Locked On Lakers - Daily Podcast On The Los Angeles Lakers
Locked On Lakers is a daily podcast that provides in-depth coverage of the Los Angeles Lakers and the NBA. Hosted by Andy and Brian Kamenetzky, who have covered the team since 2005 for outlets like the LA Times, ESPN, and The Athletic, the show offers a mix of traditional journalism, informal commentary, and offbeat humor. It delivers expert local analysis, insider scoops from the Lakers locker room, and updates on the biggest stories around the league. The podcast is part of the Locked On Podcast Network.
Episodes
Walker Kessler Impresses in Debut, Austin Reaves Scores 28 in 25 Minutes in Lakers Preseason Loss
Lakers fans have been waiting a while to see Walker Kessler in purple and gold following the massive offseason sign and trade that brought the giant center to LA. Tuesday in Vegas against the Golden State Warriors, they finally got their chance. And it's fair to say that the first impression was a very good one. Kessler had 11 points, nine rebounds, a steal and a block in 16 minutes. He
What Is the Biggest Need for the Lakers? Starting Forward? Backup Center? Another Guard?
The Lakers look like a team that should be pretty good, and have some balance and coherence to the roster construction. But everyone also knows the Lakers are, as currently constructed, a tick or two below the elite squads in the West. So what is their biggest need? ESPN says "starting caliber forwards," and explained thusly: "Look, there's going to be a little less positional certainty
JJ Redick Has Not Settled on Five Starters. Who Are (or Should Be) the Top Candidates?
The Lakers entered the preseason with two starting spots theoretically up for grabs. (Though most people think one of those spots was always Quentin Grimes's to lose, and to this point, it doesn't seem that he has.) But that leaves one spot available. Who are the most prominent candidates? Sandro MamukelashviliJake LaRaviaZiaire WilliamsMatisse Thybulle Adou ThieroThe good news for
Time to Get Nervous About Collin Sexton? What Should the Lakers Do if He Misses Significant Time?
So there seems to be some reasonable optimism that Walker Kessler will be back on the floor soon, where he can make his Lakers debut. But what about Collin Sexton? The backup guard, expected to play a significant role off the bench as a playmaker, three-point shooter and bucket getter, is still on the sidelines, and has been described by JJ Redick as a little behind Kessler. The diagnosi
Walker Kessler Getting Closer to Playing... How Do the Lakers Handle the Minutes Where He Sits?
The Lakers have had some highlights this preseason, but one massive absence—literally and figuratively—has undercut some of the optimism. Walker Kessler jammed his left pinkie on the backboard early in the preseason, and has been limited since. He's missed all three of the team's preseason games. But this weekend, he was back on the floor, playing without restrictions (other than some tape on
Luka Dončić Talks New Teammates, Lakers Potential, Takes Blame for Last Season's Injury
Luka Dončić is a tough nut to crack. He's not a basketball and global celebrity, but even more than a decade into his professional career is uncomfortable with fame. Still, he's the centerpiece of the NBA's crown jewel franchise, which has not been completely turned over to him. Doncic knows he needs to let people in a little, and has spent the offseason doing just that, as Chris Mannix
Luka Scores 23, Mamu 19, Reaves Has 8 Assists, Lakers Hang On for Win vs. Sacramento
The Lakers still are waiting for the preseason debut of Walker Kessler, who sat out a third game with an injured finger. (FWIW, he in a halftime interview said it was fine, they're just being really, really cautious.) As for the guys who did play? Luka made it to the line nine times, and while he wasn't exactly hyper-efficient from the floor (6-16) he was playing with palpable joy and is
The Lakers Vs. the Western Conference, With Guest Mike Trudell!
For Monday's big show, we talked with Lakers sideline reporter (and new Substacker) Mike Trudell about the big questions surrounding the team this year. What will the defense look like? Who is most poised to thrive in the new system? Which newcomers are you most excited about? And perhaps most importantly, how does the new architecture support the talents of headliners Luka Doncic and Austin
Who Starts for the Lakers? Best Offseason Signing? Big Questions With Mike Trudell!
