NBA Draft 2017: Lakers, Suns, and Nets all vying for lottery position

3 of 5

Mar 24, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA: Los Angeles Lakers forward Julius Randle (30) reacts during overtime of a NBA game at the Staples Center. LA Lakers won 130-119. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

Los Angeles Lakers

Final Stretch Prediction: 2-7 | Final Record Prediction: 23-59

The next step that the young core needs to take in Los Angeles is compete for the playoffs. From there, confidence for a title run will come, but it might not be overnight.

Los Angeles will finish yet another season with a losing record, proving that their young core still needs some help. Hoping to that find in the upcoming draft, all it could take is one player to drastically change things.

There’s potential for a permanent move from D’Angelo Russell, as well, which could change their options on draft night. After seeing how it might look, head coach Luke Walton seems to be on board with the idea of keeping Russell as a shooting guard.

D'Angelo Russell is the best player on this team and it's not close.
— Lake Show Life (@TheLakeShowLife) March 22, 2017

Despite being drafted as a point guard, things haven’t exactly panned out or been consistent for the former Ohio State star.

With nine games remaining in their schedule as of Sunday night, things don’t look great for them either.

Also having Monday off, Los Angeles plays a playoff team in five of those nine games. Coming against the Wizards, T-Wolves, Clippers, Grizzlies, Spurs, Kings, T-Wolves (again), New Orleans, and then closing shop in Golden State.

Wow what a finale that’ll be.

Home/Los Angeles Lakers