Trouble in Paradise: The Lakers Have a Problem?

Even though we’re only two games into the 2021 NBA season, it’s fair to say that the Lakers have looked uninspiring. With their new star acquisitions, Russell Westbrook and Carmelo Anthony, many dubbed them as the superteam that would wreak havoc on the league. Things haven’t quite gone that way though. Those who believed that floor spacing would be a major issue for this newly-formed team seem to be correct so far.

Despite shooting the three-ball well, contrary to what many expected, the Lakers have struggled to score around the paint at an efficient rate. According to the NBA, the Lakers shoot a 43.6 FG percentage, putting them at a below-average standing compared to other teams. That’s appalling for a team that’s trying to contend for a championship but it’s early so they should improve upon that. Another issue is, even with Lebron’s excellent three-point shooting in those first two games, he seems to struggle to get to the rim when both Anthony Davis and Westbrook are on the court with him. Team chemistry has also played a small role in their struggles, with Anthony Davis and Dwight Howard having a little scuffle during their loss to the Phoenix Suns. This chemistry plays a role in their passing, where they are struggling to move the ball around, ranking a horrible standing of the 6th most turnovers in the league, according to NBA.com

So where do the Lakers go from here? I think they’ll be just fine once they get used to each other and their respective strengths and weaknesses. If they don’t though, expect LeGM to be picking up the phone and making some trades before things go south in LA.