TITLE: Draymond Green Says Red-Hot Lakers Could Challenge Anyone in Playoffs
SLUG: draymond-green-sees-lakers-as-title-threat
The Golden State Warriors are preparing for the postseason, but forward Draymond Green is keeping a close eye on the surging Los Angeles Lakers. Speaking on the latest episode of The Draymond Green Show, the four-time NBA champion said Luka Doncic’s recent play has transformed Los Angeles into a legitimate threat as the playoffs approach.
“Luka has been playing absolutely incredible,” Green said. “When you have Luka Doncic and LeBron James on the court at the same time, you always have a chance against anyone.”
Lakers Riding Eight-Game Streak
The Lakers have won eight consecutive games, a run powered by Doncic’s MVP-level production. The 26-year-old guard has elevated several teammates during the stretch, a point Green highlighted while naming Marcus Smart and Deandre Ayton as recent standouts.
Smart has anchored the defense since arriving in Los Angeles, while Ayton’s improved comfort in a complementary role has boosted the frontcourt. Green called their uptick in performance “the magic of Luka Doncic,” crediting the star’s playmaking for lifting the roster.
Depth Pieces Finding a Rhythm
Beyond the starting group, head coach Darvin Ham has received timely contributions from Luke Kennard, Jake LaRavia and Rui Hachimura. Although the trio has experienced offensive inconsistency, their recent minutes have provided needed bench scoring and versatility.
Historical Precedent Fuels Optimism
Green compared the current Lakers to the 2024 Dallas Mavericks, a club Doncic carried to the NBA Finals after a late-season surge. With the postseason less than two weeks away, Green believes a similar run cannot be dismissed if Los Angeles maintains its momentum.
Magic Johnson Echoes Praise
Lakers legend Magic Johnson recently joined the chorus of compliments, labeling Doncic “the most unguardable player in the NBA.” The former executive’s endorsement strengthens the narrative that few opponents relish facing Los Angeles in a best-of-seven series.
The Lakers enter the season’s final stretch looking to secure playoff positioning, while rivals like Golden State monitor whether Doncic’s hot hand—and a rejuvenated supporting cast—can translate into a deep postseason push.
Source: LakersNation.com
