Los Angeles Lakers were eliminated in the first round of playoffs this year, and as a result, they have recruited several players to support LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Leading the pack is Russell Westbrook, who had only joined Washington Wizards last year.
The franchise were severely hit by injuries last time around and slid down the league table. While they constantly hovered in the top four of the Western Conference, long-term injuries of ace players LeBron James and Anthony Davis meant that they had to compete in the play-in tournament for a spot in the playoffs.
They were met with eventual finalists Phoenix Suns in the playoffs and lost three matches in a row to blow a 2-1 lead and bow out of the competition. To make a strong case for the championship, the Lakers opted for a major overhaul.
Lakers have been busy during the off-season
The 2019-20 champions made their intentions clear by roping in Russell Westbrook, who led the league in triple-doubles last year and is also one of the highest active scorers at present.
They also recalled Dwight Howard from the Philadelphia 76ers and also secured the signing of Carmelo Anthony from the Portland Trailblazers.
The new recruits, Carmelo Anthony (37), Trevor Ariza (36), Dwight Howard (35), Wayne Ellington (33), Kent Bazemore (32) and Russell Westbrook (32) are not young by any means, and this has led to some criticism from fans and pundits alike.
LeBron James responded to the criticism with a scathing tweet that he proceeded to delete later. Have a look at his response below:
“Keep talking about my squad, our personnel ages, the way he plays, he stays injured, we’re past our time in this league, etc etc etc. Do me one favor PLEASE!!!! And I mean PLEASE!!! Keep that same narrative ENERGY when it begins! That’s all I ask. #ThankYou” he wrote.
Lebron James had reiterated his desire to end his career with the Los Angeles Lakers and would hope to add one more ring to his collection with this new entourage. The Lakers’ side cast were criticized for not stepping up when it mattered, and they now find themselves replaced with a fresh set of players.
Also Read:
Lakers interested in acquiring Chris Paul or Russell Westbrook
