Bill Simmons and Rob Mahoney recently discussed NBA teams that have had surprising starts to the season on The Bill Simmons Podcast. The Los Angeles Lakers made the list as they now sit tied for second in the Western Conference with a 17-6 record. Luka Doncic is playing at an MVP level, Austin Reaves continues his star ascension, and JJ Redick is vindicating their decision to hire a podcaster as head coach.
That said, it's easy to poke holes in this Lakers roster to see why they shouldn't be considered genuine contenders, and why this hot start to the season may not be sustainable.