The Lakers play their third preseason game of the very, very young season Thursday night, but already some signs are shining through, giving glimpses of what this team could look like over the course of the '26-'27 campaign. There's a lot to be excited about, and great storylines to follow. It starts with Luka Donćić, a perennial MVP candidate and arguably the league's most elite offensive we
No Luka, Reaves, Kessler, Williams, Sexton or Thybulle... No Surprise, Lakers Lose to Warriors
In Monday's preseason opener, the Lakers were short a few important players, but still managed to put together a top shelf effort to beat Sacramento. One night later, they were down even more guys, and found the limits of what the remaining talent on hand could deliver. The Warriors took control early, and never gave it up in a game that was never close. Final score, 124-98.The Lakers were wi
Did Lakers PRESEASON OPENER REVEAL Vanderbilt, Knecht, Hardy ALREADY OUT OF ROTATION?
HOSTS: Andy and Brian KamenetzkyPHOTO CREDIT: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!IndeedListeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast.BetterhelpThis episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Sign up and get 10% off at https://BetterHelp.com/LOCKEDONNBA
Lakers Impress on Defense, Luka Drops 21 as Lakers Roll Kings in Preseason Opener
Well, that went about as well as you could ask. Luka Dončić dropped an easy breasy 21 points, the Lakers shot the lights out in the first half especially, and the defense came to play as the Lakers romped in Sacramento, 127-103. As you'd expect, JJ Redick spread the playing time around, and with Austin Reaves, Walker Kessler, Collin Sexton and Arthur Kaluma in street clothes with (non-serious
Lakers Talk Player Development: It's Not Just About Cam Carr and Adou Thiero
The Lakers have a lot of needs going forward, and not a lot of ways to meet them. Not much draft capital, limited cap flexibility, and so on. So it's critical that their young, cost controlled players develop into real, useful NBA players. That starts with Cam Carr and Adou Thiero, both of whom could push for playing time this season if their improvement arc continues. But while those two are
Lakers Vs. Kings, Preseason Game 1: What to Watch fIor, and Get Excited About
It's been a while in coming, but the new-look Lakers are going to play a game on Monday. Preseason Game 1, up in Sacramento. JJ Redick hasn't made it totally clear who is going to play in each game, or who has been held out of practices at different times, and all of that good stuff. So we'll need to see what the lineup looks like once that's announced. And who knows what the lineups will loo
Can Adou Thiero and Cameron Carr Break Into JJ Redick's Rotation?
The Lakers have talked about using what they believe is increased depth, and people wonder if that means perhaps even expanding the normal 9-10 man rotation into 10-11, or even up to 12 guys? There are certainly examples of teams pushing those boundaries in an effort to play at a higher level of intensity. Of course, the only way for the Lakers to get to that number, realistically, is fo
Will JJ Redick Choose to Run a Deeper Rotation With the New Look Lakers?
The Lakers have a significantly different roster this season than last. That everyone knows. How it'll get used is an open question. Plenty of people think the team has a little more usable depth this season, especially if players like Cam Carr and Adou Thiero prove to be capable of handling minutes. The Lakers want to figure out how to use defensive oriented players like Matisse Thybull
JJ Redick Discusses Growth as Lakers Coach, no longer Fueled by "Inner-anger."
At Wednesday's practice, JJ Redick got a little reflective, looking back on his early days as Lakers head coach. He noted that while the confidence he could do the job was always there, at times it felt like cosplay. Not surprising, really, given that it was his first head coaching gig at any level beyond grade school coaching his kids.That feeling, and an intense desire to try to control EVERYTHI
The Lakers Are Forging an Early Identity on Both Sides of the Ball
It's early, less than a week in. But listen to JJ Redick and the rest of the Lakers, and it's clear they're working hard to forge a real identify on both sides of the ball. Defensively, Redick has already talked about how the days of 1-5 switching are over with the arrival of Walker Kessler. It's going to look more like 1-4, but even then with some caveats. And just that change will make the
What Should JJ Redick's Rotation Look Like, From Starters to Reserves? Listeners Weigh In...
JJ Redick has some decisions to make, not just with the starting lineup -- while he says that only three of the five spots are settled (if we have to tell you which ones, you're probably at the wrong podcast), most people believe that Quentin Grimes is also very likely to start. So that leaves a fifth guy. Will it be Sandro Mamukelashvili? Ziaire Williams? Jake LaRavia? Matisse Thybulle, for that
Walker Kessler Says the Lakers Are Going to Have a "Nasty" Defense... In a Good Way
Two days into the Lakers season, one thing is clear: Walker Kessler is an extremely optimistic young man who believes in the inherent awesomeness of his teammates. So when Kessler said on Tuesday that he believes the Lakesr are going to have a "nasty" defense, and meant it in the most positive way possible, it definitely raised some eyebrows. In his mind, the team's defensive quality is being
Will Walker Kessler Be a Game-Changer Defensively? His Teammates Say Yes...
