One year after acquiring MVP candidate Luka Doncic, the Los Angeles Lakers remain far from championship contention. Their 32-20 record mirrors last year's performance, despite Doncic's historic production. Doncic ranked third in MVP voting during his first season with L.A., yet his 28.2 points per game and 7.5 assists fall short of his Dallas peak.

The Lakers' 32-20 record is fifth in the Western Conference, with the worst point differential in the top five. Luka's improved conditioning hasn't translated to better stats, suggesting conditioning issues were overstated. The team's lack of role players, exemplified by trading away Max Christie, remains a critical flaw.