While the Los Angeles Lakers have been mired in consecutive years of mediocrity, the team remains among one of the more popular in all of professional sports. Even though they are enduring trying times, there’s reason for optimism.
A revamped front office is now led by president of basketball operations Magic Johnson and general manager Rob Pelinka. While it’s not fully translated to their record, the Lakers are much improved from last season, when they finished with the second-worst record in the Western Conference.
Lonzo Ball, Brandon Ingram and Kyle Kuzma are at the helm of ushering the franchise into a new era. Despite their fall from NBA prominence, the Lakers continue to be well-represented.
According to Mike Bresnahan of Spectrum SportsNet, the team ranked fourth in merchandise sales and Ball had one of the more popular jerseys:
Lakers were fourth in team merchandise sales during holiday season, according to https://t.co/aq8swGADkp transactions. Golden State, Cleveland and Philly were only teams ahead of them.
Also, Lonzo Ball has the 11th-most popular jersey in the NBA. Steph, LeBron, KD = top three
— Mike Bresnahan (@Mike_Bresnahan) January 16, 2018
Last season the Lakers ranked third in merchandise sales, behind the Golden State Warriors. Their slight dip could be attributed to not having an established, marquee player and instead fielding a roster that’s working to find its footing.
Should Ball, Ingram and Kuzma continue with their strong play, there’s reason to believe their jerseys could rise in popularity and the Lakers up the rankings in merchandise sales. Additionally, a boost could come by way of a free-agent signing this summer.
It’s well-known the Lakers intend to pursue the likes of LeBron James and Paul George, and they reportedly will make a run at DeMarcus Cousins as well.
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