Locked On Lakers - Daily Podcast On The Los Angeles Lakers
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Luka Dončić Notches Historic first half Triple-Double, Lakers Destroy Wizards
31 januari 2026 · 15 min
The Lakers needed a bounceback game Friday in Washington after laying an egg in Cleveland on Wednesday, and Luka Dončić made sure they got it. Luka registered his second career FIRST HALF triple-double en route to 37/11/13, as the Lakers cruised past the Wiz 142-111. Needless to say, he was dominant from the jump, scoring with efficiency and moving the ball well. The Lakers as a group were making sure a lot of hands got touches possession to possession, built up a big lead after one, a huge lead after two, and were never threatened from there. Lees meer
Luka was obviously the story, but he wasn't the only one. Deandre Ayton, who badly needed a great game, got one. 12-14 from the floor, 28 points, 13 rebounds and three blocks. Engaged and active from the start, aided by a Lakers group that got him involved early.
LeBron had 20, including some highlight dunks for the Washington crowd.
All in all, a great night. The only downer was Austin Reaves, who had been upgraded to questionable heading into the game, but was downgraded before it started. No setbacks, said JJ Redick, just caution. He's still on track to play before the end of the trip.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
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How a Giannis Antetokounmpo Trade Impacts the Lakers... Even if He's Not Coming to LA
30 januari 2026 · 36 min
First things first: Giannis Antetokounmpo is NOT going to be traded to the Los Angeles Lakers, even after he has officially been put on the block, and the Bucks are open for business. Lees meer
But that doesn't mean the Lakers aren't impacted by a potential Giannis deal. There are three major points where this (potential) trade can have an effect on how the deadline plays out in El Segundo...
First, the market is much more likely to be active with Giannis available. There are a lot of teams that see themselves as potential players in the Giannis Sweepstakes, and they don't want to use up anything that could be part of a trade that big in something smaller. That can tamp down the trade market a ton.
Second, the Lakers may not get Giannis, but that doesn't mean they can't be part of a trade that involves him. One scenario, for example: The Heat might be willing to move off Andrew Wiggins if they could get a first rounder, and in this scenario the Lakers could potentially keep Rui Hachimura. There could be a lot of moving parts, and the Lakers could be one of them.
Third, and most importantly, if Giannis is traded, the Lakers can officially stop being tempted by the possibility of acquiring him themselves. That means they can get to the business of building for Luka, without preserving assets in service of the possibility Giannis could be had.
So what else is going on? Well, there's Dalton Knecht, who may or may not have asked for a trade. Not that it really matters, because the Lakers have already been looking to move him. But is he a player anyone wants, and would actually give something of value to get? Between him and whiffing on Jalen Hood-Schifino, the Lakers have done themselves real damage, both on the floor and in the trade market.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: Health updates! Plus, Giannis updates!
SEGMENT 2: Why a Giannis deal impacts the purple and gold.
SEGMENT 3: Does anyone want Dalton?
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Lakers Lose Big in Cleveland, Luka Dončić Twists Ankle, LeBron Gets Reflective
29 januari 2026 · 36 min
This one got away from the Lakers in a hurry. After a decent first quarter against the Cavs in Cleveland, the Lakers lost control of the game near the end of the first half, and were completely blown out in the third quarter. Lees meer
LeBron James, who got a little teary watching a tribute video played for him before the game, finished with more turnovers (six) than assists (five). Luka Dončić (29 points, 12-20 shooting) did his level best to keep the Lakers in it, but turned his ankle falling off the court (there's a stepdown in Cleveland between the end of the court and the first row of seats) and was clearly impacted by the pain for the rest of the game. Fortunately, he was able to sit early, given how big the Lakers were down.
After Luka, nobody scored more than 11 points.
Oof.
And it wouldn't have mattered anyway, because any hold the Lakers had on the game defensively disappeared in a hurry. Particularly in the third, the Lakers couldn't keep Cleveland off the three point line, or away from the rim. Bad combo.
Probably the biggest story was a very nostalgic, reflective LeBron speaking with the media after the game. You can tell he knows time is short... he just hasn't figured out HOW short.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: The Lakers get thumped in Cleveland.
SEGMENT 2: Luka banged up, Austin still out.
SEGMENT 3: LeBron gets reflective.
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What if Small Ball Is (Still) the Best Lineup for the Lakers?
28 januari 2026 · 37 min
The Lakers leaned hard into small ball lineups last year, and with some success... until the playoffs rolled around and things got ugly. Lees meer
This year, circumstances have made it hard to do much of anything consistently, but with Austin Reaves coming back soon, and Rui Hachimura rounding into form, could they be back in a similar situation? Per Trevor Lane on X, "Small sample size warning, BUT...Lakers are +28.8 per 100 in 255 poss with Rui Hachimura on the court without a center (Ayton/Hayes/Maxi). An ultra-switchy foundation featuring some combo of LeBron/Rui/Vando (call whoever you want the 5) with Luka/Smart/LaRavia has noticeably ramped up their defensive pressure and floor spacing."
There are a lot of reasons to think the Lakers could thrive, especially in short spurts, with lineups like these. Especially when Austin gets back. But should Lakers fans break out in hives thinking about it, given how everything ended last year?
Well, context matters. And this year's team is, at least right now, better suited to play like this. First, they can go big if they want. Deandre Ayton is wearing on fans, for sure, but he's still a competent NBA center. Jaxson Hayes is significantly better now than he was last year. Even Drew Timme has shown the ability to be useful. Meanwhile, JJ Redick hasn't shied away from using size where he can. Plus, Vanderbilt is playing better, and has more of Redick's trust. Jake LaRavia is establishing himself as a disruptor/energy type. Smart bings some defensive chops the Lakers lacked in the backcourt last year, especially with Dorian Finney-Smith hobbled.
So it can work, but the key is having a roster where it's not the only choice Redick thinks he has.
Finally, trade talk. Things have been pretty quiet in the rumor mill, but there are still scattered reports about the Lakers. So what exactly are they doing?
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: Small ball is back, baby!
SEGMENT 2: Why this year is different, regarding small ball…
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Luka Dončić Dominates Chicago, Lakers Win 129-118 as Strong Trip Continues
27 januari 2026 · 35 min
It's nice to have one of those guys. Lees meer
By that, we're talking about a truly elite player, one who can do just stupid good stuff like drop 46 points on a hyper-efficient 15-25 shooting, while adding 11 assists and seven rebounds. That was Luka Dončić Monday in Chicago, as the Lakers picked up another solid win on this extended road trip, beating the Bulls 129-118. The Lakers fell behind early, but used strong work from Luka and LeBron James (20 first half points) to pull up by 20 before a late Chicago run cut the gap to 13 at the half.
In the third, the Lakers seemed like they were going to repeat the formula used in Dallas on Saturday, as they allowed the lead to fall all the way down to a single point. But rather than give it up (and then fall behind) the Lakers built it back up, and weren't truly threatened from there.
Gold stars for Rui Hachimura, as well, who was an incredibly good 9-11 from the floor, including 4-5 from three-point range, en route to 23 points.
It was easily his best game since returning from injury, and probably his best game of the year to this point.
Kudos to the Lakers as well for controlling the game by controlling the ball. Only six turnovers, which definitely limited Chicago's ability to put up easy points. (Not that they need much help - the Bulls have a very good attack.)
On to Cleveland, Wednesday.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: Luka Dončić, excellent at basketball.
SEGMENT 2: Rui!
SEGMENT 3: Time to worry about Ayton?
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Have the Lakers Found Some Rhythm With Rui Hachimura as a 6th Man?
26 januari 2026 · 35 min
Going back to training camp, may people, including the hosts of this show, have been clamoring for Rui Hachimura to come off the bench, where his skill set -- offensive punch, shooting ability, and so on -- would be better featured. Moreover, putting Rui on the bench also makes it easier for JJ Redick to pair him with the kinds of defenders that can help raise his level and cover his shortcomings. Lees meer
And lo and behold, over the last three games, with Rui's minutes restriction seeming to end, the Lakers have had some very positive results in his minutes.
So is this something they can capitalize on going forward? Now that Rui is capable of playing regular minutes, is Redick going to resist any temptation to put him back in the starting lineup?
And what happens when Austin Reaves comes back, which should be before the end of this roadie? The Lakers need Austin's scoring, up and down the lineup, and just as important, for him to move other players into slots that suit them better. LeBron shouldn't be asked to put up 25-30 a night. The bench units get better because one more member of the Big Three is available there to play with them. Your last guy in the rotation may not play at all.
These types of incremental improvements can make a significant difference for a team like the Lakers whose shortcomings are obvious and hard to address.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: Rui as a sixth man... is it working?
SEGMENT 2: Why it makes sense for Rui to come off the bench.
SEGMENT 3: What happens when Reaves is back?
