The final weeks of the NBA regular season can be misleading. The best teams prepare for the playoffs, while the worst teams tank, and injured star players are often sidelined. As a result, performances and storylines aren’t always indicative of future outcomes.
Coaches, scouts, and executives are trying to determine which late-season trends will persist in the playoffs. The injuries to key players are a major concern.
Doncic and Reaves Injuries Cast Doubt
Doncic and Reaves both have Grade 2 strains. While they will attempt to return for the first round, these are significant injuries. The Lakers must prepare as if Doncic and Reaves will be out for the entire series. It is uncertain how their soft tissue injuries will feel in two weeks.
LeBron’s Role and the Lakers’ Chances
The question is whether the Lakers can win four of seven games against the Houston Rockets with LeBron James leading the way. An Eastern Conference scout suggested the Lakers need LeBron to have a hot shooting series and for the Rockets to have a cold shooting series. When James’ three-pointer is effective, it opens up the game.
James, Doncic and Reaves had been performing well together, largely because James accepted a “third star” role. An East executive noted that someone always has to sacrifice in that role, and this time it was James. Now, the Lakers will depend on James to carry lineups lacking ballhandling and shot creation.
While a scenario exists where the Lakers succeed if James gets hot and the role players hit shots, that ignores the talent gap with Doncic and Reaves sidelined. A West executive believes Houston’s defence will overwhelm them.
Smart’s Health a Concern
A Western Conference scout emphasised the importance of Marcus Smart’s health. He’s a key point-of-attack defender, and his absence would be a significant loss. They cannot afford to lose another starter, especially with his recent absence.
James’ Offensive Burden
For two decades, teams in trouble have relied on James to create the best shot. The question is whether James, who has appeared healthy recently, can still beat players off the dribble. When James’ teams have been in trouble, the old reliable has been to put the ball in his hands and spread the floor.