Locked On Lakers - Daily Podcast On The Los Angeles Lakers

Context is key in most things. So when it comes to LeBron James, would the context around the conversation about his offseason feelings change if this was going to be his last season? It's something that needs to be considered, at least, says ESPN's Dave McMenamin: "I think we have to start thinking that this could be his last year in the league," ESPN's Dave McMenamin said. "Rich Paul [James' agent] told me there was no extension talk, because they didn't ask for an extension. They didn't broach the subject. Now, you could say, why didn't the Lakers offer it? Sure, you could. But Paul's point to me was this wasn't a point of tension.... It's not something that they were pursuing. So I think you look at it as, yeah, there's a very limited time remaining in his career," McMenamin continued. "We kinda already knew that. We knew that, basically, since he reached 20 years in the league, he's gone into every offseason contemplating retirement." It would certainly make sense for LeBron to want to the Lakers to be as aggressive as possible if this is his swan song... but at the same time, does anyone think James would have less urgency to find the best chance of winning if he had two seasons left? Or that this is any different than basically every other offseason of his career? Sure, this is the first time in a long time he has a definitive end point to his contract that he doesn't control... but it's also the first time in a long time (in this case, ever) that LeBron has no real leverage other than PR. It remains a fascinating situation, because the league has never seen anything like this. There's just no comp. Meanwhile... Bronny continues to thrive in Summer League, while Dalton Knecht continues to struggle. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Last season for Bronny? SEGMENT 2: Could that explain the offseason? SEGMENT 3: SPL update! Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! OpenPhone Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/lockedonnba Hungryroot With Hungryroot, it’s like having a personal shopper and a nutritionist all in one.For a limited time, get 40% off your first box and a free item in every box for life! Just go to Hungryroot.com/lockedonnba and use codeLOCKEDONNBA. Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com/lockedonnba for 50% off your first year Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Right now, new customers can get ONE HUNDRED FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

It's possible things get moving a little faster now that Phoenix has bought out Bradley Beal, who reportedly will sign a two year deal with the Los Angeles Clippers. It's a nice deal for the LAC, and a mild disappointment for the Lakers, who were reportedly among the teams vying for Beal's services. But at the least it should, or at least could, shake the rest of free agency loose. Teams that had been waiting for clarity on Beal might start making more concrete offers to remaining FAs like De'Anthony Melton, Al Horford and so on. For the Lakers, would Darius Bazley, who has played well in Summer League, be the most viable option? Meanwhile, as things seem to settle down around LeBron James, it's reasonable to ask, what is it he really wants? HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Beal to the Clips. SEGMENT 2: What's next on the market? SEGMENT 3: What's LeBron really looking for? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! OpenPhone Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/lockedonnba Hungryroot With Hungryroot, it’s like having a personal shopper and a nutritionist all in one.For a limited time, get 40% off your first box and a free item in every box for life! Just go to Hungryroot.com/lockedonnba and use codeLOCKEDONNBA. Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com/lockedonnba for 50% off your first year Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Right now, new customers can get ONE HUNDRED FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

The free agent market has another name coming. Veteran wing Josh Okogie will be let go by the Charlotte Hornets, and once he clears waivers (which he will), will become one of the more intriguing low-key names on the market. Why? Because while Okogie has some limitations offensively (he's a career 40% shooter from the floor, and 29.9% from downtown) the guy can defend. That's a skill that's valued around the league, and is in short supply on the Lakers. Especially at what would almost certainly be at or close to a vet minimum deal. So would the Lakers make a play for him with the roster slot they presumably will open up by letting Shake Milton go. (This bit of business needs to be done by July 20th.) Or maybe the Lakers are still in play for De'Anthony Melton, who also fills a defensive need while being a better offensive player. Reporting is out there that Al Horford is still considering the Lakers, if he decides to play instead of heading to retirement. The Lakers still could use someone to round out the rotation and fill a hole in the collective skill set. Would Okogie make sense? Meanwhile, August 2nd is the first day Luka Dončić is extension eligible on August 2nd. But don't be surprised if it takes a minute for him to put pen to paper, because of his obligations to Slovenia in Eurobasket. So when should the Lakers start to sweat? HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Okogie? Horford? Someone else? SEGMENT 2: Can the Lakers find some extra help somewhere? SEGMENT 3: Luka's timeline. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! OpenPhone Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/lockedonnba Hungryroot With Hungryroot, it’s like having a personal shopper and a nutritionist all in one.For a limited time, get 40% off your first box and a free item in every box for life! Just go to Hungryroot.com/lockedonnba and use codeLOCKEDONNBA. Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com/lockedonnba for 50% off your first year Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Right now, new customers can get ONE HUNDRED FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

