece of the puzzle if they want to make it out of the first round.
Lakers reportedly relying on $51M inconsistent starter for playoff success alongside LeBron James originally appeared on The Sporting News . Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here . The Los Angeles Lakers are looking forward to the playoffs, but that anticipation may have turned into a nightmare with Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves sidelined by injuries.
The Lakers were genuine contenders—just as LeBron James wanted. “LeBron wants to compete for a championship,” Rich Paul told ESPN. “He knows the Lakers are building for the future.
He understands that, but he values a realistic chance of winning it all. We are very appreciative of the partnership that we've had for eight years with Jeanie [Buss] and Rob [Pelinka] and consider the Lakers as a critical part of his career. ” With two of their best players potentially missing the first round, Los Angeles now has its back against the wall.
For the remainder of the regular season, the Lakers will have to rely heavily on James and Rui Hachimura if they hope to achieve success. “This final stretch of the regular season will be a true test. Can Hachimura find some rhythm and shake off being a streaky shooter?