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Los Angeles Lakers Receive Brutal Prediction For Play-In

Originally posted on NBA Analysis Network
By Jake Rogers | Last updated 4/15/24

The Los Angeles Lakers find themselves in a precarious position at the moment. Their upcoming games hold two potential outcomes, and neither appears promising.

Ideally, they should secure a victory against the New Orleans Pelicans, paving their way to a matchup with the Denver Nuggets in the opening round of the playoffs.

However, failing to do so could lead them to face off against the Sacramento Kings or the Golden State Warriors, with a shot at challenging the Oklahoma City Thunder looming ahead.

This uncertainty has prompted sports analyst Craig Carton to declare that the Lakers are facing an uphill battle.

During a discussion on The Carton Show, Carton emphasized the Lakers’ strong track record against the Pelicans this season, suggesting they should breeze through that matchup.

"The Lakers are DONE."

— @craigcartonlive pic.twitter.com/japREU5C2U
— The Carton Show (@TheCartonShow) April 15, 2024

But looming over them is the daunting prospect of confronting a team that has dominated them in recent encounters. The Denver Nuggets have secured eight consecutive victories over the Lakers, dating back to the previous season, including a comprehensive four-game sweep in the Western Conference.

Should they falter against the Nuggets, they might find themselves pitted against Stephen Curry and the Golden State Warriors, who have emerged victorious in three out of four encounters this season, presenting another formidable challenge.

Regardless of the opponent, the outlook for Darvin Ham’s squad appears bleak for a deep postseason run.

Their inconsistency throughout the season, coupled with their late-season slump, has left them ill-prepared for the challenges ahead.

While boasting talents like LeBron James and Anthony Davis provides a glimmer of hope, it’s evident that overcoming the powerhouse teams in the fiercely competitive Western Conference will require more than just star power.

This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.

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