The Lakers have arguably the most elite offensive force in basketball in Luka Doncic, and that without question provides them a certain level of confidence every time they take the floor. They know as long as they have that guy, they have a chance to win, even on a night where the team isn't playing well. But the larger questions around this team aren't on that side of the ball. People don't
Media Day! The Lakers Kick Off 2026-27 With Confidence and Purpose
The new-look Lakers made their season debut Monday with Media Day, and it definitely felt like the start of a new era. Lotsof new players, changing roles and shifting expectations around a team that is expected to be good, but not expected to contend. But that's what media says. The players didn't talk about long term plans or rebuilding over time. They talked about winning this year, and exp
Media Day! The Lakers Kick Off the Season Truly as Luka Dončić's Team
Media Day! It's the first day of school, NBA style. And for the Lakers, it's truly a new era, as Luka Donćić opens the season as the sole superstar voice on the team. He is going to be the leader of an entirely new group, tasked with setting culture and a tone that is going to, hopefully, result in the next year or two in a team ready to compete for a championship. And it's a role he's said h
Rob Pelinka and JJ Redick Meet the Media: Key Takeaways
The season officially kicks off on Monday, with Lakers Media Day. It unofficially kicked off Thursday, when Rob Pelinka and JJ Redick met the media. They answered questions for just over a half hour on a range of topics, and generally sounded like people pleased with a busy summer's work and ready to begin the Luka Era in earnest, with a team that is his now on every level. Some of the highli
Does Austin Reaves Have More Pressure on Him This Season Than Any Other Laker?
Austin Reaves signed a massive contract this offseason, moving him from one of the great bargains in the NBA to ... something else. And based on the results of our listener survey, no Laker has more pressure on him going into the year than Reaves. People are worried about whether or not he'll live up to the contract, and whether that contract will age well. They're worried about the defense (which
BONUS! NBA TOP 100 Rankings: 21-30 (With Andy Kamenetzky)! LeBron, Flagg, and Jalen(s)!
It's the Locked On NBA Top 100 player rankings! Today, Wes, Matt, Haize and Andy come together to rank players 21-30. Will LeBron James continue to slide? Does Cooper Flagg crack the top 30? Find out on today's episode!Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!IndeedListeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/p
Is Walker Kessler a Top 75 Player in the NBA? ESPN Thinks Yes.
The Lakers made a bold push to acquire Walker Kessler in a summertime sign and trade with the Jazz, giving up the rest of their first round draft capital and a whole lot of money to bring in the young, hopefully ascending defensive standout. Some liked the move when it happened, some thought the Lakers overpaid. But if ESPN's summertime player rankings are to be believed, at the least the Lakers s
Can Austin Reaves Make an All-NBA Team? Can Redick Get Coach of the Year Votes?
The Lakers aren't necessarily expected to contend for a title this season, but Luka Dončić is still one of the favorites for MVP. Which is a testament to both his star power, and his incredible skill as an offensive player, because MVP candidates almost definitionally come from elite teams. But what about the other guys? Who has a chance to be Most Improved from this year's roster? What about
Will New Lakers Ownership Prioritize Money and Profit Over Winning Basketball?
A LOT of eyebrows went up among Lakers fans heading into the weekend when news of an investor presentation created by the Josh Kushner/Bob Iger ownership group to bring in more cash to their group and round out the sale of the team from embattled owner Mark Walter. The pitch lays out how the team plans to build the team's value up to (we bleep you not) $30 billion over the next decade. And th
Which Lakers Have a Real Shot at Postseason Awards? Luka for MVP? Kessler for All-Defense?
Preseason odds for postseason awards don't necessarily say everything about a team's chances, but they can be instructive. So for the Lakers, who aren't expected to move mountains this year when it comes to the Western Conference standings, where players land on some of the preseason betting lists is worth a look. And thankfully, our friends at Fanduel Sportsbook have their numbers up for vie
How Well Are the Lakers Set Up for the Future? Breaking Down ESPN's Future Rankings...