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Luka Dončic, Rui Hachimura Fuel 4th Quarter Comeback as Lakers Beat Dallas, 116-110
25 januari 2026 · 15 min
In the first half against the Mavericks in Dallas the Lakers played solid, efficient basketball, led (not surprisingly) by Luka Dončić, who always wants to stick it to his old team. Led by 13 at the half! Lees meer
In the third, however, it's like the lights flipped off. They turned the ball over seven times, missed a ton of layups, and were outscored 35-14. It was one of the worst 12-minute stretches of the season. Down 15 with 7:40 to go, the Lakers had a win probability of 1.7%. But then they managed to get the lid off the rim, get a few buckets and turn things up defensively. The Lakers chipped away at the deficit, and used two big Rui Hachimura triples (including one four-point play) to pull even and then ahead. LeBron, who was VERY quiet in the first half, came alive later in the game, including on defense.
And of course Luka Dončić, who was two rebounds shy of a triple double. 33 points on 8-15 from the floor and 14-15 from the free throw line, plus eight rebounds and 11 assists. It wasn't a flashy game, but it was incredibly effective.
Luka runs his record to 4-0 against his former team. A solid bounce back from a disappointing performance Thursday against the Clippers.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
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Big Comeback Falls Short as Lakers Lose to Clippers, 112-104
23 januari 2026 · 36 min
Down 26 in the third quarter to the Clippers, it looked like a night where the Lakers, who have a long stretch of (actual) road games coming up, might just want to wave the white flag and let important players get some rest. Lees meer
Or... they could put a big comeback together and to close the third, then made a big push into the fourth. The Lakers got to within two, but couldn't close it out. You can be happy the team didn't quit and the fact that they were able to find a way to create momentum certainly makes the loss a little more palatable, but as JJ Redick noted after the game, the Lakers need to do a better job avoiding the type of big drought offensively that got them behind the eight ball in the second quarter, and the variance on the defensive side of things needs to narrow.
But overall, what looked like it was going to be a disaster turned more into your garden variety bummer of a loss against a big crosstown rival.
For their part, the Clippers have clearly turned things around, and while they lost too much ground early in the year to contend for a top four spot, it seems pretty likely they'll land in the top 10 and become arguably the scariest play-in team ever.
Now the Lakers head out into the meat of the Grammy trip, with games coming in Dallas, Chicago, Cleveland, Washington, New York and Brooklyn. Not quite a murderer's row, but six straight NBA road games presents a challenge, no matter the opponents.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: The comeback falls short, Lakers lose to Clippers 112-104.
SEGMENT 2: JJ Redick hints at selfishness, self-interest becoming a thing as the deadline approaches.
SEGMENT 3: LeBron James on the ESPN Report.
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ESPN Reports How the Sale of the Lakers Tore the Buss Family Apart
22 januari 2026 · 39 min
Well, the good vibes around Tuesday's win over the Nuggets was overshadowed pretty fast. Lees meer
Baxter Holmes of ESPN dropped a long, well-reported story on the family drama that drove, and then surrounded, the sale of the Lakers from the Buss family to Mark Walter. It was, as so many things have been since Dr. Jerry Buss died and left control of the team to Jeanie and Jim in 2013, full of incredible tension between the Buss siblings. It was a story with conflict, alliances and more, and all of it exceedingly sad, because ultimately it was control of the team, whether in the most literal sense or in the challenges of trying to put a stamp on it, that ripped the family apart.
There is a lot of stuff packed into the article, some of it known, some of it not, and a lot of dots that were connected in ways that likely make sense to people. There were interesting and revealing details about how Joey and Jesse Buss were let go from the team a few weeks ago, about bonuses paid out to team executives like Linda and Kurt Rambis, and contentions that management resented the credit LeBron James got for turning the team around after some awful seasons.
And, of course, it lends itself to important questions going forward. How long does Walter look at Jeanie and Rob Pelinka as a trustworthy asset? How long until he assets more control?
Ultimately, if you're someone who has followed the team closely for a while, the story reinforced a lot of what you might have already felt about the major players in this long running family drama, and how their conflict influenced how the Lakers were managed.
It's a family of very, very wealthy people, especially now that the sale has gone through. But at a major cost to the family bond.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: A big story about the Buss family.
SEGMENT 2: The LeBron factor.
SEGMENT 3: What's next?Everydayer Club
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Luka Dončić (38/13/10) Masterful as Lakers Win in Denver, 115-107
21 januari 2026 · 37 min
One of the good things about Sunday's win over Toronto was that the Lakers did it without a big game from Luka Dončić. Lees meer
Tuesday in Denver, they picked up a huge win against the Nuggets, and this time Luka was in the middle of it all. He controlled most of the minutes he played, finishing with a very efficient 38 points (12-21 shooting) to go with 13 rebounds and ten assists. LeBron James was big, especially in the third quarter, with 19/9/8, and while the Lakers didn't get any double-figure scorers off the bench, they did have three players (Rui Hachimura, Jaxson Hayes, Drew Timme) with nine. As a team, the Lakers not only took enough, but made enough 3's to keep the offense flowing.
Frankly, had the Lakers managed to hit free throws (22-31), they could have won by a lot more.
But perhaps the most impressive aspect of the victory, other than Dončić, was the way they stepped up defensively on Jamal Murray in the second half. Murray absolutely destroyed them in the first 24 minutes, but out of the break the Lakers made a concerted effort to get the ball out of his hands, aggressively doubling to force passes. And making someone else beat them was a very strong strategy. Denver went through long scoring droughts, and overall the Lakers held them to 36 points in the second half. Factor in a little shot luck if you'd like, those are still outstanding numbers.
Best win of the year? Hard to say. But it's gotta be on the list.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: Luka masterful as the Lakers pick up a win in Denver.
SEGMENT 2: Has the defense turned a corner?
SEGMENT 3: It's Timme Time!
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Luka Is an All-Star Starter, LeBron's Streak Broken... Plus, Lakers on "Two Timelines?"
20 januari 2026 · 36 min
First things first, the Lakers have an All-Star starter. That's not unusual, it happens every year it seems! And this year, it's Luka Dončić, who will represent the purple and gold for the World team. Meanwhile, though, LeBron James had his two-decade streak of All-Star nods snapped, and it's an open question as to whether he'll eventually make the team... or even if he wants to, in his heart of hearts. Lees meer
The numbers put him on the bubble, or pretty close to it at least. And there's time to burnish the resume, if that's what it takes.
Meanwhile, the trade deadline is creeping up, and on ESPN.com Tim Bontemps and Brian Windhorst have described the Lakers as being on the (now dreaded) "two timelines." That's one where you're trying to send LeBron out a winner, and another where you're building around Luka. But are these really separate timelines? How does that work practically, where you could pick up a player that helps significantly this year, but wouldn't be the type of player you'd want to use next season.
The Lakers have lots of potential cap space this summer. A trade that bleeds into it, if it's someone they like, basically just signing a guy now, as opposed to later.
One timeline, Lakers. One. You're not sophisticated enough for two.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: Luka is an All-Star, LeBron isn't... not yet at least.
SEGMENT 2: Two timelines?
SEGMENT 3: The Lakers need to pick a lane, and only one is really viable... and they know that.
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Great Team Effort Helps the Lakers Beat Toronto 110-93, Ayton Perfect from Floor (10-10)
19 januari 2026 · 34 min
This was a game the Lakers really needed. Lees meer
Not just that they beat the Toronto Raptors Sunday at Crypto.com, 110-93, but the way they got it done. This was as balanced a team effort as the Lakers have had in a long while. Luka Dončić (25 points, seven assists) wasn't bad, but he wasn't dominant. LeBron James (24 points, seven dimes) continued a solid stretch of play, but wasn't turn-back-the-clock dominant. What the Lakers got was a spectacular performance from Deandre Ayton (25 points, 10-10 from the floor to go with 13 rebounds), and really solid contributions from guys like Jarred Vanderbilt and Rui Hachimura, who hit a couple big shots over the course of his 21 minutes, particularly in the third quarter.
But mostly, they won playing cohesive defense. 93 points is a season low, and it didn't feel like the Raptors (who are good) missing a bunch of bunnies, or throwing the ball all over the gym. They've got most of their important players on the floor. But after a shaky start, the Lakers found their stride and sustained a solid defensive effort the rest of the way.
If Lakers fans could bottle this, they would. So would the Lakers, themselves.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: A balanced effort for a big win.
SEGMENT 2: Finally, defensive connectivity!
