Lakers Reinvent, Score Championship Component

From 1999-2002, the Los Angeles Lakers garnered three NBA Championships. They amassed a 181-65 record. Unfortunately, squabbling and Colorado occurred. The Lakers endured two non-title seasons. They traded Shaquille O’Neal. Since, the Lakers have accrued a 121-125 record. They have not won a playoff series.

On Friday, the Memphis Grizzlies traded Pau Gasol to the Lakers. As reciprocation, the Grizzlies received Kwame Brown, Javaris Crittenton, and two first round selections. “We're a 13-win team, so when you're in that situation, you've got to make moves,” said Grizzlies General Manager Chris Wallace. “Brown was the largest expiring contact we could find in the league where we also got back an attractive young player like Crittenton ... and multiple first-round picks.”

According to Kobe Bryant, the Lakers have improved. “It shows a great deal of commitment from the organization. It's a great step. It's a matter of us just gelling now and putting it together. We've got a great bench. We have a lot of length, a lot of versatility. Now it's time to walk the walk.”

During his career, Gasol has registered 18.8 points and 8.6 rebounds per contest. This season, he has chalked 19.1 points and 8.9 rebounds per contest. “I have to take my hat off to [owner Jerry] Buss and Mitch for going forward with this,” Bryant said. “Now it's up to us to go out there and work hard.”

The Western Conference is stellar. The Phoenix Suns feature Steve Nash. The Dallas Mavericks showcase Dirk Nowitzki. The New Orleans Hornets highlight Chris Paul. The Denver Nuggets include Carmelo Anthony and Allen Iverson. With Gasol, the Lakers have improved. Are they a championship contender? They are within circumstances and victories.