NBA Power Rankings Week 9: The slide of the Los Angeles Lakers

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 18: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts to a play during the second quarter against the Brooklyn Nets at Staples Center on February 18, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images) /

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41. . 16-15. Previous: 11th. Golden State Warriors. 9. team

Last Week: Beat Cleveland Cavaliers 129-98, Beat/OT Miami Heat 120-112, Lost to Orlando Magic 124-120, Lost to Charlotte Hornets 102-100

This Week: 2/23 at New York Knicks, 2/24 at Indiana Pacers, 2/26 vs. Charlotte Hornets

The weak started off strong with a bludgeoning of the flailing Cleveland Cavaliers and the Miami Heat who are slowly getting back to form. The roster is without big men due to injury and combatting a team with size would become quite challenging.

However, losing to this Orlando Magic team is almost inexcusable for a team planning to make a playoff push. After missing the win over Miami, Draymond Green was back for this game and dished nine assists, further showcasing how essential his playmaking is to the offensive game plan for the Warriors. However, with no big men to combat Nikola Vucevic, the loss felt inevitable.

The loss to the Hornets is forgivable. Stephen Curry was on the court warming up before being escorted to the back by the team doctor because he did not feel well. The fact that the Warriors only lost by two when they were relying on Mychal Mulder in his stead is admirable. Let’s hope that this illness is not the kind that leads to weeks on the sidelines.