USA TODAY International Edition
Lakers might be even better than their current record
For a team from a city that thrives on compelling scripts, the Lakers could not have written a better one to start the season: Led by their two superstars, the Lakers have the NBA’s best record ( 22- 3 going into Friday) in what marks Los Angeles’ best start in 34 years.
Granted, the true measure of success for the Lakers and their fans is whether the season ends with a championship parade. Nonetheless, these Lakers have offered promising signs they can hoist their 17th NBA championship trophy and their first since 2010.
LeBron James and Anthony Davis have been the NBA’s most dominant duo so far. The team has also found role players to fill nearly every need, including 3point shooting ( Danny Green), defense ( Avery Bradley) and playmaking ( Rajon Rondo, Alex Caruso). The team has leaned on a head coach ( Frank Vogel) who has earned his star players’ respect because of his preparation.
Because of this cast, the Lakers entered the season expecting to be a contender after missing the playoffs for six consecutive seasons during the worst stretch in franchise history. Yet the team did not think it would go this smooth.
It seems unrealistic the Lakers can top their NBA- record 33- game winning streak in the 1971- 72 season. Not even the 2015- 16 Warriors, 2013- 14 Heat or 1995- 96 Bulls could surpass that feat.
And as with most teams in this loadmanagement era, the Lakers will prioritize maximizing health over chasing regular- season records.
Nonetheless, the Lakers have outlined a blueprint on how to excel with their star talent. James has averaged 25.8 points and an NBA- leading 10.8 assists and is hungry to return to the playoffs after missing last season for the first time since 2006. Davis has averaged 27.2 points, 9.2 rebounds and 2.6 blocks in his first season with the Lakers.
The result: The Lakers are off to their best start in over three decades. Even if more challenges await, the Lakers seem equipped on making episodes filled with production and little on drama.