SEGMENT 3: New contributors for the second half of the season?Everydayer Club
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With No Luka Dončić (Among Others) the Lakers Lose Big in Portland, 132-116
18 januari 2026 · 16 min
Some games are borderline unwinnable, assuming the opponent shows up to play. Portland did, and without Luka Dončić, Deandre Ayton and Jaxson Hayes and (of course) Austin Reaves, the Lakers were simply down too much talent. Lees meer
The end result was predictable-- the available players put out a good effort, and ultimately it didn't matter. Final score, 132-116. The Lakers are now sliding dangerously close to play-in territory, and with a game Sunday against the Raptors could be in that section of the standings before the weekend is over.
There were some individual performances worth praising, including Drew Timme (21 points), Maxi Kleber, Rui Hachimura (11 points in 19 minutes) and Marcus Smart (a team-leading 25), but the assignment was too tough.
The Lakers will try to regroup ahead of Sunday's game, and there's at least a possibility the guys missing Saturday could (save Reaves) play Sunday, as they're all listed as day-to-day. On the other hand, LeBron could very well sit out after having just played both sides of the back to back.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
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Lakers Defense Collapses Completely in Painful 135-117 Loss to the Hornets
16 januari 2026 · 36 min
Luka Dončić was 15-26 en route to 39 points. LeBron James was efficient, scoring 29 points on 10-19 from the floor. Lees meer
So 68 points on good percentages from the two stars, a very low turnover number (nine)... and yet the Lakers still lost to the visiting Charlotte Hornets by 18. Final score, 135-117. LaMelo Ball, who had only three points at the half, finished with 30. Brandon Miller, 26. Miles Bridges, 25. It was a total collapse after a strong start. They won the first quarter, and at one point were up by 13 before the wheels came off in a second quarter where they didn't get a bucket for the first two minutes, and then six more minutes without a field goal. Punchless offense played a big role in their defense being put on its heels over and over again.
Charlotte won the second quarter 34-16. They put up a 40 spot in the third quarter. And once again, a team got it done against the purple and gold by getting up and down the floor and forcing the Lakers to try and move with them. And has been the trend, the Lakers simply couldn't do it.
Once again, the Lakers bench offered virtually nothing, with nine points between Jarred Vanderbilt, Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent and Kobe Bufkin. These just aren't sustainable numbers.
So after a strong game Tuesday against Atlanta, the Lakers finish Thursday with a very bad feeling in their mouths, and have continued to slowly slide down the Western Conference playoff ladder, much closer now to that seven spot nobody wants than they are a top four slot.
The Lakers now will play the Blazers on Saturday, at a time where Portland is starting to get very healthy.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: Lakers collapse defensively, again.
SEGMENT 2: The offense continues to have (the wrong kind of) impact.
SEGMENT 3: It doesn't get easier, looking at the calendar.
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LeBron James Tries to Distance Himself From Rich Paul's Idea to Trade Austin Reaves
15 januari 2026 · 37 min
Generally speaking, players don't want their agents to be making headlines. Lees meer
That apparently applies these days even to LeBron James and his agent Rich Paul, who have long been seen as a symbiotic pair - when Paul speaks, it's on behalf of LeBron. So when Paul used time on his new podcast with Max Kellerman to discuss trade scenarios, including a hypothetical that would send Austin Reaves to Memphis for Jaren Jackson Jr... LeBron was pretty quick to distance himself from the comments. He told ESPN's Dave McMenamin that, to paraphrase, Rich Paul is a grown **s man who is responsible for what comes out of his mouth. That idea had nothing to do with him, and James reiterated how much he loves Austin as a player and a teammate.
Whether people will buy that explanation is a different matter, but what matters most for the Lakers—who are reportedly annoyed by Paul's repeated attempts to play GM—is whether Austin believes LeBron. If he does, this story is an annoyance, nothing more.
If he doesn't, or there's reason to believe LeBron isn't being honest? Different kettle of fish.
Then there's the question of whether Paul is hitting on something that, while not a constructive thing to have in the news cycle, might be good for the Lakers. There is some overlap in skill sets between Reaves and Luka Dončić. There are challenges building a team that can defend with those two at the core. So would Reaves for JJJ make the team better?
Is there a different deal out there the Lakers ought to consider?
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: The Lakers are dealing with a distraction from... LeBron's agent?
SEGMENT 2: LeBron says Paul's words aren't his.
SEGMENT 3: Is Reaves for JJJ a good idea?
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Lakers Bounce Back Behind 31/9/10 from LeBron, 27 From Luka, Beat Hawks 141-116
14 januari 2026 · 35 min
The lid finally came off the hoop. Lees meer
The Lakers, who couldn't have been colder Monday night in Sacramento, hada completely different experience against the Hawks on Tuesday. They were red hot from the floor, scoring 81 points in the first half, and despite a horrible third quarter in which they allowed what had been a 32-point half was more than halved, they found their footing again in the final quarter and won going away, 141-116.
The Lakers were led by LeBron James—playing both ends of a back-to-back for the first time this season—who was one rebound away from a triple-double (31/9/10) and Luka Dončić (27/5/12), but all five starters finished in double figures, including Deandre Ayton, who also grabbed a season-high 18 rebounds.
Rui Hachimura returned to the lineup, scoring seven points in 18 minutes.
Overall, the team shot 58% from the floor, including 56% from 3-point range, and hit 26-30 free throws (86%). They piled up 36 assists, and when they weren't playing a prevent offense (going so slowly to try and bleed clock) in the third, moved ball and man well. Buckets came off activity, which is always nice to see. As a team they have to hope that the opportunity to exhale, break the losing streak, and see the ball go through the hoop a few times lets everyone relax.
The Lakers will have a chance to build on the good vibes on Thursday at home against Charlotte.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: LeBron near trip-dub leads Lakers to win.
SEGMENT 2: Better movement, better results.
SEGMENT 3: Still more to clean up.
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Lakers Embarrassed In Sacramento, Lose 124-112 Despite 42 From Luka Dončić
13 januari 2026 · 35 min
When the Lakers lose, they lose loud. Monday in Sacramento, though, was a screamer. Lees meer
Playing a team tied for the worst in the Western Conference, the Lakers feel behind early, and couldn't really threaten to complete the comeback. Final score, 124-112. Statistically, the Kings benefitted from a shockingly good shooting night from the perimeter, making 17-26 (65%). DeMar DeRozan, who didn't take a three, was 14-19 from the floor.
Meanwhile, the Lakers were a 1.5 man band. Luka Dončić kept them afloat for a while, and finished with 42 points on a very efficient 16-25. LeBron James chipped in 22. But fellow starters Marcus Smart and Jake LaRavia combined for three points. Jarred Vanderbilt, in 26 minutes off the bench, had a goose egg. Bronny James, who checked in with 1:53 remaining, had more points than all three of them combined. But you can't win NBA games shooting the way that the Lakers shoot. 22% from three, which was actually boosted by Bronny's 2-2 at the end of the game. They are a bad, bad, bad shooting team, and it's getting harder for them to paper over the problems.
Gold stars for the centers Monday. Both Jaxson Hayes (12 points, four offensive rebounds) and Deandre Ayton (13 rebounds, two blocks) showed up and contributed. But after that? Maybe you give Gabe Vincent a nod for a couple second half triples?
But with a Hawks team that has been playing a little better of late (three straight wins) coming to town Tuesday, the Lakers really couldn't afford to give this one away, and they most certainly did.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: A terrible, terrible loss in Sacramento.
SEGMENT 2: No supporting cast.
SEGMENT 3: The bad offense creates bad defense.
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Rui Hachimura Will Come Off the Bench In His Return... Will That Be Permanent?
12 januari 2026 · 36 min
The Lakers get a big lift Monday night. Rui Hachimura is off the injury report entirely and, barring some sort of late setback, will be back in the lineup Monday night in Sacramento. Lees meer
No surprise, given the time he was out, but JJ Redick said Sunday he'd be on a minutes restriction, and come off the bench.
The big question for Lakers fans is whether this is just temporary, or if the minutes restriction is the entry point Redick will use to do the thing he should have been doing, anyway: Bring Hachimura off the bench. We've been calling for it in this space since the summer. The numbers, small sample size notwithstanding, indicate that the Lakers would be better off with Hachimura as a reserve. Redick, though, has resisted.
But if the Lakers can find some rhythm over the next few games and Rui performs well, maybe things just stay as they are? With Jake LaRavia in the starting lineup, with Marcus Smart. Then when Austin Reaves comes back, another adjustment is made.
The Lakers really need Rui back, not just as a floor spacer and an offensive weapon -- both of which are very important for this group -- but also to slot guys like Jarred Vanderbilt into a workload that makes more sense and helps maximize positive impact while minimizing the negative.
Finally, former Laker Denis Schroder won't be playing Monday. Why? Because he was suspended by the league for three games for trying to fight Luka Dončić following the last time the two teams met, responding to smack talk Luka delivered, specifically about how Schroder dropped the enormous bag the Lakers tried real hard to get him to take.
Crazy!
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: Rui is back!
