Published: April 1, 2025
LOS ANGELES, CA – The Los Angeles Lakers continue their push toward the NBA playoffs, currently holding the fourth seed in the Western Conference with a 46-29 record. With just seven games remaining in the regular season, the Lakers are looking to solidify their position and secure home-court advantage in the first round of the playoffs.
Current Standings and Playoff Race
As of April 1, 2025, the Lakers sit behind the Oklahoma City Thunder (63-12), Houston Rockets (49-27), and Denver Nuggets (47-28) in the Western Conference standings. Their closest competitors, the Memphis Grizzlies (44-31) and Golden State Warriors (43-31), are within striking distance, making every remaining game crucial.
Recent Performances and Key Players
The Lakers are currently on a two-game winning streak, including a 104-98 victory over the Houston Rockets in their most recent matchup at Crypto.com Arena.
- LeBron James continues to lead the team at age 40, averaging 25.4 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 6.8 assists per game this season.
- Anthony Davis remains a dominant force in the paint, posting 22.8 points, 12.3 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game.
- D’Angelo Russell has stepped up in recent games, contributing 19.2 points and 5.7 assists per game, making him a key playmaker down the stretch.
Upcoming Schedule and Playoff Implications
The Lakers will face several tough opponents in the final stretch of the season, including:
- April 3 vs. Memphis Grizzlies
- April 5 vs. Denver Nuggets
- April 7 vs. Houston Rockets
- April 10 vs. Golden State Warriors
Each of these matchups carries significant playoff implications, particularly against teams like the Nuggets and Warriors, who are fighting for higher seeding.
Coach Darvin Ham’s Perspective
Lakers head coach Darvin Ham emphasized the importance of finishing strong. “Every game from this point forward is a playoff game for us. We need to stay locked in, keep executing, and play with the urgency that the postseason demands,” Ham said.
Western Conference Standings (April 1, 2025)
- Oklahoma City Thunder – 63-12
- Houston Rockets – 49-27
- Denver Nuggets – 47-28
- Los Angeles Lakers – 46-29
- Memphis Grizzlies – 44-31
- Golden State Warriors – 43-31
- Minnesota Timberwolves – 43-32
- LA Clippers – 43-32
Lakers’ Playoff Outlook
If the Lakers can maintain their position in the top four, they will secure home-court advantage in the first round of the playoffs. However, any slip-up could push them down the standings, increasing the risk of a tougher first-round opponent.