The last time the Los Angeles Lakers failed to make the playoffs was 2005. Before that, L.A. hadn’t missed the postseason since 1994.
Prior to ’94, it hadn’t occurred since 1976.
The picture being painted here is that the Lakers have been the epitome of consistency in sports. More times than not, Los Angeles has also been blessed with the ability to acquire established star-caliber talent.
In 2014-15, the Lakers are in danger of experiencing both of those rarities: missing the playoffs and developing a new star of their own.
That player is point guard Jeremy Lin.
Lin has his detractors, specifically those who still hold onto their hatred of Linsanity. Three seasons later—really, that’s a ridiculously long time to hold a grudge—Lin has arrived in Los Angeles with a new reputation: work in progress.
For better or worse, through thick and thin, Lin is the Lakers’ new franchise point guard.
Next: Quietly Developing