re: How far away are the Lakers?

For the first time in a few years the Lakers at least have a group of players with potential. The season will have to play out to see what players will improve enough for the Front Office to develop a firmer strategy.

Kobe's swan song of a season wreaked havoc on young players attitude when the focus had less to do with winning than just enduring the circus like atmosphere on and off the court. You can't even say last season was a rebuilding season. It was playground basketball all year. This upcoming season will be different. Not the playoffs so much as a look in to see what they have or don't have. Walton will be coaching his young arse off for sure.

Russell. Don't write him off yet.

Ingram. Real deal.

Clarkson. Improved team player and scorer.

Randle. Needs to get better to not become trade bait.

Zuboc. Raw. He is part of the reason Mosgov was brought in.

Mosgov. Serviceable center. Much like the Warriors center was the last two years.

Deng. Will be a stabilizing and effective player.

Nance. Will continue to work motive.

Like someone said earlier, this could be a 36, 37, or 38 win season barring no injuries.