Category: Los Angeles Lakers

From Court to Courtroom: LeBron and Bronny James Become NBA’s First Father-Son Duo, Now Co-Defendants in Lawsuit

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After making history on the basketball court, LeBron and Bronny James face new legal challenges together.

A Historic Moment, Shadowed by Legal Troubles

LeBron James and his son, Bronny James, recently became the first father-son duo to play together in the NBA, marking a historic moment during the Los Angeles Lakers’ season opener against the Minnesota Timberwolves. However, the excitement of this achievement has been tempered by an unexpected twist — both LeBron and Bronny are now co-defendants in a lawsuit stemming from a 2022 car crash.

Filed just hours before the Lakers’ game, the lawsuit was lodged in Los Angeles County. The plaintiffs, April Almanza Lopez and Kiara Rae McGillen, allege that their vehicle was struck by the Jameses in Littlerock, California, in November 2022. They claim the crash resulted in personal injuries and damage to their car, leading them to seek unspecified damages.

The Incident in Question

According to the lawsuit, the plaintiffs were driving along a highway in Littlerock, a small town roughly 70 miles from downtown Los Angeles, when they were “slammed into” by the Jameses. The crash allegedly caused injuries that will require ongoing medical attention, and their car reportedly suffered significant damage and lost value. While the lawsuit does not specify who was driving at the time, it is known that Bronny had just turned 18 at the time of the accident.

The incident comes as a stark contrast to the jubilant atmosphere surrounding LeBron and Bronny’s historic first game together, where they shared the court in an unprecedented moment of NBA history. Now, they share a different kind of experience — navigating the legal system as co-defendants.

LeBron and Bronny: Teammates and Co-Defendants

This lawsuit casts a shadow on what should have been a purely celebratory season for the James family. LeBron James, a 21-year NBA veteran, and his son Bronny, a rising star, have shared the spotlight for their historic teamwork on the court. But now, they must also share the responsibility of facing these legal claims.

The legal action follows their momentous season opener, where the pair made headlines for their unique father-son partnership in the NBA. The case, however, may take center stage in the coming weeks as both await further developments.

What’s Next for the Jameses?

As legal proceedings move forward, it remains unclear how the lawsuit will affect LeBron and Bronny’s lives both on and off the court. The plaintiffs have not specified the amount of compensation they are seeking, but the case is likely to garner significant attention due to the fame of the defendants.

LeBron, known for his ability to handle pressure, will now have to manage the challenges of balancing his on-court responsibilities with this legal battle. Bronny, just beginning his NBA journey, will also need to navigate the pressures of the spotlight, both in basketball and in the courtroom.

For now, the James family will continue making history, but this time, they must do so while addressing the complexities of a legal dispute that could impact their season.

 

LeBron and Bronny’s ‘Two Lobs’ Vision: A Basketball Echo of the Griffey Home Run Legacy

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A Legendary Comparison Unfolds

In an iconic parallel between sports, LeBron James recently reflected on the legendary bond between MLB’s Ken Griffey Sr. and Ken Griffey Jr., highlighting a vision for his own NBA journey alongside his eldest son, Bronny James. The Griffeys made history as the first father-son duo to play together in Major League Baseball, with a defining moment when they hit back-to-back home runs during a 1990 game for the Seattle Mariners. As LeBron and Bronny prepare to make NBA history as the first father-son duo on the court, LeBron couldn’t help but draw a connection between these two monumental father-son pairs in sports.

With the Griffeys planning to attend the Lakers’ 2024-25 season opener, LeBron recognized the gravity of this upcoming milestone: “To be here today and to know that those guys will be in attendance tonight while me and Bronny (are) on the same team, it’s a pretty cool moment in the history of sports.”

The Dream of a ‘Two Lobs’ Highlight

During a media session, LeBron was asked what the NBA equivalent of the Griffeys’ back-to-back home runs would be. Without hesitation, LeBron envisioned a thrilling sequence that would forever cement his and Bronny’s place in basketball history. “Probably two lobs,” he responded confidently. “If I catch a lob and then Bronny catches a lob, that’d probably be equivalent to that. Obviously, the long ball is something that’s big time in baseball, so probably two lobs.”

