Lakers haven't done anything this offseaon are they still the Favorites?

Question

Lakers haven't done anything this offseaon are they still the Favorites?

Answer 1

Yeah, Kobe will win the MVP again and they will be champions.

Answer 2

Not really. Almost every team in the west is doing some reinforcement. Suns have just changed significantly by starting Diaw in small forward, and getting Lopez. That will make a big impact, just watch. Mavs are gaining speed in 2/3 spots for Carlisle to run his defense. Hornets signed Posey. Blazers got Rudy Fernandez so Roy can move to shooting guard. On top of that, Oden had returned.

All Lakers have is the return of Bynum and Vujacic. But they let go of the muscle man - Turiaf. So the toughness only increased a little bit. Yes Bynum is a lot of skilled than Turiaf, but how much tougher he is? Is he battle tested in the playoff?

Could other teams learn from the Celtics and play physical against their frontline next season? I didn't see Lakers make much improvement. If the do sign Ron Artest, then I will call the the favorite second the the Celtics.

Answer 3

as long as theyre healthy. pau gasol is going to be a beast next year because losing in the finals will motivate him more. especially when EVERYBODY called him soft. he won't ever forget that. He'll make all star team.

Answer 4

I think they are.