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 MoneyTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com/lockedonnba for 50% off your first year 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. FanDuelRight 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)