The Lakers haven't lived up to their expectations this year, as Kobe Bryant said, "Winning in June is the thing that will really judge are season." Which shows the Lakers are mentally prepared for the playoffs which is a promising sign.
1. Consistency
The Lakers are capable of beating any team in the NBA comfortably, they haven't shown signs of that as of late.
The Lakers haven't been able to play quality Basketball for 48 minutes this year, due to a undisciplined bench for example Shannon Brown and Jordan Farmar. Shannon isn't disciplined because he forces shots, having said that he plays good defense. Jordan Farmar is a very streaky shooter and is undisciplined, because he hogs the ball a little bit too much.
2. Determination
The Lakers haven't been showing any determination in the last six games.
Every loss feels like they are thinking we will bounce back next game and play well when all the chips are on the line, you can tell by their body language they didn't care if they were to beat Denver when they played.
Kobe didn't play apparently because he was fatigued, but all these loses are crucial, because the Orlando Magic are know tied with the Lakers with only three games remaining. I am expecting the Lakers to go on a four game winning streak to end the season, because it's an easy schedule remaining.
3. Andrew Bynum
Andrew Bynum is expected to play in the very first game of the playoffs. Their rotation has really struggled in Bynum's absence.
The Lakers don't look very deep when Bynum's out which is a concern. Josh Powell was supposed to replace Ronny Turiaf's role which isn't happening, he doesn't play with any energy a...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
