Clippers vs. Lakers: Rivalry Game Is Not Must-Win for Lakers Despite Poor Start

Everybody needs to calm down. The Los Angeles Lakers will be just fine.

After an 0-2 start, many have already had enough. Questions have started about whether it was smart to add Steve Nash and Dwight Howard, as well as whether or not coach Mike Brown should be able to keep his job.

ESPN's John Hollinger had this thought watching the loss against the Portland Trail Blazers:

Did the Lakers hold a training camp this year? Just wondering.

— John Hollinger (@johnhollinger) November 1, 2012  

Meanwhile, ESPN First Take was forced to debate this question on its program:

Should the Lakers chill right now or is it time to panic?

— ESPN First Take (@ESPN_FirstTake) November 1, 2012  

NBA Analyst Chris Sheridan had this poll on his website:

Good morning, L.A. When will Mike Brown get fired by #Lakers? Vote here: sheridanhoops.com/2012/11/02/pol…

— Chris Sheridan (@sheridanhoops) November 2, 2012  

Only 36 percent of people believed the coach would make it to December. Sorry to disappoint so many people, but Mike Brown should stay with the team, and fans need to be patient.

The Lakers have lost two games. In all likelihood, the team will lose 20-30 more. There is no reason for concern.

In fact, the team is currently only one game out of a playoff spot—a margin that can be made up within a couple of days.

Overall, it does not matter where the team finishes as long it reaches the playoffs. Therefore, the record will not be a concern until Los Angeles is still out of a playoff spot in April.

The important thing at this point of the season is dealing with team chemistry. Admittedly, that has not been perfect through two games, but it is a part of the process with a team full of new acquisitions.



When LeBron James and Chris Bosh first joined the Mia...

About the Author