The Lakers came into last summer with a highly touted rookie in Dalton Knecht, and a curiosity taken in the second round in Bronny James. Bronny looked every bit like a nepo-baby in over his head last summer, and into the regular season, while Knecht played real minutes for the big club. This summer, however, Bronny is the one who has looked far more consistent. James was the best player on the floor for the Lakers in their loss Monday night to the Summer Clippers. Knecht, meanwhile, was pretty awful throughout, continuing a summer of very lackluster play. Something worrisome given his age (24) and potentially dinged reputation after he fell out of the rotation late last year. Should the Lakers be worried about Knecht? At the least, is it reasonable to think that LA's flexibility this offseason is being hampered by a devaluing of Knecht around the league? He's, in theory, one of their three big trade chips (Austin Reaves and their lone tradable first rounder being the others). Is that still the case? What does it mean for the Lakers if Knecht isn't a viable trade chip? Could it ultimately be a blessing in disguise... or a moment we all look back on as a pivot point in LA's future plans? HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Dalton Knecht is struggling. SEGMENT 2: Bronny James is thriving. SEGMENT 3: What to do if you're the Lakers? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! OpenPhone Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/lockedonnba Hungryroot With Hungryroot, it’s like having a personal shopper and a nutritionist all in one.For a limited time, get 40% off your first box and a free item in every box for life! Just go to Hungryroot.com/lockedonnba and use codeLOCKEDONNBA. Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com/lockedonnba for 50% off your first year Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Right now, new customers can get ONE HUNDRED FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Lakers media continues to peel back the layers of the ever-evolving relationship between the team and LeBron James. It's become pretty clear that the pairing isn't nearly as tight as it once was, with James now clearly playing second fiddle (rightly) to Luka Dončić both in team schemes and roster building strategies. And it's certainly understandable that James wants the Lakers to be as good as they can possibly be this year, because his future extends maybe to next summer, probably not more than a year beyond that, and it's a lot more fun to be playing meaningful basketball than not. But the Lakers have to look at the next iteration of the team, going beyond LeBron's time on it. So what happens next? Is there a buyout coming? (Likely not, unless the season totally goes in the (bleep), which nobody wants to see.) A trade? Not exactly easy to put together, given LeBron's hefty salary and small list of teams he'd play with. But this tension is in many ways an avenue to discuss bigger questions about the direction of the team. Are they really just prioritizing 2026? Or even 2027? To the point they won't take on any real money that would sully their cap sheet? Would they make an aggressive move if the right player -- i.e. a star to pair next to Luka in a post-LeBron world -- presents itself? Or are they just spinning and trying to shape the narrative in an offseason that management promised would be very busy, and to this point has not? The offseason isn't over, but the questions are getting louder. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: LeBron vs. the Lakers? SEGMENT 2: What can be done, here? SEGMENT 3: Are the Lakers really just waiting for cap space to clear up? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! OpenPhone Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/lockedonnba Hungryroot With Hungryroot, it’s like having a personal shopper and a nutritionist all in one.For a limited time, get 40% off your first box and a free item in every box for life! Just go to Hungryroot.com/lockedonnba and use codeLOCKEDONNBA. Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com/lockedonnba for 50% off your first year Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Right now, new customers can get ONE HUNDRED FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

By signing Deandre Ayton, the Lakers didn't only fill in their hole at center in about the best way possible, they injected 15 or so points a night into a position that didn't offer it last year, following the trade of Anthony Davis. So with four very good offensive players in Luka, LeBron, Austin Reaves and Ayton, is there space for Rui Hachimura to play to his strengths? Will there be enough shots available for him? And meanwhile, if you're not getting offense out of him, what are you getting? He's not a good rebounder, he's not a good defender. So would a move to the bench help the Lakers, and help him? And if it happened, who would fill that spot in the starting lineup? Would it be Jake LaRavia? Jordan Goodwin? Jarred Vanderbilt? Someone who isn't on the team? What does this conversation say about the team's need to find more balance, whether talking more two way players, or at the least, fewer guys that are redundant at the same position. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT: Should Rui Hachimura come off the bench? SEGMENT 2: Who would start for him? SEGMENT 3: Could the Lakers explore a different way to fill their hole on the wing? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com/lockedonnba for 50% off your first year Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Right now, new customers can get ONE HUNDRED FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

