Yes, the Lakers (with the right coach) are still definitely a contender. Again, even with the right coach (ie. Phil Jackson), they can play flat and come up short like they did this season.Mike Brown pretty much has to win the championship next season for him to be considered a success. Anything less and everyone will say his hiring was a mistake.
Anyway i think there going to be too many changes for the lakers to compete for the ring next year.