: They dethroned the defending champion Golden State Warriors, also in six games, becoming the first 7th seed to reach the Western Conference Finals since 1987.

In the 2022-23 NBA season, the Los Angeles Lakers orchestrated a historic turnaround that defied a after a dismal 2-10 start. While the core was led by LeBron James and Anthony Davis, a critical part of their identity was the emergence of Austin Reaves , often affectionately (though controversially) nicknamed "AR-15" for his jersey number and sharpshooting. The Descent and the Deadline

: They upset the 2-seeded Memphis Grizzlies in six games.

The season began in darkness, with a winless 0-5 stretch that marked the worst start of LeBron James's career. By mid-season, the team was mired under .500, struggling with a roster that lacked defensive depth and reliable shooting.

Everything shifted at the . General Manager Rob Pelinka executed a total overhaul, moving Russell Westbrook and acquiring key pieces like D’Angelo Russell, Jarred Vanderbilt, and Malik Beasley , as well as Rui Hachimura shortly before. These moves injected "badly needed downhill speed" and perimeter defense into a stagnating lineup. The Rise of "AR-15"

: Over a crucial 15-game stretch during this run, the Lakers boasted the number one defensive rating (107.5) in the NBA. Playoff Magic

Though they were eventually swept by the Denver Nuggets in the Conference Finals, the 2022-23 season remains one of the most dramatic "tale of two seasons" in franchise history. Lakers 2022-2023 Season Recap

Entering as the 7th seed via the Play-In Tournament, the Lakers stunned the world: