LA Lakers: Biggest Questions For 2022-23

Every team in the NBA, even the best of the best, are facing questions to answer as we get set for a new season. The Los Angeles Lakers, of course, are no exception. It just so happens that their big questions are more hyped than any other team's. 

Yes, they have a new head coach in Darvin Ham. And yes, LeBron James is entering season No. 20. But the following are the two biggest questions facing the Lakers for 2022-23 in their attempt to right the ship:

Big Question #1: Can Anthony Davis stay healthy? 

Despite all the drama surrounding Russell Westbrook, this could very well be the biggest determining factor of how the Lakers' season turns out. Can AD stay on the floor? Charles Barkley nicknamed him "Street Clothes" a year ago, and whether that was a clown move or not, Davis sure enough was in his civvies for another 42 games last season due to injury. 

Davis was relatively healthy in 2020 and played every single game of the playoff run, and it resulted in a championship. The last two seasons... not so much. The Lakers need to do everything they can to ensure Davis spends the vast majority of his time on the court this season. AD himself has already set a very optimistic goal.

What’s the top personal goal for Anthony Davis?

“I wanna be on the court,” he said. “I want to play all 82.”

— Mike Bresnahan (@Mike_Bresnahan) September 28, 2022

82 could be a challenge. But if he can stay close to the 70-game mark and be healthy for the playoffs, that'll probably do. 

Big Question #2: With four point guards now on the roster, how will Russell Westbrook assimilate with all of his new backcourt mates? 

The acquisition of Patrick Beverley—Westbrook's longtime nemesis—was already raising eyebrows. Then the Lakers signed free agent Dennis Schröder to return to the fold. Add a now-healthy Kendrick Nunn to the equation, and the team has a very crowded backcourt. How will Russ manage the competition for minutes?

i'm sorry but Russell Westbrook and Patrick Beverley getting hyped together is hilarious. pic.twitter.com/DuDzN0tlIO

— Steve Jones Jr. (@stevejones20) October 6, 2022

Will Westbrook be starting? Finishing games? And how will he respond? Will he be able to fit into the team dynamic and come back from a dreadful 2021-22 season? These are all parts of the same question, essentially: What will the Lakers get from Russ this year? 

Should be another intriguing season in La La Land. 

Photo: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports