Locked On Lakers - Daily Podcast On The Los Angeles Lakers

The Lakers weren't part of Monday's NBA Draft Lottery, but they were definitely impacted by it. An already challenging Western Conference is set to get even harder, with the Dallas Mavericks overcoming incredibly long odds (1.8%) to win the top pick in this year's draft, otherwise known as the Cooper Flagg Sweepstakes. This is a remarkable turn of events for a team far better equipped to compete and win than your typical lottery squad. And then the San Antonio Spurs, already on the rise with Victor Wembanyama and a host of draft capital, jumped six spots to #2, giving themselves yet another asset either to use or to trade. Perhaps as part of a Giannis deal? All of this is to say, the West just got even better. And it was already great. So the pressure for the Lakers to fill the cracks in the roster has increased. The landscape of the summer could be changed, completely. Are teams active, if it really does look like Giannis is ready to go? Or does action shut down and potentially limit how the Lakers can do business? What about Daniel Gafford? There were already rumors the Mavs would move him, because soon he'll be in line for a big pay raise. How does landing Flagg impact decisions like that one? And how does all of this fit into the Austin Reaves discussion? If nothing else, it emphasizes that everyone not named Luka or with a no-trade clause (i.e. LeBron) has to be on the table. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: WAS IT A CONSPIRACY? SEGMENT 2: The West got harder, meaning Rob Pelinka's job got harder, too. SEGMENT 3: Should AR be on the table? (The money question.) Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Prizepicks Now’s the perfect time to join. Download the app todayand use codeLOCKEDONNBA to get $50 instantly when you play your first $5 lineup! That’s right—no need to win to get the bonus, it’s guaranteed. PrizePicks—Run Your Game! Click Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/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. CarGurus Buy or sell your next car today with CarGurus at CarGurus.comto make sure your big deal is the best deal. WayFair After the holiday hustle, there’s nothing like giving your home a little TLC. Give your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4k Did you know your Fire TV is also an Xbox? Turn any TV into your gaming and entertainment hub with Fire TV Stick 4K devices — no console required. Head to Amazon.com/firetvlockedon to get started. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription and compatible controller required. Door Dash Sign up for DashPass and when any player scores 50+ in a playoff game, DashPass members can grab a free 3PC Crispy Tenders Combo from Wingstop the next day, with a $20+ order and code WINGSTOP50. That’s DashPass: your door to more savings, more flavor, and more ways to win. Terms apply. drd.sh/qnAXuUMonarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com 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 TWO HUNDRED 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...

The Lakers have a lot of thinking to do this offseason about how to improve the roster. In theory, the idea would be to fill in areas of need—starting with center but not ending there—around the core of Luka Dončić, LeBron James and Austin Reaves. But the challenge comes in getting players good enough to meaningfully improve the team without having to give up ... well, it's not going to be Luka, and they can't trade LeBron. So is Austin Reaves on the trade block? Should he be? After all, he's coming off a horrendous playoff series against Minnesota where he was, relative to expectations and need, the most significant underperformer on the team. There's an argument to be made (one that's been made by some) that the postseason revealed lasting shortcomings for Reaves as an individual, and more broadly for the Reaves/Dončić defensive combination, in the playoffs specifically. What makes it complicated? Reaves was really good this year. He was one of only 12 players to average more than 20 points, 4.5 rebounds and 5.8 assists. He's improved every year, and is still not fully in his prime. And in the regular season, the two-man combo with him and Luka was well above water (+6.5 net rating). So the idea that he has to go? Maybe that's extreme. But the idea he could go? It would be dereliction of duty not to consider it for the right players. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Is it time to trade Reaves? SEGMENT 2: What works, what doesn't? SEGMENT 3: What's the upside? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Prizepicks Now’s the perfect time to join. Download the app todayand use codeLOCKEDONNBA to get $50 instantly when you play your first $5 lineup! That’s right—no need to win to get the bonus, it’s guaranteed. PrizePicks—Run Your Game! Click Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/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. CarGurus Buy or sell your next car today with CarGurus at CarGurus.comto make sure your big deal is the best deal. WayFair After the holiday hustle, there’s nothing like giving your home a little TLC. Give your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4k Did you know your Fire TV is also an Xbox? Turn any TV into your gaming and entertainment hub with Fire TV Stick 4K devices — no console required. Head to Amazon.com/firetvlockedon to get started. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription and compatible controller required. Door Dash Sign up for DashPass and when any player scores 50+ in a playoff game, DashPass members can grab a free 3PC Crispy Tenders Combo from Wingstop the next day, with a $20+ order and code WINGSTOP50. That’s DashPass: your door to more savings, more flavor, and more ways to win. Terms apply. drd.sh/qnAXuUMonarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com 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 TWO HUNDRED 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...

Most people assume that LeBron James will be back for another season—at least—but nobody actually knows for sure at this point. And that apparently includes LeBron, who said on his Mind the Game podcast that he hasn't actually sat down to discuss next season with his family at this point. Hasn't thought about whether he wants to go through the grind again, or whether he's mentally up for it. Now, that's probably not entirely true—he hasn't thought about any of this at all?—but even having played well this year it's reasonable for any athlete who's over 40 and well into his third decade of professional hoops to at least have the conversation. It's reasonable to want a farewell tour, and lord knows the NBA wants to throw him one. So all the signs point to a return, but what the Lakers would love is a little clarity on how long he thinks the run will last. Meanwhile, the Lakers have to figure out how to put a team together around Luka Dončić. That's the big lesson of the Giannis Antetokounmpo rumors that have been percolating. Giannis himself is almost surely not going to be a possibility, but with limited assets the Lakers have to be very thoughtful about how they go about roster construction. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: LeBron discusses his future. SEGMENT 2: JJ Redick should expect No Subs Gate to follow him for a little while. SEGMENT 3: How do the Lakers build around Luka? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Amazon Fire TV Stick 4k Did you know your Fire TV is also an Xbox? Turn any TV into your gaming and entertainment hub with Fire TV Stick 4K devices — no console required. Head to Amazon.com/firetvlockedon to get started. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription and compatible controller required. Betterhelp This episode is sponsored by Betterhelp. Your well-being is worth it. Visit BetterHelp.com/lockedonnba today to get 10% off your first month. Upwork Visit Upwork.comright now and post your job for free. With Upwork, you can find specialized freelancers in marketing, development, design, and more—experts ready to help you take your business to the next level. OpenPhone Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/lockedonnba Door Dash Sign up for DashPass and when any player scores 50+ in a playoff game, DashPass members can grab a free 3PC Crispy Tenders Combo from Wingstop the next day, with a $20+ order and code WINGSTOP50. That’s DashPass: your door to more savings, more flavor, and more ways to win. Terms apply. drd.sh/qnAXuUMonarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com 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 TWO HUNDRED 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 rumors are already percolating! Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bucks superstar, NBA champion, is thought to, perhaps, be on the trade block. And, of course, should he decide he wants out of Milwaukee, there are reports that the Lakers would be among his desired locations. So let's start with the first part, first. Is it really possible Giannis could actually leave Milwaukee? Yes, it is. The Bucks are in deep, deep trouble around their roster, the salary cap/luxury tax and trade assets. They were going to be in a very tough spot even before Damian Lillard, well into his 30s, tore his Achilles in the first round of the playoffs. So it actually does make sense that Giannis might see the writing on the wall and ask to leave, and for the Bucks to decide it really is in the best interests of the franchise to oblige him. As for the "play for the Lakers" part? That's a lot more complicated. Like, damn near impossible unless the Lakers somehow figure out how to morph Bucks GM Jon Horst into NIco Harrison. Meanwhile, is there anything JJ Redick can learn from watching how Steve Kerr handled Game 1 for the Warriors against Minnesota? HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Giannis, leaving Milwaukee? SEGMENT 2: Why Giannis to LA is a no-go. SEGMENT 3: JJ and subs and trust. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Did you know your Fire TV is also an Xbox? Turn any TV into your gaming and entertainment hub with Fire TV Stick 4K devices — no console required. Head to Amazon.com/firetvlockedon to get started. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription and compatible controller required. Betterhelp This episode is sponsored by Betterhelp. Your well-being is worth it. Visit BetterHelp.com/lockedonnba today to get 10% off your first month. Upwork Visit Upwork.comright now and post your job for free. With Upwork, you can find specialized freelancers in marketing, development, design, and more—experts ready to help you take your business to the next level. OpenPhone Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/lockedonnba Door Dash Sign up for DashPass and when any player scores 50+ in a playoff game, DashPass members can grab a free 3PC Crispy Tenders Combo from Wingstop the next day, with a $20+ order and code WINGSTOP50. That’s DashPass: your door to more savings, more flavor, and more ways to win. Terms apply. Valid only at participating Wingstop locations. Fees (including service fee), taxes, and gratuity still apply. Orders must have a minimum subtotal of $20, excluding taxes and fees. Offer valid on 4/15/25-6/22 /25 or while supplies last. Valid for one (1) promotional redemption per customer. DoubleDash promotions apply only to your DoubleDash add-on order, not your primary order. DoubleDash orders are not valid for the purchase of alcohol. No cash value. Non-transferable. Discount applies to subtotal only; does not apply to fees, taxes, and gratuity. Not valid for pickup. Limit one per person. Not valid for the purchase of alcohol. Fees, taxes, and gratuity still apply. Must have an active DashPass account. Use promo code WINGSTOP50 to redeem. See full terms and conditions at drd.sh/qnAXuU Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com 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 TWO HUNDRED 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....

JJ Redick finished sixth in Coach of the Year voting, and now the guy who hired him matched it in Executive of the Year voting. Lakers GM Rob Pelinka had his highest finish since joining the team, after a notable year that started with zero action in the summer (like, seriously, nothing) and finished with a significant trade for Dorian Finney-Smith and then the NBA-altering deal for Luka Dončić. So when you put it all together, did Pelinka deserve the recognition that came with the voting? (For the record, OKC's Sam Presti rightly won the thing.) Did he have a good year? How much credit does Pelinka deserve for the Dončić trade? And, critically, how much more confidence should Lakers fans have in him to do the very, very hard work of putting a championship team around Luka? Pelinka has been given two gifts - first in a generational superstar entering his prime - and second for the clarity that converting to a Luka-centric organization provides. But that doesn't mean building a winner will be easy. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Pelinka gets some EotY love. SEGMENT 2: How good was Pelinka's season overall? SEGMENT 3: The Summer (for) Luka begins... and includes international play. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Amazon Fire TV Stick 4k Did you know your Fire TV is also an Xbox? Turn any TV into your gaming and entertainment hub with Fire TV Stick 4K devices — no console required. Head to Amazon.com/firetvlockedon to get started. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription and compatible controller required. Betterhelp This episode is sponsored by Betterhelp. Your well-being is worth it. Visit BetterHelp.com/lockedonnba today to get 10% off your first month. Upwork Visit Upwork.comright now and post your job for free. With Upwork, you can find specialized freelancers in marketing, development, design, and more—experts ready to help you take your business to the next level. OpenPhone Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/lockedonnba Door Dash Sign up for DashPass and when any player scores 50+ in a playoff game, DashPass members can grab a free 3PC Crispy Tenders Combo from Wingstop the next day, with a $20+ order and code WINGSTOP50. That’s DashPass: your door to more savings, more flavor, and more ways to win. Terms apply. drd.sh/qnAXuUMonarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com 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 TWO HUNDRED 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 Locked on NBA Squad show brings together hosts from across the network to discuss the latest NBA playoff developments. In this episode, they analyze the injury-plagued Cleveland Cavaliers' struggles against the Indiana Pacers, debating whether the Cavs can overcome their setbacks. The conversation then shifts to the Golden State Warriors vs. Minnesota Timberwolves series, with hosts dissecting matchups and betting odds. The group explores Anthony Edwards' emergence as a potential series-defining player. The episode concludes with predictions for upcoming playoff games, offering insights into the Knicks-Celtics and Nuggets-Thunder matchups. Throughout, the hosts provide expert analysis, engaging banter, and bold predictions for NBA fans to consider. 0:00 Intro: NBA playoffs and injury updates 5:46 Pacers vs Cavs: Injuries and adjustments 14:59 FanDuel sponsorship and betting odds 17:00 Warriors vs Timberwolves series predictions 24:23 Matchup analysis and strategic considerations 29:00 Predictions for upcoming playoff games Your favorite podcast now has a newsletter! In One-stop for ultimate team and league coverage delivered right to your in box. Sign up for free now, at lockedondaily.com. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! 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. 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 code LOCKEDONNBA. WayFair After the holiday hustle, there’s nothing like giving your home a little TLC. Give your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. OpenPhone Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at OpenPhone.com/LOCKEDONNBA. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4k Did you know your Fire TV is also an Xbox? Turn any TV into your gaming and entertainment hub with Fire TV Stick 4K devices — no console required. Head to Amazon.com/firetvlockedon to get started. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription and compatible controller required. Upwork Visit Upwork.com right now and post your job for free. With Upwork, you can find specialized freelancers in marketing, development, design, and more—experts ready to help you take your business to the next level. Prizepicks Now’s the perfect time to join. Download the app today and use code LOCKEDONNBA to get $50 instantly when you play your first $5 lineup! That’s right—no need to win to get the bonus, it’s guaranteed. PrizePicks—Run Your Game! Click Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONNBA Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com 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 TWO HUNDRED AND 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 broke down the potential options in front of the Lakers and LeBron James this summer. He's expected to return to the team, but the "how" of it all is important. The reaction? A surprising (or maybe not that surprising) number of fans who for one reason or another, are just ready for the LeBron Era to end in LA. For some, it's because they still don't quite understand the salary mechanics, and think $50 million the Lakers don't pay LeBron is $50 million that could go to a younger star, or younger players. Others appreciate James, but think the Lakers just shouldn't be paying someone as old as he is, even in slow decline, that much of the salary cap. And then there are those who have never warmed up to LeBron, and have only begrudgingly accepted his presence on the team, if at all. (There's some overlap in these Venn diagrams, by the way.) So why hasn't LeBron built up the same type of loyalty from fans as other stars have? Meanwhile, JJ Redick gets some Coach of the Year love, and Bill Simmons is trying to destroy the Lakers. Again. