With only a month left to the 2023-24 season opener, fans and experts have begun their prediction games. Additionally, the offseason trades are almost over, so the strengths and weaknesses of the teams would already be on the paper. Moreover, the Team USA’s FIBA performance already gave a snippet of several players’ road ahead in the league. Along with all the insights, former teammate of LeBron James recently referred to a 25-year-old Los Angeles Lakers‘ star as the leader of the team. And, importantly, he pushed Stephen Curry‘s team beyond 5th spot in his prediction.

Despite having the core three in the lineup, the Golden State Warriors had a shaky hold in the playoffs last season. However, the management strengthened the roster in the offseason with the premium addition of Chris Paul. Even after a strong offensive line up, ESPN‘s Kendrick Perkins pushed the Dubs to the 6th spot in his predictions.

LeBron James’ Lakers has a new leader, says Perkins

In the latest episode of NBA Today on ESPN, LeBron James‘ former teammate Kendrick Perkins dropped his predictions. He ranked the Phoenix Suns as the top-seeding side, crediting the offensive firepower. He followed it with the defending champions, Denver Nuggets. After that, he rested his confidence on the Lakers. However, while mentioning the LA side, he picked the new leader of the team. It is not King James. 

The former NBA Champion said, “Number three, I’m going with the Los Angeles Lakers, Austin Reeves and the crew, not LeBron and the crew. Austin Reeves and the crew.” It seems like Austin Reaves has definitely made an impression in Perkins’ mind after the recently concluded FIBA World Cup. Reaves came off the bench and registered an average of 13.8 points with field goal percentage of 56.6.

Nevertheless, he not only impressed Perkins, he impressed the Lakers management as well. The LA side signed a four-year early bird maximum contract with the star worth $56 million in the off season, reported The Athletic.

Read More – Emotional Stephen Curry Mulls Over Father Time: “Not Gonna Have This Opportunity Too Much Longer”

Furthermore, after dropping the LA Clippers and Sacramento Kings in 4th and 5th spot, he filled in the leftover spot with the Dubs. 

Will the Dubs rise above their expectations in the upcoming season?

The Dubs had an underwhelming last season despite having the core three in the team. In the hind side, the team has made some changes to the roster. The team roped in Chris Paul for Jordan Poole. Moreover and importantly, Steph seemed to be basking in confidence. He recently said, “I’m in the prime of my career,” ahead of the season opener, reported Bleacher Report. 

Watch This Story – Years Before $20,000,000 Empire, Stephen Curry’s Wife Gave Up on Hollywood Dream Due to a Common Medical Issue: “Nobody Wanted to Take Me to The Hospital”

Will Steph break out and produce his 5th ring? We’ll have to wait to find out.