With a shift in the team’s dynamic, the Los Angeles Lakers appear to be contenders for the upcoming championship.

Despite key injuries on defense, the Lakers were ranked first in that category last season with an impressive 106.8 rating.

Having a team win No. 1 defense efficiency with three players missing can be stressful for a team to cooperate regularly and for a coach. But with the Lakers having one of the best coaches in the NBA, Frank Vogel, team cohesion was never a worry.

Vogel, who has been with the team since 2019, is one of the reasons the Lakers are championship contenders. In Vogel’s second season the Lakers were the number one team in defensive efficiency, making it the first time the Lakers were recognized for defensive efficiency since the 1999-2000 season. 

Lebron James, who has been with the team since 2018, is set to return in 2021, and expectations are high for the 36-year-old veteran. James had one of his best statistical seasons in 2020 and fans expect him to continue his dominant performance.

Freshman and Lakers fan, Nolan Armenta, expects the Lakers to bring home another championship. 

“The Lakers will win because they have the heart and drive to deliver another championship to the city of LA,” Nolan said. “The Lakers are like a group of caterpillars, they may be colorful but don’t let that define who they really are.”

Anthony Davis, power forward or center position player, won an NBA championship his first season with the Lakers in 2020. He was honored as the 75th greatest player in NBA history. Davis is also an eight-time NBA all star, named to four NBA first teams, and four NBA all defensive teams. With the history of success Anthony Davis will be able to drive the team to victory.

The Lakers are well known, and it is for a reason. They have the drive, determination, and skill necessary to be winners.