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A NBA executive: The Lakers have become stronger by introducing Ayton and Smart, and are expected to enter the Western Conference Finals in the new season

7:02am, 17 August 2025【Basketball】

An NBA executive told Lakers Daily that he believes the Lakers have been better off through the offseason and is expected to reach the Western Conference Finals next season.

"They were third in the Western Conference last season and did it without a starting-level center," the NBA executive said. "By bringing Ayton and Smart, they're definitely stronger. I can see them reach the division finals. You can never underestimate LeBron. I don't care how old he is.

His offense is still amazing. And everyone is talking about how great Luca looks after losing weight. He may be very eager to win everything next season." The Lakers' lack of center is exposed in this round of the series, and they made up for this offseason. Doncic recruited Ayton to the Lakers, and he signed a two-year, $16.2 million contract with the Lakers.