Through seven games of this NBA season, the Los Angeles Lakers sit at the top of their conference with a 6-1 record, their best start since the 2010-11 season, where they started 8-0.
After losing the first game against the Clippers, the Lakers have been unstoppable.
So, what are the key aspects that have helped the Lakers to get to this record?
The first standout is the defense, who has been lead by Anthony Davis, averaging 3 blocks and 1 steal per game. Next to Davis, Dwight Howard has been an absolute force, blocking 2.1 shots per game in only 21.7 minutes. The team also ranks first in steals in the league, with 9. Also, a crucial stat that proves how impressive this Lakers defense has been, is Defensive Rating. The team ranks first in the NBA with a 98.5, which shows the dominance of the team defensively.
The second standout has been LeBron James’ role as a Point Guard. He leads the NBA in assists per game with 11.1, being the only player in the league averaging double-digits assists. Even though Rajon Rondo’s role will probably reduce James’ assists, LeBron will still be looking forward to leading the league in assists and perhaps average double-digit assists for the first time in his career.
Right now, the Lakers are on pace on winning 70 games, which we know will be difficult. The schedule has favored the team, with no back to backs yet and starting the first four games in Los Angeles.
Even though this amount of winning is probably not sustainable, these keys will help the Lakers in their search of an NBA championship if they keep consistent.
Featured Image: Via CNN