SEGMENT 2: Rui will come off the bench Monday... will he stay there?
SEGMENT 3: The delightful story of Denis and Luka.
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Luka Dončić Fouls Out, Comeback Falls Short, Lakers Lose 105-101 to Bucks
10 januari 2026 · 26 min
For most of the night, the Lakers looked like they weren't going to have a chance to win... then all of a sudden they not only had a chance, but found themselves up four with three minutes to play. From there, though, they couldn't extend the comeback. Giannis poked the ball away from LeBron James on the final trip, and the Lakers lose 105-101. Lees meer
It's the first clutch time loss of the year for the purple and gold, and it came largely because Luka Dončić had likely his worst game as a Laker, finishing 8-25 from the floor, and fouled out of the game for only the third time in his career. It was Luka's foul that put Porter Jr. on the line with a chance to win the game, and it became his sixth only because he picked up his fifth with two seconds left in the third quarter, on one of the worst fouls you'll ever see a player earn.
The whole night was a struggle for 77.
LeBron (26/9/10, plus three steals) did what he could to keep the team afloat, and the Lakers used good performances from guys like Jake LaRavia (13 points, two steals) and Jarred Vanderbilt (nine points, nine rebounds) and a whole lot of hustle from every player that took the floor. Ultimately, though, they dug too deep a hole to climb out of. It was bound to happen sometime, but it's nonetheless disapppointing to see the Lakers drop a game they were in position to win.
Against the Spurs, a shorthanded Lakers team could lean into some of the positives that came from the game, even without winning. Friday, though, definitely counts as a big missed opportunity.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
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What Trades Can the Lakers Make at the Deadline? Is Improvement Possible?
9 januari 2026 · 35 min
It's only early January, but we've already seen the first big deal of the year, as Trae Young was sent to Washington. Giannis says he's not asking out in Milwaukee, and the Bucks are reportedly trying to find ways to improve. Lees meer
Yep, we're in the thick of it.
For the Lakers, it's a tricky proposition. With 23 wins, they're among the league leaders. But their 12 losses have all been by (famously at this point) double digits. So their flaws are pretty clear. So what's available to help address them? ESPN on Thursday put out a few hypothetical deals for teams around the NBA. One included Pelicans guard Trey Murphy III, a player the Lakers would love to have. Would LA have a shot? What about defense-first guard Keon Ellis, who is expected to move from Sacramento? Could the Lakers put deals together for either?
And what kind of trade would the Lakers make? Would they be willing to take on salary? Would they be too tempted by the very potential of getting someone like Giannis in a summer or two? Would the Lakers prioritize flexibility? Would they take a risk on a player they'd have to commit to financially, even if it's not at a huge salary, even after getting burned by contracts for Gabe Vincent and Jarred Vanderbilt?
Keep in mind, the Lakers don't exactly have a treasure trove of assets. Only one tradable first rounder, only one second round pick, and a few swaps. The only remotely appealing expiring contract (meaning a player that other teams would deem useful) is Rui Hachimura. No slam dunk young assets to offer.
So it's a tough assignment for Rob Pelinka.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: It's tradin' time!
SEGMENT 2: What can the Lakers do? Is Keon Ellis an option?
SEGMENT 3: What would they be willing to do?
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Luka Dončić Scores 38, but Overmatched Lakers Lose in San Antonio, 107-91
8 januari 2026 · 34 min
It's hard to fault the effort, but the Lakers—who added LeBron James to the list of guys in street clothes, to go along with Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura—ultimately were out-talented Wednesday night in San Antonio. Final score, 107-71. Lees meer
It was a sloppy game, for sure, but the Lakers did what they could to stay in it. What they needed, though, was a night where the whole team shoots well from downtown, offense came from surprising sources, or maybe both. Those things didn't happen, so the Lakers were essentially left with a very, very good Luka Dončić, who was involved in basically every bucket the Lakers managed to score. He finished with 38/10/10. Jake LaRavia finished with 16 points, but the rest of the starting lineup (Deandre Ayton, Jarred Vanderbilt, Marcus Smart) combined for TK points. The bench wasn't of much help, either, with only Jaxson Hayes cracking double digits (10 points).
San Antonio, on the other hand, also had a rough night shooting as a team, but even without Devin Vassell available, just had significantly more firepower on hand to get the job done.
It shows why it was so important for the Lakers to win on Tuesday in New Orleans. Even if LeBron played, the end result (if not the path to get there) could have looked much different.
So now the Lakers come home to kick off a stretch of winnable games, specifically five games in a row against teams currently under .500.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: Lakers are shorthanded, and the game goes as expected.
SEGMENT 2: Lakers don't have much offense in the supporting cast.
SEGMENT 3: Five critical games coming.
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Luka Dončić Dials Up Late Magic, LeBron Excels In 111-103 Win Over New Orleans
7 januari 2026 · 37 min
It wasn't a work of art, but it was enough to get the job done. Lees meer
After being outplayed in the third quarter, the Lakers entered the fourth down seven in their visit to New Orleans against the Pelicans. At that point, LeBron James took over, looking extremely spry as he put on an offensive show (including one steal and finish at the other end). Luka Dončić hit a pair of improbable 3's late, and the defense held down the Pels en route to a 111-103 win.
Overall, it was probably LeBron's strongest game of the year, finishing with 30/8/8. He was able to put the ball on the floor and get to the rim, which should help him get a little more space on his jumper. (James was 3-5 from 3-point range on the night.) Dončić didn't hit a three in the first half, but had two big ones late - including one circus shot to bail the Lakers out on a bad trip - and along the way, threw two of the most incredible lob passes you'll ever see. FInal line, 30 points (11-22 shooting) along with 10 dimes.
The Lakers also saw very strong contributions from Deandre Ayton (18/11) and Jarred Vanderbilt (7/8/4, with tons of energy).
And the defense really tightened up. New Orleans was held to 17 points in the final frame, and while some of that can be attributed to it being the Pelicans, but overall the Lakers did a good job with specific strategic actions, like putting heavy ball pressure on Zion Williamson.
And importantly, the Lakers had (with the exception of the opening minutes of the third quarter) played hard, even when they weren't playing well. Which matters a lot. Had they sleepwalked through bigger stretches, they could have dropped a very important game.
Wednesday, the Lakers are in San Antonio, and will still be shorthanded. Really big to pick up the win on Tuesday.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: Luka and LeBron come up big, Lakers win.
SEGMENT 2: It helps to try all the time.
SEGMENT 3: Who plays against the Spurs on Wednesday?
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What Does the Austin Reaves for Dillon Brooks "Rumor" Say About the Trade Market?
6 januari 2026 · 35 min
It's not exactly a rumor, more a suggestion. On the "Run It Back" podcast, former Laker DeMarcus Cousins suggested the purple and gold swap Austin Reaves for Dillon Brooks. No doubt, the Suns wing, who is having a fantastic year, has been linked to the Lakers in rumors before, but the suggestion from Cousins got a lot of attention. Lees meer
Could it happen? Suns owner Mat Ishbia shot it down on Monday, for whatever that's worth. Brooks, he said, isn't going anywhere. Nor does it seem likely the Lakers would make that offer, anyway.
But the whole conversation says a lot about the trade market the Lakers are facing. It's a very competitive one, and they won't enter it with a lot to offer.
Meanwhile, Deandre Ayton, like the rest of the squad, has seen his production drop off a little over the last couple weeks, and noted that as a big, he doesn't get to give himself the ball. JJ Redick has said it's not unusual -- human nature, actually -- to lose a little intensity defensively and on the glass when you don't feel the ball on offense. Especially for a big. So what can the Lakers do about it? How much is on Ayton? And how much does this conversation reflect the vibes shift around the team?
Finally, the Lakers botched a lot of ATOs on Friday, and got their act together on Sunday. But why so many mistakes?
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: The "rumor" of Reaves for Brooks.
SEGMENT 2: Why Ayton needs touches!
SEGMENT 3: Are the Lakers slipping in a lot of fundamental ways?
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Strong Games From Luka Dončić, LeBron James and Jake LaRavia Push Lakers Past Memphis
5 januari 2026 · 35 min
At halftime, Sunday's game against the Memphis Grizzlies looked like it might be one of the more frustrating losses of the year, as LA allowed 65 points to an undermanned Memphis squad, and couldn't get any real rhythm to their offense. Lees meer
By the end, all was well in the word.
Final score, 120-114. A strong push in the fourth quarter from LeBron James (26 points, 10 assists, one turnover) combined with a strong game from Luka Dončić (36/9/8) and another good one from Jake LaRavia (26 points) was enough to give the Lakers the margin they needed. More than anything, though, the Lakers found more energy on defense, perhaps because the ball began to swing more on the other end. The Lakers just moved with more purpose on both ends in the second half. Helps, too, that they hit some shots, after an ice cold first half. Deandre Ayton was particularly spry defending the rim down the stretch, finishing with three blocks to go along with 15 points and eight rebounds.