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Reaction to Monday's show. SEGMENT 2: Why haven't fans fully embraced LeBron, like they have other stars? SEGMENT 3: The Joel Embiid Hypothetical, and what it represents. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Amazon Fire TV Stick 4k Did you know your Fire TV is also an Xbox? Turn any TV into your gaming and entertainment hub with Fire TV Stick 4K devices — no console required. Head to Amazon.com/firetvlockedon to get started. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription and compatible controller required. Betterhelp This episode is sponsored by Betterhelp. Your well-being is worth it. Visit BetterHelp.com/lockedonnba today to get 10% off your first month. Upwork Visit Upwork.comright now and post your job for free. With Upwork, you can find specialized freelancers in marketing, development, design, and more—experts ready to help you take your business to the next level. OpenPhone Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/lockedonnba Door Dash Sign up for DashPass and when any player scores 50+ in a playoff game, DashPass members can grab a free 3PC Crispy Tenders Combo from Wingstop the next day, with a $20+ order and code WINGSTOP50. That’s DashPass: your door to more savings, more flavor, and more ways to win. Terms apply. drd.sh/qnAXuUMonarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com 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 TWO HUNDRED 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)

We learned heading into the weekend that even if the Lakers managed to push through Game 5 and extend their series with Minnesota, they'd likely finish whatever playoff run remained without LeBron James, who suffered a strained MCL in Wednesday's loss. Now, of course, it's on to the business of the offseason. And while the team doesn't belong to James anymore, his choices are likely to be most impactful in the near term for LA. (Luka Dončić is expected to choose whatever type of contact extension structure he wants, and the Lakers will happily provide it.) LeBron heads into this season with a player option, and what comes next will have a big influence on how the Lakers built what they hope to be a championship caliber squad in both the near and long term. LeBron could opt in to the last deal of his contract, and essentially make himself an unrestricted free agent next season. He could opt out, and sign a deal that leaves money on the table, allowing the Lakers to get a better class of free agent—a full mid-level exception rather than a taxpayer mid-level. He could opt out and sign a one year deal for the max. He could also continue with the pattern of one-and-ones, where he signs a two year deal where only the first year is guaranteed, and the second would be a player option. So which one is best for the Lakers? HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: LeBron has options! SEGMENT 2: What those options mean for LA. SEGMENT 3: What's best for the Lakers? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Amazon Fire TV Stick 4k Did you know your Fire TV is also an Xbox? Turn any TV into your gaming and entertainment hub with Fire TV Stick 4K devices — no console required. Head to Amazon.com/firetvlockedon to get started. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription and compatible controller required. Betterhelp This episode is sponsored by Betterhelp. Your well-being is worth it. Visit BetterHelp.com/lockedonnba today to get 10% off your first month. Upwork Visit Upwork.comright now and post your job for free. With Upwork, you can find specialized freelancers in marketing, development, design, and more—experts ready to help you take your business to the next level. OpenPhone Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/lockedonnba Door Dash Sign up for DashPass and when any player scores 50+ in a playoff game, DashPass members can grab a free 3PC Crispy Tenders Combo from Wingstop the next day, with a $20+ order and code WINGSTOP50. That’s DashPass: your door to more savings, more flavor, and more ways to win. Terms apply. drd.sh/qnAXuUMonarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com 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 TWO HUNDRED 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)

