McGrady delivered his take on the NBA on NBC and Peacock postgame show following the Lakers’ 135-118 win over the Los Angeles Clippers.

The discussion centers on Tracy McGrady’s assessment that the Los Angeles Lakers, despite a 13-4 start, remain far from true title contenders due to lacking depth, size, and speed to challenge top Western Conference powers like Oklahoma City or Denver in a seven-game playoff series.

McGrady criticizes the Lakers’ bench for insufficient depth and questions whether the supporting rotation can contribute consistently in high-stakes playoff games against elite teams.

Overall league analysis echoes concerns that the Lakers’ pace, defense, and interior defense are middling, casting doubt on their ability to sustain growth or contend despite the strong early run.

The piece urges Rob Pelinka to consider substantial trades to bolster the Lakers’ defense and shooting, aiming to position them more firmly for a championship run.

Statistical context shows the Lakers ranking 17th in pace, 9th in offensive rating, 16th in defensive rating, 14th in net rating, and allowing 69% shooting at the rim (fourth-worst in the NBA) through late November.

The commentary comes from former stars McGrady and Carter, highlighting a broader debate about the Lakers’ ceiling this season.

The narrative ties the 13-4 start and shooting/defensive gaps to a central question: can the Lakers contend for a title without major roster moves?

Vince Carter agrees with McGrady, arguing the team must match the quickness and athleticism of top teams to be viable in the playoffs.

Carter notes the Lakers appear to be trying to keep pace with the quickness and athleticism of OKC, the defending champions, rather than outperform them.

A particular emphasis is placed on the bench as a core weakness and the challenge of sourcing consistent playoff contributions from within the current roster.

McGrady calls for roster changes to refresh the squad, including the possibility of trading for a 3-and-D wing and potentially moving Jarred Vanderbilt to bolster defense and shooting.