So like Friday's game, there were many things to like and some other things that less fantastic.
But in a time with guys in street clothes (in addition to Austin Reaves, we learned Sunday that Rui Hachimura won't travel this week for the New Orleans/San Antonio back-to-back, so the Lakers have at least two more games without him, and many more without Reaves.
Plenty of work left to do, but the Lakers got it done in a doubleheader against a weaker team.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: The lakers beat Memphis 120-114.
SEGMENT 2: A new, if temporary, Big Three.
SEGMENT 3: Improvements, but still a lot of work left to do.
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Luka Doncic Puts up 34 Points, Lakers CLOSE STRONG in WIN over Grizzlies
3 januari 2026 · 21 min
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky Lees meer
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The Lakers Have an Identity Problem, Part II: Roster Construction
2 januari 2026 · 37 min
After Tuesday's loss to Detroit, JJ Redick noted that the Lakers have an identity problem. In the sense that they don't really have an identity. Lees meer
For Thursday's show, we talked about part of that equation, namely leadership. The team is in a transition from a LeBron-voiced squad to one where Luka Dončić is both the face and the leader, and unquestionably the team's best player. But the styles are very different, and both elevating Luka and having LeBron step back are muddling things.
But another part of the lack of identity?
Roster.
The Lakers just aren't built to effectively maximize Luka on either side of the ball, which inherently makes it harder to build a culture, or identity, or discernable style of play. So is that something that can be fixed? How did we get here?
To say the least, Rob Pelinka has work to do.
And so does JJ Redick, broadly, and Friday against Memphis because the team is again shorthanded.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: The Lakers are down more guys against the Grizz.
SEGMENT 2: How much does roster construction hinder building an identity?
SEGMENT 3: What can be done?
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JJ Redick Says the Lakers Lack an Identity (Part 1)
1 januari 2026 · 37 min
After the loss Tuesday to Detroit, Lakers coach JJ Redick was asked about the team's identity, and whether they've been able to forge one. Lees meer
His answer... not really, but they're trying.
There are plenty of reasons. Injuries, first and foremost. The Lakers simply haven't been able to keep not just individual players on the floor, bujt run with a reasonably consistent rotation since the beginning of the year. All three stars have missed time. Every supporting player, basically the same. The number of starting lineups at this point is pretty crazy.
Still, it seemed earlier in the year like they had one... so what changed? Was identity -- at team that played hard, took care of small things, had a collective spirit, etc. -- really just a group held together by elite Luka play, and high All-Star work from Austin Reaves?
What about leadership? Things do look different since LeBron came back. In terms of forging identity, how does the transition from a LeBron team to a Luka team factor in?
We break down some of the big issues of leadership. For Friday's show, we break down the roster. Do they have the personnel to create a consistent identity? One they would want, at least?
Happy New Year to all!
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: Do the Lakers have an identity?
SEGMENT 2: How LeBron complicates things.
SEGMENT 3: The change in leadership style from LeBron to Luka.Everydayer Club
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Turnovers Kill Lakers In 128-106 Loss to Detroit. Red Flags Heading Into 2026...
31 december 2025 · 37 min
The Kings on Sunday provided a brief respite from their troubles, but the Lakers were neck deep in them again on Tuesday, with the Eastern Conference-leading Detroit Pistons in town. The Lakers seemed to be outplayed in the first half, with the Pistons shooting 68%, Cade Cunningham shooting 9-13, and the Lakers turning the ball over 12 times, yet the purple and gold entered the break down by five. Lees meer
They managed to keep it close in the third, even managing to pull even, despite many, many moments where it felt like Detroit would pull away.
But in the fourth quarter, the dam finally broke. An eight point deficit became 17 by the six minute mark, and eventually cracked 20. The Lakers got incredibly loose with the ball, a combination of carelessness and an attempt to force the action to find offense, and Detroit capitalized on all of it.
Offense was just incredibly hard to come by. Luka Dončić and LeBron James were both under 50% for the night. LeBron had more turnovers than dimes, and Luka had eight of his own. Deandre Ayton was the only other starter in double figures, but he also only had two rebounds and was broadly a non-factor in the game. Jarred Vanderbilt had eight points in the first half, none in the second. Nick Smith couldn't follow his strong Sunday with a decent Tuesday, missing all but one of his field goal attempts.
The Lakers have some winnable games on the slate, at least in theory, but the W's aren't going to come unless they can clean up the offense.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: Lakers lose to Pistons thanks to self-inflicted wounds.
SEGMENT 2: The Lakers have some issues scoring.
SEGMENT 3: What happens going forward?
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LeBron James Turns 41... Will He Miss the All-Star Game for the First Time
30 december 2025 · 37 min
Technically, the last time LeBron James missed the All-Star Game was ... last year, when he couldn't play because of injury. The last time he wasn't on the team? 2004, in his rookie season. Lees meer
But that streak is in jeopardy. James, who has only played 14 games this season, is way behind in the first round of fan voting, released Monday by the NBA. If he can't make an electoral comeback, he'd have to find an alternate way onto the team, and given his (by his standards) relatively modest output to this point in the season, there's certainly no guarantee he'd be added to it as an at-large guy. Obviously there's still time between now and when the teams are finalized, but currently it's reasonable to believe James is on the outside looking in.
Which is weird. On the other hand, he's turning 41 on Tuesday, and the idea you're having any sort of conversation about this for a guy this old is pretty amazing, but the "Yes or no?" question is relevant for more than just history. The Lakers need All-Star LeBron, especially while Austin Reaves is on the sidelines. The Lakers need to figure out how they're going to maximize LBJ while at the same time keeping him on the floor and performing.
Meanwhile, against the Pistons Tuesday night, the Lakers should have Jaxson Hayes back in the lineup, but could be missing Rui Hachimura, who sat out practice on Monday. But regardless of who plays, the Lakers will need to find a way to build on the better level of play they produced against the Kings on Sunday. Who are the guys who step up after Luka Dončić and LeBron?
Finally, JJ Redick had some revealing comments at practice Monday about the composition of the Lakers' roster.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: LeBron is turning 41.
SEGMENT 2: An All-Star Game without LeBron?
SEGMENT 3: An interesting comment about skill sets from JJ Redick.Everydayer Club
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Lakers Bounce Back, Beat Sacramento Behind 34 From Luka Dončić, 24 From LeBron James
29 december 2025 · 37 min
The Lakers got some bad news this weekend, as the team learned Austin Reaves is going to miss weeks with a recurrence of his calf injury, but even with that in mind, a loss against the nine-win Sacramento Kings at home? For the team's fourth setback in a row? Lees meer
That would set off all the alarms.
No worries! The Lakers took care of business, getting out to a lead in the first half that they never relinquished, en route to a comfortable 125-101 win. Luka Dončić led the way with 34 points, along with seven dimes and three steals. LeBron James was supremely efficient from the floor (11-13) to finish with 24 points, five assists and two steals. Four more Lakers finished in double figures, let by Nick Smith with 21, including 5-10 from 3-point range.
It's hard to know how much the defense improved, given how banged up (and bad) the Kings currently are, but it was still good to see the Lakers drive down the opposing point totals, and hold a team under 50% from the floor.
No question, things will get tougher Tuesday when the Eastern Conference-leading Detroit Pistons visit Crypto.com, but for the time being, the Lakers can feel a little better about themselves.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: The Lakers get back on track with a 125-101 win.
SEGMENT 2: Better showing on both sides, good support from the bench.
SEGMENT 3: What did the Lakers discuss?
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Reaves re-injured, More Terrible Defense for the Lakers In 119-96 Loss
26 december 2025 · 36 min
It seems to be getting worse before it gets (hopefully) better. Lees meer
The Lakers spoiled Christmas with a very, very lackluster effort against the visiting Houston Rockets. The Lakers were flat from the get go, fell down by 12 after the first quarter, and never really threatened to get back into it. They simply aren't functioning well enough on the defensive side of the ball to reliably make a comeback on a team like Houston. Not just because the Rockets can defend, and but because there's no reason in the slightest to believe they can get enough stops.
JJ Redick lit into his group after the game, with cause. Players recognized the need to play harder and faster. But how much of this is roster construction and skill set? How much is Redick looking to be precious around his choices? At the least, shouldn't JJ consider a change in the starting lineup? Maybe Rui out, Smart in?
Because what's happening now don't work.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: The Lakers again get thumped.
SEGMENT 2: What's going wrong?
