Los Angeles Lakers: 8 factors and trends from hot streak

2. Wins Started to Pile Up

Not at all surprisingly, as the schedule eased up, the Lakers started winning more games. They captured seven of their second 10 games, only four of which were against expected playoff contenders, and have continued to rack up victories.

That 15-5 record over the last 20 games, a .750 winning percentage, has been quite a nice run. But the Lakers, of course, won’t continue to win 75 percent of their games (more about that later too).

The easier schedule was a big factor for the improved results on the court. But, it wasn’t the only reason. Three other important aspects were their improved defense, the adjustments the team has made in regards to playing together, and the natural progression of many players, especially the young core of Brandon Ingram, Lonzo Ball, Kyle Kuzma and Josh Hart.