The Lakers will be little more than roadkill for their first-round opponent, but they can make it to the dance yet again.
They have been lively this season. No one in their right mind would have predicted Los Angeles to post a record above .500 without Kobe Bryant for the first quarter of the campaign.
Several players are enjoying career years, and the team seems to employ a next-man-up mentality—someone is always there to pick up the slack.
Since Bryant's return, L.A. has hit a little rough patch, losing four of their first five with their leader back in the lineup.
Still, heading into Wednesday, the Lakers sit just two-and-a-half games out of the final Western Conference playoff spot, tied with the Minnesota Timberwolves for 10th in the West.
Their pleasant start has given them somewhat of a cushion for Bryant to work out the kinks and get back into shape for the stretch run.
Therein lies the key to L.A.'s hopes this season: If Bryant can regain his sea legs—and his play is already picking up—the Lakers' entire offense will open up.
Bryant's presence has already done wonders for Pau Gasol's offensive game.
Before Kobe's return, Gasol was shooting a horrid 41.8 percent from the field. That would have been the worst mark of his career by a country mile.
Alongside Bryant, over the last six games, the Spaniard is shooting a crisp 52.1 percent from the floor.
If the Lakers get their two stars on track, they will be able to put up points against anybody—just like they did a season ago.
The schedule works out in their favor, too.
Heading into Tue...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers