The Los Angeles Lakers made some big changes over the offseason. Gone are Kyle Kuzma, Montrezl Harrell and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and in are Russell Westbrook, Carmelo Anthony and Dwight Howard.
Because the Lakers are so old on paper and have such a combustible mix of veteran personalities, many have taken to doubting their championship aspirations in 2021-22. Even fellow NBA players.
Just a few days ago, Blake Griffin threw some legit shade on the Lakers. His teammate, Kevin Durant, did the same not long ago.
This week Lakers head coach Frank Vogel addressed the doubters and head-on.
“I’m excited that teams are counting us out or betting against us,” Vogel said. “Our team is highly motivated, and we really suffered last year by not having an offseason or the proper build-up to training camp. Obviously it resulted in a lot of injuries, and I’m excited to see what this group can do with a full training camp.”
Bold talk for a man who is reportedly coaching for his job.
Obviously the Lakers’ path to a title won’t be easy. It never is. And yes, having a very old roster makes the likelihood of injuries all the higher. That said, there’s a reason the recently re-signed Rajon Rondo said what he said about the team’s attitude heading into 2021-22. With experience comes confidence.
It will be fascinating to see who is right when the Lakers take the court in 2021-22.
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