LeBron James on Lakers’ State: Optimism Amidst Challenges in 2024-25 Season
As the Los Angeles Lakers navigate the midway point of the 2024-25 NBA season, LeBron James has expressed confidence in the team’s trajectory despite their current challenges. After a strong 7-2 stretch, the Lakers have stumbled, dropping three consecutive games. With the trade deadline looming and a tight Western Conference playoff race, the team faces pivotal weeks ahead.
LeBron James Reflects on Lakers’ Identity
Speaking on the GoJo and Golic show, LeBron shared his thoughts on the Lakers’ progress this season.
“I think we’ve found an identity,” James stated. “Defensively, we want to bring physicality to the game and make teams do things they’re uncomfortable with. Offensively, we aim to share the ball. When we hit the high 20s in assists, we’re at our best. There’s still so much room for improvement, and I don’t think we’ve peaked yet. By February or March, I believe we’ll be a much better team. We just have to keep putting in the work.”
While LeBron exudes confidence, it’s clear the Lakers still have areas to address on both ends of the court to secure a playoff spot and make a deep postseason run.
Lakers’ Offensive Strengths and Defensive Struggles
Under first-year head coach JJ Redick, the Lakers have focused heavily on offense. Currently ranked 13th in offensive efficiency, the team averages:
- 111.6 points per game
- 26.2 assists per game
- 13.6 turnovers per game
The offense thrives near the rim, with the Lakers ranking:
- 12th in points in the paint (49.4 per game)
- 3rd in made free throws (18.7 per game)
However, the team’s three-point shooting remains a weakness, ranking 28th in attempts (34.0 per game) and 20th in percentage (35.2%).
On the defensive side, the Lakers rank a disappointing 24th in efficiency. They struggle to protect the rim and defend in transition, allowing:
- 52.8 points in the paint per game (28th in the NBA)
- 16.7 fastbreak points per game (24th in the NBA)
These defensive issues have been a recurring problem, even after roster adjustments.
Recent Roster Changes: Addressing Team Needs
General Manager Rob Pelinka has taken steps to bolster the roster. In a December trade, the Lakers acquired Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton from the Brooklyn Nets in exchange for D’Angelo Russell, Maxwell Lewis, and three second-round picks.
Finney-Smith has delivered solid three-point shooting, converting 40.9% (9-of-22) from beyond the arc over six games. Despite this, the team’s defense remains a glaring issue, ranking 28th in efficiency since his arrival.
Trade Deadline Looms: What’s Next for the Lakers?
With the February 6 trade deadline approaching, the Lakers have options to further strengthen their roster. Armed with two tradable first-round picks and several mid-sized contracts, the team is well-positioned to make another impactful move.
Playoff Picture: A Tight Western Conference Race
As of now, the Lakers sit in 7th place in the Western Conference. They are:
- 2.5 games behind 4th place
- 2.0 games ahead of falling out of the play-in tournament
This precarious position highlights the importance of the next few weeks for the team.
Despite the challenges, LeBron James remains optimistic about the Lakers’ potential. With continued effort and strategic roster moves, the team aims to solidify its identity and climb the Western Conference standings as the playoffs approach.
