Los Angeles Lakers: Top 10 moments of the 2018-19 NBA season

7. Tyson Chandler makes a great first impression

When Tyson Chandler was bought out by the Phoenix Suns and subsequently brought in by the Lakers on Nov. 7, it was viewed by many to be exactly what L.A. needed at that point in time in order to help stabilize a position of need.

Despite being a 17-year veteran, Chandler was still viewed as a terrific interior defender and rim protector. JaVale McGee had been a surprise to many with his play early on in the season, but the Lakers had no help behind him on the depth chart and his lack of consistent stamina and IQ was cause for concern.

Tyson’s body wouldn’t let him play big minutes, but his knowledge and savvy would be of welcome use in spurts, especially late in games. It was only his third game with his new squad that the former Defensive Player of the Year proved that to be true.

Atlanta Hawks rookie sensation Trae Young had the ball in his hands at the top of the key with his team down just a single point. With a basket, he’d push the Lakers to 6-7, creating another wave of questions surrounding this already flawed team.

Young was able to get by Brandon Ingram and toss up a floater, but before the ball could even reach the basket, Chandler came over and got a hand on it right before such an attempt would’ve been considered a goaltend.

Games against teams like the lowly Hawks were considered must-wins for L.A. in the tough Western Conference, especially at home. A loss would’ve added to the already escalating pressure, but the newest addition to the team kept that from happening. Instead, it created a legitimate buzz that had many believing in his ability to be a true difference-maker moving forward.