NBA Power Rankings: The final regular season edition
By Daniel Lewis

20. . . Previous: 21st. Los Angeles Lakers. 21. team
The Lakers started the season with one of the most hyped prospects in recent history in Lonzo Ball, but their rookie point guard was outplayed this season by their second first round pick, Kyle Kuzma, who proved that he belongs in the NBA, showing off an ability to score that few saw coming. While they were unable to clear cap space at the trade deadline to pursue two max-contract free agents, the Lakers seem to have found a real asset in Julius Randle, who got in excellent shape in the offseason and has earned a nice contract from some team in the offseason. While the Lakers don’t own their first-round pick in the upcoming draft, they have to feel better about their future after this season. Enjoy the offseason, Lakers fans — it won’t be long until they’re back to playing meaningful games in April once again.