As the Los Angeles Lakers get their new NBA season going, they are trying to build something special this year. They were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs last season and are looking to push the envelope even further this time.

The Lakers struggled defensively last season, but there are signs they could significantly improve in that area this season.

The Lakers’ first-year coach points to ‘textbook multiple-effort plays’ in the season-opening win over Minnesota, but the team will be tested Friday by Phoenix