After a season that left much to be desired, the Los Angeles Lakers are making significant moves to recalibrate and contend for the championship. The Lakers, a storied franchise with a rich history, faced a tough season last year, eking out 47 victories but making an early exit in the first round of the playoffs. Determined to bounce back, the team is setting the stage for a potentially explosive new season.
The New Additions
One of the Lakers' major moves came in 2021 when they added veteran center Andre Drummond to their roster. Drummond's addition was followed by the high-profile acquisition of Russell Westbrook, a dynamic player known for his triple-double prowess. With Westbrook on the roster, the Lakers aimed to bolster their playmaking and scoring capabilities.
Not content with just these changes, the Lakers signed Carmelo Anthony and DeAndre Jordan, both on minimum contracts. These veteran players bring a wealth of experience and skill that can be crucial during the long grind of an NBA season. In a move to recapture past glory, the Lakers also reunited with former champions Rajon Rondo and Dwight Howard. These players were pivotal in the Lakers' 2020 championship run and their return could provide the team with much-needed chemistry and veteran leadership.
Strategic Draft Picks
The Lakers' commitment to building a competitive roster didn’t stop at free agent signings. In the draft, they made a surprising but intriguing choice by picking Bronny James with the 55th overall pick. Bronny, son of LeBron James, comes with a lot of expectations, and it will be interesting to see how he develops under the tutelage of his father.
Additionally, the Lakers secured Dalton Knecht, a standout from Tennessee, with the 17th overall pick. Knecht's college career showcased his scoring ability and defensive prowess, making him a valuable asset for the Lakers' future.
Leadership Changes
Alongside changes on the court, the Lakers also made a significant off-court move by appointing JJ Redick as their new head coach. Redick, known for his sharp basketball mind and shooting precision during his playing days, steps into a role that is crucial for the Lakers' ambitions. Dan Hurley, who had been a top candidate for the head coach position, ultimately declined the offer, paving the way for Redick's appointment.
Future Outlook
Despite these additions and changes, the Lakers' executive vice president of basketball operations and general manager Rob Pelinka remains cautious but optimistic about the future. “I do think in this system, as I opened, some of the trades are more difficult... the trades are less prevalent than they used to be,” Pelinka noted. However, he remains confident in the Lakers' ability to improve the roster, adding, “There’s still time for the Lakers to make a significant upgrade this offseason.”
The Boston Celtics' Ambitious Rebuild
While the Lakers are making headlines with their aggressive moves, their eternal rivals, the Boston Celtics, are also under a significant transformation. Initiated in 2014 after the end of the Kevin Garnett-Paul Pierce era, the Celtics' rebuild has reached an exciting juncture. Recently, they acquired Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis, two players who can potentially transform their postseason fortunes. With these new acquisitions, the Celtics are not merely aiming to compete; they are gunning for the 2024 title.
Both the Lakers and the Celtics are iconic franchises with grand aspirations. As the new season approaches, fans around the globe will be keenly watching how these moves translate on the court. Will the Lakers' combination of seasoned veterans and fresh talent craft a narrative of redemption? Or will the Celtics' strategic rebuild eclipse their rivals in the race to NBA glory?