The Los Angeles Lakers enter every season with the same goal in mind; winning a championship. But winning a championship takes a mix of luck and talent which they’ll need on their side.
Los Angeles enters this season with the majority of the team still intact, they’ll need a lot to go right in order to get different results than they did the last two seasons.
After losing in the first round last year, it was an interesting choice for the front office to elect to bring back the same squad. However, it seems to hint that general manager Rob Pelinka and ownership believe the hiring of JJ Redick alone can take this roster a step in the right direction.
This leads to the first bold prediction for the Lakers ahead of next season:
JJ Redick finishes Top three in NBA Coach of the Year voting
Redick has all the tools to be a top coach in the league despite it being his first year leading his own squad. The former sharpshooter has plenty of experience from his time in the NBA and next-level understanding of the game. The Lakers will manage to rise back to contention, and their new head coach will be atop the reasons why.
D’Angelo Russell finishes the season with the Lakers
Russell continues to be brought up in trade rumors as the Lakers constantly seek roster upgrades. However, Redick will put the guard in a position to play to his strengths which will lead to a career year for the Ohio State alum. Not only will Russell be a key contributor this season for the Lakers, but the playmaker will opt out of his contract and sign a long-term extension to stay in Los Angeles.
Austin Reaves is dealt for a superstar
Last season, Austin Reaves came up in trade talks on numerous occasions, but Los Angeles made it clear the 26-year-old was off limits unless it’s for a superstar-level player. The versatile guard just signed a team-friendly deal that could be attractive as a key trade asset for any potential deal. That said, this will be the year that a disgruntled star requests out from their current situation and Reaves is the focal point of a blockbuster trade.
If all bold predictions come true, the Lakers would not only be a championship contender under Redick but there will also be a new big three in LA.
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