The idea of father and son connecting in such a dynamic way on the court instantly sparked excitement, not just for the fans but also for LeBron, who sees this as more than a flashy play—it’s a potential defining moment for him and Bronny. The NBA may not have the equivalent of the home run, but a high-flying alley-oop dunk certainly holds its own as one of the game’s most exhilarating displays of athleticism.

From Mariners to Lakers: The Shared Legacy

The Griffeys’ father-son duo remains one of baseball’s most cherished stories, not only for their shared time on the field but for the highlight they created that remains etched in sports history. Their back-to-back homers against the California Angels stand as a testament to their bond and skill. In the same way, LeBron is hoping to create a lasting memory with Bronny, one that mirrors the Griffeys’ legendary achievement and strengthens their legacy within the NBA.

With the world watching, both LeBron and Bronny stand on the brink of creating something extraordinary. As the father and son pair up on the same court, the potential for that “two lob” moment could mark the beginning of their own unforgettable chapter in the sports world.

A Moment for the Ages

LeBron James is no stranger to big moments, but this one, with Bronny by his side, offers something uniquely personal. Just as Ken Griffey Jr. looked up to his father as both a mentor and teammate, Bronny will have the rare chance to share an NBA floor with his father, a basketball legend. This upcoming season promises more than just wins and losses; it promises the potential for history to be made—and for a new generation of fans to witness what could be an unforgettable basketball moment, just like that September day when the Griffeys made baseball history.

And for LeBron, catching a lob and watching Bronny follow suit could be his way of honoring the Griffeys while leaving his own lasting legacy.

 

Undrafted Sharpshooter’s Journey: From G League Hopeful to Lakers’ Hidden Gem

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A Battle for the Future

In a preseason filled with routine activities, one undrafted rookie for the Los Angeles Lakers, Quincy Olivari, was waging a battle much greater than just securing playing time. He was fighting for his future in the NBA. After the Lakers’ final preseason game against the Golden State Warriors, the 23-year-old guard candidly expressed his aspirations: “I just want a job in the NBA,” he said, revealing the depth of his desire to succeed.

Capturing Attention and Seizing Opportunity

Soon after, Olivari became a focal point for fans and coaches alike, as his hard work paid off when the Lakers waived center Colin Castleton to open a spot for him on the roster through a two-way contract. This pivotal moment marked the culmination of a journey that transitioned him from relative obscurity to becoming a fan favorite, especially evident when a viral photo of him standing beside LeBron James at the Lakers media day led many to ask, “Who is number 41?”

Initially signed on a training camp deal, Olivari rapidly garnered attention during the Lakers’ preseason. In a thrilling comeback against the Milwaukee Bucks, he showcased his skills with an impressive 11-point performance in the fourth quarter, helping secure the team’s first win under head coach JJ Redick. Just days later, he exploded for 22 points against the Warriors, shooting an eye-popping 5-of-9 from three-point range while the starters rested.

The Lakers have a keen eye for uncovering undrafted talent, and it seems they may have found another gem in Olivari. Standing at 6 feet 3 inches, he demonstrated sharpshooting capabilities by hitting 8-of-14 from beyond the arc during the preseason, solidifying his reputation as a long-range threat.

A Legacy of Shooting Excellence

Olivari’s journey began at Xavier University, where he shot an impressive 40.9 percent from three-point range in his senior season, leading the Big East and setting the school’s record for single-season three-pointers with 106. Prior to his time at Xavier, he spent four years at Rice University, where he built a strong reputation as a consistent shooter, averaging 38.7 percent from distance over five college seasons.

However, it wasn’t just his shooting that caught the attention of his coaches. Redick praised Olivari’s overall demeanor and work ethic, saying, “He has an infectious spirit and soul about him. It’s not that he’s some super talkative, boisterous guy, but he carries himself well, he carries himself with intent. His work ethic is really high, and I think people respond to that.” Redick further noted how a player who embodies such qualities can transform a team’s dynamic, emphasizing the importance of both skill and character in the game.