What things look like in the Mark Walter Era is of serious interest to Lakers fans. And for the time being, whatever the complete answer is, part of it includes Jeanie Buss in a front-facing role. Sam Amick of The Athletic reports that the agreement between Walter and Buss will keep Jeanie as the team's governor for at least five more seasons. Now, does that mean Jeanie is the ultimate shot caller? That she'll have the same level of power over the team's operations and structure as she does now? That the basketball operations (which, if we're all being honest, is the only part most fans care about) will look the same? We'll believe it when we see it. Were Walter to leave Buss in charge of everything, not only would it be different than how he handled the Dodgers, it would be different than any owner basically ever. Certainly any that just laid out billions to buy the team. Is feels more likely that Jeanie evolves into what functions more as a team president and CEO. But that doesn't mean there won't be decisions that can go over her head. Meanwhile, are the Lakers really holding off on making moves until next summer or the summer after? HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Jeanie in charge for 5 more years? SEGMENT 2: What does that mean? SEGMENT 3: Is "the future plan" a good one? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com/lockedonnba for 50% off your first year Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Right now, new customers can get ONE HUNDRED FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Deandre Ayton (and Jake LaRavia) met the local media for the first time on Tuesday afternoon in El Segundo, and not surprisingly, most of the attention was on LA's new starting center. The vibes around Ayton, who not that long ago was viewed as a potentially ascending star, has definitely soured. Not to a point where nobody wanted him when Portland chose to buy him out and cast him into free agency, but enough that he was seen as potentially damaged goods, and a negative player even for a Lakers roster that quite literally didn't have a center. Ayton indicated he's aware, and can only show that he cares, and that he wants to be part of a winning culture. The opportunity to be part of something like that -- led by Luka Dončić and LeBron James -- was a major reason he signed with the Lakers. Ayton says he understands the spotlight, can't hide from it, and doesn't want to. Obviously the proof will be in the pudding, but right now, there's no pudding to be in (so to speak). All he can do in July is say the right things and get to work in the facility, and in that sense he's off to a good start. LaRavia, meanwhile, comes with a chip on his shoulder, having been (in his mind at least) underestimated and undervalued by a pair of teams to this point, but also understands there's work to do establishing real value as an NBA player. He shot the three well last year, but needs more volume before he can truly call himself a high end shooter. So everyone seemed to arrive at the facility with some self-awareness. Meanwhile, in San Francisco, the Summer Lakers wrapped up the California Classic. Did Dalton Knecht rebound and restore some confidence... if not in himself, in Lakers fans? HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Ayton meets the media. SEGMENT 2: Saying the right stuff? SEGMENT 3: A successful finish to the California Classic? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com/lockedonnba for 50% off your first year Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Right now, new customers can get ONE HUNDRED FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Monday, we talked about the (reported) impending buyout in Phoenix for guard Bradley Beal, who would instantly become a highly sought prize on the free agent market. He was quickly linked to the Lakers, and not just because everyone is quickly linked to the Lakers. Beal would fill a big need as a bench scorer and playmaker, but is that something the Lakers need more than, say, De'Anthony Melton, who can hit some 3's and more importantly defend higher end guards? Or do the Lakers need a wing more than either one? We asked listeners to weigh in, and generally they preferred Melton over Beal. It makes a lot of sense, but would that be the right call? How do the Lakers prioritize better talent vs. roster needs? If they can fill a lesser need with a better player, is that better than the opposite? Meanwhile, the riddle of Jaxson Hayes and his no-trade clause—one that wasn't given to him by the Lakers as a favor, but was a function of him signing another one-year deal? Turns out he waived it, and that might explain why the Lakers are paying him a little more than the minimum this year. Here's more money in exchange for giving us the ability to move your contract if need be. It's also, likely, a favor to Hayes's agent Bill Duffy, who just happens to represent Deandre Ayton and (oh by the way) Luka Dončić. So while the extra cash for Hayes might be a little frustrating to Lakers fans, because it eats into their available cash through the Biannual Exception, this sort of relationship management is smart business. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Beal or Melton, Lakers fans weigh in. SEGMENT 2: The Hayes deal, clarified. SEGMENT 3: How to prioritize need vs. talent? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com/lockedonnba for 50% off your first year Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Right now, new customers can get ONE HUNDRED FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Things continue to get weird, and expensive, around the NBA for teams that want off of cumbersome contracts. Reports indicate the Phoenix Suns might just buy out pricey guard Bradley Beal, and then stretch his remaining salary to open up space to sign more productive players. Setting aside the wisdom of such a move, it would set off a frenzy around the league of teams trying to get Beal on a steep discount. Because while he's not worth the $50 mil he'll be paid this year, but at the $5 mil the Lakers could offer? Or the similar terms most teams could? He'd be a steal. Beal is still a guy who can put up 20 a night, is a good secondary ball handler and can space the floor. Can't defend much anymore, but he's still productive. So would he be a good fit for the Lakers? Better than, say, De'Anthony Melton, who isn't as high profile a player, but would he fill more specific needs for LA? Meanwhile, the California Classic is here, and this weekend the Lakers saw Dalton Knecht, Bronny James (in limited run) and others take the floor. The results? Pretty good for Bronny in limited burn Sunday.... and a couple clunkers from Knecht. And Saturday was worse. Low energy, flagging effort, especially defensively. Is it something to worry about? And finally, the LeBronversations around his future in LA continue. Is there actually any smoke, though? Let alone fire? HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Bradley Beal on the move? SEGMENT 2: Would he be a good fit in LA? SEGMENT 3: Summer League! Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com/lockedonnba for 50% off your first year Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Right now, new customers can get ONE HUNDRED FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

