2. Hitting the gym
When people make New Year’s resolutions, usually it is to get into better shape. Whether that be going to the gym more or changing a diet, getting healthier is usually the No. 1 resolution at the New Year. For the Lakers, the getting healthy part is what they need to do.
Injuries have really hurt the Lakers, but they have been especially painful in recent weeks heading into 2019. Rajon Rondo will be out a few weeks again with a broken finger. It was the third extended absence he had this season, as he was suspended three games earlier in the season and missed 17 games with a hand injury.
Brandon Ingram was also suspended for four games earlier this season and missed seven with an ankle injury. James has missed five games thus far and will miss at least two more as he recovers from a groin injury. Kyle Kuzma has also missed two games and counting with a back contusion.
All of these injuries have caused constant lineup changes for Luke Walton. Cohesion and chemistry were going to be a topic all season, just as they are whenever James joins a new team. However, they aren’t being done any favors with the injuries causing so many changes.
In 2019, for this season at least, the Lakers health will need to improve if they are to reach their full potential.