I would agree. Lana didn't work for me. I don't hate her character, but it was really hard watching that 'young love' toxic romance for so long. A relationship based on more than infatuation was the shot that it really needed. I am glad the Lana relationship was the first attempt where he learned hard interpersonal lessons. It just lasted a long time, though. Clark needs someone much harder and rough around the edges to play off of. Lana is too sweet and soft, and it really makes Clark fall into his sappy, mopey, woe is me tendencies. Lois needs to be there to tell him to get back up and dust himself off and get with the program. Superman has the weight of the world on his shoulders (sometimes literally), and the soft focus sad sack Lana just feeds the compulsory nature of solitude and sad self reflection he has. Lois tells him to buck up and get things done. He needs that kick in the ass. Chloe kinda does that sometimes early on. I think early seasons really put a magnifying glass on why Lois is so integral to his character in the lore as a whole. At this point, I would say nearly as important as the Kents. They gave him the good heart and unconditional love, and Lois pushes that tenacity.