The Lakers did something that felt fairly inevitable, if not super popular, on Thursday, re-signing free agent center Jaxson Hayes to a one year, minimum level contract. Is this a perfect outcome? No, and it would still be nice to improve over him as a backup to Deandre Ayton, particularly given Ayton's rather extensive injury history. But the Lakers have plenty of runway either to sign another player if they'd like (they can release Shake Milton to open up a spot) or use one of their expiring contracts to acquire a player. We'll see. Is Hayes the right guy for the job? You can certainly argue he performed well enough last year to earn the gig. And playing against backup, or even third string centers (remember, in some circumstances at least Maxi Kleber will get minutes), he's fine. It would be nice to do better, but the move likely means Al Horford is probably off the table. Meanwhile, what is going on with the relationship between LeBron James and the Lakers? Is LeBron more inclined to leave, sooner rather than later? Even through a trade request? What happens if he makes one? What would that look like? HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Hayes is back! SEGMENT 2: Are the Lakers done? SEGMENT 3: What's up with LeBron? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com/lockedonnba for 50% off your first year Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Right now, new customers can get ONE HUNDRED FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

The Lakers have a center, and he's a pretty good one. Certainly a lot better than could reasonably have been hoped at the start of the offseason. Particularly at a tidy price of $8.3 million a year, for two years. On Wednesday, the Lakers agreed to terms with former Suns and Portland center Deandre Ayton, who was bought out by the Blazers over the weekend. Ayton comes with a lot of baggage, namely around health, motor and attention to detail, but is unquestionably productive. He's never averaged fewer than 10 rebounds a year, and has been a reliable source of 14-18 points a night. He's a viable lob threat, and an excellent pick and roll player. Defensively, Ayton isn't perfect, but is (when engaged) mobile on the perimeter, very solid on the defensive glass and with a 7'6" wingspan, can be a decent deterrent around the rim. So especially when you consider the Lakers surrendered nothing but (very below market) money to get him, Ayton represents as good an outcome as could be hoped for. Frankly, it's another example of a player just kind of landing in their laps, and taking advantage of it. But whatever. The Lakers have a significant upgrade at their biggest position of need, and still have tools to make some more modest improvements to the roster. All in all, a good day, one that should improve the mood around Laker Land and buy Rob Pelinka a little time to keep improving the team. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: The Lakers sign Ayton. SEGMENT 2: How's the fit? SEGMENT 3: What's next? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com/lockedonnba for 50% off your first year Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Right now, new customers can get ONE HUNDRED FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

He comes with baggage, yes, but new Lakers center Deandre Ayton also comes with production. In a down year last season with the Blazers, Ayton still averaged over 14 points and 10 rebounds a game. He's never averaged single digits on the boards in his career, and is a pretty reliable 14-18 point-a-night scorer. He's a lob threat. He's strong in the pick-and-roll, and he can hit the offensive glass. Paired with three great playmakers in Luka, LeBron and Austin Reaves there's a ton of potential for Ayton to get a lot of easy buckets. The questions of professionalism (a lack of it, specifically) and availability are real. They are important. But Ayton represents a massive upgrade at the center position over what the Lakers used following the Anthony Davis deal. With about $5 mil more to spend and some potential trade chips, the Lakers are likely not done reforming the roster. But already, they're better than the group that finished the year. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com/lockedonnba for 50% off your first year Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Right now, new customers can get ONE HUNDRED FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

