The LA Lakers entered the All-Star break after three impressive wins, given their rollercoaster run since winning the inaugural NBA In-Season tournament. Finishing ninth with a 30-26 record in the Western Conference, the team held on at the deadline, only adding Spender Dinwiddie to provide more balance. They will be hoping that their health improves as they bid for a place in the playoffs. The Lakers have a slate of tough games ahead as they resume their campaign against the Golden State Warriors on Wednesday at Chase Center. Before their final series of games, here are some bold predictions for the Lakers after the 2024 All-Star Break.
5) Vincent will be the X-factor
Gabe Vincent has been a notable absentee for the Lakers this season. This has led fans to compare it to how Kendrick Nunn (another former Miami Heat star) was sidelined after not making any meaningful contributions. Vincent is on the recovery table after knee surgery in December. Prior to this, he had lost only five games and averaged 5.4 points and 3.0 assists. Known to be an impact player off the bench, the return of Vincent could be an X-factor for the Lakers this season, living up to the hype he had when he was with the Heat.
4) Russell maintains his form
D’Angelo Russell returned to form in mid-January amid rumors of a trade at guard. While LA placed him on the trade block for Dejounte Murray of the Atlanta Hawks, negotiations broke down. However, Russell found his stride and went on a seven-game, 20+ point streak to become the third scoring option behind James and Davis. His return to form improved his numbers to 17.5 points, 2.8 rebounds and 6.3 assists. He shot 46.5% from the field and 41.7% from beyond the arc. With 26 games left, the prediction is that Russell should maintain his lead to help continue the Lakers’ resurgence.
3) Davis might win his first DPOY
Anthony Davis’s performance this season was so great that he made it to the All-Star. He has embraced playing the five and has been a dominant defensive presence for the Lakers this season. His three-on-one block against the Detroit Pistons in front of the ASG proves that his defense is excellent. While AD has made the All-Defensive first and second units, he has yet to win his first DPOY. This could be the season where he surpasses players like Rudy Gobert, Jaren Jackson Jr. and Giannis Antetokounmpo for the prestigious honor.
2) James goes on minute restriction
Coach Darvin Ham’s minutes restriction approach for LeBron James lasted one game. The Lakers star has been on an elite level this season with complete disregard for minutes spent on the hardwood. “King James” has averaged 34.9 minutes per game to notch up 24.8 points, 7.2 rebounds and 7.8 assists. With the progress of players like Davis, Russell and Austin Reaves, James is going to be on a minute restriction to remain in prime position for the playoffs.
1) Lakers will finish in the top five
If the Lakers win most of their remaining 26 games, they will be one of the teams to watch and could finish in the top five. Heading into the All-Star Break, the Lakers demonstrated what they can do as a strong unit. It may not have the “showtime” flair, but as they did previously against the Boston Celtics and Utah Jazz, LA can overcome it.
Also Read: 5 Bold Predictions For Warriors After NBA All-Star Break
