The Los Angeles Lakers are close to securing both a playoff berth and the Pacific Division title, according to a March 30 announcement. If the Lakers defeat the Washington Wizards and the Phoenix Suns lose to the Memphis Grizzlies on Monday night, they will achieve both milestones.
This development is significant for the team, which has been led by standout performances from Luka Doncic. The Lakers currently hold a seven-game lead over the Suns with eight games left in the regular season, making their path to clinching the division appear likely barring an unexpected collapse.
However, Doncic will not play against Washington as he serves a one-game suspension after receiving his 16th technical foul of the season during Friday’s win over Brooklyn. Marcus Smart is also set to miss his fourth straight game, while rookie Adou Thiero remains out for a third consecutive contest.
While winning a division title may not be celebrated as much as other achievements, it marks an important step for head coach JJ Redick. Redick has now guided Los Angeles to two consecutive Pacific Division titles in his first two seasons leading the team. “If the Lakers have another disappointing playoff performance it will be completely forgotten about,” but there is optimism that this year’s squad is better prepared for postseason success than last year.
The team’s improved defense and strong contributions from role players have helped them gain momentum late in the season. As they approach potential playoff qualification and secure another division crown, expectations remain high within both management and fans that this group can advance further than before.