Los Angeles Lakers: 3 things that could derail LA from winning the title

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - JUNE 01: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts on the bench during the second half in Game Five of the Western Conference first-round playoff series at Phoenix Suns Arena on June 01, 2021 in Phoenix, Arizona. 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 Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

2 of 4

(Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images) – Los Angeles Lakers /

3. The Los Angeles Lakers’ backcourt is a little too short

As I mentioned, I really like some of the moves the Los Angeles Lakers have made, particularly in the backcourt.

In addition to Westbrook, I really like the signings of Nunn and Monk. Both are young, dynamic guards who can hit 3s, get their own shot and finish in transition. Both also have the ability to play good defense.

Kent Bazemore was another good pickup, as he can also score, hit shots and defend.

The re-signing of Talen Horton-Tucker was also key, as he is already a good piece and has plenty of upside assuming his work ethic and desire are plentiful.

The problem is that these guys are not that tall.

Monk and Nunn are 6-foot-3, while Horton-Tucker is 6-foot-4 and Bazemore is 6-foot-5.

This could cause problems at times defensively when they go up against guards 6-foot-6 and taller, or when they’re forced to switch onto someone taller and/or bigger.

The last couple of seasons, we saw what happened when Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, who is 6-foot-5, switched onto someone taller, especially if that player was a forward.

The caveat here is that Bazemore and Horton-Tucker both have impressive wingspans of 7-feet or more. That could mitigate this concern, or even allow them to play some minutes at the 3, especially when the Lakers go small.

Home/Lakers News