Every year, ESPN breaks out its Future Rankings, looking at the prospects every team in the league has going forward, based on things like roster quality, draft capital, financial flexibility, quality of management and quality of market. Last year, the Lakers were 8th. This year, they're 13th. Why the downgrade? Mostly because the financial flexibility and draft capital they had last sum
Adam Silver Weighs In on Mark Walter, Lakers Ownership, Plus Did the Lakers Catch a Cap Break?
Tuesday at the NBA's league meetings, Adam Silver spoke to the media for the first time since dropping Adam's Silver Hammer on Steve Ballmer and the Clippers. He had a few things to say about the LAC, but of greater interest here were his comments about Mark Walter and the impending Lakers sale. Did the league have any inkling as to Walter's potential financial issues and the existence of a f
The Lakers Continue Hiring in the Basketball Department. Plus, Where do They Fit Out West?
Last week, the big news for the Lakers was an assistant GM, but the team didn't stop there. On Friday, the squad also filled out the sports science staff, adding Keith D'Amelio as their new sports performance guy. (Director of Integrated Performance Systems, technically speaking.) This isn't necessarily a *new* new position—the Lakers have struggled for years to maintain a consistent sports m
Is Ziaire Williams Ready for a Big Role with the Lakers? Plus, How LA Dodged a Bullet
Ziaire Williams gave a little more insight in to the trip he and the rest of his teammates, speaking to Sports Illustrated. While the Lakers played some ball, Williams says most of the important stuff from the trip came off the floor, in all the team bonding and team meals, and obviously the window into the world of Luka Donćić. That kind of thing is important for a team that is, for all inte
What Bobbleheads Say About Lakers Culture Going Forward... Plus, Expectations for Walker Kessler!
The Lakers are giving away a lot of bobbleheads this season. Like, a lot. Both for established stars like Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves, and fan favorites from days gone by, like Kurt Rambis, Norm Nixon and even Paul Westhead. The Lakers have done the bobblehead thing before, but not in this quantity during the season. And it's a reflection of how fan service and promotion are changing in the
The Lakers Hire Eric Amsler as Assistant GM... Are More Front Office Hires Coming?
Good news out of El Segundo on Wednesday. The Lakers reportedly have hired (now former) Miami Heat executive Eric Amsler as another assistant general manager under Rob Pelinka. Amsler spent two decades in Miami, a place that famously holds on to its executives for a long time. He has worked extensively in the scouting functions, which is definitely a place where the Heat have thrived. Few tea
Is Walker Kessler Ready to Have a Major Impact for the Lakers? Plus, Phil Jackson Gets a Statue!
On Tuesday's show, we talked about players like Ziaire Williams, Collin Sexton or Cam Carr who could make a significant difference in how the Lakers finish the season. But none of those guys matter if the frontline dudes -- that's Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves and Walker Kessler -- don't perform as needed. And while Luka and Austin are more proven commodities in the NBA, Kessler isn't. He's never pla
How Much Can Good Chemistry Help the Lakers Exceed Expectations This Season?
The Lakers are expected to be good this season... but not good in a way people need to pay much attention to, according to the pundits and assorted tastemakers. So in some ways, the fact that they're a brand new group that will, like all new groups, need time to gel is actually kind of beneficial. When you're not expected to come out hot, it's ok if you don't. Gives the team a little time to
The NBA Drops the Hammer on Steve Ballmer and the Clippers (and How the Lakers Dodged That Bullet)
There were people, very likely including Clippers owner Steve Ballmer, who didn't think Adam Silver had the stones to do it. Those people were wrong. The NBA on Wednesday dropped the hammer on the LA Clippers and owner Steve Ballmer, stripping five first round picks from the team, fining Ballmer $30 million and suspending him for a year, and handing down other suspensions to team executives.
Who Should Be the Fifth Starter for the Lakers? Williams? Mamukelashvili? LaRavia? Thiero?
Four spots in the starting lineup for the Lakers seem pretty settled. Obvously starting with Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves and Walker Kessler, and from there Quentin Grimes seems like a pretty safe bet.
But what about that fifth guy?
