The Los Angeles Lakers roster may not be one of the most popular ballclubs today as far as high-profile acquisitions during the off-season are concerned, but this team may be the dark horse for the upcoming NBA season, and could surprise a lot of 'contenders'. 

During this off-season, the Lakers management began with a series of disappointing scenarios which include Carmelo Anthony refusing to sign, Pau Gasol leaving for the Bulls, and Kendall Marshall who signed with Milwaukee. 

However, Los Angeles slowly turned things around by retaining a few players and getting new ones from agency. One of the more decent acquisitions is young forward Ed Davis from the Memphis Grizzlies. The team also has a promising rookie in Julius Randle who is this year's 7th pick overall. 

Other key acquisitions for the Lakers this off-season include Jeremy Lin from the Houston Rockets and Carlos Boozer from the Chicago Bulls. Both players can score, but have seen reduced roles in their formers team the past season. Both players are also criticized for their poor defense, which ultimately led to their benching. 

But in this Laker squad, coach Byron Scott who is known for his defensive prowess, may just instill a defensive mindset for the two new Laker players. 

Kobe Bryant is still the team's leader, while Steve Nash, will bring in more veteran witts for the young Laker squad. 

With everything that has happened during this off-season, some people may overlook the Lakers as a playoff contender and focus on stronger teams in the West. However, given the experience of its veterans, as well as the talent of its younger players, the Lakers may just make it to the Playoffs. 

And when the Playoffs begin, it may even have a chance against either the Dallas Mavericks or the San Antonio Spurs.