Do you guys still consider the Lakers a rival?

[TBpup]

They are a rival for Portland fans much more than we are a rival for them. Portland has the 2 best players but they probably have more young talent balanced across their roster. Also, a couple of them can play a little defense. SUPER young right now but the other thing they have going for them is they aren't backed right up to the Luxury Tax level and have a current salary of $26 million less than Portland. They also have $14 million rolling off the cap at the end of this year so fiscally, they are also in a better place than Portland.

 

[riverman]

They are a rival for Portland fans much more than we are a rival for them. Portland has the 2 best players but they probably have more young talent balanced across their roster. Also, a couple of them can play a little defense. SUPER young right now but the other thing they have going for them is they aren't backed right up to the Luxury Tax level and have a current salary of $26 million less than Portland. They also have $14 million rolling off the cap at the end of this year so fiscally, they are also in a better place than Portland.

I'm starting to think Luke Walton is a hell of a coach....they look improved....losing Kobe changed things....other players actually shoot the ball now...Randle is a great rim protector....was impressed with him

 

[BigGameDamian]

They are a rival for Portland fans much more than we are a rival for them. Portland has the 2 best players but they probably have more young talent balanced across their roster. Also, a couple of them can play a little defense. SUPER young right now but the other thing they have going for them is they aren't backed right up to the Luxury Tax level and have a current salary of $26 million less than Portland. They also have $14 million rolling off the cap at the end of this year so fiscally, they are also in a better place than Portland.

You mean the identical twins when it comes to style of play? That hasn't proved to be a big plus especially when the twins don't play much defense and both start side by side. I do think Brandon Ingrum and Julius Randle will both be studs though.

 

[TBpup]

You mean the identical twins when it comes to style of play? That hasn't proved to be a big plus especially when the twins don't play much defense and both start side by side. I do think Brandon Ingrum and Julius Randle will both be studs though.

Yes, the identical (although I think 'fraternal' would be better) twins. Best for now but as the Laker babies progress, if any of them can score and play a little defense, out bombs-away-0le' duo might easily get passed up.

 

[MarAzul]

If not I can definitely see the Lakers/ Blazers rivalry coming back. Do you guys think the Lakers are set up better for the future?

Naw! Not really a rival. However, I never see my way clear to wish them well. I do though, like their coach, the man knows the value of systems. I wish we had Walton as coach and the Lakers
had McMillan. Ha! That would be pleasing.