The hole comes at forward, but because Luka performs as a point guard offensively but absolutely doesn't on the other end, so what the Lakers really need is
Report: Lakers Ownership Issues Are Slowing the Basketball Operations Rebuild
It'll be a while before we know if the new ownership group led by Josh Kushner and Bob Iger will be a net positive or a net negative for the Lakers. We don't know how they'll spend money, or what they'll prioritize.
But what we did know was that ownership upheaval had a chance to completely undermine a buildout of the basketball operations department that was already going a lot slower than
Would Bruce Brown Help the Lakers? And Who Should They Cut When the Time Comes?
The Lakers lost out on Jonathan Kuminga last week (or dodged a bullet, depending on your POV) when the free agent forward went to Minnesota. But that doesn't mean they've stopped trying to fill out the roster. Jake Fischer, in his reporting for Bleacher Report, links LA to veteran guard/forward Bruce Brown, who was in Denver last year.
Would he be a good fit with the Lakers next year? Just a
ESPN Preseason Predictions: Will the Lakers Be the NBA's Most Disappointing Team?
Every summer, ESPN issues it's preseason predictions. We hit on a few of them already, noting for example that the Lakers are predicted to win 45 games, and compete in that set of Western Conference teams either in, or narrowly avoiding, the play-in tournament.
If they stay healthy, we think that's too low. But whatever.
A new batch of predictions dropped on Thursday, and ESPN's writer
Jonathan Kuminga Goes to Minnesota, Jeanie Buss Goes to Court...
Well, it looked like a slow news day until it wasn't.
First, finally the Lakers (and everyone else) got a conclusion to the Jonathan Kuminga saga. He's going to Minnesota, agreeing to a two-year deal worth about $13 million, with a player option for the second year. He'll move into their exception space, try to play really well this season, opt out next summer and sign a genuinely big money
Kuminga Down to Los Angeles and Minnesota? What's One Thing Austin Reaves Can Improve?
There are a couple players still rattling around the NBA, unsigned. Two have limited options but likely return to their current teams (Benedict Mathurin, Jalen Duren) and one is Jonathan Kuminga, who currently has no home.
He does have suitors, though. Minnesota needs a forward and can sign him straight into their exception, but can't pay him as much as the Lakers, who would have to agree to cont
ESPN Grades the Lakers' Offseason. Does the Luka-Centric Rebuild Get High Marks?
ESPN is out with a bunch of late-summer evaluations for teams around the league. It includes win projections (45, which they say will be sixth in the conference) along with an offseason grade (C+) and all kinds of other little interesting bits of information.
First and foremost, while it's reasonable to think the Lakers took a little step backward because they didn't fully replace LeBron's produc
Luka Dončić Is Showing the Lakers a Good Time in Slovenia (and Why That Matters)
Turns out there's no real downside to being Luka Dončić's teammate, at least as it pertains to offseason team bonding trips.
The Lakers, flown out to Slovenia on Luka's dime, are being treated to a first class tour of his home country. There has been golf and food and kayaking and clinics and workouts and more, all of it designed to bring the team together. Important to build chemistry with a ver
Fantasies of Nikola Jokic Are Already Percolating In Los Angeles
The Nuggets unloaded Peyton Watson in a deal on Wednesday that netted them a first rounder in 2031 and another second rounder. All of this despite Watson agreeing to a deal in line with market expectations, of four years and $88 million.
So with the Nuggets in flux and Nikola Jokic currently not signed for the long term, it's of course time to start putting him in other jerseys. Lakers jerseys, s
Peyton Watson Sent to Cleveland, Denver Gets Weaker, Helps Lakers in the Western Conference
One of the last big pieces left to move in the NBA this offseason finally found a home on Wednesday, as Nuggets small forward Peyton Watson, once a rumored target for the Lakers, was flipped to the Cleveland Cavaliers in exchange for ... nobody. A first and second round pick a few years from now. The only other human player of note in the deal (which expanded to five teams, enveloping last week's
How Buss Family Drama Could Impact Lakers Basketball, and Jeanie's Legacy
The Buss siblings clapped back at Jeanie Buss in their argument over whether the sibs have the ability to force a liquidation of the family shares, and as we wait for a resolution that might be a while in coming, it's worth asking what comes next. For the sale of the Lakers, for Jeanie's role, for the current front office, the roster and more.
