LeBron’s Back, But Are the Lakers Ready? Roster Upgrades are Crucial for Another Run

The Lakers are buzzing with excitement. LeBron James is set to return, bringing his legendary talent and leadership back to the court. But with the clock ticking, the question isn’t “can LeBron lead the Lakers?” It’s “can the Lakers build a strong enough team around him to contend?”

The answer, quite simply, is no. Not without meaningful roster upgrades.

Let’s face it, LeBron is 38 years old. While he remains an incredible athlete, expecting him to single-handedly carry the team to a championship isn’t realistic. The 2021-2022 season is a prime example. LeBron led the league in assists, playing 37.5 minutes per game, a season-high since 2013-2014. Yet, despite his efforts, the Lakers finished 11th in the Western Conference.

Data doesn’t lie: The Lakers need to bolster their roster with young, athletic players who can provide support. The team needs players who can contribute on both ends of the court, creating a cohesive unit that can withstand the intensity of the playoffs.

Here’s where they need to focus:

• Frontcourt depth: Anthony Davis is a dominant force, but he’s also injury-prone. The Lakers need reliable backup big men who can step up and contribute when Davis is sidelined.

• Perimeter shooting: The Lakers struggled mightily from three-point range last season. Adding shooters who can spread the floor and create space for LeBron and Davis is crucial.

• Defensive intensity: The Lakers need defenders who can disrupt opponents and make it difficult to score. This is especially important against the elite offenses found in the playoffs.

Look at the Golden State Warriors as a case study. They built a championship-caliber team around Stephen Curry by acquiring young, talented players who complemented his skillset. Players like Klay Thompson, Draymond Green, and Jordan Poole. These players provided the necessary shooting, defense, and overall team cohesion that helped Curry lead them to four titles.

The Lakers need to take a page from the Warriors’ playbook. They need to find players who can contribute in a similar way. It’s about creating a team that is greater than the sum of its parts.

The good news is, the Lakers have the financial flexibility to make moves. But they need to make the right ones. With LeBron back, the pressure is on. The Lakers need to surround him with the talent he needs to make another run at a championship. The clock is ticking, and the stakes are high. The question is, will they rise to the occasion?