LA Lakers
One of the teams that rose in the power rankings this offseason was the LeBron James-led Lakers. Not even making the playoffs in 2019, the Lakers are looking to turn their colossal failure into the team’s first championship in a decade.
They’ve made a significant jump to do the addition of Anthony Davis.
Arguably the league’s best power or center, Davis has averaged over 25 points per game over the last three seasons. But, just like with Westbrook and Harden, we must see LA’s greatness before we allow them to claim the throne of the West’s most potent team.
The Lakers did more than just add Davis though. They dealt away Josh Hart, Brandon Ingram, Lonzo Ball and numerous picks. They also added players like two-time champion Danny Green and former all-star big man DeMarcus Cousins.
It won’t be shocking if the Lakers collapse and fail, but as of now, they seem like a top Western Conference team. However, until they prove to be better than the dynamic duo within their own city, they’ll be sitting at the No. 2 threat in the West.