After promising a flurry of activity heading into the offseason, Rob Pelinka and the Lakers have been very quiet over the first two days of free agency. They signed forward Jake LaRavia on Monday, and Tuesday came and went with zero changes to the roster. There are rumors, for sure. The Lakers are still connected to guard De'Anthony Melton, and (more importantly) centers Deandre Ayton and (in a new development) veteran Al Horford. Getting both would require someone, likely Horford, to leave money on the table, but it's growing increasingly more critical for the Lakers to land at least one of them. Certainly in terms of upside, and a skill set the Lakers need, Ayton fills the role better. But man alive, there are red flags. Horford, meanwhile, offers a higher floor and more predictability, but is that enough to move the needle for the Lakers, who have to make up ground on conference rivals? Plus, Horford, pushing 40, is coming off a down year. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: No movement on Tuesday. SEGMENT 2: Are the Lakers really trying to make changes, or is the move to prioritize flexibility next offseason, or for '27? SEGMENT 3: Ayton or Horford? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com/lockedonnba for 50% off your first year Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Right now, new customers can get ONE HUNDRED FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Day 1 has come and gone, and the Lakers were quiet on the transaction front Monday, as free agency opened (officially) across the NBA. Two big moves that impacted the team directly. First, Dorian Finney-Smith left (as was becoming apparent), heading to Houston on a four-year deal. That's more than the Lakers wanted to offer the 32-year old forward, which is understandable. They quickly responded by signing forward Jake LaRavia from Sacramento for two years at $12 mil (or so). LaRavia isn't as accomplished as DFS, but is also a decade younger and is coming off an upside semi-breakout season, the first where he's had access to consistent playing time. LaRavia, at the least, defends some on the perimeter, and can shoot (42% last season). After that? Crickets. That said, free agency isn't over, the Lakers have some money left to spend, and are rumored to be very much in play for center Deandre Ayton, who can't sign with another team until he clears waivers after his buyout in Portland, and De'Anthony Melton, who (if healthy) would add real perimeter D to the rotation. That, given the dollars available to spend, would be a decent outcome. The Lakers would need to find a few other parts, but would have gotten younger, added a little D, and found a center (albeit a risky one). Will it happen? Or are the Lakers falling back into a common trap? It's reported they're trying to maintain maximum flexibility for the summer of 2027. Yes, not next summer, but the one after that. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: DFS out, LaRavia in. SEGMENT 2: What are the Lakers doing next? SEGMENT 3: Are the Lakers looking at '27? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com/lockedonnba for 50% off your first year Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Right now, new customers can get ONE HUNDRED FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

A VERY busy day for the Lakers, as players and teams around the league faced a deadline to pick up or decline options for the upcoming season. For the Lakers, the big name was LeBron James. Expected to pick up his $52.6 million option, that's exactly what he did, except it came with some very strong messaging from Rich Paul. Via ESPN: "LeBron wants to compete for a championship... He knows the Lakers are building for the future. He understands that, but he values a realistic chance of winning it all. We are very appreciative of the partnership that we've had for eight years with Jeanie [Buss] and Rob [Pelinka] and consider the Lakers as a critical part of his career. "We understand the difficulty in winning now while preparing for the future. We do want to evaluate what's best for LeBron at this stage in his life and career. He wants to make every season he has left count, and the Lakers understand that, are supportive and want what's best for him." That can mean a lot. Obviously LBJ has put pressure on Lakers management before. But there's no question this statement from Paul contains a tremendous amount of language that seems to shade in the past tense. Very little forward looking. Does that mean he might ask for a trade? If so, to where? And when? Obviously the Lakers are building around Luka Doncic... but how fast might that rebuild happen? In terms of this season's team, one of the more important questions that could help answer these questions came when forward Dorian Finney-Smith declined his $15 million player option. That potentially opens up space for the Lakers to use a full midlevel exception of about $14 million vs. a $6 million taxpayer midlevel. That certainly opens up the field for the Lakers, who could use that extra cash on multiple players. Of course, some of it would need to go to replacing DFS. But could they find a younger, more athletic wing? Finally, in a solid move that makes sense for everyone, the Lakers picked up their option on guard Jordan Goodwin. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky, with Special Guest Daman Rangoola!!! SEGMENT 1: LeBron picks up his option. SEGMENT 2: What now, after Rich Paul sends a message? SEGMENT 3: What to do with DFS? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com/lockedonnba for 50% off your first year Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Right now, new customers can get ONE HUNDRED FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

