What's Happening?
The Los Angeles Lakers, who finished third in the Western Conference last season, are entering the 2025-26 NBA season with high hopes of winning a championship. The team has bolstered its roster with key players like Luka Doncic, who recently signed a three-year extension, and maintains veteran star LeBron James. Despite these strengths, a recent poll conducted by NBA.com's John Schuhmann reveals that opposing NBA general managers do not consider the Lakers as serious title contenders. In the poll, Oklahoma City emerged as the overwhelming favorite to win the championship, receiving 80% of the votes, while Cleveland and Denver tied for second place with 7% each. Houston and the New York Knicks also received votes, but the Lakers were notably absent from the list.
Why It's Important?
The lack of recognition from NBA general managers could impact the Lakers' morale and public perception as they aim for a successful season. The team's management and players, including Luka Doncic and LeBron James, are confident in their ability to compete for the title, especially with the addition of players like Deandre Ayton, Marcus Smart, and Jake LaRavia. However, the skepticism from league executives may reflect concerns about James' health, as he is currently sidelined due to a sciatica issue. This situation underscores the challenges the Lakers face in proving their championship potential amidst doubts from influential figures in the basketball community.
What's Next?
The Lakers are focused on maintaining their health and performance throughout the season, particularly as they aim to peak during the playoffs in April. Luka Doncic is expected to have an MVP-caliber season, driven by the desire to demonstrate the error in the Mavericks' decision to trade him. Meanwhile, LeBron James is eager to secure another championship title. The team plans to leverage its strengthened roster to overcome early-season hurdles, including James' injury, and to challenge the prevailing skepticism from league executives.
