"The Lakers have built a roster as if 3s aren't worth more than 2s” – NBA analyst outlines the underlying issue with Lakers for their underperformance
If the LA Lakers have hopes of winning the title this year, they'll need shooters around LeBron James and Anthony Davis. James' knack for transforming franchises from perennial contenders into championship-caliber units is well documented
In his first season, James averaged 20.9 points, 5.5 rebounds, 5.9 assists and 1.6 steals. It was an impressive first year that kickstarted a historic career for the kid from Akron. Throughout the course of his career and his playoff runs, James has always maintained that he's a pass-first player.
This was apparent during his time with the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Miami Heat. In both instances, James relied on quality perimeter shooters to help in key moments while defenses double-teamed him. The way analyst Nick Wright sees things, if the Lakers want to win this season, they have to surround James with shooters:
"We have seen proof of concept for two decades in this league. That if you put shooting around LeBron James, you're going to win 50 some games and be a contender.
"And it's now two straight years, the Lakers have built a roster as if 3s aren't worth more than 2s, and trading Russ won't fix that. It might help it some depending on who you trade him for."
Wright was recently a guest on "The Dan Patrick Show." He continued to talk about the Lakers and how they could benefit from teams tanking for Victor Wembanyama:
"I do understand the idea of, because of big Vic (Victor Wembanyama), because of the French kid. I think more teams are going to turn the ship in the tank direction earlier than usual.
"So, maybe, you can get a better deal than the Pacers deal. But I don't understand how you build a team out and not emphasize shooting when you have LeBron."
Check out his comments below, starting just after the 10-minute mark:
The Lakers future, and what they can do to turn the season around
Coach Darvin Ham has remained adamant that despite the team picking up back-to-back losses, they simply need time to gel. Although Wright conceded that the Lakers could improve if they trade Russell Westbrook, there's another thing he thinks is concerning: Anthony Davis' play. Wright said:
"And I don't understand why Anthony Davis refuses to play like the guy he used to play. Like, an above the rim, inside force. And instead, he's a worse jump shooter than Russ. He's one of the worst jump shooters in basketball for two years, keeps taking them."
It is important to mention that Davis has had two good games to start the season. In Game 1, he put up 27 points, six rebounds, and four steals on 45% shooting. Two days later, he put up 25 points and eight rebounds on 56% shooting, including 50% from behind the arc. If his play keeps up, Wright may very well have to change his tune.
Check out his highlights from the Lakers' recent loss to the LA Clippers below: