Kobe Bryant, not LeBron James, played a small role in bringing the 6-foot-10 NBA big man to the Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers strengthened their roster to win their 18th NBA championship. Last season, LeBron James and his team reached the Western Conference Finals but lost to the eventual champion Denver Nuggets. The Lakers’ playoff berth was a bit of a surprise, as they ended the regular season with a playoff berth. But the additions of D’Angelo Russell and Rui Hachimura at the trade deadline helped the Lakers overcome their poor form.

The Lakers hope to continue the momentum from last season’s playoff run. One new recruit says Kobe Bryant played a small role in his decision to join the Lakers.

Christian Wood grew up watching Kobe Bryant

After an impressive run last season, the Lakers surprised many by reaching the Finals. On their way to the Finals, they defeated formidable opponents such as the Golden State Warriors and Memphis Grizzlies. Lakers fans are now looking at the new season with hope and optimism. That’s for good reason, as the Lakers further solidified their title credentials by adding Christian Wood, Gabe Vincent, and Jaxon Hayes.

On NBA media day, Wood sat down for a press conference. He talked about his love for the “City of Angels” and the Lakers, noting that he was a Lakers fan as a kid. He said, “This is my hometown team. I’m from Long Beach. I grew up watching this team, I grew up watching Kobe Bryant. So, this is where I want to be long-term.”.

Christian Wood said he hopes to stay with the Lakers and make the Lakers his home. After being traded to multiple teams, Wood didn’t have a chance to adapt to a system, so he wasn’t able to reach his potential.

Can the Lakers win the championship?

The Lakers have added very talented players to their roster. They may have the deepest roster in the entire NBA. But they still lack the killer edge that most title challengers have. LeBron James and Anthony Davis are both injury-prone players, and one has to wonder what would happen if either of them got hurt.

If any of the Lakers’ superstars get injured, they won’t be able to maintain their title. For the Lakers to succeed this season, players like Wood, Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura will need to take responsibility and provide critical support. Only a successful championship can make this season a victory for Lakers fans. There is no doubt that this season may provide the Lakers’ best chance to win their 18th NBA championship.

Watch this story: Bobby Green calls out LeBron James