The Los Angeles Lakers were actively looking for trades in the market to improve their roster for the playoffs effectively. However, they waited until the last moment to complete the deal, which gave them six players in three different deals. The process ensured the exit of their controversial point guards, who the fans had wanted out since the offseason. The Lakers’ roster management has been poor for the last two years after winning the title in 2020. But this time, the general manager Rob Pelinka has selected some young, dynamic players who seriously mean business.
Since the Lakers were one of the most active teams in the trade market, fans speculated about their return to the league. Ever since the season began, it has only been a disappointment from LA as they have yet to find their way back into the top 10. However, with the number of changes, the fans expect a sudden improvement in their game to qualify for the playoffs. The roster has far more stability and rotation than before to surround LeBron James. But will it be enough to take them further ahead in the season?
Are Lakers Better Than Before, After Trade Deadline?
The 2020 champs currently sit in 13th position in the Western Conference because of their 26-32 record in the league. It all happened because of the historically bad start that the Lakers had with consecutive losses. A significant part of the blame goes to Rob Pelinka, who is responsible for their roster construction. And other reasons are that the players lack the ability to shoot from a distance which handicaps them from making progress. However, the new signings Malik Beasley and D’Angelo Russell, shooting 37.9% and 39%, respectively, will remotely improve the team. This will allow them to be a threat from multiple places on the court which would keep the opponent guessing.
Meanwhile, LeBron James is doing something that nobody has ever seen in the NBA. Despite being 38, he has been one of the most crucial players on the roster, breaking unbelievable records. However, his only problem is his age, which hinders him from playing most minutes. And whenever he leaves the court, the Lakers’ offensive rate deteriorates remarkably. Anthony Davis, another valuable player, lacks the consistency to give the Lakers a strong foundation. He holds the ability to dominate the game on both ends of the court. But the only condition of that happening is his healthy availability.
Anthony has missed many crucial games for the Lakers in the last three years, which makes him an unreliable player. So to avoid their leniency on Davis, they have got tall players like Jarred Vanderbilt, Rui Hachimura, and Mo Bamba. These players would give a solid backup even if something were to happen to the 2020 champ. These changes suggest that the front office has attended to major weaknesses in the team. However, it is up to the players how they collaborate on the wooden floor.
