5 Teams who might miss the NBA Playoffs 2019

#5 The Los Angeles Lakers

Los Angeles Lakers v Dallas Mavericks

LeBron James makes any team better. However, the Lakers are not a playoff worthy team. They were as high as 4th overall in the Western Conference as recently as Christmas Day. Since then, a groin injury to LeBron James and a 4-6 record in their last 10 games has the Lakers half a game ahead of the Jazz for the 8th and final playoff spot.

LeBron could easily put this team on his back and lead it to the playoffs but he can’t afford any more injuries as the Lakers are flawed. At the center spot, they feature JaVale McGee backed up by Tyson Chandler. Chandler at 37 years old was signed for the remainder of the season because the options to back up McGee were not suitable. However, Chandler is averaging 3.2ppg. in 19.4 minutes per game.

Lonzo Ball is averaging less of everything in his sophomore season than in his rookie year. His points, assists, minutes, and rebounds are at lower averages than last season. His shooting percentage is higher at 40.1% and his three-point field goal percentage is 2.5% higher than last season at 33%.

With the parity of talent in the western conference, LeBron will have to return from injury soon. He will need to provide the Lakers with MVP efforts, as often as possible, for the rest of the season to keep the Lakers in the playoff picture.