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2018 NBA Power Rankings: Should the Houston Rockets be the favorites in the West?

DALLAS, TX - JANUARY 24: James Harden #13 of the Houston Rockets reacts after scoring against the Dallas Mavericks at American Airlines Center on January 24, 2018 in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images)
DALLAS, TX - JANUARY 24: James Harden #13 of the Houston Rockets reacts after scoring against the Dallas Mavericks at American Airlines Center on January 24, 2018 in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images)
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19. Los Angeles Lakers (31-38)

Whether you’re willing to give them the love they deserve or not, you have to admit that the Los Angeles Lakers have looked better and better as the season has progressed. And that, if anything, is something that they should be proud about.

Julius Randle is beginning to hit his stride as an NBA player, Lonzo Ball is no longer looking like a bust and the Lakers are looking more and more like the future of the Western Conference – with or without LeBron James or Paul George.

This summer will be interesting for the Lakers. Do they elect to play the long game with their young studs, or try to rebuild quickly and aim for the stars?