A Promising Path Ahead

Earning a two-way contract is a significant milestone for Olivari, yet questions about his long-term future in the NBA linger. He is expected to spend a considerable amount of time with the South Bay Lakers in the G League, where his shooting prowess and tenacity could make him one of the league’s most exciting players to watch.

With the Lakers emphasizing G League development under Redick, Olivari remains just a step away from the NBA stage. As he continues to hone his skills and prove himself, the path ahead holds immense potential, not just for his career but also for the Lakers, who may have unearthed another star from the depths of the undrafted pool. The journey from obscurity to prominence is rarely easy, but for Quincy Olivari, it is just the beginning of an inspiring narrative in the world of basketball.

 

Bronny’s Controversial NBA Debut Ignites Nepotism Claims in Lakers vs Timberwolves

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The historic night raises questions on meritocracy and legacy in the NBA

As the 2024-25 NBA season kicks off, an extraordinary moment is set to unfold in the opening night matchup between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Los Angeles Lakers. While stars like Anthony Edwards and LeBron James are expected to shine, the debut of LeBron’s eldest son, Bronny James, is the moment the basketball world has been eagerly awaiting. The occasion, however, is not without its controversy, as whispers of nepotism cloud the young player’s much-anticipated first step onto the NBA court.

The Nepotism Debate Surrounding Bronny’s Debut

Bronny James, who was drafted by the Lakers in the second round, will reportedly join his father on the court for the first time in NBA history, making the James duo the league’s inaugural father-son tandem. The prospect of LeBron, a player with over two decades of dominance, playing alongside his son is a remarkable feat, one that the basketball community can’t ignore. Yet, many insiders and fans alike are questioning whether Bronny’s debut is based on merit—or family ties.

LeBron has never hidden his desire to share an NBA court with his son, even staying in Los Angeles to ensure that dream becomes a reality. However, Bronny’s performance in the preseason has raised eyebrows. Averaging just 4.2 points, 1.7 rebounds, and 0.3 assists per game, Bronny’s stats leave much to be desired. The Lakers’ point differential also dipped when Bronny was on the floor, feeding into the debate about whether he truly deserves to be playing at this level.

LeBron’s Legacy or Bronny’s Time?

LeBron James’ influence on the Lakers organization is undeniable, and his role in facilitating Bronny’s draft pick has not gone unnoticed. Shams Charania, ESPN’s new NBA insider, confirmed that both LeBron and Bronny will make history by sharing the court on opening night, a milestone that has been in the making for years.

“I’m told it’s very likely, and the Lakers plan that LeBron James and Bronny James will make history as the first father-son duo to be on the court at the same time… likely to come early in the game as long as it’s competitive,” said Charania. While the Lakers maintain that Bronny was chosen on his own merit, skeptics argue that this historic moment was orchestrated by LeBron’s considerable pull within the organization.

Still, it’s important to note that Bronny’s journey to the NBA wasn’t an easy one. After a turbulent freshman season at USC, which included a near-fatal cardiac arrest, Bronny’s perseverance cannot be ignored. But whether this resilience is enough to justify his spot on one of the league’s most storied franchises remains a question for critics and fans alike.

Timberwolves Ready to Rain on the Parade

As the spotlight falls on the James family, the Minnesota Timberwolves are preparing to upset the narrative. Coming off a strong season and expected to outperform the Lakers this year, the Timberwolves, led by Anthony Edwards, are more focused on winning than on the spectacle unfolding around their opponents. Edwards, a rising star and MVP contender, is sure to make his presence known, possibly overshadowing the James father-son storyline with a standout performance of his own.

As exciting as Bronny’s debut promises to be, it is clear that this game holds greater implications for the young player’s future. Will he rise to the occasion and prove his doubters wrong, or will the nepotism claims continue to haunt his early career?

Regardless of the outcome, tonight’s game marks a historic moment for the NBA, a league where legacy often intertwines with talent. Yet, the ongoing debate about meritocracy versus family ties will linger long after the final buzzer sounds.

