URGENT UPDATE: The Los Angeles Lakers are just four days away from the highly anticipated start of the 2025-26 NBA season, but concerns about their roster are rising. Following the acquisition of young superstar Luka Doncic, expectations are high for LA to reclaim its glory. Yet, as former Lakers forward and NBA Hall of Famer Carmelo Anthony points out, there are significant red flags that could jeopardize their championship aspirations.
In a recent episode of his podcast, 7PM in Brooklyn, Anthony expressed serious doubts about the Lakers’ shooting capabilities. “Lakers don’t have no shooting, though. They have no shooting, so it’s scary,” he stated bluntly. While he acknowledged the team’s potential, labeling them as “good” and capable of being a “top-five team in the West,” his criticism highlights a crucial issue for the Lakers.
The team’s leading shooters – LeBron James, Austin Reaves, and Gabe Vincent – are not necessarily known for their long-range threats. This lack of shooting depth raises immediate concerns about their ability to compete effectively, especially against defensively strong teams.
But shooting isn’t the only worry for the Lakers. Their perimeter defense has also been flagged as a significant concern. Despite the addition of Marcus Smart to bolster their defense, questions linger about his ability to perform at a high level. Smart, a former Defensive Player of the Year, has faced injuries in recent seasons, and it remains uncertain whether he can return to his previous form.
The Lakers are expected to use the first 20 to 25 games of the season to evaluate their roster and make necessary adjustments. According to Rob Pelinka, the Lakers’ president of basketball operations and general manager, he is prepared to make impactful changes should the team underperform.
With the season’s tip-off rapidly approaching, fans are eager to see how these concerns will unfold on the court. The Lakers will face a challenging path ahead, and all eyes will be on their performance as they strive for success. For all the latest updates and developments, stay tuned to trusted sports news sources.
As the clock ticks down to the season opener, the urgency for the Lakers to address these critical issues cannot be overstated. Will Doncic’s talent be enough to overcome the roster’s shortcomings? The answer may very well define their season.
