The Los Angeles Lakers have strengthened their roster in order to lift their 18th NBA title. Last season, LeBron James and Co. reached the Western Conference Finals where they lost to the eventual champions, the Denver Nuggets. The Lakers playoff run came as a bit of a surprise, as they finished the regular season in a play-in spot. But the additions of D’Angelo Russell and Rui Hachimura on the trade deadline helped the Lakers overcome their poor form.

The Lakers would want to continue on the momentum generated by last season’s playoff run. One of the new recruits has stated that Kobe Bryant played a small role in his decision to join the Lakers.

Christian Wood grew up watching Kobe

Following a remarkable conclusion to the previous season, the Lakers pleasantly surprised many by making it to the finals. Along their journey to the finals, they managed to overcome formidable opponents such as the Golden State Warriors and the Memphis Grizzlies. Lakers fans are now looking at the new season with hope and optimism. And with good reason, because the Lakers have further solidified their title credentials by adding Christian Wood, Gabe Vincent, and Jaxson Hayes.

On NBA Media Day, Wood sat down for a press conference. He spoke about his love for the ‘City of Angels’ and the Lakers and he also alluded to that he was a boyhood Lakers fan. He said, “This is my hometown team. I am from Long Beach. I grew up watching this team, I grew up watching Kobe Bryant. So, this is where I want to be long term”.

Christian Wood stated that he hoped to stick with the Lakers and that the Lakers would become home. After being traded to multiple teams, Wood didn’t get a chance to settle into a system and hence he couldn’t reach his potential.

Could the Lakers win the Title?

The Lakers have added very talented players to their roster. And they probably have the deepest roster in the entire NBA. But they still lack that killer edge that most of their title challengers have. Both LeBron James and Anthony Davis are injury-prone players and one must wonder what would happen if either one of them got injured.

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The Lakers could not sustain a title charge if either one of their superstars got injured. For the Lakers to achieve success this season, players such as Wood, Austin Reaves, and Rui Hachimura will need to take responsibility and provide crucial support. Only a successful title win will make this season a triumph for Lakers fans. And surely, this season could provide the best opportunity for the Lakers to win their 18th NBA title.

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