The Los Angeles Lakers haven’t played a game with LeBron James. But JJ Redick and Co. have found a winning formula. Unsurprisingly. Luka Doncic is at the root, redefining what he is capable of following his dramatic physical transformation. It’s becoming increasingly evident that he can shoulder the weight that James did for so many years. But still, time isn’t on their hands.

A phenom is approaching. According to Ron Artest, the Lakers have “This year and next year” to compete for championships. After that, he feels an inevitable spell of dominance will loom over the NBA as Victor Wembanyama grows more terrifying with each game this season.

“When Wembanyama arrives? Yeah, we’re out of order. There will be no championships available. Sorry. Come back in two years,” Artest, now known as World Metta Peace, said on Iman Shumpert’s All In podcast. And by all means, the Wemby hype is very much real. Doncic spent the summer in the weight room, but Wembanyama took things a step further.

To unlock his physical gifts, he spent time with Monks. Aside from that, workouts with the likes of Kevin Garnett also characterized his offseason. That has led to the Spurs having a 5-1 record. Victor Wembanyama is the one controlling the chaos with his 7’4” frame, single-handedly forcing offenses to steer away from easy shots at the rim.

And he remains an obstruction for any team in the West. Because it’s not just Wemby. The Spurs have managed to build an organic roster. Stephon Castle has taken a visible leap in his second season, and rookie Dylan Harper appears ready to make a winning impact from the onset. The Spurs are a team with a high ceiling. That says a lot for a team that hasn’t made a big move aside from their incredible draft choices.

However, the Lakers aren’t far behind either. Luka Doncic may be a few inches shorter, but his ability is overwhelming. With his conditioning on point, the Slovenian has begun the season averaging 41.3 points through four games. And the Lakers have put all their chips into making these next few seasons count.

The Lakers look like they can compete for the championship

Over the first seven games, Redick has had his hands tied. He’s been playing short rotations, still the team is off to a great start. It’s largely because of astonishing individual performances from Austin Reaves and Luka Doncic. Now, imagine once LeBron James comes back, and Redick can move a few pieces around? That’s when the Purple and Gold make their push.

And World Metta Peace also focused on their offseason moves. “I think Luka did what he had to do. Cuz now you look at their team, you added Ayton… People forget what that means. Like you adding Ayton with Luka. Luka just need a little bit,” he continued on the show.

The former number one pick hasn’t fully found his feet yet. But he’s scoring the ball with great efficiency and is increasing his intensity on the boards. Furthermore, Marcus Smart is starting to contribute offensively while leading the Lakers’ defense. Forward Jake LaRavia has also notched up huge performances, earning JJ Redick’s confidence.

That’s a lot of ammunition for the Lakers compared to last season. Once LeBron James returns, which will be soon, the Lakers’ depth will naturally increase. Finding a balance might be difficult. But although this could be the final season the 40-year-old spends in LA, he has every intention of winning. Luka Doncic and the Lakers are also on the same page.

The West remains a bloodbath. But the Lakers have a range of predators who can ensure they remain competitive for more than just a few years.