The Los Angeles Lakers, a franchise that has been associated with power and success in the NBA, were once again cruelly disappointed when the Denver Nuggets removed them from the postseason. In addition to raising concerns about the team's performance, this loss raises issues about the future of important players like Talen Horton-Tucker (Ham) and LeBron James. This article examines the causes of the Lakers' elimination from the playoffs as well as any possible consequences for James and Ham.