One thing that becomes clear: The longer this -- mean
The Buss Siblings Try to Force a Sale of Their Remaining Shares, Which Jeanie Tries to Block
Rather than cede the franchise sale drama to Mark Walter, Josh Kushner and Bob Iger, the Buss siblings on Monday went full bore into doing what they do best—creating serious sibling drama.
Early in the day, ESPN reported that the Buss family had voted to sell its remaining share in the Lakers, amounting to just under 18 percent.
Not long after, Jeanie's attorney released a statement calling that
How (Yet Another) Dennis Schröder Trade Impacts Jonathan Kuminga and the Lakers
For the nine zillionth time since turning down a long-term deal with the Lakers, veteran guard Dennis Schröder is on the move, this time from Cleveland to Charlotte.
The motivation for the Cavs is relatively simple - free up money to get James Harden resigned, and then try to add another player. Reportedly, that could be Peyton Watson (restricted FA, Denver) or Jonathan Kuminga, who has been rumo
Lakers Schedule Breakdown: Highlights, Lowlights, and Big Challenges Ahead
In a normal offseason, the August schedule release is one of those signpost events that lets fans know the season is creeping closer. It's a fun chance to try and predict what's coming.
Things never quite work out as predicted, but that's part of the fun.
Of course, this year, a certain blip in the news cycle has radically changed the subject for Lakers fans, who now wonder what's coming with th
How do Lakers Fans Feel About New Ownership? And Why the Sale Needs to Happen Quickly
A drop was dropped on Lakers nation this week with the sale of the team from Mark Walter to Josh Kushner and Bob Iger. Nobody saw it coming, not even (reportedly) the principals until last weekend.
Lakers fans rightly feel like a rug pull has taken place, and not surprisingly, perhaps, that sentiment seems to be impacting how many are reacting to the news. A poll we put up on the show's YouTube p
How Will LAKERS SALE to Kushner & Iger IMPACT Jeanie Buss and Rob Pelinka?
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Mark Walter Will Sell Lakers to Josh Kushner and Bob Iger for $12.5 Billion
Well THAT was unexpected.
After decades of family ownership, the Lakers will change ownership for the second time in less than a year and a half, with news breaking Wednesday that Mark Walter will be selling the team to a group led by venture capitalist Josh Kushner and former Disney head Bob Iger.
The valuation is reportedly $12.5 billion, meaning Walter flipped the franchise for a tidy profit,
Luka Vs. Steph! The Lakers Vs. LeBron! Plus, How Much Pressure Does Donćić Face?
The first bits of the schedule were released on Tuesday, and (no surprise) the Lakers play a big role in what the NBA now calls Opening Week, and then on Christmas. They're playing on what is technically the first night of the season, but then the Lakers will host the Warriors (another version of ______ vs. Steph!) and then on Christmas, the league has sent LeBron James back to the Crypt, like a b
NBA Schedule Release Begins! Lakers Opening Day, Christmas Matchups Revealed!
The NBA's annual slowplay of its schedule release began on Tuesday, and two of the marquee games will involve the Lakers. They'll open the season against Steph Curry and the Warriors (although not on the literal opening day, for the first time this decade), a matchup that's overly familiar. (Perhaps a bit too familiar for these purposes?) From there, the Christmas Day slate predictably includes a
Which Lakers Are Most Likely to Outperform Their Contracts? Or Underperform?
The question of value is going to be a huge one for the Lakers this season. Especially in the context of which players provide more of it than their salary might suggest.
So which guys are most likely to outperform their paychecks?
The obvious place to start is with the dudes making the least amount of money, but who still have a chance to play an outsized role for the team. Like this year's Mar
Can the Lakers Contend Before Luka's Contract Expires? This Offseason Provides Clues.
This question came in from a listener, TheStewPup at Kambrothers on Twitter:
Given the team's lack of (positive) trade pieces, how long do you guys think it will take to turn the team into a true contender? Can they realistically do it before Luka's contract is up?
The answer is obviously really important, not just because they want to win, but because progress in that direction is what will help
The Lakers Would Love to Get Players Like PJ Washington... But are the PJ Washingtons Available?
The Lakers need to fill out their roster, and the biggest need is a forward with defensive versatility who can also shoot a little.
Dallas forward PJ Washington seems to fit that bill.
But for this to work, the Mavs would have to want some stuff the Lakers could send them. That's a problem, given LA's relatively bare cupboard of assets. But even more problematic? Apparently the Mavs don't want t
How Does Lakers' Offseason Stack Up Against the Rest of the NBA?