With 2024-25 Lakers season officially in the books—earlier than most expected—GM Rob Pelinka and head coach JJ Redick met the media Thursday in El Segundo. They covered a lot of ground. From Rob Pelinka: From JJ Redick: Where, specifically? That's something we discuss, especially in light of comments made. Thursday by ESPN's Brian Windhorst. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Rob Pelinka and airplaines. SEGMENT 2: Centers. Bring in the centers. SEGMENT 3: Where JJ low-key failed. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Amazon Fire TV Stick 4k Did you know your Fire TV is also an Xbox? Turn any TV into your gaming and entertainment hub with Fire TV Stick 4K devices — no console required. Head to Amazon.com/firetvlockedon to get started. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription and compatible controller required. CarGurus Buy or sell your next car today with CarGurus at CarGurus.comto make sure your big deal is the best deal. WayFair After the holiday hustle, there’s nothing like giving your home a little TLC. 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 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 TWO HUNDRED AND 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 postseason that began with so much optimism ended far, far faster than virtually anyone expected. The Lakers lose Game 5 to the Wolves Wednesday at the Crypt, final score 103-96. Minnesota left the door wide open for the Lakers, but they couldn't push through. They came out incredibly tight, seemingly unsure of what they wanted to do on the floor. Little breaks that didn't go their way seemed to frustrate them (think airballs landing in the arms of a waiting Wolves player). Luka Dončić took a shot to his back late in the first half, and had to go back to the locker room. It was an open question whether he'd return, emerging from the tunnel only moments before the third quarter started. Still, the Lakers fought back, and again had a chance to win heading into the fourth quarter. And again, they couldn't score enough to get it done. 16 points in the fourth is a fitting final 12 minutes, given how that was a problem all series. The Lakers didn't average 20 points across the five Q4s in the series, a remarkable bit of futility. There are plenty of questions to ask. Austin Reaves had a horrible series. Luka faced a lot of adversity, but wasn't everything the Lakers needed. LeBron put in a heroic effort in many ways, but the Lakers needed a bigger presence in fourth quarters throughout the series. DFS? The bench? Centers? Not much there, either. And then there's JJ Redick, and his decision making. It's going to be a fascinating offseason, following what was one of the most incredible, unpredictable and transformational Lakers seasons in history. Hosts: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Lakers lose, season over. SEGMENT 2: What went wrong? SEGMENT 3: What's next? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Did you know your Fire TV is also an Xbox? Turn any TV into your gaming and entertainment hub with Fire TV Stick 4K devices — no console required. Head to Amazon.com/firetvlockedon to get started. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription and compatible controller required. CarGurus Buy or sell your next car today with CarGurus at CarGurus.comto make sure your big deal is the best deal. WayFair After the holiday hustle, there’s nothing like giving your home a little TLC. 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 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 TWO HUNDRED AND 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)

Rudy Gobert had 27 points and 24 rebounds, and former Laker Julius Randle added 23 as the Minnesota Timberwolves closed out their best of seven series with the Lakers 103-96 in five games. Luka Dončić led the Lakers with 28 points and LeBron James added 22, but it wasn’t enough as the Lakers' summer plans begin today. Lakers, LA Lakers, Los Angeles Lakers, LeBron James, Luka Doncic, Rui, Hachimura Austin Reaves, Dalton Knecht, Dorian Finney-Smith, NBA, Lakers Post cast, JJ Redick, Dave Palet, Lakers vs Timberwolves, Los Angeles Lakers vs Minnesota Timberwolves Anthony Edwards, NBA Playoffs Support Us, By Supporting Our Sponsors! WAYFAIR (3/31 - 4/27) Spring is here, and that means it's home project season! Whether you're refreshing a room or tackling a full renovation, Wayfair is the best-kept secret for all things home improvement. From small updates like stylish cabinet hardware to major upgrades like new vanities, sinks, or outdoor lighting—Wayfair has quality products for every budget. · I just upgraded my [kitchen/bathroom/living space] with Wayfair, and the selection was incredible! · Their free and fast shipping made it so easy—no hauling heavy items from the store! · I love that they have top brands like GE and Moen at great prices. · Shopping was seamless, and I found exactly what I needed to fit my space and style. Wayfair makes home improvement easy! Get started now at Wayfair dot com. That’s W-A-Y-F-A-I-R dot com—Wayfair, every style, every home. Gametime (Flight Dates: 4/14–6/15) There’s nothing like the atmosphere of an NBA Playoff game—every bucket, every defensive stop, every moment feels huge. It’s electric in the arena, and with Gametime, you can be part of it without the stress of last-minute ticket hunting. Gametime makes it fast and easy to get playoff tickets, even when demand is sky-high. Prices on the app actually go down as tip-off gets closer, and their last-minute deals can save you up to 60%. · Priority: Last-minute deals: Save up to 60% off buying last minute for sports, concerts, comedy, theater, etc. · The all-in pricing means no surprise fees at checkout—what you see is what you pay. Take the guesswork out of buying tickets with Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Again, create an account and redeem code L-O-C-K-E-D-O-N-N-B-A for $20 off. Download Gametime today. Last-minute tickets. Lowest price. Guaranteed.

