LeBron James has been to eight straight NBA Finals and will be hoping to continue that streak by leading the Los Angeles Lakers to their first appearance since 2010.But the King achieved that remarkable feat in the Eastern Conference and will find it extremely difficult to repeat it in the west.With the Golden State Warriors standing in his way, there aren't many people fancying the Lakers to make the finals.Even LeBron himself has played down their chances of winning a championship, pointing to the stiff competition in the conference.But while some are doubting the purple and gold, former Laker Larry Nance Jr. believes James shouldn't be counted out.

Can't rule out the King

Speaking to James Walters of The Sunday Express, the youngster acknowledged that it won't be easy for L.A. to reach the finals but he says any team led by the four-time MVP can do it.

When asked what the target will be for the Lakers this season, Nance said: “They could [get to the Finals].

“With LeBron, anything is possible. I think it’ll be a very tough road because arguably three of the best four teams are out west.

“You’re going to have to go through Golden State, Houston, Oklahoma City - there’s some really good teams out there. Their work is certainly cut out.”

The 25-year-old experienced the greatness of LBJ first-hand last season when he was traded from the Lakers to the Cleveland Cavaliers.

James almost single-handedly led the Cavs to the finals for a fourth consecutive year with some truly memorable performances.

Ultimately, they fell short as they were swept by the Warriors despite the 33-year-old superstar putting up a historic 51 points in Game 1.

But it showed that despite his age, the three-time champion can still carry a team to great heights and fans in Los Angeles are excited for what he can do this season.

The minimum aim for the team will be to end a five-year playoff drought and bring postseason basketball back to the Staples Center.

With many young players on the roster, it may be unrealistic to expect them to win a title as they'll need more stars to truly compete with the Warriors.

But we've learned that LeBron shouldn't be underestimated and any team that possesses the best player in the world will always have a chance.

Their quest for a 17th championship will begin on October 18 when they take on the Portland Trail Blazers in their season opener.

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