New York Knicks closer to contending than Los Angeles Lakers

Both the New York Knicks and Los Angeles Lakers were in 2013 postseason but both missed out on the playoffs last year. The Knicks nearly got into the playoffs while the Lakers were the second-worst team in the Western Conference. The Lakers, of course, were without Kobe Bryant and will be getting him back this season, which has led to some optimism.

More from Los Angeles Lakers

According to Chuck Myron of Hoops Rumors, the Knicks are closer to contending than the Lakers.

"I think it’ll be tough for that team to contend as long as they’re shelling out bloated deals to both Kobe and Nick Young. It’ll help them out quite a bit if the salary cap rises significantly this summer, but there’s really not much on that roster. It’d take more than one superstar signee to lift the team into contention, especially if Kobe isn’t 100% of what he was before the injury. I think the Knicks are closer because Carmelo is still in his prime and there are better pieces around him (Calderon, Shumpert, Hardaway, etc.) All bets are off if Julius Randle turns out to be a stud, however."

The west is so loaded that the Knicks are the answer here and it isn’t even close. That doesn’t mean the Lakers can’t quickly catch the Knicks talent-wise but it will be much easier for the Knicks to make it out of the Eastern Conference.

Be sure to check FanSided’s official NBA page to keep up to date on the latest news and rumors from around the league as we get you ready for the start of the 2014-2015 season.

More on FanSided.com

Kyle Anderson’s versatility should help San Antonio Spurs
Ray Allen rumors: Allen to sign mid-season?
Memphis Grizzlies giving out Zach Randolph ties
Chicago Bulls’ best chance for NBA title is now
New York Knicks, LA Lakers interested in Ricky Rubio?

Home/Los Angeles Lakers