The Los Angeles Lakers have this fascinating trio with Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, and LeBron James that feels like it should be enough to chase a title. But then you look at the Oklahoma City Thunder, it’s clear why they’re operating a tier above everyone else.
Even so, expectations won’t leave the Lakers given their history and marquee names. Still, it’s fair to question whether they truly have what it takes for a deep playoff run after last year’s first-round exit to Minnesota.
Right now, all the Lakers really have to show is a 34-22 record and the fifth seed in the West. Solid, but not quite at a championship level. Retired NBA superstar Carmelo Anthony leaned into that idea, suggesting their ceiling stops at the Western Conference Finals.
“They have a shot at a legit Western Conference Finals run. Star power wins games in the playoffs, and they have that star power. The Lakers’ ceiling, to me, is the Western Conference Finals.”
Carmelo Anthony says the Lakers ceiling is the Western Conference Finals
Agree or Disagree?? pic.twitter.com/c7SGHQD1AH
— NBA Courtside (@NBA__Courtside) February 22, 2026
