The Western Conference is shaping up to be a dogfight once again. The top 10 seeds all have a winning record. Three teams in particular caught my eye.
The Los Angeles Lakers may be the most impressive team in the Western Conference so far this season. They are 11-2 and currently sit in the top spot. They are led by Luka Dončić, who is averaging 38.6 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 7.6 assists on nearly 50% shooting and 40% from three.
There is no doubt that Dončić deserves to be at the top of the MVP ladder at this very moment. His individual greatness, coupled with team success, is a strong case. All five starters on the Lakers are averaging north of 10 points per game.
New addition Walker Kessler has been a great signing. He’s averaging 14.5 PPG and 10.8 RPG. That’s a significant improvement over DeAndre Ayton’s 12.5 points and 8.0 rebounds per game last season at the center position.
It also feels like Austin Reaves is thriving as a second option. He’s averaging 24.7 PPG on 51.3% shooting. He’s been able to carry the load when needed, as he scored 43 a few days back when Dončić sat out for rest.
There was a bit of a scare with Dončić’s injury in the most recent game. He injured his ri...