When the Los Angeles Lakers began their 2021-22 campaign, fans were expecting explosive performances and a deep playoff run. However, the team struggled throughout the season, eventually losing multiple games and their chance to play in the play-in tournament. Interestingly, by the looks of it, some experts had already predicted their loss.

While on NBA on TNT, Shaquille O’Neal and Charles Barkley have previously spoken about the Lakers losing and not reaching the play-in. Though there was some hope for the Lakers months ago, a string of losses ultimately eliminated the LeBron-led franchise. Fans have expressed their disappointment over the Lakers countless times, not expecting an elimination so soon.

As per O’Neal and Barkley, the Lakers‘ season was over before it really was. The two NBA icons even predicted a scenario, which focused on the Lakers being out before the players.

Charles Barkley and Shaq predicted the Lakers’ elimination?

In the short clip, Shaq starts by speaking of teams, and how everything would eventually turn out. “The Pelicans will make the playoffs, the play-in game and the Lakers will not,” O’Neal wrote.

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Barkley agrees and then reiterates the point about the Lakers missing the playoffs. They even focused on the Pelicans, who, as predicted, as in the play-in tournament bracket.

While some fans dismissed Shaq and Barkley’s comments, many agreed that it was a great prediction. Fans even discussed the Lakers team, wondering if this was the worst combination ever in their history.

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Could the Lakers have made the playoffs?

In a perfect world, the Lakers should have completed a deep playoff run. However, something about the team’s roster just did not work out together. Russell Westbrook was acquired, hoping to form a super team with Anthony Davis and LeBron James.

Westbrook’s performance has been criticized this entire season, unable to carry the team ahead.

As a result, rumors about James’ trade are already around. As of now, the Cleveland Cavaliers and LA Clippers are two suggested options. However, James himself has never spoken or hinted at any trade. In fact, if his ‘Lake Show‘ t-shirt is to be considered, his loyalties seem in place.

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Do you think the Lakers will trade LeBron? Let us know in the comments below.