5 Realistic Expectations For The Los Angeles Lakers In 2016-17

Luke Walton’s First Season Is Considered A Success

Believe it or not, Luke Walton is under an immense amount of pressure in 2016-17

The former Lakers player has taken over his former team, and will be expected to quickly point this squad in the right direction. Trust me when I say that’s a tall order, especially considering the poor way this franchise has been run since the passing of Jerry Buss in 2013.

Luckily, I think Walton’s got the skills and support to get the job done.

There will be some fans who are disappointed, because frankly this team is still a couple of years away from being a true contender. There’s a lot of work to be done with this roster built around inexperienced youngsters, but it’s a challenge that Walton is more than equipped to complete.

So don’t get discouraged when the Lakers fail to crack the 40-win mark in 2016-17. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither are championship NBA teams. Walton needs some time to mold this team into a championship-caliber group, and this year will be a good opportunity to set the groundwork.

Related Story: Ranking The Lakers' 5 Best Players Right Now

When all is said and done, Walton’s first go-around as head coach of the Lakers will be seen as a success. It may not include a postseason appearance or more than 40 wins, but it’ll be a big step in the right direction for one of the league’s most storied franchises.