Storyline No. 3: Can the team handle expectations
When LeBron James signed with the Los Angeles Lakers, expectations skyrocketed. Last season, despite having so many young players, people expected great things. They fell short of those expectations, as injuries ravaged the team.
The organization decided to go in a different direction this season, as they added multiple veterans to help carry the load. The roster overall is upgraded, and as a result, the expectations are heightened once again. The Lakers are among the favorites to win the NBA Championship. However, there are still some question marks as to whether this team is truly a contender.
The point guard spot has led to a lot of non-answers. Rajon Rondo, Avery Bradley and Alex Caruso are the options right now to hold the title. However, James should shoulder a lot of the playmaking responsibility. All bring something different to the table, but Bradley should have the starting lineup given his skill set fit alongside James and Davis.
Health will also be something important to the team’s success. Davis doesn’t have the greatest track record when it comes to being healthy and James had the worst injury of his career last season. If either of them misses an extended period of time, it could get ugly.
There is immense pressure on everyone involved. Frank Vogel will hear about Jason Kidd angling to take his job if the team starts losing games. The battle between James and Father Time will be a topic throughout the season, especially if he struggles with another injury or shows signs of slowing down.
There is no doubt the Lakers are a contending team, but they will need some things to break in their favor to realize that potential.