The Los Angeles Lakers are hoping to bounce back in the 2014-15 NBA season after arguably the worst showing in franchise history last year. After winning only 27 games last season, many believe the Lakers are at the beginning of an extensive rebuilding process that might take some time.
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On Wednesday, one day after officially introducing Byron Scott as the new head coach, GM Mitch Kupchak made an appearance on The Herd with Colin Cowherd. Kupchak was asked if he believed the Lakers would be a playoff team next season and said the following, according to Lakers Nation reporter Serena Winters:
"I think we could be." -Kupchak's response to @ESPN_Colin asking if the Lakers are a playoff team.
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) July 30, 2014
With Kobe Bryant coming back 100 percent healthy, the Lakers’ chances of competing in the Western Conference definitely improves. Unfortunately, there’s no telling what the team will get from the superstar after consecutive season-ending injuries.
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Although Kobe’s immediate future is uncertain in terms of production on the floor, the Lakers were able to get some talented young players in the off-season. Julius Randle, Jordan Clarkson and Jeremy Lin will be at the core of the rebuilding project in Los Angeles with savvy vets like Kobe, Carlos Boozer, Nick Young and Steve Nash helping bring along these promising young players.
Despite moves made to improve the roster, the Lakers will still have an uphill battle ahead with the West being as competitive as ever. Not only will it be difficult to compete in a strong conference next season, but it’ll be tough in the Pacific Division once again with seemingly every team upgrading over the summer.
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Lakers Introduce Byron Scott (Part 4): One Promise To Lakers Fans
