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Quick Bytes
- Lakers’ over/under win total set at 44.5 for the 2024-25 NBA season.
- Team’s performance and roster changes influence sportsbooks’ expectations.
- Coaching shift to JJ Redick and health of role players could impact results.
- Austin Rivers expresses optimism about Lakers’ championship potential.
Lakers’ Prospects for the 2024-25 Season
The Los Angeles Lakers enter the 2024-25 NBA season with tempered expectations from sportsbooks, as reflected in their over/under win total of 44.5.
Despite a quiet offseason, the Lakers are positioned ninth in the Western Conference predictions, trailing teams like the New Orleans Pelicans, Phoenix Suns, and Memphis Grizzlies. Notably, they are still ahead of their city rivals, the Clippers, and the Golden State Warriors. The Oklahoma City Thunder and the Boston Celtics top the Western Conference and NBA win total projections, respectively.
Recent seasons have seen the Lakers finish with 43 and 47 wins, indicating a consistency that aligns with the latest projections. Offseason changes include drafting Dalton Knecht and Bronny James, replacing outgoing players Taurean Prince and Spencer Dinwiddie. The team’s leadership has also shifted, with JJ Redick taking over as head coach, bringing fresh strategies and an experienced coaching staff.
Key role players like Jarred Vanderbilt and Gabe Vincent are expected to contribute significantly, provided they maintain good health. However, the Lakers’ relatively static offseason contrasts with moves by other teams, such as the Sacramento Kings acquiring DeMar DeRozan and the Pelicans trading for Dejounte Murray, raising concerns about the Lakers’ ability to compete in a strengthened Western Conference.
Despite these doubts, former player Austin Rivers has voiced confidence in the Lakers’ championship aspirations, citing the standout performances of team captains LeBron James and Anthony Davis during Team USA’s exhibition games. Rivers’ comments suggest that with such talent, the Lakers’ quest for another title may still be within reach.
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