"But realistically, when you look at both teams, they're marginal playoff teams" - Former Chicago Bulls player compares LA Lakers to New England Patriots
The LA Lakers aren't viewed as contenders by many heading into next season. However, former NBA player Jay Williams believes the Lakers are a 'marginal play-off team' and compared their situation to the NFL giants - the New England Patriots
After winning the title in 2020, the Lakers had a drastic drop in form, primarily due to injuries to key players.
The Purple and Gold were heavily favored to win the title last season. With LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Russell Westbrook in the side, the LA Lakers were expected to pose a threat, but failed to live up to expectations and missed out on a postseason berth.
Speaking on the matter, former Chicago Bulls player Jay Williams offered an interesting take on 'Get Up'.
He said:
"I look at the Los Angeles Lakers and the New England Patriots as the same, right? We're gonna talk about them all the time. One has the greatest coach of all time - can he do it without Tom Brady? And the other has LeBron James, right?"
He added:
"But realistically, when you look at both teams, they're marginal playoff teams. They're barely right there, maybe being on the outside looking in."
The New England Patriots were the most successful team in the NFL with Tom Brady and Bill Belichick (coach). However, they struggled for a period after the departure of the legendary quarterback. His replacement, the young Mac Jones did well of late to help the Patriots return to the playoffs last season.
.@RealJayWilliams is comparing the Lakers to the Patriots 😳
"We're going to talk about them all the time. ... But realistically, when you look at both teams, they're marginal playoff teams." https://t.co/Hid8BIqRhz
Will the LA Lakers be a title contender next season?
The LA Lakers are in a rather strange position as they prepare for next season. The Purple and Gold haven't made too many significant moves as yet.
After a prolonged saga, it seems likely that the 9x All-Star will continue his stay in LA.
Meanwhile, Patrick Beverley's arrival has reportedly spelt trouble in the locker room. The new arrival did not share a great rapport with Westbrook in the past but the two players have reportedly made contact after Beverley's move to LA.
Russell Westbrook and Patrick Beverley have already been in contact since becoming Lakers teammates, league sources tell me, and new coach Darvin Ham has told them he has lineups in mind to play Russ and PatBev side-by-side.
More around-the-NBA notes: marcstein.substack.com/p/nba-notes-on…
The LA Lakers have done a few good things in the offseason, though. They have signed a number of young players, which could benefit them in the long run.
I love Lonnie Walker because he’s big, strong and athletic. The @Lakers also made some great additions to the roster with Troy Brown Jr., Juan Toscano-Anderson and Damian Jones!