![]() The team is struggling to find offensive production outside of Butler, who is also the heart of the Heat defense. Through seven games during the 2022 NBA season, the team sports a lowly 110.8 offensive rating on the year, ranking 22nd overall in the league. This team has a stifling defensive identity, ranking fifth in defensive rating in 2021 according to Statmuse. In 2021 the team ranked 10th in offensive rating and during the playoffs, it felt like Butler was doing all the damage on his own. We’ve had our fair share of Jimmy Butler playoff moments since then, however, it feels like the Heat has taken a step back after acquiring Kyle Lowry and seeing a dip in production from Duncan Robinson. Many were surprised to see that team make it that far. The Miami Heat went to the NBA Finals to challenge the Lakers in the 2020 NBA bubble. Westbrook Takes his Talents to South Beach If the Lakers want to stay competitive and keep James around and make use of his golden years, this roster will need a lot more than a re-tooling and it will start with some trades. At 37 years old, James shouldn’t be burdening the load of his team and willing them to the playoffs. There’s no question that LeBron James is the engine of this Lakers team. Through six games so far this NBA season, the Lakers roster is dead last in 3-point percentage and while they are currently holding the third-highest defensive rating according to Statmuse, it isn’t equating to wins. That team was tantalizing on defense, boasting the top defensive rating among all teams that season at 107.1. ![]() ![]() For James’ 2020 Lakers squad, while they ranked 21st in 3-point percentage that year, they made up for it with suffocating defense, ranking 11th in steals and 5th in blocks. His 2012, 2013, and 2016 squads ranked 10th, 2nd, and 7th respectively in 3-point percentage during their runs according to Statmuse. It’s clear that James-led championship teams need good shooters. ![]() He goes on to mention that if it takes trading away Anthony Davis to get a younger star next to LeBron James, he would do it. He just doesn’t fit with this team.” Crawford said. What has happened to Anthony Davis?”įormer NBA player Jamal Crawford has also mentioned fit when talking bout the Los Angeles Lakers roster on the Through the Wire podcast. My point is, you’re too big, too skilled, too talented. He don’t look like he wants to go anywhere near the basket. “I came on the air talking about how Anthony Davis was a top-seven player. It’s easy to view Westbrook as a scapegoat and see where his fit skews this team, however, the availability and competitive level of play from star forward Anthony Davis has come into question in recent light. Russell Westbrook: 18 PTS, 8 REB, 8 AST /0wvXbiYzUd You can argue their third best player to their 10th is the worse collection of players in the league.Lakers Big 3 came up BIG for the W vs. I think they have one of worst rosters in the league. I was stunned watching them - it felt like a team who were missing key players but then you're like, no, this is their full team. Simmons then responded: "Yeah, they're like a fringe play-in team. Their front office needs to be questioned." They were terrible until that fourth quarter - they are starting three point guards. The Lakers need shooters and wings, and they have none of that. O'Connor said: "The Lakers at best are the 10 seed (outside of the playoffs). Speaking on Bill Simmons' podcast, he and NBA insider Kevin O'Connor discussed just how bad the situation is for the team in purple and gold. Many analysts were worried for the Lakers chances heading into the season, and after seeing just one game, those doubts are already looking legitimate. Russell Westbrook takes aim at Los Angeles Lakers coaches as NBA season starts with loss
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