Metta World Peace predicts Lakers return to NBA Finals

Despite being amnestied by the Lakers earlier this summer, Metta World Peace still thinks highly of his former team. While at a book signing for his children’s book “Metta’s Bedtime Stories,” MWP told ESPNNewYork.com and Newsday that he thinks the Lakers will return to the Finals, but not with the team they currently have.

"“I think Kobe (Bryant’s) gonna be healthy, they’re gonna get Pau (Gasol). The Lakers are gonna make a big trade like they always do. They’re gonna get another good player, boom, boom and they’re gonna go to the Finals. I believe it. Kobe’s gonna come back, he’s gonna play team ball and Pau’s gonna play well.” – Metta World Peace"

The always controversial MWP clearly still has faith in his former teammates. Despite parting with a host of free agents this summer including Dwight Howard, World Peace wasn’t shy in his predictions for LA. ESPN projected this purple and gold squad to finish 12th in the Western Conference, but they also predicted a Western Conference title for the squad last season.

Nevertheless, it’s nice to see a former player and fan favorite to speak highly of LA. Metta will always be seen in a high regard with the Lakers and their fans.