The great David Aldridge at The Athletic has a review of the summer's activity around the NBA, ranking teams by how successful an offseason they had. That doesn't mean teams finishing higher are better overall, just that the offseason was relatively speaking more productive. The Lakers came in at 11th, which seems pretty fair, all things considered.
On the one hand, you can argue that in raw term
Is Luka Dončić Part of the Solution for the Lakers' Problem at Power Forward?
The Lakers have a hole at forward. Most people think that hole is at power forward, more specifically. And no question, it would be great to fill it with a high end, versatile defender who also comes with a good skill set offensively. Scottie Barnes or OG Anunoby, or a top shelf defender/ball mover like prime Draymond.
But of course, those guys are really, really hard to find.
And as the offseas
As Dallas Explores Trades, Is Klay Thompson a Solid Option for the Lakers?
Maybe it's because his dad is a broadcaster for the Lakers, but Klay Thompson has been connected via rumors to the purple and gold for years. And now, at 36, he's reportedly on the trade block with the Mavs.
So once again, the question is asked, how would Klay look on the Lakers?
He's a long way from the elite shooter/defender of his prime, but Klay still does have some utility as a high volume
Lakers Coaches, NBA Insiders Offer Breakdown of Luka Doncic's New Roster
The Lakers had a very eventful offseason, leading to what could rightly be called a radical roster makeover. Whether you like, dislike, or remain undecided about Luka Doncic's new look running mates, one thing's for sure: Rob Pelinka and company were not content to sit on their collective hands and play things safe.
But did they actually do a good job with their moves? NBA Front Office Podcast c
How Do the New Look Lakers Stack Up in a New Look Western Conference?
The Lakers are a radically different team this year than last. Better? Worse? About the same?
You could make an argument for all three. But at the least, it's easy to say that the team's floor could be a little higher, assuming good health. And any drop off really depends a lot on your thoughts about losing LeBron. What does it mean that he's no longer on the roster, even as the Lakers arguably i
Luka Dončić to Host Mini-Camp for Lakers in Slovenia in August
The Lakers became Luka Donćić's team the moment he was traded to the Lakers, but from a leadership perspective he didn't have to fully take on every part of the job, because the team still had LeBron James, and LeBron James is always going to have a significant role in leadership.
Now LeBron is gone, and there's a big space that needs filling.
Luka looks ready to increase his activity. Reports,
While the Lakers Hunt for Talent, Mark Walter's Business Is Under Federal Investigation
Tuesday began with more news about the federal investigation into the vast business empire of Dodgers owner Mark Walter and the Guggenheim Group. It's complicated, for sure (more complicated than a couple of hoops podcasters are going to try to explain) but doesn't seem trivial, to say the least. And while it doesn't look now like the investigation will have any immediate impact on operations for
Would Cam Johnson Make More Sense for the Lakers Than Jonathan Kuminga?
As the Lakers (or at least Lakers fans) endure the Jonathan Kuminga Waiting Game -- and along those lines, Jake Fisher reports Monday evening that the Lakers are still interested, but are very much trying to dictate the terms, financially -- many folks are searching around for potential better offers.
Denver, meanwhile, is in a real pickle when it comes to their negotiations with restricted free
The Lakers Need a Forward, but is Jonathan Kuminga a Realistic Option... or Worth the Effort?
The Lakers need a starting-caliber forward. That much is clear, and it's not exactly a state secret.
Whether the Lakers can do it this offseason remains to be seen, and whether that player is intended to be a short or long term solution is the other half of the equation they have to try and figure out. It stands to reason the Lakers would prefer the latter, but finding that guy won't be easy. One
LeBron James Joins 76ers! How will the Decision Impact the Lakers' Offseason?
LeBron James has chosen the Sixers. LBJ had already long been out the Lakers' door, so in that sense, it's kind of a formality. But on a practical level (business around the league may pick up again) and on an emotional level (LeBron's relationship with the franchise and fans was... to put it mildly... complicated), there are ripple effects. Andy Kamenetzky offers some quick immediate thoughts on
Matisse Thybulle Scouting Report! Lakers Getting a Defensive Chaos Agent?