SEGMENT 3: What are the potential things JJ could do to address what's happening?Everydayer Club
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No Luka Dončić, and the Lakers Get Hammered By Phoenix, 132-108
24 december 2025 · 34 min
The game was going well enough, until it didn't. Playing without Luka Dončić and Rui Hachimura, and with Austin Reaves back in the lineup but restricted in his minutes (he came off the bench), there was certainly a chance the Lakers could struggle, but man alive, once the struggle kicked in near the end of the first half, things got very ugly very fast. Lees meer
Halfway through the second, the Lakers were down three. They finished the half down 11. They were outscored in the third by 16. Game set match. Final score, 132-108.
It was arguably the ugliest, most unpleasant watch of the year. The Lakers couldn't get a stop, and while Phoenix certainly made some shots, most of the time the purple and gold didn't require the Suns to work very hard. Meanwhile, on the other end the Lakers struggled to keep up when Phoenix hit the accelerator.
Of all the games the Lakers have lost this season, it wouldn't be a surprise for this one not only to anger Lakers fans the most, but scare them, too. Obviously it makes a difference when Luka plays, but the Lakers looked pretty bad in this game, and teams with championship (or at the least, deep playoff) aspirations sould be able to function without their star better than they did on Tuesday.
So for the first time this year, the Lakers have lost consecutive games. And this was a bad one.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: No Luka, no defense, no win.
SEGMENT 2: What's going wrong, here?
SEGMENT 3: Are the Lakers in trouble?
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Luka Dončić, Rui Hachimura Won't Play Vs. Phoenix, Austin Reaves Questionable
23 december 2025 · 36 min
The last time the Lakers played the Suns, there were fireworks. There were technical fouls. There was a tremendous amount of tension between Suns wing Dillon Brooks and LeBron James. Tuesday in Phoenix, it's another round in this longstanding rivalry. They are, to paraphrase Muhammad Ali, gonna get it on, because they don't get along. Lees meer
The rest of the game, however, could look significantly different than last week when these teams met at the Crypt.
Luka Dončić, who left Saturday's game against the Clippers at the half thanks to what we now know is a calf contusion, will miss the game. Rui Hachimura is still out, as is Gabe Vincent. There's a chance Austin Reaves, who was absent from the lineup in last week's game, could be back. Deandre Ayton will be available, which is excellent news for a shorthanded team.
Ayton's efficiency and rebounding will be a key addition to the team's attack, both in terms of adding shot quality, but also through offensive rebounds and second chance points. Meanwhile, having someone who cleans up the defensive glass certainly won't hurt. This is, after all, a big game against a team currently occupying the 7th spot out West, and the Lakers want to put as much space as they can between themselves and the Play In.
Speaking of Reaves, JJ Redick sang his praises at practice on Monday, calling him an All-Star, and talking about the belief he had that Reaves could reach this level. Is there any reason to think Reaves doesn't deserve that honor this year?
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: Lots of injury news for the Lakers in Phoenix.
SEGMENT 2: What to watch for with the Lakers facing Phoenix.
SEGMENT 3: Austin Reaves, All Star?Everydayer Club
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No Word Yet on Luka Dončić's Availability... How Much Are Injuries Holding Back the Lakers?
22 december 2025 · 38 min
The Lakers have had a tremendous amount of turnover in their lineups this season, thanks to a string of injuries to important players. Moreover, those injuries seem to be overlapping in ways that make it impossible for one group to get a high number of reps. Yet the team is still winning a lot of games. Lees meer
So are the injuries helping the Lakers build resilience and chemistry that will serve them well in the postseason?
Are the injuries limiting the team's ability to maximize its ceiling?
Yes to both?
That would be a reasonable choice, as the Lakers head into Christmas week unsure whether a lot of important players can take the floor. Luka Dončić left Saturday's game at the half with a lower leg contusion. Austin Reaves is already out. Rui Hachimura was a late addition to the injury list, and Gabe Vincent was already there. If you're keeping score, that's four starters out for the Lakers, plus one key reserve. Oof.
There were no updates from the team on Sunday, though Monday should give a little more clarity, both for Tuesday's game against the Suns and then Christmas Day against the Rockets.
The good news is that even if the Lakers drop a few games while shorthanded, they've got some wiggle room built up thanks to a good early season play, but how much damage does this do to the team's upside? Is there any benefit to playing with this level of uncertainty?
And finally... the NBA always has a tension between fans, players, coaches and the officials. But it seems worse this year than in years past... why?
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: Who is healthy, who is not?
SEGMENT 2: What do the injuries do to the team's upside?
SEGMENT 3: Is the ref problem worse this year?Everydayer Club
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Luka Dončić Leaves Game With Leg Contusion, Undermanned Lakers Lose to Clippers
21 december 2025 · 15 min
The Lakers have not been an offensive juggernaut this year on a game-to-game basis, and on Saturday against the Clippers at the Intuit Dome arrived without Austin Reaves, Deandre Ayton and as a late addition to the injury report, Rui Hachimura. That's a lot of production in street clothes. Lees meer
And then Luka Dončić took the floor, and looked uncomfortable physically from the jump. It only got worse. By halftime he was limping around pretty clearly... and then he didn't return for the third and fourth quarters.
So now it was LeBron James leading a game-but-limited crew, and the result was a not-at-all-surprising 103-88 loss to the LAC. Honestly, you can't fault the effort from James (36/4/3) or the work the rest of the guys put in. But the Lakers couldn't shoot to save their lives (a catastrophic 6-33 from downtown, or 16%, and under 40% from the floor, overall), and ultimately that cost them. Really, were the Clippers an even competent squad, they'd have blown this thing open and kept it that way.
So we'll see what the injury report says as the Lakers head into Tuesday's game against the Suns, then Christmas Day against the Rockets.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
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Luka Dončić's 44 Point Triple-Double, Big 4th Quarter Give Lakers a Win Over Utah
19 december 2025 · 34 min
The Lakers seemed content just to run with Utah and try to exchange buckets for a while. The first half in particular was some of the worst defense you'll see at the NBA level. Lees meer
After the break, though, the Lakers started to right the ship on that side, and down the stretch clearly bumped up the effort. The result was a 143-135 win over the Jazz in Utah. Luka Dončić led the way with a dominant 45 point, 11 rebound, 14 assist night. LeBron James was a major contributor, with 28 points and 10 dimes. Playing without Austin Reaves and Deandre Ayton, the Lakers had six players finish in double figures, and used strong bench contributions from Jarred Vanderbilt, Jake LaRavia and Maxi Kleber to fuel the late push and get what will look in the box score like an easier win than it was.
It was a win that played along with themes that have followed the Lakers for the last couple weeks -- getting the job done, ultimately, but in ways that don't scream dominance, and with shortcomings that are glaring. The Lakers simply can't be as bad as they were defensively and expect to beat good teams. Or not be buried by the time they got around to making their run. At some point, they just have to show more consistency on that side.
On the flip side, an offense that has been effective in the macro but not exactly hyper-efficient in the micro was excellent on Wednesday. In that sense, there's stuff to build on. The Lakers get a day off before facing the Clippers Saturday.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: The Lakers get a win behind a big game from Luka.
SEGMENT 2: How about a little D?
SEGMENT 3: A chance to deepen humiliation for the Clippers.
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JJ Wants More Defense From Luka and LeBron. Plus, Banshees Offense and Ayton Out vs. Jazz
18 december 2025 · 35 min
The Lakers have a sneaky-tough game in Utah Thursday against a Jazz team that has righted the ship after an awful start to the year. LA, still without Austin Reaves, will also be short Deandre Ayton, who will miss the game with an elbow injury. Lees meer
Maxi Kleber should be available, so the Lakers will have two centers to use against Utah's size, but how will JJ Redick change his rotation?
He certainly hopes he gets more defense from Luka Dončić and LeBron James. Luka spoke at Wednesday's practice about how he and The King were called out by the coach, who is demanding more from his stars as the Lakers suffer through a bad stretch of team defense. It's possible the Lakers could catch a break, as Utah star Lauri Markkanen is now listed as questionable with groin injury management. (Perhaps the Jazz want to stop this run of competence before it catches hold.) The Lakers would still need to deal with guard Keyonte George, who has made a leap this season after showing signs last year.
Meanwhile, the Lakers are working hard to build a sustainable culture, and a consistent level of play no matter who is available to them on any given night. They're not at that point yet. Urgency is always an issue - not necessarily in ways that often get confused with effort, but in things like pace and attention to detail.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: No Ayton in Utah.
SEGMENT 2: Building a culture means asking stars to do stuff and holding them to a standard.
SEGMENT 3: Banshees on O, too?
Everydayer Club
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NBA Trade Season Has Officially Kicked Off. Where Do the Lakers Stand?
