5 things the Lakers need to do to win the 2021 NBA Championship

LAKE BUENA VISTA, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 11: The Los Angeles Lakers celebrate with the trophy after winning the 2020 NBA Championship Final over the Miami Heat in Game Six of the 2020 NBA Finals at AdventHealth Arena at the ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex on October 11, 2020 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Douglas P. DeFelice/Getty Images) /

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2. Sign a 3-and-D player

Although the Lakers played great defense from start to finish this season, it would be wise for them to make that strength even better next season.

When one looks at the teams that could stand in their way of repeating as champs, he or she will see many talented superstar wings: Kawhi Leonard, Klay Thompson, Luka Doncic, Jimmy Butler, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Jayson Tatum, Kevin Durant, etc.

With James just a couple months away from turning 36, he can’t be expected to do everything for this team at both ends of the floor. His energy must be conserved so that he can stay fresh for the playoffs and play like he did this postseason once again.

Therefore, it would help immensely if the Lakers acquire a 3-and-D wing – namely, one who is a strong individual defender and 3-point shooter.

I included a picture of former Laker Michael Cooper above because he was the very first NBA player of that type, and in a perfect world, we could step into the Hot Tub Time Machine and place him on this current Lakers team.

But since Hot Tub Time Machine was nothing more than an awesome movie, the Lakers will need to use their mid-level exception wisely to acquire a similar player.

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