West Notes: Lakers, LeBron James, Nuggets, Nikola Jokic, Spurs

Lakers

LeBron James’ future may be murky, but ESPN suggests that the Lakers are suddenly looking pretty secure.

Why? Because they swung big, trading for Luka Doncic in February, then locking him up with an extension in August.

That kind of star power — combined with the Los Angeles market and major cap space projected over the next two summers — explains why the Lakers jumped 13 spots in ESPN’s long-term rankings.

Basically, even if LeBron’s days in purple and gold are winding down, the Lakers have their next cornerstone in place. And that should serve them well for years to come.

Nuggets

The Nuggets still sit in rare air when it comes to talent — as ESPN has them fourth in the “players” category, a nod to Nikola Jokic and the crew that pushed Oklahoma City to seven games in last year’s playoffs.

But there’s a catch. As ESPN points out, Denver ranks below average everywhere else. New coach, new GM, apron issues, missing draft picks … you name it.

In other words, this might be the Nuggets’ last, best shot at chasing down the Thunder before the West’s rising powers pass them by.

Spurs

San Antonio clings to the No. 10 slot in the ESPN future rankings, and it’s easy to see why.

Victor Wembanyama is arguably the most exciting young player in the league. Dylan Harper and Stephon Castle give the Spurs back-to-back top-five picks in the backcourt.

Add in De’Aaron Fox, who arrived via trade in February, and ESPN notes that the roster checks just about every box.

The Spurs didn’t crack the top five in any single category, but they also didn’t fall below 16th in market. In short, they appear to be balanced, deep and still trending up.