[1] During the previous season (1971–1972), the Lakers had posted the longest winning streak in NBA history with 33 straight victories.
However, even though the Lakers managed to make to the NBA Finals for a second consecutive time, they proved unable to repeat as champions.
Roster Last transaction: 2013-03-22 The defending champion Lakers returned intact, albeit another year older.
They staged another season long battle for best record in the Western Conference with the Milwaukee Bucks.
Both teams ended up with 60–22 records and they split their regular season matchups, winning three games apiece.