Should we be worried about the Lakers as we enter the final weeks of the regular season? The first instinct is to dismiss any concern at all, noting that with both stars healthy, only the Nets have a chance to defeat the reigning champs this summer. But perhaps the answer isn’t so simple.
Los Angeles’s health is no guarantee even as Anthony Davis works himself back into shape. LeBron James is still battling ankle trouble, and Dennis Schröder will miss at least the next week due to COVID-19 protocols. Even if healthy, the Lakers will likely have to beat three of the Clippers, Nuggets, Suns and Jazz to reach the Finals, with Los Angeles not expected to hold home court in any single series.