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2w ago

Lakers Rest Stars After Clinching No. 3 Seed in Western Conference Playoffs

With their playoff position secured, Los Angeles focuses on recovery and preparation as questions linger about their title chances.

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - JANUARY 05: Myles Turner #33 of the Indiana Pacers is fouled by Nicolas Claxton #33 of the Brooklyn Nets at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on January 05, 2022 in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Lakers guard Austin Reaves tries to get to the basket as Minnesota Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert defends during the second half on Friday night in Minneapolis. (Photo by David Berding/Getty Images)
Portland Trail Blazers forward Toumani Camara, left, dribbles the ball against Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James, right, during the second half of an NBA basketball game Sunday, April 13, 2025, in Portland, Ore. (AP Photo/Howard Lao)
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Overview

  • The Lakers completed the regular season with a 50-32 record, securing the third seed in the Western Conference playoffs.
  • Key players, including LeBron James and Luka Doncic, were rested in the season finale, which ended in a 109-81 loss to the Trail Blazers.
  • Coach JJ Redick emphasized a strategy prioritizing rest, recovery, and structured practice sessions ahead of the playoffs starting next weekend.
  • Luka Doncic highlighted the importance of team-wide contributions for a championship run, underscoring collective effort as essential for success.
  • Analysts remain skeptical of the Lakers' title chances, citing roster imbalances and reliance on star players as potential weaknesses in the postseason.