The Los Angeles Lakers Look to Repeat

The Los Angeles Lakers made a statement last season. In the face of so many naysayers, Kobe Bryant proved that this team had what it takes to win a championship. Many fans and experts doubted Kobe Bryant once the Lakers lost Shaq.

Kobe Bryant proved that the Los Angeles Lakers didn’t need Shaquille O’Neal to win an NBA title. He did have the help of Pau Gasol and Lamar Odom (two big men), but they’re not Shaquille O’Neal in his prime.

It should also be noted that the only significant player the Lakers have lost is Trevor Ariza. While Ariza was a valuable role player in Los Angeles, he’s not one of the team’s stars, so all indicators would point to the notion that they should be okay without him.

Much of the Lakers’ success last year should be attributed to a lot more than just Kobe himself. This was a team effort through and through.

Andrew Bynum needs to have a break out year this season because he has contributed little in his career thus far. Bynum has improved his scoring average every year he has been in the league but can’t stay healthy. Bynum is a good talent; he has size and has shown signs of having the potential to be a great big man.

After a wildly successful season, one has to wonder if the Lakers can do this again. Kobe Bryant will turn 32 this season, still young enough to play some very effective basketball.

Pau Gasol will turn 30, also young enough to play at his peak. Lamar Odom will be 31, and Andrew Bynum will be 23, maturing another year. It seems like everyone’s at the perfect age.

Then there’s the x-factor, of course. The signing of Ron Artest, one of the best defensive players in basketball. Artest will turn 31, making for a well aged team that has the physical prowess and the knowledge to do anything a team is capable of doing. The Los Angeles Lakers are favorites to repeat entering the season.

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