Breaking Down the NBA’s Newest Rivalry

Written by: Alan Ni

It shouldn’t be a mystery which team is coming out the West.

In my mind, the team that is going to give the Lakers some problems is the young and upstart Oklahoma City Thunder. We all saw what they could do in last year’s playoffs. If you let them go off on you in the beginning, it’ll be hard to fight back. Especially in that ocean of fans.

But, with a healthy Kobe Bryant (just turned 32, happy birthday Mamba), and the new additions of Steve Blake and a very hungry Matt Barnes, the Thunder shouldn’t be that much of a problem. Not to mention that the Lakers still have their core.

I’ve punched a ticket for the Lakers winning the West for the fourth time in a row already, but on paper, their biggest nemesis is the Miami Heat. Will Miami’s so-called “Superfriends” ruin the 3-peat? Let’s take a closer look.

Next: Upgrading an Already Potent Roster

You May Also Like

Lakers Injury Update: Kendrick Nunn Feeling 100% Healthy After Missing 2021-22 Season With Bone Bruise In Knee

One of the Los Angeles Lakers’ big free agent acquisitions last summer was Kendrick Nunn as the former Miami Heat guard…

Lakers News: Luke Walton Clarifies Open Competition To Determine Starters Around LeBron James

After agreeing to terms with LeBron James on a four-year contract, the Los Angeles Lakers quickly moved to fill out…

Lakers News & Rumors Recap: Time is Ticking for Nash, Pau

Age has been a deterrent to success this season and many fans…

Pau Gasol and Steve Blake Happy to See ’71-’72 Lakers Keep Record

The Los Angeles Lakers snapped their three game losing streak Wednesday against…