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The LA Lakers had a dream 2019-20 season, as the historic franchise won a record-tying 17th NBA championship.
The Lakers will now set their eyes on the next season with the aim to go back to back, as their roster construction seems to have been done with the intention of short-term success.
In this article, we will take a look at the challenges the LA Lakers might face on their way to another title charge next season.
Five key challenges for the LA Lakers ahead of the 2020-21 NBA season
The LA Lakers arguably have a stronger roster compared to that of last season. The front office was able to add notable free agents like Marc Gasol and Wesley Matthews in the off-season, which has certainly improved the LA Lakers' squad depth.
However, even the best teams in history have faced stiff challenges en route to title defenses. In that regard, let's have a look at three such factors that the LA Lakers will need to keep an eye on.
#1 The fitness of LeBron James and Anthony Davis
LeBron James may be in his late 30s, but he is one of the best players in the league. The secret to James' success is his incredible work ethic and a gifted physique that has allowed him to be at the top of his game for so long.
However, considering his age (35), the LA Lakers will have to take extra precaution with James' health, as they will want to preserve him for key phases like the playoffs.
James' game management could be a critical factor in the LA Lakers' title push, something head coach Frank Vogel will have to keenly monitor during the season.
James' partner in crime, Anthony Davis, will also be have to be under the scrutiny of the medical staff, considering his injury history. Davis suffered a shoulder strain last year that kept him out for a few games. The LA Lakers will hope that the dominating big will have an injury-free 2020-21 NBA season.
#2 The form of Kentavious Caldwell-Pope
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope was arguably the third-best player for the LA Lakers during the 2020 NBA playoffs. The shooting guard did some great off-the-ball work for Frank Vogel, shooting his threes with great efficiency and guarding the opposition's main offensive threat.
KCP was rewarded with a new contract by the LA Lakers recently. LeBron James and co. will now hope that the swingman continues his good form going into the 2020-21 NBA season.
If KCP's form tails off, it might be a big worry for the Lakers, as it could complicate their title defense.
Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: 5 players the New York Knicks could target to cap off an impressive off-season.
#3 Kyle Kuzma's development
Since his debut in the NBA, Kyle Kuzma has not shown any great signs of progress.
Kuzma is in his mid 20's now, and the LA Lakers will expect him to take up a more responsible role next season. The power forward showed flashes of his prowess in last season's playoffs but is yet to convince the LA Lakers fans completely.
Kyle Kuzma will have to bring the defensive intensity he displayed in the 2020 NBA postseason, or else the 17-time NBA champions could have a considerably weaker bench, which might jeopardize their title challenge.
#4 The LA Lakers will have to keep the dressing room harmony intact
Last season, the LA Lakers were one of the most closely-knit groups in the league. The franchise was almost like a family in the Orlando bubble, something that was well documented in the media.
However, a major part of that roster has now parted ways, especially some of the veterans like Dwight Howard and Rajon Rondo. These players played an integral role in keeping the team together, and the LA Lakers will have to work on that front again.
An intriguing challenge that the LA Lakers might have to take care of is Montrezl Harrell's presence in the locker room, as it was reported that he was a major disruptor in the Clippers setup last season.
If the Lakers wish to go back to back, a cordial dressing room will certainly help in that regard.
#5 Inclusion of young stars this off-season
The LA Lakers had a strong veteran presence in their roster last season, but that has been replaced by young stars this off-season.
The Lakers bench unit now mainly comprises of players who lack playoff experience, which could be a bit of a worry for the title hopefuls.
In crunch situations like the NBA postseason, decision-making is a key asset, and the new additions could be judged solely on the basis of that attribute against quality opposition next season.
Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Boston Celtics tried to move Kemba Walker for a Top-5 Draft Pick.
