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Can the Lakers still get the sixth seed and avoid the Play-In tournament?

The Los Angeles Lakers are fighting to make it to the playoffs, but can they get there by avoiding the Play-In tournament?

Andy Restrepo
Andy Restrepoandyrestrepo10
The Los Angeles Lakers are fighting to make it to the playoffs, but can they get there by avoiding the Play-In tournament?
MICHAEL REAVESAFP

After the return of LeBron James, the team had a setback and lost to the Bulls. But on their second game against the Chicago franchise this week, they were able to bounce back and beat them 121-110. Anthony Davis had an amazing night with 38 points and 10 rebounds.

While most believe the Lakers will end up featuring in the Play-In tournament, the ideal scenario for the LA-based franchise would be getting the sixth spot, the last one to give direct access to the NBA playoffs.

Can the Lakers clinch the 6 seed?

After losing to the Bulls, Bron was confident the Lakers can make it to the playoffs and avoid the Play-In tournament.

“To hell with the play-in. We can actually be a top-six seed,” said James via Michael Corvo of ClutchPoints.

The truth is the Lakers still have chances of being among the best six teams in The Western Conference. They are currently sitting eighth after beating the Bulls This week. For now only 1.5 games separate them and the Golden State Warriors for sixth place.

What LA needs to do:

Timberwolves vs Lakers: Los Angeles has one less game than Minnesota. If they beat the Timberwolves, they really put them in jeopardy. They both are .500 teams at the moment.

Suns vs Lakers: This game is crucial. This could be an opportunity for LA to win against a team already ready for the playoffs and that is not fighting for much at this point. Given that Los Angeles plays last-seed Rockets once and 12-seed Jazz twice in their last six games. It’s an ideal situation.