While the fates of some Western Conference teams have long been crystal clear heading into the playoffs, the LA Lakers have had to wait and see how things play out.
Though the Lakers had a solid grip on the No. 3 spot several weeks back, they’ve run into some snags, the biggest of which were the injuries to Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. The Lakers ultimately slid to No. 4, and the Denver Nuggets caught fire, snatching the No. 3 spot.
Now, in the final days leading up to the playoffs, the positioning of teams in the middle of the pack has yet to be finalized. The Nuggets and the Lakers can still switch positions, and the Houston Rockets and the Minnesota Timberwolves still don’t have clarity on who their respective first-round opponents will be.
What is straightforward for the Lakers, however, is the indispensable role LeBron James will play. With Doncic and Reaves out, LBJ has had to carry a heavier burden than usual. James is no stranger to this, as he is a four-time NBA champion and four-time Finals MVP. The only question is whether Father Time will eventually catch up with the 41-year-old as he does so much heavy lifting over the next few weeks.
LA Lakers playoff picture: Updated Standings
After defeating the Phoenix Suns 101-73 on Friday, the Lakers improved to 52-29. They are currently in the No. 4 spot behind the Nuggets (53-28), and a full game ahead of the No. 5 Rockets (51-30).
LA Lakers playoff picture: Remaining Schedule
The Lakers’ final regular-season opponent is the Utah Jazz. This matchup will take place on Monday, the same day that the Nuggets take on the San Antonio Spurs.
If the Lakers win and the Nuggets lose, both teams will have an identical record and LA will claim the No. 3 spot. This would set up a rematch against with the Timberwolves, whom they faced in the No. 3 vs. No. 6 series last year. Minnesota won that series 4-1.
However, a Nuggets victory over the Spurs on Monday would take them to 54-28, securing the No. 3 spot and keeping the Lakers at No. 4. This would pit them against the No. 5 Rockets led by Kevin Durant.
