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The NBA hasn't released its schedule for the 2022-23 season. Reports suggest LeBron James' LA Lakers have been drawn against the Golden State Warriors on opening night.
Opening nights set the tone for the season. Often, two of the biggest teams in each conference slug it out. Last season, the Warriors faced the Lakers at Crypto.com Arena.
With the Warriors winning the 2022 title, they will play their first game at home. Just before tip-off, a ring ceremony will commemorate their championship.
The Warriors won the title after a two-year hiatus from the postseason. The Warriors defeated the Celtics 4-2, and Steph Curry won his first NBA Finals MVP award.
Since the Athletic's Shams Charania's report came to light, fans have taken to social media to mock the Lakers.
A fan said Draymond Green would give James his ring. This is likely referring to their developing friendship. The pair recently travelled to Toronto together.
Another acknowledged James' impact, calling him the most marketable player in the league.
LeBron James will be looking to win a ring in 2023
The Lakers have not impressed in the last two years following their 2020 championship run. However, James will be hoping to change that.
Although the team does not look formidable on paper, the front office is confident in James and Anthony Davis' abilities. The four-time NBA champ has also promised fans he will never again miss the playoffs in his career.
Nonetheless, imagining the Lakers making a deep run with their current roster isn't easy. Although James is a difference-maker, he might not have the same impact he once did.
The Lakers' leader has done an excellent job defying "Father Time," but there is only so much his body can take. The era of putting teams on his shoulders and leading them to glory might be over.
There is still some time in the offseason for the Lakers to make a season-altering acquisition. It has been reported that they are now willing to include a second draft pick to seal the deal for Kyrie Irving. Acquiring Irving could balance the team by providing outside shooting.
Guess the Lakers players!
