Are We Talking about Playoffs?

As the NBA All Star weekend is coming to an end, it is time for the Lakers to make a run for the playoffs. The Lakers, are currently sitting in 10thplace in the Western Conference with a record of 28-29. This season has been full of injuries, trade drama, and problems with the coaching staff. With Lonzo Ball hopefully returning soon from a grade 3-ankle sprain and having the rest of the team healthy, we now have a legit chance once again.

Lonzo Ball Status:

When Lonzo suffered his ankle sprain he was projected to miss 4-6 weeks. The Los Angeles Times, has reported that Ball has begun running on underwater treadmills with the recovery going as planned. It is said Ball is likely to return in the beginning of March.

Do The Lakers Have Time?

The Lakers have work to do. With only 25 games left of the year the Lakers are only 3 games behind the Clippers for the 8thseed. LA must put on a winning streak and finish the year strong. The Clippers have just traded away one of their best player in Tobias Harris along with Boban Marjanovic to the 76ers who are in the East. This could play as a huge factor for the Lakers to get that spot over them.

What Needs To Be Done?

The Lakers are going to need help from their young core if they want to make it. With Lebron leading the way, he is going to need that No.2 and No.3 option on offense. Kyle Kuzma has looked to be very promising as he is averaging nearly 20ppg, 6reb, and 2ast. This is someone Lebron can look to get a bucket when needed. Brandon Ingram needs to step it up big time, he has been certainly the most disappointing first round draft pick for the Lakers in the past several years. He is averaging 17 ppg, 5reb, and 3ast. For LA to make this run they will need more consistency from him. For example, against the 76ers Ingram scored a career high 36 points and he also scored only 5 points against San Antonio. LA can’t afford that kind of inconsistent play if they want to get to the playoffs and compete.

Time To Make It Happen.

With LA in the Western Conference it is going to be a rough stretch during these last 25 games. LA’s first game coming back from the break will be on Thursday against the Houston Rockets. The last time these two-played LA was up early by 20 and then Lonzo went down. This is where I think everything started to fall apart and the Lakers have not looked the same since. With the team almost all back together LA will need to be locked in and work together if they want to make this playoff push and put the trade talks behind them… yes, easier said then done! Are you with me Laker Nation!