Each of the Lakers top 8 scorers in total points was a below average defender (in efficiency) last season.
Roy Hibbert is 4.6 times as productive on defense than on offense over the last 3 seasons.
The most effective pick-and-roll ball handler in the NBA last season (min. 100 plays) was Lou Williams.
Kobe Bryant is entering his 20th NBA season. That will set the new record for guards. He is currently tied with John Stockton and Jason Kidd with 19 seasons.
The Lakers had one of the worst defenses in the NBA this season. Los Angeles allowed 108.0 points per 100 possessions, second-worst in the league (Wolves).
Los Angeles scored on 55.1% of its transition opportunities, ranking third in the NBA (Wizards, Jazz). The Lakers efficiency in transition was also excellent, ranking sixth in the league on a per play basis.
Peter Newmann is an analyst and writer who spent 10 years at ESPN, 8 as the NBA senior researcher working 24/7 on the league. He wrote game notes for crews, articles for ESPN.com, analysis for studio shows, and regularly assisted reporters and writers. Follow him on Twitter, and check out his Web site, www.peternewmann.com.