Eight Reasons the Lakers Won't Be Champions

1. Lack of Athleticism With Pau Gasol playing the 5 spot, the Lakers can put a fairly athletic team on the floor at the 5, 4, and 2 spots. Derek Fisher lacks a bit in athleticism, but is a hustle player with good strength. So long as Luke Walton is starting at the Small Forward position, the Lakers are at a (sizable) disadvantage against nearly every team in the NBA. That is a problem. And while Jordan Farmar brings improved athleticism at the PG spot, I cannot imagine seeing an upgrade to that pivotal SF position at any time soon. Vladimir Radmanovic is more athletic than Walton, but he is no athlete, either. Cause for concern: slight The Lakers have many other things going in their favor that can cancel out Walton's lack of athleticism. 2. Inexperience This is not the same team that was bounced from the playoffs the past two seasons. This is a much deeper team with more experienced players in the starting lineup. That said, aside from Kobe Bryant and Derek Fisher, Lamar ... [link]