Only a couple games into the 2021-2022 season, the Lakers look to be champions once again. The Lakers had been defending that crown in the 2020-2021 season until the Phoenix Suns eliminated them in six games. The Suns completely took Lakers’ hopes for a 2nd straight title, ruining LeBron James chances at adding a 5th ring. However, although the Suns were successful in taking down the western champs, their winning streak didn’t last so long. They proceeded to lose to a superior Milwaukee Bucks team in 6 games. Giannis Antetokounmpo dominated the series to clinch Milwaukee’s 2nd title since 1971.
With the season ending, the 2021 NBA draft and free agent frenzy came ahead. The Lakers made some big-name additions with Russell Westbrook, Malik Monk, and Carmelo Anthony, while also bringing back Rajon Rondo and Dwight Howard. These players will undoubtedly have a positive impact on the Lakers’ upcoming season, and here’s my case of why.
Social media and sports shows labelling Lakers roster as “Wash- ups”
Doubting will only give these guys a chip on their shoulder and motivate them to win for another title. This is especially the case for LeBron James and Russell Westbrook. Throughout his entire career LeBron James has always had the pure talent and grit which allowed him to prove people wrong and silence these who questioned his abilities. The skeptics were just another weapon in his arsenal that fueled his greatness and propelled him towards another chance at a ring. Additionally, Russell Westbrook has been attacked by the media with claims of him “not getting along with former teammates” and “not being the type of player you want for a championship team”.
For Russell Westbrook, this is the year to prove these people wrong.
This season he’ll show the doubters that he can be a key member for a championship team. Same goes for Carmelo Anthony. He’s a player that has been constantly being labelled as someone who can’t be a part of a championship team. With this being the case, both of these players will have the chance to silence the critics.
The depth and veteran presence on the Lakers’ roster is key
The veterans the Lakers brought in are Rajon Rondo, Dwight Howard, Carmelo Anthony, Russell Westbrook, Deandre Jordan and Trevor Ariza, and those are moves that help you win playoff series. With Lebron James and Anthony Davis included, those guys all together have playoff experience that most other teams don’t have. Even young guys like Malik Monk, Kendrick Nunn, Kent Bazemore and Talen Horton-Tucker, can take on big minutes and give those older players rest.
The focus of bringing in shooters to this free agency were added
The Lakers were 23rd in 3 point percentages (34.9%) in the 2020-2021 season. Now, the additions of Malik Monk, Carmelo Anthony, Wayne Ellington, Trevor Aritza, Kent Bazemore and Kendrick Nunn, will hopefully booster the Lakers 3 point percentages to an elite level and compete with other teams like Warriors, Nets, Clippers and Jazz.
Your 2022 NBA Champion
I genuinely believe the Los Angeles Lakers will run through the west quickly and take down any team in the 2022 NBA finals. The Lakers will take home their 18th title in franchise history. Lebron James will win Finals MVP, and the city of Angles will celebrate once again!
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One Response
Excellent argument! I hope you’re rught