The Los Angeles Lakers are peaking at the right time, winning 12 of their last 13 games and emerging as a serious contender in the Western Conference. With Luka Dončić, LeBron James, and Austin Reaves all in top form, their offense has looked nearly unstoppable.
However, questions still linger on the defensive end, and veteran analyst Colin Cowherd believes that could ultimately limit their postseason ceiling.
Colin Cowherd Explains Why a Jaden McDaniels-Type Wing Can Make the Lakers Contenders
Los Angeles has thrived offensively, with James, Dončić, and Reaves leading the charge while Rui Hachimura, Jaxson Hayes, and Marcus Smart have also made key contributions.
But defense remains a concern. The Lakers currently rank 20th in defensive rating at 115.7, and their roster construction leaves them vulnerable, with multiple primary ball handlers who can be targeted in playoff matchups.
According to Cowherd, adding a two-way wing in the mold of Jaden McDaniels could elevate the Lakers into true championship contenders.
“If you just had Jaden McDaniels from Minnesota, a catch-and-shoot guy who can defend, I would give them credit,” Cowherd said. “Outside of Marcus Smart, their top guys are all lopsided. They either can’t defend or don’t want to defend. But I think you can get away with that in the regular season…not in the playoffs.”
Cowherd also pointed out that opposing coaches could exploit those weaknesses in a playoff series by repeatedly forcing players like Dončić into defensive actions.
“And when you force Luka to defend, I don’t think they are guaranteed to win one series. I think the first series will be tough,” Cowherd added.
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“When you force Luka to defend, I don’t think they are guaranteed to win one series. I think the first series will be tough,” argues Colin Cowherd @TheHerd— za (@cricketryyy) March 31, 2026
There is some merit to those concerns, as even head coach JJ Redick has publicly acknowledged the team’s defensive inconsistencies at times this season, including that of Dončić.
That said, there have been signs of improvement during their recent surge. Deandre Ayton has provided a stronger presence in the paint, while Hayes has stepped up defensively, helping ease the burden on perimeter players.
Those adjustments could allow Dončić and Reaves to focus more on offense, but the broader issue remains. Without a reliable two-way wing, the Lakers risk being exposed in high-stakes matchups.
Currently sitting third in the Western Conference at 49-26, Los Angeles will look to maintain its momentum when it hosts the Cleveland Cavaliers on the second night of a back-to-back. They appear in full control of the No. 3 spot in the West and are likely to face either the Houston Rockets (sixth) or the Minnesota Timberwolves (fifth) in the first round.
