Los Angeles Lakers News: Jeremy Lin and 5 Things to Watch This Upcoming NBA Lakers Season
After an extremely disappointing season in which the Los Angeles Lakers lost a franchise-record 55 games, the team hired a new coach, Byron Scott. Despite winning just 27 games last year, the Lakers always have high expectations because of their established history.
Here are the five biggest things to watch for with the Lakers next season.
1. Jeremy Lin's Arrival
The Lakers couldn't make a huge splash in free agency, but they did trade for point guard Jeremy Lin. Lin has had great moments with the New York Knicks and Houston Rockets, and now he will get the opportunity to play alongside Kobe Bryant. Lin's dual threat scoring and passing ability could be what helps this Lakers team win games in the fourth quarter. Lin has already said numerous times he is looking forward to playing with Bryant and learning from Steve Nash.
2. Kobe Bryant's Return
Much of the reason the Lakers were 27-55 last season was because Kobe Bryant only played six games. A leg injury sidelined him for the majority of the season, and the Lakers never stood a chance. If Bryant can return to the elite scoring guard we've seen for so many years, the Lakers could be a threat in the Western Conference. Bryant is entering his 19th season in the league this year.
3. Byron Scott's System
Mike D'Antoni resigned this summer as the Lakers head coach after going a combined 67-87 in two seasons. Being the Lakers head coach brings a lot of pressure, but Scott should be up for the challenge. Scott previously led the New Jersey Nets to two consecutive NBA Finals appearances in 2002 and 2003, and Lakers fans are hoping he can repeat the magic in Los Angeles. Scott emphasizes defense a lot more than D'Antoni does and is already receiving high reception from fans.
4. Perimeter Shooting From Nick Young
To many people's surprise, the Lakers ranked No. 2 overall in three pointers made last season with 774. They finished tied for second with the Golden state Warriors, while the Houston Rockets made 779. Nick Young made a career high 135 three pointers last season, and with Jodie Meeks now on the Detroit Pistons, he will be asked to do more than ever. Young is the best perimeter shooter on the Lakers, and this squad needs him to make outside shots to compete.
5. Big Men
The biggest question mark and concern facing the Lakers next season is their front court. The team traded away power forward Pau Gasol, clearing a lot of cap space, and brought in Carlos Boozer. Boozer is a good forward but a downgrade from Gasol. Jordan Hill, Robert Sacre and Ed Davis still have a lot to prove. This Lakers team will definitely be more back court driven with their talent guard play.
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