It’s not like the Lakers ever really went anywhere, so it seems weird to imply that they’re “back.”
Even before the blockbuster that landed them Luka Doncic the Lakers were already in a playoff spot in the West and despite how tight things are standings-wise, it would’ve been hard to see LeBron and company on the outside looking in when it came to the postseason.
I don’t even want to say that the massive deal the Lakers were able to pull off changed the balance of power out West, however, what we can probably say is that the foundation was certainly shaken.
Last night, the Lakers disposed of the Utah Jazz 132-113 in Luka’s debut which undeniably lived up to the hype.
LeBron finished with a team-high 24 points, seven rebounds, and eight assists while Doncic was inserted into the starting lineup immediately contributing 14 points, five rounds, and four assists.
Sure, it wasn’t an eye-popping stat line but once again reaffirmed the hype in terms of the Lakers seemingly not missing a beat and reassuring that there’s enough ball to go around, at least for one night.
With the win, the Lakers are now 32-19, winners of six in a row, and are tied for fourth in the West. To compare, the Lakers were 26-25 at this point last season while sitting at 23-28 the year prior.
Needless to say, a shock to the system was very much needed, and it looks like it’s working so far.
