5 Reasons For Los Angeles Lakers Fans To Be Thankful In 2016

Luke Walton

While the plethora of young talent on this roster has a lot to do with their sudden success, it’s the guy calling the shots that deserves so much of the credit. Yes, I’m talking about new head coach Luke Walton.

The former Lakers player came over after a wildly successful stint with the Warriors. Now, he’s implementing some of the same tactics that won Golden State so many games in 2015-16, and it’s working wonders for Los Angeles.

Not only are the Lakers playing smarter, more efficient basketball, but the tenacity and determination are there. The will to win is much stronger than in years passed, and I have to assume that’s because the players want to win for Walton.

Jordan Clarkson even said so at one point this season.

Walton is capitalizing on the talent this roster has to offer. He’s molded Julius Randle after Draymond Green, and its showing in his on-court success. The shooting has been better, and the lack of a superstar hasn’t kept the scorers from shining on a nightly basis.

Expectations were sky high for Walton when his return to Los Angeles was announced. Up to this point, it’s looking like the Lakers brass made the right call in hiring him. Given time, he may even return this squad to annual contender status.

Any true Lakers fan should be very thankful for Walton’s presence in L.A.