The Los Angeles Lakers’ recent victory over the Denver Nuggets has propelled them to a 43-25 record, placing them on track for a 50-plus win season, a feat they haven’t achieved since their 2019-20 championship year. However, several challenges remain before the postseason.
Injuries to key players, including LeBron James, and the team’s center situation are prominent concerns. Following the trade of Anthony Davis for Luka Dončić, which left a void in their interior defense and lob threat, the Lakers’ attempt to acquire Mark Williams from the Charlotte Hornets fell through due to a failed physical.
Los Angeles Lakers Face Two-Way Decisions
Fortunately, Jaxson Hayes has stepped up as the starting center. However, the backup role remains uncertain. Two-way player Trey Jemison has emerged as a strong contender, having played in six consecutive games and averaging 15.7 minutes, while Alex Len remained on the bench. The Lakers face a decision regarding Jemison and fellow two-way player Jordan Goodwin, as their contracts must be converted to standard deals for playoff eligibility, necessitating roster cuts.
Here are the details of their limits:
Jordan Goodwin: Four active games remaining.
Christian Koloko: Nine active games remaining.
Trey Jemison: Nine active games remaining.
“A source with knowledge of the Lakers’ thinking told ESPN,” according to Dave McMenamin, “that having to make decisions about the back end of the roster because the two-way players are standing out is a ‘good problem to have’ and said L.A. would not be in any rush to make a change, using the final weeks of the regular season to continue to gather data points on every player involved.”
Despite a recent four-game losing streak, the Lakers have rebounded with three consecutive wins, bringing their record to 11 victories in their last 15 games. They are set to host the Milwaukee Bucks on Thursday night.