Many folks have been quick to point out the apparent flaws associated with the Los Angeles Lakers. However, there is one “flaw” people have resorted to above all else this offseason. Given their array of moves this summer, the term that has usually been used the most to describe the Lakers is that they are old.
While some cannot unsee the team’s average age, it is worth noting the kernel of truth that exists in the phrase “age is just a number.” Age is one of those areas that boils down to perception and there are perks that come along with it.
In the Lakers’ case, they are a group that understands the bigger picture at hand. Granted, it is super easy for players to get caught up in themselves at this level, the Lakers possess players who are focused on a more team-oriented approach.
Better yet, the storied franchise is every bit as fortunate to boast pieces who comprehend the deeper meaning of wearing the Lakers’ uniform. That deeper meaning is embedded in a common goal that has not changed since the squad first came to be in the 1940s.
Needless to say, that goal for the Los Angeles Lakers has always been about winning championships.
Case in point, veterans Carmelo Anthony and Dwight Howard recently unveiled their thoughts on joining the team. According to Matt Peralta of Lakers Nation (originally via the team’s Twitter page), Anthony grasps that a “different” expectation comes with being a Laker.
https://twitter.com/Lakers/status/1433828743470993408?s=20
Although LeBron James’ presence certainly contributed to Anthony’s decision to sign with the purple and gold, it is clear that the former scoring champion is not focused on personal accolades at this point in his career. Rather, Anthony is okay with taking a back seat in order to help the Lakers win their 18th championship.
Anthony’s reflections furthermore suggest a certain level of discernment that comes with experience. He recognizes that the Lakers are cut from a “different” cloth. Quite frankly, the purple and gold are unlike any franchise he has previously played for.
The Lakers have had a tremendous number of great players over the years. Therefore, Anthony surely knows that he will need to excel in his role to help the Lakers reclaim the throne. There is always going to be that added element when playing under the bright lights of Los Angeles.
Let alone Anthony, a familiar face likewise understands the magnitude of playing for the Lakers. Upon his reunion with the team, big man Dwight Howard conveyed via social media that there is “nothing” like playing for the 17-time champions.
Howard was an instrumental part of the Lakers’ 2019-20 championship team. As a result, he knows the glorious feeling that manifests itself when that ultimate ambition is achieved.
That being said, the three-time Defensive Player of the Year is every bit as aware as Anthony of the sacrifice that will be required to win another chip. Howard thrived in his role off the bench for the Lakers during his second stint with the team and will be expected to carry out a similar one this year.
While nothing is ever a given in sports, it is encouraging to see that the Lakers have players with the right mindsets. Albeit individual success is nice, it oftentimes only goes so far in a team game like basketball.
On the contrary, Anthony and Howard have taken to heart the philosophy of the Lakers. Winning is the most important thing at the end of the day, and the pair of veterans appear to be all-in.
Assuming the rest of the team can follow suit, the Lakers will be in fine shape heading into the season. Certainly, having talent is essential, but it is every bit as important to have everyone on the same page.