LOS ANGELES (AP) — The Los Angeles Lakers simply need a rest after two NBA seasons that felt like one relentless grind only interrupted by a ring ceremony. The 2020 champions weren’t happy to be headed home this weekend after a six-game elimination at the Phoenix Suns’ hands in the first round. Yet the early playoff exit came with the consolation of a championship memory that’s still fresh in many players’ minds — and an abiding belief they can contend again next year if they can rest up and then stay healthy. Because these Lakers were outstanding during the brief stretch when they were fully healthy.
