I think lots of people missing the point about this season. Believe what you want but the truth is, Jim Buss & Mitch ordered MDA to tank the season without making it too obvious.
For the first time in years, Lakers owned a 1st round pick and the fact that 2014 draft is stacked with future franchise players, Jim will do whatever it takes to secure one of the talents.
I believe that if MDA really committed to go into playoff, this current rosters are capable to do it - probably no. 6, 7 or 8 spot in the WC. I'm saying this by looking at the evidence that the Laker already beaten Clippers and Rockets and many times where Lakers doing really well during 1st half and then suddenly "collapsed" during 2nd half especially in the 3rd quarter.
But realistically, at most the Lakers can go into 2nd round of the playoff before eliminated. They are not capable to win the title.
I think Jim Buss & Mitch knows that and he's thinking about the future especially after Kobe.
I don't know about other fans but I kinda like the strategy. Lakers need time to rebuild and they are being smart by targetting former lottery picks like Henry and Marshall who are young and can be developed into role players (or even starter if Marshall develop his shot and other areas of his game).
They already experimenting by restock the rosters with big names like D12 and Nash but it failed. I think they know that the Lakers need total rebuilding starting with the draft pick just like they did with Kobe.
I know it's hard to see the Lakers get beaten night after night but let's be patient and let the FO do their job. At the same time, just enjoy watching these young players developing