In order for the Lakers to reach the 73 win mark they would have to finish the season by going 60-7 in their remaining games; an arduous task for any team, even one as deep and talented as the Lakers. Lets take a quick look at the remaining match ups in 2010 that could potentially be the biggest obstacle in the Lakers’ path to 73. Any game not mentioned I am chalking up as a win.
At Utah, November, 26th: Lakers have a hard time in the rarefied air of Utah, and the Jazz have a long history of dominance when playing at home. However, the Jazz have only managed to pick up four wins in seven home games this season.
At Chicago, December 10th: The Bulls played the Lakers tough at Staples on Tuesday night, and the will only be more competitive with the home crowd behind them.
vs. Miami, December 25th: The most anticipated Laker game of the year comes on Christmas day when LeBron James, Dwayne Wade, Chris Bosh and the Miami Heat come to Staples Center. The Lakers haven’t faired too well on Christmas Day, as displayed in their 2-3 record over the past five seasons.
At San Antonio, December 28th, then At New Orleans, December 29th: This is a brutal back to back and one of the Lakers first true tests of the season.
It’s unlikely that we will see the Lakers close out 2010 undefeated. But if they are able to go 17-1 until 2011, that would give them the magical 90 percent winning percentage to start the New Year, and on the exact pace for 73 wins.