Another Lakers Star Returns Early From Protocols After LeBron James

The Los Angeles Lakers have been poor this season with some disappointing results. Earlier, they have had multiple injuries and players being sidelined due to quarantine, adding to their problems. The Lakers can breathe a sigh of relief as they retain the services of Malik Monk who returns early from protocols.

Malik Monk returns:

Malik Monk is no longer in the NBA health and safety protocols and is eligible for selection against the Timberwolves. The news of Monk returning is good news indeed as the Lakers keep losing players. Russell Westbrook and Avery Bradley enter safety protocols and add their names to the long list of stars testing positive.

LeBron James can be sure not to overwork himself now as the Lakers have at least two players in point guard duties in Monk and Rajon Rondo. Malik Monk becomes the second Lakers player after LeBron James to return early from health protocols.

James had tested positive earlier this season although he had confirmed he had taken his vaccinations. A positive test would have caused LeBron James to be out for another 10 days for the Lakers but he tested negative shortly after. A total of 17 players have entered protocols since the start of the season.

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The problems with LA Lakers this season:

Expected to be title challengers at the beginning of the season, the team has not lived up to expectations. They are facing an uphill battle trying to get into the NBA playoffs. The Lakers are currently sixth in the Western Conference. Although the season is not yet over, getting to the playoffs will certainly be tough for the Lakers. The Golden State Warriors have been sensational and are top of the table with the Phoenix Suns taking second place.

Despite having a superstar roster, their attack has not fired yet. LA Lakers superstar Anthony Davis feels the biggest problem with the Lakers this season is consistency.

The Lakers have been outscored a lot in the third period and have blown huge leads against teams. Their biggest worry at the start of the season had been their season, and it has been their biggest problem. They rank 10th in the league on the basis of defensive records. (Source:NBA.com)

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