The L.A. Lakers' playoff hopes have been pronounced dead almost as many times as they've been miraculously resuscitated this year.
So perhaps it's appropriate that an 8-4 February record and a mere two-and-a-half-game deficit in the Western Conference playoff race is being met with only the most cautious optimism in reasonable circles. But with the season drawing to a close in a matter of a few short weeks, it's time to take another look at the reasons why the Lakers really might have enough life left to crash the postseason party and why they might not.
Hope Springs Eternal
The first reason L.A. should remain confident about its playoff chances is the most important one: Kobe Bryant.
No. 24 has defied virtually everything we've ever thought about the aging process in basketball. In his 17th season, Bryant is arguably playing as well as ever. He's also been remarkably adaptable, tailoring his game to whatever the Lakers have needed on offense, while still maintaining his typically high scoring average.
His physical skills and legendary competitiveness might be enough on their own to drag the Lakers ...
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - NBA
Article written by Grant Hughes
Reasons for and Against LA Lakers’ Playoff Hopes
March 2nd, 2013 by Grant Hughes Leave a reply »
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