The Los Angeles Lakers are aiming for a triumphant 2023-2024 season after their humbling sweep by the Denver Nuggets, who ultimately became the NBA champions last season. The series left Lakers’ star, Anthony Davis, bewildered by the outcome. Nikola Jokic of the Nuggets was a force to be reckoned with, averaging over 30 points, 14 rebounds, and seven assists per game during their clash.

The upcoming season promises excitement for the Lakers, with several significant offseason moves, including contract extensions for Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, D’Angelo Russell, and Jarred Vanderbilt. New additions to the roster include Christian Wood, a skilled power forward with remarkable shooting range, promising rookie Jalen Hood-Schifino from Indiana, and the former Miami Heat playoff standout, Gabe Vincent.

LeBron James recently commended another team for their recent professional success. However, the Lakers have quietly made a key roster change that deserves more attention.

The Lakers’ primary concern for the 2023-2024 season is bolstering their defense.

While they had a top-ten offense in the NBA last season, led by LeBron James, the versatile Anthony Davis, and rising stars like Reaves, they are looking to fortify their defensive capabilities.

They ranked sixth in the NBA in scoring last season, and the potential for improvement is evident with the young talent on their roster. Fans can reasonably expect even better offensive performance this season.

A pressing question for Lakers fans is, who will take the crucial shots in the closing moments of games?

LeBron James, known for his clutch performances, has shown a willingness to take on this role. Still, he might not be as formidable with the ball late in games as he once was during his prime with the Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat. Austin Reaves, with his late-game composure and scoring ability, is another viable option. James has demonstrated trust in Reaves during critical moments, and Reaves has consistently delivered.

The potential for a sophomore slump for Reaves largely depends on his physical condition, as opposing teams will increasingly target him as a key player in clutch situations.

Anthony Davis possesses the skills needed to dominate in high-pressure moments. However, with the arrival of talented big men like Victor Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren in the Western Conference, Davis will need to elevate his game this season. This added competition might serve as the motivation for him to consistently perform at his best throughout the season, gearing up for a potential rematch with Jokic and the Nuggets in the later stages of the season.