2. The Los Angeles Lakers still have ample backcourt depth
The Purple and Gold have plenty of players this season who have made contributions, especially at both guard spots. It’s allowed them to withstand some injuries.
When Bradley missed 13 games early in the campaign with a leg injury, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope took his place in the starting lineup. The Lakers didn’t miss a beat, as they won all but one of those games.
Caldwell-Pope is likely to again replace Bradley in the starting lineup once the season resumes. The former Detroit Piston has had a nice season, shooting 39.4 percent from 3-point range, and he’s also an above-average team defender.
Alex Caruso has developed a cult following among Lakers fans, and his play has gradually improved throughout the season.
He’s always been a capable and tenacious defender, and at 6-foot-5 he’s capable of checking both point and shooting guards.
But the key for Caruso is his outside shooting. He has hit 38.6 percent of his 3-pointers since Jan. 1 and if he continues to consistently knock down the open shot, he’ll play a huge role in picking up the slack.
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Another player who may get more playing time in Quinn Cook. He’s almost been forgotten, as he’s gotten lost in the shuffle of L.A.’s thick backcourt depth.
But Cook is an outstanding, dead-eye outside shooter, and he has championship experience, having played on the 2018 Golden State Warriors.
Let’s also not forget about Rajon Rondo. He’s a polarizing player among Laker fans, but he has an uncanny habit of showing up in big games and playing well.
As they say, Playoff Rondo is a thing.