Can LeBron James’ Los Angeles Lakers Emulate Michael Jordan’s 1998 Chicago Bulls?

The Los Angles Lakers failed to defend their title last season. They were eliminated in the first round because of injuries to Anthony Davis and LeBron James. Hence, they made new signings in the off season. Notably, they acquired the services of Russell Westbrook from the Wizards.

However, age has been a huge issue for the Lakers. Therefore, it could affect them. However, recent posts show that there was another team which was old like the Lakers, and they found success! It was Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls in 1998. So how do the current Lakers compare to the then Bulls?

Jun 3, 2021; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Anthony Davis (3), forward LeBron James (23) and coach Frank Vogel react in the second half during game six in the first round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs against the Phoenix Suns at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

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2021 Lakers vs 1998 Bulls

The media has been at the necks of LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers recently. This is because all of their recent signings have been older players. Hence, people have been saying that they are an old team and having a laugh about it. However, the age does not describe the caliber of players they have signed.

May 27, 2021; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) celebrates scoring a basket in the third quarter against the Phoenix Suns in game three in the first round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports

They have 10 players over the age of 32 as of now. Moreover, 4 of them will be 35 by the time the next season begins. Looking at this, everyone would say they are weak. However, if compared to the 98′ Bulls, it is a whole different story.

The Chicago Bulls won the NBA title in 1998. 35 YO Michael Jordan led the team to their 6th and last championship. However, they were no young pups. All of their starters were 30 or older during the season. But, they still went on to win the championship. This was mainly due to the right pieces around Michael Jordan.

The Bulls’ Michael Jordan drives to the basket as teammate Dennis Rodman and the Clippers’ Loy Vaught(left) look on during game at Sports Arena earlier this season. (Photo by Gina Ferazzi/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

So, that is good news for the Lakers, They have assembled great pieces and balance in their team. Moreover, they have the youth in Anthony Davis. Even though old, they have the competitive fire alive. As Carmelo Anthony said, he is there to compete for a title. But, why could the Bulls dominate even though they were old?

Why Michael Jordan and the Bulls could win in 1998

The game has evolved a lot since MJ’s era. The game then was more of a physical affair. It would be rare to see a team score over 100 points in a single game. On the other hand, it is a common sight to see games with over 100 points.

NBA Basketball -Chicago Bulls Michael Jordan and Scotty Pippen during a March 22, 1997 game at United Center in Chicago. (.) (Photo by Darren Whitley/Sporting News via Getty Images via Getty Images)

This is because the pace of the game has increased a lot more than before. During Jordan’s time, the game had less possessions. Hence, that took a comparatively less toll on their bodies. This is why they could perform at a high level even at the age of 33, like Scottie Pippen.

Now, it is visible that players efficiency decreases as their age goes up. Let’s look at Dwight Howard from the Lakers as an example. In his prime, he averaged 22 points, 2 blocks and 14 rebounds. Moreover, he was the star in Orlando. Now, at the age of 35, he is a role player for the Lakers putting up 7 points per game.

Sep 18, 2020; Lake Buena Vista, Florida, USA; Los Angeles Lakers center Dwight Howard (39) talks with Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray (27) during the third quarter in game one of the Western Conference Finals of the 2020 NBA Playoffs at AdventHealth Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

To sum it up, it is much challenging to make an impact at an older age in today’s game as compared to before. Do you think the Lakers can defy the odds and win with this team? Let us know in the comments below.

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