There is not a shred of doubt about the fact the Los Angeles Lakers are one of the most successful sides in the NBA. However, despite having big guns like LeBron James and Russell Westbrook, the team failed miserably in the last NBA Season. As a result, the team focussed on rebuilding their squad with new names ahead of the 2023 season. The team has been successful in acquiring some of their desired players while they missed out on some. But now, as we are moving close to the start of the NBA 2022-23 season, the big question lingers is; can the Lakers lift the trophy this year?
Can LA Lakers Win NBA 2023 Championship?
One could anticipate the bookmakers to offer the Los Angeles Lakers extremely large odds to win the NBA title after their utterly dismal 2021–22 season. LA will probably reach a crossroads during this off-season. It can improve to be in the running for the championship or deteriorate more and become a perennial underdog.
However, former NBA star Paul Pierce is not so optimistic about LA’s chance of going all the way in this NBA Season. Paul doesn’t expect the Los Angeles Lakers to challenge for the NBA title in the upcoming season due to LeBron James‘ advanced age and Anthony Davis’ history of injuries. If LA can’t maximize the potential of two superstars, its title chances are almost nonexistent.
While talking in the KG Certified podcast, Paul shared his insight about the team’s chances. He stated, “I do not see the Lakers as a legit contender. For one, LeBron is a year older.” He also added, “Anthony Davis, he can’t stay healthy. But then who [are] the other moving pieces? Who [are] your role players?”
What Are The Betting Odds On LA?
Despite last year’s dismay, the Lakers still have one of the most dominating duos in the current NBA circuit. Meanwhile, the addition of Patrick Beverly and Dennis Schroder only helps their case. And it seems like the people also believe in The Lakers. The odds have changed drastically over just a few weeks. Now, they’re one of the more prevalent premature gambles to win the 2023 NBA title.
The Lakers now hold more than 11% of the bets and more than 13% of the betting handle at BetMGM for the 2023 championship. Both of those figures rank second among all teams. The only team seeing more early betting interest is the Golden State Warriors.
The Lakers’ chances have changed as a result of their active play. The Lakers are currently only 14-to-1 favorites to win the NBA championship after beginning at 22-to-1. With such odds, they are on par with the Miami Heat, Miami Grizzlies, Philadelphia 76ers, Dallas Mavericks, and Memphis Grizzlies.
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