The Los Angeles Lakers might have started the NBA season fast, but Rich Paul has questioned their status as contenders.

It's fair to say, perhaps, that the Purple and Gold has exceeded expectations thus far.

Luka Doncic is performing at MVP level, and Austin Reaves sparkled in LeBron James ' early-season absence.

The Lakers have also battled their way through to the quarterfinals of the NBA Cup, which features different courts , and face the San Antonio Spurs.

But despite a 17-6 start - and the fact that LeBron is his cornerstone client - Klutch Sports CEO Paul has cooled any talk of Los Angeles reaching the NBA Finals come June.

Rich Paul explains why Lakers are not real NBA contenders

Speaking on Game Over , his newly-launched podcast with Max Kellerman, the super agent

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