The position the Lakers would finish in if they keep Westbrook

After two years in which the Los Angeles Lakers have been indebted to the NBA fan base, there is a lot of anticipation for Darvin Ham’s first year as head coach. There are no big changes in terms of the core of the team, since in addition to LeBron James and Anthony Davis as references in the main quintet, Russell Westbrook will continue in his role as point guard.

After what was his irregular performance in 2021-22, the veteran point guard has a lot to prove from the sporting point of view, but he will also have to find better chemistry with the coaching staff and the rest of his teammates, something that he had problems with. the previous campaign.

The Californian board decided to change a large part of the squad, this time favoring a specific player profile and it is about young defensive figures, such as Lonnie Walker IV or Juan Toscano-Anderson. It contrasts notably with the team the previous season, when the team had veterans with little defensive rigor such as Carmelo Anthony or Trevor Ariza.

The Lakers will be over 44 wins and 38 losses, improving their performance compared to last season, but still lacking the arguments to be contenders. This will put them over eighth in the West and they will be forced into the play-in tournament.