There are such contrasting viewpoints on how successful this team can be in the playoffs. When you talk to fans, some aren't even sure they can make the postseason. Others believe that this is one of those "dangerous" teams that could flip the switch and make a deep run in the playoffs.
Will the real Los Angeles Lakers please stand up?
If the Lakers make the playoffs, they will have some clear challenges. Here are a few barriers to playoff success.
Defense
The defensive shortcomings of this team are obvious and well documented. Through March 24, the Lakers are still giving up 101.1 points per game. That number is fourth worst in the Western Conference. In contrast, the Memphis Grizzlies are the top defensive team in the West at 89.5 points per game.
Dwight Howard is still capable of being a defensive force in the middle, and Superman is averaging 12.5 rebounds and 2.4 blocks per game. The problem is the perimeter defense.
If Chris Paul, Russell Westbrook and Tony Parker can routinely blow by Steve Nash and either slash to the basket or kick the ball out to an open shooter, the presence of Howard may be somewhat less effective.
At this point in the season, it may be a little late to tweak the defensive scheme. In addition, suggesting that the Lakers simply need to increase their intensity on defense may represent wishful thinking at this point.
Basic lack of speed is difficult to overcome.
Obviously, players like Howard, Bryant and Metta World Peace are not going to give up on the defensive end. However, this team may...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