17 december 2025 · 37 min
December 15 is a big day in the NBA, as the vast majority of players who moved in the offseason become eligible to be traded. Many around the league consider it the unofficial kickoff of "trade season." Lees meer
The Lakers enter this stretch of weeks in an interesting spot: Obviously quite competitive (just look at the standings) and obviously flawed (just look at how they've lost, when they've lost). Figuring out where they go from here is not an easy task. On the one hand, they have Luka Dončić, a still-effective LeBron James and an ascending Austin Reaves. But they also lack the type of draft capital or young trade assets that typically juice in-season deals. They do have expiring contracts to offer (Gabe Vincent, Maxi Kleber, Rui Hachimura) but there aren't a ton of players who might be available that the Lakers could target.
One huge question that will likely impact the ultimate outcome more than just about anything: Are the Lakers willing to take on money that goes not just into next year, but into the summer of 2026, when big fish like Giannis and Jokic could be available as free agents? Are we back to cap space at all costs? Or are the Lakers ready to move (smartly but) aggressively not because they want to maximize the LeBron window, but Luka's prime?
There's not likely to be another Nico Harrison out there to help Rob Pelinka this year, so it'll take some clever GM'ing to get it done.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: Trade season is here?
SEGMENT 2: What the Lakers have to offer.
SEGMENT 3: Expectations? What's the right approach?
Everydayer Club
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Will Jarred Vanderbilt Stay in the Rotation? Can the Lakers Resurrect Dalton Knecht's Value?
16 december 2025 · 38 min
The Lakers found a fun formula against the Phoenix Suns Sunday, one that lifted their defensive energy and built up a big fourth quarter lead. (We're ignoring the part about how they gave all of it away, before winning in the end.) It involved a lot of defensive pressure and offensive rebounding, both of which were big contributions of Jarred Vanderbilt in his return to the lineup. Lees meer
Vando had a great game, no question. But he's had great games before, and more of a challenge sustaining that level. Or, you might think that his coaches have struggled to figure out how exactly Vanderbilt can best be maximized.
Because it's pretty clear they need some of the stuff Vanderbilt brings, whether it's Vanderbilt himself that provides it.
But how? Who sits? Could the Lakers swap some of Gabe Vincent's minutes for Vanderbilt, and get more of what Redick is trying to achieve?
Meanwhile, Dalton Knecht is being assigned to the G-League. Which, from a development standpoint, makes sense. He needs the burn, since playing time is currently hard to come by. But that's not the only reason the Lakers are sending him there, likely.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: The Lakers have a Vando problem? (In a potential good way?)
SEGMENT 2: How can the Lakers get the most out of Vanderbilt?
SEGMENT 3: What to do with Dalton Knecht?
Everydayer Club
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The Lakers Get Crazy 116-114 Win over Suns, Led by Energy from Deandre Ayton, Jarred Vanderbilt, Jaxson Hayes
15 december 2025 · 38 min
That game was bananas, but in the end, the Lakers win. Lees meer
116-114 was the final, as the Suns and Lakers went back and forth with some wild runs, an individual rivalry that got super heated betwen LeBron James and Dillon Brooks, tons of foul calls and almost incomprehensible rebounding figures throughout (at one point deep into the second half, the Lakers had more offensive rebounds than defensive). But while Luka Dončić got his 29 and LeBron James 26, on a night the Lakers were without Austin Reaves, it was the supporting cast that provided the energy and fuel to get the win.
Deandre Ayton was 10-11 from the floor, and grabbed 13 rebounds. Jarred Vanderbilt got off the bench and was fantastic, with seven rebounds, seven points, two steals and a block. Jaxson Hayes finished with 12/9, and Jake LaRavia had two steals and two blocks. It was the bench (along with Ayton) that got the win on Sunday.
The Lakers showed more defense than they did against San Antonio on Wednesday, at least in the second half as they built up a 20-point lead in the second half... but then completely stopped moving offensively as they tried to nurse that lead to the finish line and in turn found themselves behind with seconds to play.
But then Dillon Brooks came to the rescue!
Ugly win, but it counts like the rest of them.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: The Lakers get the win.
SEGMENT 2: The bench comes through!
SEGMENT 3: Permanent change to the rotation?
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Is JJ Redick Coaching the Team He Wants, or the Team He Has?
12 december 2025 · 37 min
The Lakers got thumped by San Antonio on Wednesday, and in what is becoming a trend for this Lakers squad, when they lose, they lose. Lees meer
But this loss, more than others, seems to have created significant attention around the team, how it's constructed, and whether or not its flaws are correctable. Because the Spurs were faster than the Lakers, they put pressure on the defense the Lakers couldn't handle, and (more or less) kept them - and especially Austin Reaves - off the free throw line.
The Lakers are going to struggle to get faster. They're going to have to be a defensive team that becomes greater than the sum of its parts. That's often a tall task, especially in the postseason.
It also means JJ Redick needs to maximize what he has... and is he?
A lot of this conversation can be boiled down to two role players - Rui Hachimura and Jarred Vanderbilt.
Should the Lakers finally pull the trigger on swapping Rui for Marcus Smart in the starting lineup? It would balance that group defensively in ways obvious even to podcast hosts. So why hasn't Redick pulled the trigger? And what about Vando, who is flawed but could at least in theory address some of the team's shortcomings, whether in defensive energy, offensive rebounding and general disruptiveness?
Clearly Redick doesn't believe in Vanderbilt, or that the tradeoffs he presents are worth it. But are there ways to get him into the lineup while mitigating those?
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: Why the loss to the Spurs seemed different.
SEGMENT 2: Looking at Rui. Is a lineup change needed?
SEGMENT 3: What about Vando?
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Too Slow Lakers Lose Big to San Antonio, 132-119. Austin Reaves Struggles Again...
11 december 2025 · 35 min
The Lakers have been eliminated from NBA Cup play, losing to San Antonio in the quarterfinals Wednesday night at Crypto. Lees meer
There wasn't much to love in this one. The Lakers got off to a decent enough start, but once San Antonio found their legs, the Lakers just couldn't keep up. Final score, 132-119.
The big issues were defensive, where the Lakers simply couldn't string together enough stops to hang with San Antonio, and then claw their way back into the game after falling behind. The Spurs were able to get out into transition, outscoring the Lakers badly on the break. They used their bench to help build a lead, outscoring the Lakers bench. They got to the free throw line more than the Lakers, which always represents a problem for a team that doesn't tend to win at the 3-point line.
Marcus Smart, back in the lineup, had a great shooting night (26 points, 8-14 from 3-point range), and whatever defensive spine the Lakers had came from him. LeBron James went for 19/15/8, and Luka Dončić finished with 35 points and eight assists. But Austin Reaves didn't have the bounceback game the Lakers needed after a clunker in Philly. Rui Hachimura didn't have the ball enough to make an impact.
But overall, it was a night where the team's deficiencies were on display. Too slow. Struggle to get points if they can't get to the line. Difficulty generating good looks. And major defensive problems.
Back to the drawing board.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: Lakers get thumped, out of NBA Cup.
SEGMENT 2: Transition hurts.
SEGMENT 3: Was Rich Paul telling the truth?
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BONUS EPISODE: Redick, Ayton Discuss The Lakers' Strong Late-Game Defense
10 december 2025 · 17 min
Twenty-three games into the season, by and large, the Lakers have been a fairly unimpressive defensive team. It's not necessarily a shock, given a roster that doesn't feature many plus-defenders, particularly among the players slated to log the most minutes. For the opening three quarters of contests, the Lakers often get by despite their defense, rather than through the strength of it. Lees meer
However, once the fourth quarter begins, and especially in the last five minutes of games (otherwise known as "clutch time"), something pretty crazy has regularly taken place. The Lakers morph into a good defense. During clutch time, they become downright elite. The clutch time sample size (eight games) isn't massive, but it's hardly insignificant. Either way, it's very consistent and belies the opening 36 minutes of games. So what the hell is going on? How and why is this happening?
During Tuesday's Lakers practice, Locked On Lakers co-host Andy Kamenetzky asked JJ Redick and Deandre Ayton to share some thoughts, then offered some of his own.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
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The Lakers Are at Full Strength Vs. San Antonio, Plus Rich Paul Speaks Candidtly about LeBron, Lakers
10 december 2025 · 37 min
Wednesday night's game against the Spurs at Crypto.com isn't just big because it's a Cup quarterfinal, and a victory means more $ for players and coaches with a chance for even bigger checks. It's also because San Antonio represents a major challenge for the Lakers, and an opportunity to send a message against a high level Western Conference team. Spurs star Victor Wembanyama won't be in uniform, as he's not quite ready to return to action following a calf strain. But two other exciting young players, Stephon Castle and Dylan Harper, have returned from injury. Lees meer
So this game matters in the standings, and in the perceived pecking order out West.
Meanwhile, Rich Paul and Max Kellerman introduced their new podcast with an interview featuring... Rich Paul. And it was an interesting one, for sure. Paul spoke candidly about the Lakers and how they're run, what he thinks of their title chances, and what changes they might make in the long and short term.
