LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers are in serious risk of missing the playoffs for the second consecutive year.
The Lakers accumulates only 27 wins in 59 games and, with that, bitter the 13th position of the West.
Therefore, the star has already said that this final stretch of the campaign will be some of the most important matches of his career.
“LeBron has four NBA titles and has reached 10 Finals. He’s one of the greatest basketball has ever seen, certainly. But you’re in Los Angeles and you’re wearing a Lakers jersey. Purple and gold is, in short, one of the hallmarks of the sport.” the ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith said.
“LeBron is still great on the court. So, to be out of the playoffs again would be shameful.” Smith added.
The Californian team understood the risk they were taking and finally made a move in recent weeks. It closed four exchanges and, thus, five new athletes of rotation arrived to the cast.
The direction of the franchise showed a sense of urgency and, as a result, the star’s surroundings in the company were strengthened. Smith no longer sees rank as optional or negotiable for Angelinos.
“If LeBron is healthy alongside an entire Anthony Davis and the backups, it’s not acceptable to only be 13th in the West. And, by the way, they can’t even be 12th or 11th or 10th place.” Smith said.
“No one expects them to be champions with this roster, but there’s no way they’re going to miss out on the playoffs again. This is the Los Angeles Lakers, after all,” he added.
LeBron and the Lakers don’t seem to be that far away from a direct playoff berth despite the dismal 13th position in the West.
Six games, after all, separate 11 franchises on the table – since the third Sacramento Kings.
Californians are doing poorly, but in a very balanced picture. For the commentator, for now, the obligation of the Angelina team is a direct vacancy in the postseason.