 

“LeBron, I’m Exhausted!” Mark Cuban Playfully Pushes for LeBron’s Retirement

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The Hilarious Call for the King to Hang Up His Sneakers

In a surprising twist that blends humor and rivalry, Mark Cuban, the colorful minority owner of the Dallas Mavericks, has taken a playful jab at LeBron James, suggesting it might be time for the Lakers superstar to consider retirement. However, Cuban’s reasons aren’t what you might expect from the typical “he’s getting old” narrative. Instead, it’s all about the competition and, let’s be honest, a dash of good-natured jealousy.

A Rivalry Fueled by Laughter

During an entertaining interview with TMZ Sports, Cuban was posed the question: should James hang up his jersey after the 2024-25 season? With a grin, he quickly responded in the affirmative. But rather than citing James’ advancing age or dwindling skills, Cuban delivered a humorous quip that has all the makings of a classic NBA rivalry moment.

“Yes, LeBron. It’s time for you to quit. I’m tired of you!!” Cuban declared with a chuckle, making it clear that his plea was more about rivalry than reality. In fact, he believes the only way to truly halt LeBron’s reign of dominance is for the King himself to call it a career.

When pressed about the seriousness of his retirement suggestion, Cuban doubled down, saying, “Only ’cause he’s still so good. He’s on the Lakers; they’re our rivals. So, it’s time to retire, LeBron.” The message was crystal clear: LeBron’s continued excellence on the court is a headache for the Mavericks, and Cuban is ready for a bit of peace and quiet—at least on the basketball front.

LeBron’s Remarkable Resilience

Despite Cuban’s tongue-in-cheek remarks, the reality is that LeBron James is still an undeniable force in the league. Averaging a staggering 25.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, 8.3 assists, and 1.3 steals during the 2023-24 season at 39 years old, James shows no signs of slowing down. His ability to lead a team and perform at an elite level only intensifies the pressure on rivals like Cuban and the Mavericks.

While Cuban’s comments may be lighthearted, they underscore a serious truth: LeBron remains a pivotal player who can change the game at any moment. The thought of him retiring must be a bittersweet one for Mavericks fans—an end to a great player’s career but also a chance to finally catch a break.

A Rivalry and a Legacy

Ultimately, Mark Cuban’s playful suggestion that LeBron James should retire reflects the deep-seated rivalry and competitive spirit that defines the NBA. It’s not just about the players on the court; it’s about the personalities, the stories, and the laughter that bring the league to life.

As the Mavericks prepare to face the Lakers this season, fans can expect plenty of entertaining moments. For now, LeBron James seems poised to continue his remarkable journey, proving that age is just a number—and that Mark Cuban might just have to keep making those playful retirement suggestions for a little while longer.

 

LeBron James Misses Shootaround Ahead of Suns Preseason Game: Rest or Concern?

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Lakers’ star skips morning session as the team faces a critical preseason back-to-back

As the Los Angeles Lakers prepare for a preseason showdown with the Phoenix Suns, one notable absence at the morning shootaround has raised questions. LeBron James, the team’s cornerstone player, did not participate, sparking speculation about whether this is a move for rest or a sign of deeper concerns.

ESPN’s Dave McMenamin was quick to report the development, stating, “LeBron James did not participate in shootaround this morning, per the Lakers,” in a tweet shared on X (formerly Twitter). With no official word of an injury, many believe this absence is precautionary, especially considering the Lakers have another preseason game lined up against the Golden State Warriors the following day.

Rest or Monitoring? LeBron’s Minutes Under Scrutiny

For a player entering his 22nd season, it’s not uncommon for teams to manage minutes and workloads, especially in back-to-back games. LeBron, now 39 years old, may be under even tighter monitoring to ensure he’s in top shape for the long grind of the regular season.

The Lakers have yet to confirm the exact reasoning behind James missing the shootaround. However, based on last season’s experience, we know LeBron isn’t always keen on resting or being put under minutes restrictions. In fact, during Netflix’s Starting 5, an open mic caught LeBron expressing his frustration with such restrictions during their season opener against the Denver Nuggets.

