NBA Play-In possible outcomes: The Lakers are eliminated from the playoffs
When the idea for an NBA Play-In Tournament came forward, I don’t believe that the goal was for it to act as another barrier for a team such as the Lakers to make the playoffs. However, after fighting through injuries for most of the season, that’s exactly what it will be this season for the defending champions.
Even though it probably wouldn’t be the best outcome for the NBA as a whole for the Lakers to be eliminated in the play-in tournament, it would be quite an interesting storyline to stem from it. In fact, it could end up being the biggest talking point heading into the postseason – and you know LeBron James wouldn’t let the NBA live this down.
Either way, especially for the hope of more parity, the Lakers losing in the Play-In Tournament would make for excellent theater and an amazing storyline. For the most part, we want to see the defending champion get a shot at defending their title. However, one part of me is also intrigued by the idea – and possibility – of the Lakers being eliminated from playoff contention in the Play-In Tournament.