IDK, I'm somewhat more worried about the Nets than Lakers. The bottom of the east is bad, probably worse than the past couple years. The Hawks, Pacers, Bulls, and Knicks (if they trade Melo) maybe a surprise team like the Pistons or Magic could all challenge the Nets for worst team in the east. Especially if they sell off veterans for picks by the trade deadline and tank the rest of the season in a loaded top 5 draft.
Yes, with all things being equal the Lakers have a better team than the Nets, but they play most of their games in a stacked western conference where it appears even the other non playoff teams Nuggets, Wolves, Pelicans, Mavs, even the Kings and Suns have improved. I could see the Jazz falling apart. I can't see the Lakers record being much better than last year.