When it comes to playoff basketball, the right seeding can be a game-changer. It’s not just about skill and experience; sometimes, a strategic spot in the standings can pave a smoother path to the NBA Finals.
The Los Angeles Lakers are riding high after a thrilling 127-125 overtime win against the Denver Nuggets, with Luka Doncic sinking a game-winner with just 0.5 seconds left. This victory over a formidable contender has the Lakers buzzing.
Lakers head coach JJ Redick couldn’t help but praise the team’s chemistry but kept his eyes on the prize. “Is ‘coalesce’ a word?
Is that the right word? For coming together?
Jelling?” Redick mused post-game.
“I think it feels like we’re coalescing right now in a really nice way. Still got a long way to go, but certainly optimistic.”
The Lakers are eyeing the No. 3 seed as the playoffs approach. This position could offer them a favorable matchup and delay a clash with the league’s top threats.
If the season ended today, the Lakers would face the Timberwolves in the first round. While teams like the Nuggets, Rockets, or Suns could also land in the sixth spot, the Timberwolves seem like an ideal opponent for Los Angeles.
The Lakers have dominated Minnesota this season, winning all three encounters, two by double digits. Statistically, their offense could pose significant challenges for the Timberwolves.
Despite Minnesota’s prowess from beyond the arc, the Lakers boast a superior offensive rating and lead the NBA in free throw attempt rate. Even on an off shooting night, they can rack up points at the line.
With stars like Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle on the Timberwolves, the Lakers’ trio of LeBron James, Austin Reaves, and Doncic should still have the upper hand in a seven-game series, despite their own three-point shooting struggles.
Redick and the Lakers are cautious not to look too far ahead, but securing the third seed would mean avoiding the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder early on. The Lakers have struggled against the Thunder, losing twice this season, and would prefer to face them later in the playoffs when fatigue might become a factor.
In the second round, the Lakers would likely face the San Antonio Spurs, another tough opponent. However, a matchup with Victor Wembanyama and the Spurs is more appealing than an early showdown with Oklahoma City.
With 15 games left in the regular season, the Lakers are hitting their stride, winning eight of their last nine games. Their recent victory is a testament to their growing momentum.
“It’s a good win for us, obviously,” James shared with Khobi Price of the California Post. “But after [Saturday], we head for a six-game roadie.
We got to be prepared for that, and that starts in Houston. In this league, it’s great to enjoy the moment, but then you got to move on once that other moment comes.”
The Lakers know the importance of peaking at the right time, and they’re determined to finish the season strong.