Wednesday is technically Game 5, but for the Lakers, it's Game 7, 1.0. Win, and they get another chance at another Game 7 on Friday, in Minnesota. Tuesday in El Segundo, from JJ Redick to Luka Dončić on down, the team expressed confidence it could still win the series. The belief in themselves, the talent, their stars and anything else athletes use to forge that belief is genuine. Tonight, it's win a game on their home floor, where they've dominated all year. It's clean up sequences at the end of quarters, and especially the fourth. But the idea they've been thoroughly outplayed by Minnesota isn't accurate. The Wolves have been better when it matters most, but not in a way the Lakers can't counter. Counter three times in a row? That's a different question. But the Lakers are determined to make sure that Wednesday isn't about winning three straight games, but winning one. That's it. Win one game. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: The Lakers believe, even while understanding the hole they're in. SEGMENT 2: Is the confidence warranted? SEGMENT 3: What needs to change? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Amazon Fire TV Stick 4k Did you know your Fire TV is also an Xbox? Turn any TV into your gaming and entertainment hub with Fire TV Stick 4K devices — no console required. Head to Amazon.com/firetvlockedon to get started. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription and compatible controller required. CarGurus Buy or sell your next car today with CarGurus at CarGurus.comto make sure your big deal is the best deal. WayFair After the holiday hustle, there’s nothing like giving your home a little TLC. 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 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 TWO HUNDRED AND 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)

24 hours (or so) later, the conversation hasn't died down. Did JJ Redick cost the Lakers Game 4 by not making a single substitution in the second half? If social media/responses on the Locked On Lakers YouTube page are any indication, most Lakers fans don't feel any better about what Redick did given a little space to think about it. So does time make the choice any better? Does it feel worse? And more importantly, perhaps, is it part of a pattern where Redick has been outcoached by.Chris Finch? Why has the offense fallen off a cliff in successive fourth quarters? Austin Reaves hasn't played well... is that a Reaves thing or a usage thing or both? Are LA's issues in this series a coaching issue a roster issue or a performance issue? (Or yes to all three?) Can the Lakers fix stuff in time to pull off the improbable comeback? HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Revisiting the 2nd half of Game 4. SEGMENT 2: Is Redick getting outcoached? SEGMENT 3: What's next for Game 5? Your favorite podcast now has a newsletter! In One-stop for ultimate team and league coverage delivered right to your in box. Sign up for free now, at lockedondaily.com. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Amazon Fire TV Stick 4k Did you know your Fire TV is also an Xbox? Turn any TV into your gaming and entertainment hub with Fire TV Stick 4K devices — no console required. Head to Amazon.com/firetvlockedon to get started. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription and compatible controller required. CarGurus Buy or sell your next car today with CarGurus at CarGurus.comto make sure your big deal is the best deal. WayFair After the holiday hustle, there’s nothing like giving your home a little TLC. 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 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 TWO HUNDRED AND 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)

As a matter of sports entertainment, Sunday's 116-113 loss to Minnesota in Game 4 of this first round series was unquestionably top notch. But for Lakers fans, it was monumentally disappointing. The Lakers blew a 10-point lead starting the fourth, and smaller leads later in the game. There were execution mistakes down the stretch. Anthony Edwards again outplayed Luka Dončić down the stretch, and JJ Redick's decision to play the entire second half without making a single substitution is, to say the least, going to be controversial among Lakers fans for a long time. The end result is that the Lakers are down 3-1 in this series, and while it's not over yet—while LA needs three straight games, two of them will be at the Crypt—to say the least the Lakers are in a very tough spot. Minnesota has been the better team, at the top end and as well as considering depth. The Lakers don't have much time to figure out how to fix things, and obviously don't have any more margin for error. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: The Lakers again are outplayed down the stretch. SEGMENT 2: Did JJ Redick make a mistake? SEGMENT 3: What's next? Your favorite podcast now has a newsletter! In One-stop for ultimate team and league coverage delivered right to your in box. Sign up for free now, at lockedondaily.com. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Amazon Fire TV Stick 4k Did you know your Fire TV is also an Xbox? Turn any TV into your gaming and entertainment hub with Fire TV Stick 4K devices — no console required. Head to Amazon.com/firetvlockedon to get started. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription and compatible controller required. WayFair After the holiday hustle, there’s nothing like giving your home a little TLC. 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 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 TWO HUNDRED AND 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)

