5 bold predictions for LA Lakers' 2021-22 NBA season

#3 Russell Westbrook to adapt playing alongside LeBron James quicker than expected

LA Lakers introduce Russell Westbrook.

When the LA Lakers signed Russell Westbrook via trade, the move was looked at with skepticism by many. That's because Westbrook needs the ball with him to be effective, which makes his fit alongside someone like LeBron James quite questionable.

LeBron James has been the primary ball-handler for the Lakers since arriving at the team. So he could have a clash of egos with Westbrook if they do not figure out a way to share responsibilities.

However, the LA Lakers look determined to win the Championship next season. That means Westbrook is likely to adjust quicker to the Lakers' setup, and James could play a key role in ensuring that. James has played with multiple All-Stars over the years. So he could make life easier for Westbrook next season.

"Bron is one of the best players to play this game...I’m coming to a championship caliber team, my job is to make his game easy for him."- Russell Westbrook (h/t @NBATV) pic.twitter.com/TlkqOzhmvW

— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) August 10, 2021

Moreover, the Lakers have wanted to take the ball-handling and playmaking pressure off LeBron James so that he can unleash his potential at the scoring end. The addition of Westbrook makes sense from that perspective, especially if James plays more off the ball next season.

---

#2 LA Lakers to take time to get going, but could finish the season strong

LeBron James of the LA Lakers celebrates during an NBA game.

The LA Lakers have many new faces added to their roster for next season, with many of them having never played with each other. That means the team could struggle to get going initially, resulting in an underwhelming start to their campaign. However, considering the many experienced players playing together, the Lakers shouldn't take too long to find their mojo.

Nevertheless, a slow start could see them endure a .500 winning % through the first 15-20 games of the season. However, once the players get familiar with each other, the Lakers could become a force to be reckoned with.

The LA Lakers could even end as the top side in the Western Conference.

---

#1 No team to take a series to seven games against the LA Lakers

LA Lakers did not play a game six until the finals during their 2020 NBA playoffs run.

The LA Lakers' 'old' squad may not have the most dominant regular season, but come playoff time, they could be a handful for most opponents. The Lakers will likely make the NBA Finals. The bold prediction for their playoff campaign is that they might win all their series without being taken to a decider.

"We're watching Space Jam in real life right now."—@KendrickPerkins on the Lakers adding Carmelo Anthony pic.twitter.com/uuslwmIgeb

— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) August 3, 2021

Considering the experience at their disposal, the Lakers could have one of the most high-IQ lineups to outsmart opponents in crunch situations. They have many players with the clutch gene, which should massively aid in their quest for a second title in three years.