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#2 A formidable defense
During the 2018-19 season, the Los Angeles Lakers' defense was among the worst in the entire NBA. The starting five contained no defensive specialist, and Luke Walton's desire to push the pace meant that the Lakers gave up 113.5 points per game.
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The front office responded this summer by bringing in three excellent defensive players in Danny Green, Avery Bradley, and Anthony Davis, while LeBron James has also put in some of his best defensive performances since his days in Miami.
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Through 14 games, the Lakers are holding opposing teams to just 101.1 points per game - a number only matched by the Utah Jazz. Vogel's increased emphasis on defense has also helped reduce opposing field goal accuracy to 42.7%, and while LA's excellent work on the defensive end has already been rewarded this season, it could become even more important come the playoffs.
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