“I know y’all got me on f—–g old man time percentages and s–t…two shots in eight minutes is just getting cardio. I hate this s–t already. This s–t’s garbage,” LeBron vented. His sentiments made it clear that despite his age, he still feels capable of playing big minutes and contributing at a high level.

Pushing for Success in Season 22

As LeBron embarks on his 22nd NBA season, one might expect him to slow down. However, the four-time MVP shows no signs of relenting. Last season, James averaged 35.3 minutes per game, ranking him 17th in the league, a staggering figure for a player in his late thirties. The high workload speaks to the level at which LeBron continues to perform—challenging the boundaries of what’s physically expected of an aging star.

One of the unique motivations fueling him this season could be his son, Bronny James. Playing with his son is a dream that LeBron has long held, and he expressed the emotional significance of this potential milestone after the Lakers’ second preseason game.

“For a father, it means everything. For someone who didn’t have that growing up, to be able to have that influence on your kids and have that influence on your son, be able to have moments with your son — and the ultimate, to be able to work with your son — that’s one of the greatest things that a father could ever hope for or wish for,” LeBron said.

Eyes on the Championship

Beyond personal milestones, the overarching goal for LeBron and the Lakers remains the same: win. After falling short of a title since their 2020 Championship run, the team is eager to return to glory, and LeBron will undoubtedly be the driving

 

Chicago Bulls Looking to Offload Zach LaVine, Lakers Among Interested Teams

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With the Chicago Bulls’ rebuild taking shape, Zach LaVine’s future remains uncertain as trade discussions heat up, with the Los Angeles Lakers emerging as potential suitors.

Chicago Bulls Eye Rebuild

The Chicago Bulls are clearly entering a new phase, one where veteran talent may need to make way for the future. Over the summer, two key players, DeMar DeRozan and Alex Caruso, departed, signaling the start of a roster overhaul. As the rebuild progresses, it’s becoming evident that the organization might have to move on from their star guard, Zach LaVine. Despite being one of the most electrifying scorers in the NBA, LaVine’s presence may no longer align with the Bulls’ long-term vision.

Yet, moving LaVine isn’t simple. Rumors have suggested that the Bulls have been quietly shopping LaVine for a while, but interest has been lukewarm. There are a few reasons for this, despite his undeniable talent.

LaVine’s Contract and Injury Concerns

One of the primary obstacles to trading Zach LaVine is his hefty contract. LaVine is set to earn a staggering $138 million over the next three years. For any team taking him on, this financial commitment represents a significant investment. In today’s NBA, teams are often hesitant to lock up large portions of their cap space unless they are certain a player will perform at an All-Star level consistently.

Another concern surrounding LaVine is his health. After playing in only 25 games last season, LaVine underwent season-ending surgery on his right foot in February. While he’s been working his way back to fitness and showing promising signs—such as his 28-point performance in just 22 minutes against the Memphis Grizzlies in preseason—any potential trade partner will weigh the risks associated with his injury history.

Lakers Interested in LaVine

Enter the Los Angeles Lakers. Since their 2020 championship victory, the Lakers

 

Steph Curry’s Viral Mock of Austin Reaves’ Flop Steals Spotlight in Preseason Game

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The Warriors dominate the Lakers, but Curry’s playful jab takes center stage.

In a preseason showdown between two Western Conference giants, the Golden State Warriors triumphed over the Los Angeles Lakers, securing a 111-97 victory on Tuesday. While the game was filled with impressive performances, it was a lighthearted yet pointed moment from Warriors superstar Steph Curry that grabbed the attention of NBA fans across the globe.

Warriors Continue Preseason Dominance

With this victory, the Warriors improved to a perfect 5-0 in the preseason, while the Lakers stumbled to 1-3. Curry’s 28 minutes on the court showcased his consistent brilliance, as he posted 16 points, five rebounds, and six assists. Over his four preseason games, Curry has averaged 11.0 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 3.3 assists, demonstrating his readiness for the regular season.

The game was held at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, giving fans a thrilling preview of the competition ahead. However, it wasn’t Curry’s stat line or the Warriors’ continued dominance that stole the spotlight—it was a playful moment with Lakers guard Austin Reaves.

