Los Angeles Lakers: Each new acquisition’s unique role next season
By Jason Reed
LeBron James: Take the Lakers deep in the playoffs, recruit future free agents
LeBron James is obviously going to be gunning for a title in year one in Los Angeles. However, with the Golden State Warriors, who also added DeMarcus Cousins this summer, the chances of that happening are slim right away.
This does not mean the LeBron and the Lakers should be aiming to fall short, absolutely not. However, James’ role in year one with the Lakers is much more than simply trying to compete with the Warriors. It has to do with the future of the team for the next three years.
Year one is simply serving as the appetizer.
First and foremost, it would be nice to see the Lakers make it to the Western Conference Finals. I would consider that a win if I am LeBron and the Lakers. LeBron, doing typical LeBron things, would be able to give this young core the playoff experience that they otherwise would be unable to gain.
Not only that, James would be proving to other prospective stars, such as Kawhi Leonard, that this team is legit and is just a piece or two away from winning an NBA Title. Being in LA and having LeBron already makes the Lakers very intriguing. Knowing that they can legitimately win a title is the icing on the cake.