The Lakers haven't yet officially signed Blazers free agent forward and defensive specialist Matisse Thybulle to a veteran's minimum deal, but that's only a formality. He'll be inked soon enough and expected to provide a true Three-and-D presence as, along with Ziaire Williams, part of a concerted recent effort to shore up the roster's wings. The real question isn't whether Thybulle is capable of
Are the Lakers Done Making Moves? Is Jonathan Kuminga the Only Significant Name Left?
The Lakers have undergone a massive offseason roster transformation, with three (at most) holdovers from last season's rotation. Lots of new faces. More long-term deals than in recent memory. All in the name of maximizing Luka Dončić's prime.
How good should Lakers fans feel about their team heading into this season, as is? And how would fans feel about their team after one more trade, which, acco
Can JJ Redick MAXIMIZE the Lakers ROSTER? Are Carr, Thiero PART OF A PLAN?
Unless the Lakers can pull what's become a very tricky rabbit out of their proverbial hat and figure out a complicated deal for a high-profile forward, the offseason's roster rebuild is more or less done. Make no mistake. It's different... way, way different. Younger. Faster. More athletic. More balanced. Less collectively experienced. Entirely retooled around Luka Doncic. And not without many lin
Ziaire Williams Scouting Report! Staying in Lane Equals Success for New Laker Wing
The Lakers have long needed more young players and promising wing defenders... and if possible, more young promising wing defenders. As such, it makes perfect sense that the Lakers inked a veteran's minimum deal with Ziaire Williams, a 24-year-old forward coming off a solid season with the Brooklyn Nets. At his best, Williams can provide strong defensive playmaking, reasonable defensive versatilit
Lakers Sign Defensive Ace Mattisse Thybulle! Who Will be Moved to Make Room?
The Lakers have clearly been pondering the defensive issues that remained evident after their initial wave of new roster additions. Yes, Walker Kessler and, to a lesser but still tangible degree, Quentin Grimes can be helpful along these lines, but in particular, too many holes along the perimeter remained. Well, over the last two weeks, Ziaire Williams was first signed, and then on Monday, news b
New Collin Sexton Scouting Report! Great Energy, Scoring. Shaky Defense, Decisions
During the 2025-26 season, the Lakers' bench, to put it generously, lacked scoring punch. Some of this was the byproduct of continual injuries, which kept someone like Rui Hachimura, arguably best utilized as a three-level scoring sixth man, in the starting lineup more often than not. Some of this was the byproduct of someone like Dalton Knecht, Jarred Vanderbilt, and Gabe Vincent (pre-trade) not
New Walker Kessler Scouting Report! Can the new Lakers Center Handle Increased Scrutiny?
It cannot be overstated how much is riding on Walker Kessler's impending success and fit with the Lakers. It's not simply how much the team needs the skills the center brings, particularly on defense, where he's considered by many to be a budding All-Defense candidate. They also paid a handsome price (literally and asset-ally) to land Kessler in a sign-and-trade with the Jazz, who were not widely
Cameron Carr and Adou Thiero are Summer League Standouts. Ready for Lakers Rotation?
The Summer League Lakers are undefeated in Las Vegas, cemented by Thursday's 102-85 beatdown of the Chicago Bulls. Tournament play awaits, but in the bigger picture, could the stars of this team play actual roles with the big club? Who are the main characters in question?
First-round rookie Cameron Carr, whose three-level scoring, off-ball comfort, wingspan, and refined athleticism make him feel l
Lakers Still Targeting Jonathan Kuminga, but also Matisse Thybulle? (Guest: Jovan Buha)
The Lakers, in need of more depth along the wing, have reportedly been in talks with both the Atlanta Hawks and free agent forward Jonathan Kuminga about a potential sign-and-trade for at least a few weeks. But he's apparently not the only target in mind. Marc Stein reported that Matisse Thybulle, who's been linked to the Lakers in the past, is also on their radar. Which one is more gettable? Who'
Recommended
Take Back Your Health®
CBS Radio Mystery Theater | Old Time Radio
Solved Murders - True Crime Stories
紐約鳥｜New York Aperture
The Swerve Podcast: Obscure Topics | Conspiracy Theories
The Bread and Banter Podcast
The Church of What's Happening Now: The New Testament
Busted Open
Deadline: White House
Crickets Corner
History of the Earthquake and Fire in San Francisco
Fox news