The Mock Heard ‘Round the Internet

During a heated sequence, Curry became visibly unhappy with what he saw as a flop by Reaves. As the play halted, Curry took the opportunity to mimic Reaves’ exaggerated fall, drawing laughter from fans both in the arena and online. The playful mock quickly became the highlight of the night, making its way to social media where it exploded in popularity.

The clip of Curry’s imitation garnered over 150,000 views on X (formerly Twitter), with NBA fan account BricksCenter, which boasts 94,000 followers, sharing the moment with the caption: “STEPH MOCKING AUSTIN REAVES FLOP.” As the viral clip made its way to other platforms, it gained even more traction.

Bleacher Report, one of the NBA’s largest digital platforms, posted the video on TikTok to its 8.5 million followers, generating over a million views and 100,000 likes. “Steph wasn’t feeling this foul call,” Bleacher Report wrote, capturing the lighthearted jab in a moment of frustration turned entertainment.

A New Era for Flopping Rules

Curry’s mock wasn’t just for show—it also highlighted a growing issue in the NBA. The league has introduced stricter rules in recent seasons to curtail flopping, a tactic that has long been a point of contention among players and fans alike. Though these rules aim

 

Bronny James’ Preseason Struggles Raise Questions Despite Historic Floor Sharing with LeBron

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Rocky Start for Bronny

As the Los Angeles Lakers gear up for the 2024-25 NBA season, all eyes are on their preseason performance, which included a thrilling comeback victory against the Milwaukee Bucks. While the team’s stars, LeBron James and Anthony Davis, look ready for the season, another player on the roster has been receiving significant attention—LeBron’s son, Bronny James.

Despite sharing the floor with his father in a historic moment earlier in the preseason, Bronny’s on-court performance has raised eyebrows. His statistics so far have drawn criticism, particularly his league-worst plus/minus rating among all players in preseason games, according to Steph Noh of The Sporting News.

“Through three preseason games, Bronny James has the worst plus/minus of all 494 players to log exhibition minutes thus far,” Noh reported. While this stat might seem alarming, the broader context paints a more nuanced picture.

Understanding the Numbers

The plus/minus stat, which measures a player’s impact on the score while they are on the court, can be misleading if not considered in context. Bronny has primarily played with the Lakers’ third-string lineup, a factor that likely influenced his poor performance in this metric. Playing alongside less experienced teammates can put a player at a disadvantage, especially when they’re still finding their footing in the league.

Though the numbers may not be in Bronny’s favor, it’s important to note that he’s still developing. His limited minutes on the floor show that the Lakers are gradually integrating him into the rotation, recognizing that he is a long-term project. His journey will not be without its struggles, but development behind the scenes could prove key to his future success.

A Narrative to Overcome

Unfortunately, Bronny’s early struggles have fueled a narrative that he may not have earned his spot on the Lakers’ roster. With his famous father as a teammate, speculation and criticism are inevitable. However, Bronny has shown flashes of potential, and it’s clear the Lakers’ coaching staff views him as a work in progress who could contribute more significantly over time.

While some will continue to focus on his current stats, it’s essential to remember that many young players take years to reach their potential in the NBA. Bronny’s preseason woes may be concerning to some, but they do not tell the full story of his future prospects with the Lakers.

As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see how Bronny develops and whether he can silence the doubters. His journey, while challenging, is one filled with opportunity, especially under the guidance of his father, LeBron, and the experienced Lakers roster.

 

From Howard to Bamba: Lakers’ 10 Most Underwhelming Playoff Performances

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Over the years, the Los Angeles Lakers have been known for acquiring big-name talent to bolster their chances of winning NBA championships. Yet, not all of these high-profile players lived up to the hype in the playoffs.

The Hype vs. The Reality

The Lakers, a powerhouse in the NBA, have been home to some of the league’s greatest legends. With 17 NBA championships and countless Hall of Famers, the franchise’s winning culture is second to none. However, being a talented player doesn’t guarantee success in Los Angeles. Many stars have struggled to meet the high expectations of Lakers fans, especially when it mattered most—during the playoffs.

