Byron Scott believes the overhauled Lakers are a first-round team with a second-round ceiling despite their extensive offseason additions and continued pursuit of frontcourt upgrades.Former Los Angeles Lakers head coach and three-time NBA champion Byron Scott is not convinced by the franchise's dramatic offseason overhaul.During an appearance on Byron Scott's Fast Break, Scott was asked how far the new-look Lakers could advance next season."Oh, first round," Scott said before laughing. "First round. You've got to make it [past the] first round. Second [round] at the most. Second at the most."The Lakers may have added depth, athleticism and defensive options, but Scott does not appear to view the current group as a legitimate championship contender.Lakers complete major offseason overhaulThe Lakers began their transformation by acquiring Walker Kessler from the Utah Jazz in a sign-and-trade. The 7-foot center agreed to a four-year deal and was brought in to provide rim protection, rebounding and a reliable pick-and-roll partner for Luka Doncic.Los Angeles then added Quentin Grimes, Sandro Mamukelashvili and Collin Sexton in free agency.The Lakers also traded Deandre Ayton to the Washington Wizards in exchange for Jaden Hardy and second-round picks in 2031 and 2032.Three-time NBA champion Kevon Looney subsequently joined on a one-year contract to serve as an experienced backup behind Kessler.Los Angeles later signed Ziaire Williams after the former lottery pick averaged a career-high 10.2 points with the Brooklyn Nets.Credit Getty Images via AFP - ScanpixThe Lakers' latest addition was Matisse Thybulle, who agreed to a one-year, $3.3 million deal.The two-time All-Defensive Team selection was recruited to strengthen the club's wing defense, but his arrival pushed Los Angeles to 16 guaranteed contracts – one above the regular-season limit.Los Angeles also moved up in the 2026 NBA Draft to acquire the rights to Cameron Carr, the No. 24 overall selection.Those arrivals followed the departures of LeBron James, Ayton, Rui Hachimura, Marcus Smart, Luke Kennard and Jaxson Hayes, leaving the Lakers with a substantially different supporting cast around Doncic and Reaves.Lakers could still pursue another center and starting forwardDespite already acquiring Kessler and Looney, the Lakers are reportedly still monitoring the big-man market.Nick Richards has been linked with Los Angeles, along with the Miami Heat and New York Knicks.The team's more significant remaining question is at starting forward.Los Angeles strongly pursued Jonathan Kuminga, viewing his athleticism, age and scoring upside as a potential fit alongside Doncic and Reaves.However, talks have stalled because the sides remain far apart on terms and the Lakers are reluctant to attach substantial draft compensation to a complicated sign-and-trade.PJ Washington has also been discussed as a possible alternative. His ability to defend multiple positions, space the floor and operate without requiring frequent touches could make him a natural fit next to the Lakers' primary creators.Any additional acquisition would require Los Angeles to trade or waive at least one player.
Like what we are doing? Support us by becoming BN+ member.
If you like our content, please click here and add us as your preferred source. It helps us a lot, and we are committed to delivering you the very latest basketball news.