Derek Fisher expects Los Angeles Lakers to remain competitive following LeBron James departure

Derek Fisher expressed confidence that the Los Angeles Lakers can maintain a playoff-level standing following the departure of LeBron James to the Philadelphia 76ers. The former NBA champion noted that the team is uniquely positioned to avoid the sharp declines seen in previous franchises that lost James, primarily because of the presence of Luka Doncic. Fisher cited the offensive capability of an established core including Doncic and Austin Reaves, alongside the defensive contributions of newly acquired big man Walker Kessler. While ESPN projections suggest a decline to approximately 45 wins from the team’s 53-win campaign last year, Fisher maintains the squad has the tools to stay competitive. Concerns remain regarding the team's depth and defensive consistency, but the roster stability provided by existing stars separates this situation from the roster voids left by James in Cleveland and Miami.

• 4:49 PMYahoo Sports — Derek Fisher Believes Lakers Won’t Fall Off Without LeBron James