Let’s take a look at 10 of the most underwhelming playoff performances from highly anticipated Lakers acquisitions, starting with Mo Bamba and Dwight Howard.

10. Mo Bamba: The Potential That Never Materialized

Mo Bamba entered the NBA with great promise after an impressive college career. Lakers fans hoped for a revitalized Bamba when he was traded from the Orlando Magic during the 2022-2023 season. His physical attributes were expected to add depth, particularly in matchups against big men like Nikola Jokic.

However, Bamba’s contribution to the Lakers was far from impactful. In his playoff debut, he averaged just 1.0 rebounds and 3.0 assists per game, far below expectations for someone who was brought in to shore up the Lakers’ frontcourt.

9. Dwight Howard: Redemption Came Too Late

When Dwight Howard first joined the Lakers in 2012, he was arguably one of the most dominant big men in the league. But his first stint with the Lakers was far from ideal. Although Howard averaged 17.0 points and 10.8 rebounds per game during the 2013 playoffs, he couldn’t carry the team to championship contention. The Lakers were swept in the first round.

Thankfully, Howard would redeem himself in 2020 by contributing to a Lakers title. However, his first Lakers stint remains one of the franchise’s greatest letdowns in terms of missed expectations.

8. Dennis Schroder: A Game to Forget

Dennis Schroder, acquired by the Lakers to help defend their 2020 championship, entered the 2021 playoffs as a key piece. With Rajon Rondo and Danny Green gone, Schroder was supposed to provide much-needed scoring and playmaking. Instead, he made history for all the wrong reasons.

In Game 5 of the Lakers’ first-round series against the Phoenix Suns, Schroder became the first player in Lakers playoff history to go scoreless after nine shot attempts. His underwhelming performance played a crucial role in the Lakers’ early exit.

7. Gabe Vincent: Promising Signing, Underwhelming Results

Gabe Vincent, after helping lead the Miami Heat to the NBA Finals in 2020 and 2023, brought excitement to Lakers fans when he joined the team. Unfortunately, Vincent’s playoff run in 2023 was marred by injuries. Once healthy, Vincent failed to deliver.

His stats told the story: just 1.4 points, 1.6 rebounds, and 0.6 assists per game while shooting a miserable 25% from the field. Vincent was expected to help push the Lakers past tough opponents, but instead, his impact was minimal.

Others Who Didn’t Meet Expectations

Spencer Dinwiddie was another high-profile acquisition who fell short. Brought in during the 2023-2024 season, Dinwiddie averaged just 3.0 points per game in the first round against Denver, disappointing Lakers fans expecting more from the seasoned guard.

Andre Drummond, touted as the answer to the Lakers’ post-trade deadline needs in 2021, similarly underperformed. Though he averaged 9.0 points and 11.0 rebounds per game, his impact on the court was minimal. Drummond was even benched in the final game of the series against Phoenix.

Marc Gasol, known for his defense and championship pedigree, was also a letdown in the 2021 playoffs. The veteran big man contributed only 5.2 points and 3.8 rebounds per game, a far cry from what the Lakers needed to stay competitive.

Gary Payton, one of the Lakers’ big-name acquisitions in 2004, teamed up with Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant in hopes of winning a championship. Instead, Payton’s performance in the Finals was forgettable, averaging just 7.8 points and 3.3 rebounds on 37% shooting.

Karl Malone, another Lakers acquisition from 2004, couldn’t deliver in the NBA Finals, posting career-low numbers, including just 5.2 points per game. Despite his illustrious career, Malone would retire without an NBA title.

Steve Nash, a two-time MVP, was supposed to help Kobe Bryant win another title. Instead, Nash’s best years were behind him when he joined the Lakers. His playoff stats in 2013—12.5 points, 4.5 assists—were far from what was expected from the former MVP, and the Lakers were quickly swept out of the postseason.

Conclusion: The Weight of Expectations

For these 10 players, donning the purple and gold brought immense expectations, but their playoff performances fell short. While some, like Dwight Howard, eventually redeemed themselves, many others left fans wondering what might have been. The Lakers will continue to chase championships, but history shows that not all star-studded acquisitions lead to postseason glory.