LeBron James is opting in, as expected, picking up his $52 million player option for next season. That part, no surprise. What did make headlines via ESPN were Rich Paul's comments after the announcement: "LeBron wants to compete for a championship," Paul told ESPN. "He knows the Lakers are building for the future. He understands that, but he values a realistic chance of winning it all. We are very appreciative of the partnership that we've had for eight years with Jeanie [Buss] and Rob [Pelinka] and consider the Lakers as a critical part of his career. "We understand the difficulty in winning now while preparing for the future. We do want to evaluate what's best for LeBron at this stage in his life and career. He wants to make every season he has left count, and the Lakers understand that, are supportive and want what's best for him." Obviously a lot of messaging, there. Putting pressure on the team to build a winner, perhaps laying the groundwork for an exit from the team. It even, you could argue, says he's planning to play a couple years beyond this season... or making it clear he's not. As a practical outcome, this is good for the Lakers, because it sets a definitive end date, if they choose, with James. It gives them agency. But it adds a lot of intrigue. Meanwhile, Dorian Finney-Smith is opting out of the final year of his deal, creating a very intriguing situation for the Lakers, who could open up a full mid-level if he walks... but then would also have to replace him. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com/lockedonnba for 50% off your first year Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Right now, new customers can get ONE HUNDRED FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

The Lakers didn't have a first round pick in this year's NBA Draft, but they did enter Thursday's Day 2 with the 55th pick. One they managed to red paper clip their way—with the benefit of a little cash‚up to the 45th selection, and then with one more trade, up to 36. There, they selected Arkansas forward Adou Thiero, a 6'8" (6'6.25" at the Combine) wing with top level athleticism and an insane motor. He lacks offensive polish, but at that stage of the Draft represents an excellent gamble. If he's able to develop enough of an offensive game, Thiero will fill a major need on the roster, namely athleticism and defense. Moreover, the Lakers were solid in their process here, using the tool they had available (money) to get a player they wanted with a skill set they lacked. Were he a fully polished player, Thiero wouldn't have been available this late in the Draft. But there are reasons to believe he's got potential to improve as a shooter. We break it down with special guest Claire de Lune, who does outstanding work covering the NBA for The Guardian. Where do the Lakers go from here? How hard will it be to build a team that can compete in a brutal Western Conference? HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: The Lakers trade up, get wing from Arkansas. SEGMENT 2: Can the Lakers pick up a C? SEGMENT 3: Competing in a brutal Western Conference. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! OLIPOP Get a free can of OLIPOP! Just buy any two cans in store and they’ll reimburse you for one. Head to drinkolipop.com/LOCKEDONNBA to claim your free can and find OLIPOP near you. SKIMS Shop SKIMS Mens at SKIMS.com/lockedonnba. Let them know we sent you! After you place your order, select "podcast" in the survey and select our show in the dropdown menu that follows. OpenPhone Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/lockedonnba WayFair Give your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com/lockedonnba for 50% off your first year Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Right now, new customers can get ONE HUNDRED FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

The Lakers were (no surprise) quiet on the first night of the NBA Draft. They didn't have a pick, and didn't have much leeway to acquire one. Meanwhile, few players switched teams (with one very notable exception), so there weren't many opportunities for the Lakers to sneak into another team's deal. So what happens now? Especially since one thing is clear: Centers are once again VERY highly valued around the league. With that in mind, would it be smart to pivot to different needs? Perhaps on the wing? Miami's Andrew Wiggins can be had, reportedly. HOSTS: Brian Kamenetzky with Guest Anthony Irwin! SEGMENT 1: What happened on the first night of the NBA Draft? SEGMENT 2: Centers are valuable again. SEGMENT 3: How about Andrew Wiggins? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! OLIPOP Get a free can of OLIPOP! Just buy any two cans in store and they’ll reimburse you for one. Head to drinkolipop.com/LOCKEDONNBA to claim your free can and find OLIPOP near you. SKIMS Shop SKIMS Mens at SKIMS.com/lockedonnba. Let them know we sent you! After you place your order, select "podcast" in the survey and select our show in the dropdown menu that follows. OpenPhone Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/lockedonnba WayFair Give your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com/lockedonnba for 50% off your first year Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Right now, new customers can get ONE HUNDRED FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)