Did he also do some major messaging at the Lakers on behalf of his most famous client?
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: The Spurs are in town... but Wemby isn't active.
SEGMENT 2: Rich Paul speaks! Was he messaging? To whom?
SEGMENT 3: An interesting moment for the NBA.
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Is LeBron James Back After a Big Game on Sunday? Plus, Why Have the Lakers Been so Clutch?
9 december 2025 · 35 min
LeBron James bounced back with a huge game Sunday in Philadelphia. Does that mean he's back? What exactly does "back" mean for LeBron this year? Will it look different than last year? Than years before? It seems the Lakers are going to handle him with a little more care than the last two seasons, and with postseason awards likely out of reach (he won't hit the minimum game threshold) does that give the Lakers even more flexibility? Lees meer
Plus... the Lakers are 8-0 in what the NBA defines as "clutch" games. Why exactly have they been so successful? The answer might surprise, given their broader profile.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: LeBron Is back, right? Right?
SEGMENT 2: What exactly does "back" mean, anyway?
SEGMENT 3: Why have the Lakers been so clutch?
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Huge Game From LeBron (29 points), Plus Luka Dončić Triple Double Gives Lakers Win In Philly
8 december 2025 · 36 min
The Lakers have had to scramble over the weekend to keep lineups on the floor, but Sunday the gang was (save Marcus Smart) back together. Lees meer
Luka Dončić was back from Slovenia, where he was celebrating the birth of his daughter, and LeBron James was back in the lineup after missing Friday's game in Boston.
They certainly needed both. LeBron had, without question, his most impactful game since returning to the lineup, scoring early and late, hitting 12-17 from the floor, including 4-6 from 3-point range en route to 29 points. He added seven rebounds and six assists. Luka wasn't as efficient as he's been (international flights with a birth of a baby sandwiched in between will do that), but was hardly a bystander, finishing with 31/15/11, and hit the free throws to ice the game at the end.
Add in a tidy double double (14/12) from Deandre Ayton and three blocks from Jaxson Hayes, and it was enough to cover a brutal shooting effort from Austin Reaves and give the Lakers a 112-108 win against the Sixers to cap the road trip.
It was a big win, not just because it allows the Lakers to keep pace in the top half of the Western Conference, but also for the effort LeBron put out, and the lift it gave the team both tonight (they needed him badly) and more broadly. Because LeBron's play to this point has certainly been a major concern for Lakers fans. And while one game probably isn't enough to say James is back, it's enough to give people faith that this is what he's building back towards, and that once he's got his legs and timing fully back will look like something similar to the LeBron James we saw last year.
Great finish to the trip, and now it's back to Cup play as San Antonio (likely still without Victor Wembanyama) Wednesday night.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: The Lakers get big games from LeBron and Luka to win in Philly.
SEGMENT 2: A bounceback night for James.
SEGMENT 3: A huge week coming.
Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time … -
Austin Reaves Scores 36, But Shorthanded Lakers Lose 126-105 in Boston
6 december 2025 · 13 min
You can't fault the effort, whether from Austin Reaves (9-18, 36 points, eight assists) or the team in general. The Lakers were missing Luka Dončić, still away from the team, as well as LeBron James and Marcus Smart, and the Celtics came into Friday's game red hot. Lees meer
In theory, nothing had to give, and it didn't.
The Lakers lose, 126-105.
There aren't that many takeaways in this one, to be honest. The Lakers ran into the same challenges they've faced in other games without Luka and LeBron, namely a lack of firepower and especially a lack of ballhandling and passing. Reaves had over half of the team's 15 assists. The only other player with more than one was... Drew Timme, who entered in garbage time.
Gabe Vincent got going a little offensively (18 points) which is good to see, and Nick Smith found a little offense as well. But mostly, the Lakers had to hope they caught Boston on an off night, then caught a little lightening in a bottle, given how effectively Boston defends. Didn't happen.
On to Philly, where Luka might be back, and LeBron should be in the lineup. Smart, TBD.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
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Austin Reaves Scores 44, Rui Hachimura Hits Game Winner, Lakers WIn 123-120
5 december 2025 · 35 min
Wow. Lees meer
The Lakers, playing shorthanded in Toronto—no Luka Dončić (personal) and Marcus Smart (back)—against a 15--win Raptors squad, had to dig deep and stay resilient, and then ride some excellent performances to secure a big win, 123-120 on a game-winning triple from Rui Hachimura.
The star of the game was clearly Austin Reaves, who dropped 44 points and added 10 assists. He once again was enormous in a game where Luka wasn't available, and not just offensively. Reaves drew two critical fourth quarter charges, as well. Jake LaRavia played his best game in a while, with 14 points and seven rebounds, and had a massive block at the rim on what looked like a sure Raptors bucket. In a game this tight, those are game-changers. Deandre Ayton (17/8), Hachimura (12 points) and Nick Smith Jr. (12 points) also finished in double figures.
One guy who didn't? For the first time since 2007? LeBron James.
The shooting continues to be problematic. James was 4-17 from the floor, and missed all five of his free throws. But sitting on eight points on the game's last possession, James found Hachimura in the corner for the game winner. A poetic way for the streak to end, with James making the right basketball play, as he said after the game he's done since he picked up a ball.
With Boston looming Friday, and a lot of Lakers potentially on the sidelines—Luka is probably not going to be back yet, LeBron isn't yet cleared for back-to-backs, and it's hard to see Smart getting back—getting this win was huge.
Big picture, the Lakers are still waiting for James to get more LeBron-like. At some point, some of the shots he's missing seem likely to go in, even if the days of James getting anywhere he wants on the floor might be over. (And the passing skills aren't eroding in the slightest.) But on this night, at least, there was a little poetry for James on the game's final play.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: The Lakers win on a buzzer beater from Rui. Reaves dominates.
SEG… -
No Luka Dončić vs. Toronto, Does Giannis Really Want Out of Milwaukee, and Is He a Future Laker?
4 december 2025 · 37 min
First things first -- the Lakers will be shorthanded in Toronto Thursday evening, as Luka Dončić is away from the team for personal reasons, and Marcus Smart is still unable to suit up with back spasms. (There is a strong possibility both will miss Friday's game in Boston as well, but it's too early to say.) Lees meer
So facing two quality teams in a back-to-back situation, the Lakers will need to dig deep. LeBron James presumably won't play in both games (the Lakers have made it clear he's not yet built up enough to play on consecutive days), but in the game he does play, the Lakers need a better version of James than the one they saw Monday against the Suns.
Austin Reaves has been big in these situations so far this season, but he'll need some help. Will Jake LaRavia step up? Deandre Ayton? Who will have the next Nick Smith Jr. Game?
Meanwhile, Giannis officially wants out of Milwaukee. The Lakers aren't exactly the most logical destination, given how non-competitive any offer they can make to the Bucks would be... but that won't stop the speculation! Is there any shot for the purple and gold? What does Giannis (presumably) coming off the market now mean for the Lakers' future plans? And what about Chris Paul, who is on the outs with the Clippers, unceremoniously cut in the middle of the night earlier this week.
Might CP3 FINALLY make an appearance in purple and gold?
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: No Luka, no Smart, and a tough back-to-back coming.
SEGMENT 2: Giannis wants out. Where do the Lakers fit in?
SEGMENT 3: What about CP3?
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Is LeBron James "Stat Padding?" What Does His Role Look Like at (Almost) 41-Years Old?
3 december 2025 · 36 min
After (Monday's loss to Phoenix notwithstanding) feasting on a relatively soft portion of the schedule, the Lakers now embark on a challenging run of games, starting with three on the road (Toronto, Boston, Philly) followed by a home (Cup!) game against San Antonio. Lees meer
One of the things that could push the Lakers through would be a surge of good play from LeBron James, who has looked pretty mid (especially by his standards) since returning to the lineup. Monday, he had to hustle to get to 10 points and keep his nearly career-long double digit scoring streak alive. He was accused by former NBA'er Chandler Parsons of "stat padding." Fair? Unfair?
And what exactly is LeBron's role on the team? More than anything else, he's just not asserting himself for stretches over the course of games. Is that a function of a new pecking order, led by Luka and an ascendant Austin Reaves? Is it a matter of Father Time FINALLY winning the battle against James? Of LeBron working his way into shape after missing not only training camp, but much of his ramp up to training camp?
Yes to all of it?
One thing's for sure - if the Lakers want to maximize their chances of going deep into the playoffs, they need to find a way to maximize James. If they don't, things could get significantly more challenging.
Finally, Rui Hachimura had some choice words about the distribution of touches in Monday's loss. Does he have a point?
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: Is LeBron padding his stats? Chandler Parsons says so!
SEGMENT 2: What's his role?
SEGMENT 3: Rui on touches.
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