LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers have defied expectations with their impressive performance last season. Despite starting in 13th place, the Lakers finished in 7th, reached the Western Conference Finals, and showcased James’s outstanding statistics with 28.9 PPG, 6.8 Assists, and 8.3 Rebounds. As James approaches his 39th birthday, fans are excited to see if he can secure his 5th championship ring or if his production will decline.
Los Angeles Lakers Offseason Recap
The Lakers made notable moves last season’s trade deadline by acquiring D’Angelo Russell and Jarred Vanderbilt, which significantly improved their performance. This season, they focused on maintaining the team’s core by signing long-term deals with Anthony Davis, Russell, Vanderbilt, Austin Reaves, and Rui Hachimura. The Lakers believe that this competitive core, alongside James, will keep them among the top teams in the Western Conference for the foreseeable future.
Although the Lakers didn’t make any flashy signings, they strengthened their lineup during the offseason. Dennis Schroder, a key player last season, left the team, but Gabe Vincent from the Miami Heat is set to fill his role effectively. Vincent showcased his skills with impressive numbers during last season’s postseason. Additionally, the Lakers added Christian Wood as a backup for Davis, who brings potential and depth to the team. Overall, the Lakers have improved their roster for the upcoming season.
Los Angeles Lakers Season Expectations
With a roster that includes the greatest basketball player of this century, the Lakers have high expectations heading into the season. James’s leadership and determination inspire the team to aim for success. The Lakers demonstrated their potential during last season’s strong finish and successful playoff run, providing optimism for continued success. With two reliable scorers capable of consistently contributing, a solid defense led by Davis and Wood, and additional scoring depth, the Lakers are equipped to have another fruitful season.
Los Angeles Lakers Schedule Breakdown
The Lakers will face a tough challenge on opening night against the defending champions. However, they have a favorable stretch following that, with 9 of their next 15 games at home. They will then embark on a road trip, facing teams like Cleveland, Philadelphia, Dallas, and Minnesota. The Lakers must avoid starting the season in a hole if they want to secure a postseason spot. They have a potential advantage in March, playing 10 consecutive home games except for a short trip to Sacramento.
LA Lakers Odds
As expected, the Lakers have favorable odds to win the championship (+1200), reflecting their talent, depth, and winning mentality. However, their win total of 47.5 may be ambitious, given their recent history. The Lakers have only surpassed this total once in the past 12 years. They are highly likely to make the postseason (-450) but are unlikely to secure the number one seed (+700). In the in-season tournament, the Lakers are favored (+200) in a group featuring the Suns and Grizzlies and have odds of +1200 to win the championship.
Los Angeles Lakers 2023-24 Season Predictions
The Lakers are expected to have a solid regular season to secure a place in the playoffs, finishing somewhere between 4th and 7th in the Western Conference. The likelihood of James and Davis playing a full 82-game season is slim, meaning the Lakers’ depth may be tested. However, a campaign of 45 wins would still be considered successful. While there is significant hype surrounding the Lakers, their inflated win total of 47.5 is unlikely to be achieved. In the playoffs, the Lakers face strong competition in the Western Conference, and it will be challenging for their secondary players to carry the team against top-tier opponents. Therefore, it’s wise to bet on the Lakers falling short of 47.5 wins and to wait for more favorable odds before considering future bets.
NBA Futures
Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
NBA Championship 2023-24
NBA Champion
Milwaukee Bucks +380
Denver Nuggets +600
Boston Celtics +400
Phoenix Suns +650
Golden State Warriors +1200
Los Angeles Lakers +1200
Miami Heat +2300
Los Angeles Clippers +2200
Philadelphia 76ers +2300
Dallas Mavericks +2500
Memphis Grizzlies +3300
Cleveland Cavaliers +4000
Sacramento Kings +5000
New Orleans Pelicans +5000
New York Knicks +5000
Minnesota Timberwolves +7500
Atlanta Hawks +8000
Oklahoma City Thunder +8000
Brooklyn Nets +10000
Toronto Raptors +10000
San Antonio Spurs +12500
Chicago Bulls +20000
Portland Trail Blazers +25000
Utah Jazz +25000
Indiana Pacers +30000
Orlando Magic +35000
Houston Rockets +40000
Detroit Pistons +50000
Charlotte Hornets +50000
Washington Wizards +75000
Western Conference 2023-24
Western Conference Winner
Denver Nuggets +250
Phoenix Suns +350
Golden State Warriors +550
Los Angeles Lakers +750
L.A. Clippers +950
Dallas Mavericks +1200
Memphis Grizzlies +1400
Sacramento Kings +2200
New Orleans Pelicans +2800
Oklahoma City Thunder +3500
Minnesota Timberwolves +4000
Houston Rockets +10000
Utah Jazz +10000
San Antonio Spurs +10000
Portland Trail Blazers +15000