Anthony Edwards scored 43 points and former Laker Julius Randle added 25 as the Minnesota Timberwolves took three games to one series advantage, beating the Lakers 116-113. Luka Doncic led the Lakers with 38 points while LeBron James added 27 in the loss. Lakers, LA Lakers, Los Angeles Lakers, LeBron James, Luka Doncic, Rui, Hachimura Austin Reaves, Dalton Knecht, Dorian Finney-Smith, NBA, Lakers Post cast, JJ Redick, Dave Palet, Lakers vs Timberwolves, Los Angeles Lakers vs Minnesota Timberwolves Anthony Edwards Support Us, By Supporting Our Sponsors! PRIZE PICKS FAN DUEL

The Lakers turned the ball over 19 times, leading to 28 Minnesota points. They took 13 fewer shots than the Wolves. Luka Dončić had a stomach virus, and the supporting cast was, to say the least, lacking. And despite all that, the Lakers had every opportunity to win Game 3 at the Target Center. But over the last six minutes of the game, their mistakes finally caught up with them, and when the offense went totally cold—and Anthony Edwards got hot—the game went from competitive to out of reach incredibly fast. Even while giving Minnesota the credit they deserve for applying a lot of meaningful defensive pressure, if the Lakers play a cleaner game, they win. And it's a shame, because LeBron James was incredible, scoring 38 points on 13-21 shooting, with 10 rebounds, two steals and two blocks. Luka did his best, clearly struggling to produce points (16, on 6-16) but still adding seven rebounds and eight assists. Austin Reaves finally found his rhythm from outside (5-11 from 3-point range). But the game was filled with too many mistakes, and supporting players who either played poorly (Jarred Vanderbilt had a ton of mistakes) or really proved unplayable, generally (Jaxson Hayes). So now Game 4 is, again, a must win. And it comes quick - 12:30 PT on Sunday. Hopefully LeBron recoups, and Luka recovers. Or the Lakers could return to LA in dire straits. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Self-inflicted wounds. SEGMENT 2: More self-inflicted wounds. SEGMENT 3: The Jaxson Hayes problem? Your favorite podcast now has a newsletter! In One-stop for ultimate team and league coverage delivered right to your in box. Sign up for free now, at lockedondaily.com. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Did you know your Fire TV is also an Xbox? Turn any TV into your gaming and entertainment hub with Fire TV Stick 4K devices — no console required. Head to Amazon.com/firetvlockedon to get started. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription and compatible controller required. Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year. Door Dash Sign up for DashPass and when any player scores 50+ in a playoff game, DashPass members can grab a free 3PC Crispy Tenders Combo from Wingstop the next day, with a $20+ order and code WINGSTOP50. That’s DashPass: your door to more savings, more flavor, and more ways to win. Terms apply. Valid only at participating Wingstop locations. Fees (including service fee), taxes, and gratuity still apply. Orders must have a minimum subtotal of $20, excluding taxes and fees. Offer valid on 4/15/25-6/22 /25 or while supplies last. Valid for one (1) promotional redemption per customer. DoubleDash promotions apply only to your DoubleDash add-on order, not your primary order. DoubleDash orders are not valid for the purchase of alcohol. No cash value. Non-transferable. Discount applies to subtotal only; does not apply to fees, taxes, and gratuity. Not valid for pickup. Limit one per person. Not valid for the purchase of alcohol. Fees, taxes, and gratuity still apply. Must have an active DashPass account. Use promo code WINGSTOP50 to redeem. See full terms and conditions at drd.sh/qnAXuU GametimeDownload 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 TWO HUNDRED AND 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...

Jaden McDaniels scored 30 points and Anthony Edwards chipped in with 29 as the Minnesota Timberwolves took game three of their best-of-seven series against the Lakers 116-104. LeBron James led the Lakers in the loss with 38 points and 10 rebounds, but it wasn’t enough as the Lakers hope to even the series on Sunday at 12:30 Pacific time. Lakers, LA Lakers, Los Angeles Lakers, LeBron James, Luka Doncic, Rui, Hachimura Austin Reaves, Dalton Knecht, Dorian Finney-Smith, NBA, Lakers Post cast, JJ Redick, Dave Palet, Lakers vs Timberwolves, Los Angeles Lakers vs Minnesota Timberwolves Anthony Edwards Support Us, By Supporting Our Sponsors! MONARCH MONEY

The Lakers face a stiff test tonight in Minnesota, where the Wolves (and their fans) host Game 3. Minnesota has been a very solid home team. The Lakers have been... not great on the road. The home crowd will be extremely fired up, and while the Lakers often get quasi-home games in another team's arena, this won't be one of them. But the Wolves might be a little more vulnerable than a typical playoff home squad. Why? Because recent history as a home team has been unkind, including the work done on them by Luka Dončić in last season's playoffs. So while the home crowd will be bonkers, if the Lakers can weather the early flurry and rush of emotion without falling behind, they're in business. If they can build a lead, as they've done in both first quarters in this series? An understandably fatalistic fan base might just get a little skittish. Especially if Luka looks like he's cooking. BIg picture, the Lakers are going to need to find more offense. If Game 3 wraps with the Lakers still struggling to get to 100 points, it's fair to wonder if this is just how it's going to be. If Minnesota's D is, whether because of matchups, flaws in LA's construction or a little bit of both, too good for the Lakers to score in volume. Meaning they'll need Game 2-esque defense at least three more times to win the series. That's a tall order. So how can they get the shots to fall? HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Are the Wolves more vulnerable with the average playoff home team? SEGMENT 2: Where are the mismatches? SEGMENT 3: Can the Lakers generate enough O? Your favorite podcast now has a newsletter! In One-stop for ultimate team and league coverage delivered right to your in box. Sign up for free now, at lockedondaily.com. