Much like the Philadelphia 76ers, there’s no question that the Los Angeles Lakers will be better in 2016-17. At the very least, on paper. However, there’s still no guarantee that this team will win more than 30 games this season.
The additions of Brandon Ingram, Timofey Mozgov, Luol Deng and others will certainly help. Though, perhaps what this Lakers’ season hinges on most will be the progression of D’Angelo Russell, Jordan Clarkson and Julius Randle.
If those three players make the necessary – and perhaps expected – jump in their games next season, then this team could be one to watch. Still, even that’s pushing it. In a tough Western Conference, expect more growing pains from a team that no question has a bright future.
The Lakers just aren’t there yet. And that’s OK.