After a surprisingly strong second half of last season, Los Angeles Lakers fans expect big things in 2023-24.
In fact, some are even predicting they could make it all the way to the NBA Finals.
Legion Hoops posted an image of the Lakers’ projected starting five for next season.
It features LeBron James and Anthony Davis, of course, followed by D’Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, and Rui Hachimura.
Meanwhile, Cam Reddish, Taurean Prince, and Gabe Vincent will be the central bench stars.
The release of this image got many fans talking, both for good and bad reasons.
The Lakers projected starting 5 for this upcoming season. 🔥 pic.twitter.com/HFx3f9CeBT
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) August 11, 2023
Some are predicting that the Lakers will hold the Larry O’Brien trophy over their heads next summer because of this stellar lineup of stars.
2024 NBA champions
— 𝕭ron (Parody) (@cookedbylegoat) August 11, 2023
And others again commended general manager Rob Pelinka, who has been attempting to turn the team around for the last couple of seasons.
Pelinka has been working overtime since the February trade deadline and most fans are very pleased with his results.
Such a massive turnaround from 2 years ago. Pelinka has really redeemed himself
— NBA Muse (@NBAMuseAcc) August 11, 2023
But some people aren’t so sure that this lineup is going to be what LA fans are hoping for.
“Quit hyping that 8 seed up,” one fan said.
Quit hyping that 8 seed up 😭😭😭
— jedi (@JEDl_1) August 11, 2023
Others agreed, thinking that these Lakers could maybe make the fourth through sixth seed in the West but nothing better than that.
Garbage 4-6 seed at best
— Himmy (@Mhxgic) August 11, 2023
There is no denying that the Lakers turned things around last season.
But there are still many challenges before them, including possible injury problems and a very crowded and competitive Western Conference.
Their faithful followers are very excited by this projected lineup but will it really give them everything they want?
NEXT: James Worthy Makes Strong Anthony Davis Prediction For Lakers