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Amazon Fire TV Stick 4k Did you know your Fire TV is also an Xbox? Turn any TV into your gaming and entertainment hub with Fire TV Stick 4K devices — no console required. Head to Amazon.com/firetvlockedon to get started. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription and compatible controller required. Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year. Door Dash Sign up for DashPass and when any player scores 50+ in a playoff game, DashPass members can grab a free 3PC Crispy Tenders Combo from Wingstop the next day, with a $20+ order and code WINGSTOP50. That’s DashPass: your door to more savings, more flavor, and more ways to win. Terms apply. 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 TWO HUNDRED AND 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 eye test said the Lakers did a lot of things better in Game 2 than in Game 1 (beyond just winning the game). The difference in physicality was particularly visible on the defensive side, where LA was, for the most part, pretty suffocating all night. But it also showed up on offense, even though the Lakers only scored on more point on Tuesday compared to Saturday. They ran more action, set considerably better (and more frequent) screens. And it bears out in passing data, too. The Lakers passed more frequently, particularly the big three, all of whom threw more of them in Game 2 than in Game 1. And all of this stuff is related. More urgency getting into the offense gives more time to throw more passes. More, better run actions create more opportunities to make good passes. Better spacing. Harder cuts. And so on. It's an energy the Lakers will need to sustain heading into Friday's Game 3 in Minnesota. One more thing that might help? Paying less attention to Rudy Gobert. The opportunity to light him up seems to pushing LA's offense off the rails, at times. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: The Lakers moved the ball more effectively in Game 2. SEGMENT 2: How physicality helped them on offense, too. SEGMENT 3: Should everyone—players, media, etc.—be focused less on Rudy Gobert? Your favorite podcast now has a newsletter! In One-stop for ultimate team and league coverage delivered right to your in box. Sign up for free now, at lockedondaily.com. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Amazon Fire TV Stick 4k Did you know your Fire TV is also an Xbox? Turn any TV into your gaming and entertainment hub with Fire TV Stick 4K devices — no console required. Head to Amazon.com/firetvlockedon to get started. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription and compatible controller required. Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year. Door Dash Sign up for DashPass and when any player scores 50+ in a playoff game, DashPass members can grab a free 3PC Crispy Tenders Combo from Wingstop the next day, with a $20+ order and code WINGSTOP50. That’s DashPass: your door to more savings, more flavor, and more ways to win. Terms apply. 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 TWO HUNDRED AND 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 wasn't easy, it wasn't pretty, but it was enough to get the job done. With their backs against the wall, the Lakers needed a victory, in whatever form they could manage. To get it, they'd need to turn up the physicality, turn up the energy and bring some force to the series. And they did. LA's activity, especially in the first half, was outstanding. They built a big lead in the first quarter, and spent the rest of the game defending it, and while there were some nervous moments, the Lakers were never really threatened. Final score, 94-85. Series tied 1-1, going back to Minnesota for Friday's Game 3. The Lakers defense was spectacular all game long, and on the other end, Luka Dončić was outstanding, finishing with 31/12/9. LeBron James and Austin Reaves both managed to get downhill to the bucket (compensating for very poor outside shooting). At some point, the Lakers are going to have to find more efficient way to get points on the board. Averaging 94.5, as they've done through two games, is not going to win the series. But they're back on good footing, and now just need to steal one in Minnesota. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: The Lakers bring the force required to win. SEGMENT 2: Luka leads the way. SEGMENT 3: What's hurting the O? Your favorite podcast now has a newsletter! In One-stop for ultimate team and league coverage delivered right to your in box. Sign up for free now, at lockedondaily.com. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Amazon Fire TV Stick 4k Did you know your Fire TV is also an Xbox? Turn any TV into your gaming and entertainment hub with Fire TV Stick 4K devices — no console required. Head to Amazon.com/firetvlockedon to get started. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription and compatible controller required. Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year. Door Dash Sign up for DashPass and when any player scores 50+ in a playoff game, DashPass members can grab a free 3PC Crispy Tenders Combo from Wingstop the next day, with a $20+ order and code WINGSTOP50. That’s DashPass: your door to more savings, more flavor, and more ways to win. Terms apply. 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 TWO HUNDRED AND 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)