Coach: Phil Jackson (third season, 123-41)
2000-01: 56-26, first in Pacific.

Playoffs: Won second straight title, beating Philadelphia in five games in NBA Finals.

What's new: In spite of a directive from owner Jerry Buss to spend as close to nothing as possible, general manager Mitch Kupchak still managed to make upgrades. Mitch Richmond and Mavericks-ex Samaki Walker, for a shade over $3 million combined, will be useful reserves. Especially Richmond, who fills a serious shooting void. Lindsey Hunter, acquired from Milwaukee for Greg Foster, is a longtime Jerry West favorite who should also help.

What's gone: The Lakers lost a lot, too, with defensive specialists Horace Grant (Orlando) and Tyronn Lue (Washington) departing in free agency. As with Grant, the veteran cool of retirement-bound Ron Harper will be missed. But when you add up all the moves, it looks like the two-time champs have gotten stronger. Uh-oh.

What's to come: A painfully slow start was the initial expectation, but Shaquille O'Neal is back from toe surgery ahead of schedule. Derek Fisher (foot) and Mark Madsen (wrist) are also recovering nicely from off-season operations. So, yet again, it appears only two things can derail the dynasty children: The Lakers themselves, and injury setbacks for Shaq or Kobe Bryant. If they're healthy, and getting along just reasonably, they'll win it all again.