Before the trade deadline, the Lakers struggled with spacing and a 25-31 record. The post-deadline Lakers surged with improved shooting and defense, finishing the regular season 18-8 to secure a Play-In spot.
💡 The "FX15" in your request likely refers to Austin Reaves , who wore #15 and became the "X-factor" that stabilized the Lakers' rotation after the Westbrook trade.
As a 7th seed, they upset the 2-seed Memphis Grizzlies (4-2) and the defending champion Golden State Warriors (4-2). Primary Roster Stats LeBron James Broke scoring record; led playoff push. Anthony Davis Defensive anchor with 2.0 blocks per game. Austin Reaves Breakout season; became a critical starter. D'Angelo Russell Key mid-season acquisition (17 games). Dennis Schröder Reliable secondary ball-handler. Team Evolution: Before vs. After Trade
After starting 2-10, the Lakers became just the sixth team in NBA history to make the playoffs after such a poor start.