Los Angeles Lakers suddenly become the most interesting team in the Western Conference. Their head coach Luke Walton has made the great combination of young players with the experienced veterans to become one of the toughest team to beat.
Under Walton, the Lakers has been energized to become interesting again according to USA Today. Although the team is still finding its balance, but a victory against Golden State Warriors and putting end to the Stephen Curry’s historic three-point streak is something to talk about.
Up to now, the Lakers have a 4-4 regular season record after 109-97 loss against Dallas Mavericks this Wednesday. However, they have defeated better team such as Atlanta Hawks, Phoenix Suns and the Warriors as reported by Sports Illustrated.
Walton was one of the member of Lakers back to back championship team in 2009 and 2010. He played with Kobe Bryant in one of the most exciting Lakers team ever assembled. His father Bill, is a Lakers hall of famer and recorded as one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA history. Walton is a true Lakers to his core, and he knew the history and tradition of Lakers.
He built his team from the combination of young players and established veterans after the era of Kobe Bryant. The new players were nicknamed ‘The Breakfast Club’ because they always hit the gym and do their workout in the morning. Walton will first instill the Lakers culture into the team as a foundation for the next generation Lakers.
The young players have also guidance from veterans such as Metta World Peace, Luol Deng, Jose Calderon and Lou Williams who will share their experience in the tough game of the NBA.
On Monday edition of the ESPN First Take, Stephen Smith, Skip Bayless and Molly Qerim discussed the question whether Lakers are better because they have no Kobe Bryant, or because of Luke WAlton as a coach. Watch the debate below: