That's right, even if for a moment, it appears the two-time defending champions are going on a roll and making a run for the top spot in the Western division.
They have since taken down the Atlanta Hawks, Portland Trail Blazers, Los Angeles Clippers, Oklahoma City Thunder and the Minnesota Timberwolves, giving them a 5-0 record since the All-Star break.
Ron Artest had arguably his best game of the year since Game Seven of the NBA Finals last season. When facing the Portland Trail Blazers he netted 24 points after shooting eight of thirteen and making five of six three pointers. Kobe Bryant matched his All-Star point collection that night as well with 37.
Andrew Bynum has played solid both offensively and defensively, averaging 9.4 boards through five nights, much better than his 6.8 career and 7.7 season averages. The same can be said about his points-per-game, averaging 11.4 in five games to match his average on the season.
If there is one weak spot on this stacked roster it's their bench depth. However, the return of Matt Barnes shortly and the continued rise of Steve Blake should be able to assist both Lamar Odom and Shannon Brown in that department.
It appears that right now, everything is going right in Los Angeles and that should be cooling down some of the hot critics who may have felt the team had struggled and looks weak heading towards the postseason.
The rest of the schedule may in fact be a blessing for the Lakers, as they have 20 games remaining, with the last 11 of 15 being held at the Staples Center.
We all remember the seven-game road trip leading up to the All-Star break, where the Lakers started off hot, winning four straight. However they woul...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
