Los Angeles Lakers: 3 Reasons they can make the playoffs without Anthony Davis
By Nick Ziegler
– West got weaker
As the Lakers try to make the playoffs this season, we have to take a look at what they are going up against. Prior to the injury to James and Rondo on Christmas, the Lakers were the fourth seed in the Western Conference. While they might not have stayed there even if James didn’t get injured, they were certainly playing like a playoff team.
The Los Angeles Clippers are currently one of the teams that are ahead of the Lakers in the Western Conference. However, they just sent Tobias Harris to the Philadelphia 76ers in a move that clearly indicates that they aren’t going for the playoffs this season.
In addition to the Clippers, the Dallas Mavericks traded Harrison Barnes, as they are planning for next season with Luka Doncic, Kristaps Porzingis, and some cap space. While those two teams waved the white flag on the playoff chase, the Sacramento Kings were the team that acquired Harrison Barnes. This is certainly a move by the Kings to get that eighth seed, and they could be the main competition for the Lakers for that spot.
With a good amount of the season left, one good run for the Lakers can certainly move them up in the Western Conference standings, as everyone will be looking to avoid the Golden State Warriors for as long as possible.