Locked On Lakers - Daily Podcast On The Los Angeles Lakers

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)

Transcribed - Published: 2 July 2025

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)

Transcribed - Published: 2 July 2025

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 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)

Transcribed - Published: 1 July 2025

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 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)

Transcribed - Published: 30 June 2025

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 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)

Transcribed - Published: 29 June 2025

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! OLIPOPGet 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. SKIMSShop 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. OpenPhoneStreamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/lockedonnba WayFairGive your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. 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)

Transcribed - Published: 27 June 2025

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! OLIPOPGet 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. SKIMSShop 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. OpenPhoneStreamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/lockedonnba WayFairGive your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. 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)

Transcribed - Published: 26 June 2025

On Monday, the NBA's offseason center market got an interesting piece of news, when Dallas center Daniel Gafford signed a three-year extension that didn't make him trade-ineligible this offseason. Good news for the Lakers! More good news, potentially, on Tuesday when the Celtics traded Kristaps Porzingis to the Hawks. What does that have to do with the Lakers? Well, it makes it a lot less likely that Atlanta will bring back free agent center Clint Capela, who is without a doubt the most appealing option for the Lakers who could be had—maybe—for the taxpayer mid-level exception of about $6 million a year. That's the most the Lakers can offer any free agent. Will it be enough to get Capela? It might not be. The market still has some speaking to do. The trade has smaller ripple effects, too, as now it seems more likely that the Celtics bring back one or both of Al Horford and Luke Kornet, two centers with different skill sets that would have some appeal on the open market. In a supply-and-demand type environment, the Lakers benefit from more guys in the market. It would help, too, if there were fewer teams with real demand. Unfortunately, centers are coming back into vogue. Finally, Luka's gettin' skinny. This isn't just internet tea leaf reading, but actual reporting from real live reporters. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Capela more available now? SEGMENT 2: Is Capela good enough? SEGMENT 3: Skinny Luka! 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)

Transcribed - Published: 25 June 2025

Mavericks center Daniel Gafford signed an extension with Dallas on Monday afternoon. Initially, reporting had the contract worth about $60 million over three years, which because of the totally arcane CBA rules would have made Gafford ineligible to be traded for six months. Bad for the Lakers, because it pulls a realistic center target off the market, and raises the price for everyone else. Then, more news. Turns out that deal is worth about $54 million over three years. And the difference means that Gafford doesn't have any trade protection and can be moved anytime. While this could raise the price for Gafford a little (the risk of losing him as a free agent next summer would mitigate his value, just as it does Austin Reaves for the Lakers) it also makes him a more appealing target. Were the Lakers to swing a deal, they'd have cost certainty for a 26-year old with some marketable skills, at a position of incredible need. Moreover, it helps keep the price for a player like Brooklyn's Nic Claxton a little lower, because the Nets don't totally have the market cornered. And what about Deandre Ayton? Would Portland move him... and would he be worth a flier for the Lakers? (It wouldn't come cheap.) Meanwhile, LeBron James is back on the floor working out - a good sign for next year - and Alex Caruso is telling the haters to eff off. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Daniel Gafford signs an extension. Good deal for LA? SEGMENT 2: Gafford or Claxton (or Ayton)? SEGMENT 3: Caruso has another ring, LeBron is working out. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! OLIPOPGet 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. SKIMSShop 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. OpenPhoneStreamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/lockedonnba WayFairGive your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. 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)

Transcribed - Published: 24 June 2025

Life didn't get any easier for the Lakers on Sunday. First, the Oklahoma City Thunder won an NBA title, after winning 68 games in the regular season. While they caught a break with Indiana guard Tyrese Haliburton's horrific injury in the first half of Game 7, making it easier to pull ahead in the second half to gain and maintain a lead, it's also very likely that the Thunder are not done improving. That knocking them off will be harder next season, given their assets and a young core that should keep ascending (especially players like Chet Holmgren and Jaylen Williams). And now that Kevin Durant has been sent to Houston in exchange for... nothing that should make the Rockets notably worse, even getting to the Thunder is going to be harder. Houston, a two-seed this year, solved their greatest playoff weakness (scoring) by acquiring Durant and sending out Jalen Green while keeping all of the young players they covet (Amen Thompson, Alperin Segun, Tari Eason, Jabari Smith, Reed Sheppard) and their most valuable draft assets, as well. Meaning they have plenty of stuff available to continue getting better. The day was a reminder that nobody can punt away a season, because opportunities that seem enduring can be fleeting. Just as Boston and now Indiana, both of whom will enter next season with severely dampened championship hopes based on injuries to their stars. On the other hand, a calm and realistic understanding of where you are as a franchise is key, because "all in" moves for a team that's not good enough to make that investment? That can bury a franchise. It's why Miami ultimately never made a credible offer for Durant. So the Lakers remain in a tricky position. Clearly a quality team in a stacked Western Conference, but just as clearly with a gap between them and the best teams in the conference. They have plenty of incentives to improve, but few assets to make it happen. So what's the risk/reward equation? And did the way the Finals squads were coached reinforce the playoff mistakes of JJ Redick? HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: KD to Houston. Life gets harder for the Lakers. SEGMENT 2: Context is key with trades in the NBA. SEGMENT 3: What did we learn? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! OLIPOPGet 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. SKIMSShop 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. OpenPhoneStreamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/lockedonnba WayFairGive your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. 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)

Transcribed - Published: 23 June 2025

So how much will this ownership change, from the Buss family to Dodgers owner Mark Walter, actually impact the Lakers? And just as importantly, when? Those are the big questions that are yet to be answered. But early indications, delivered by reliable folks like ESPN's Ramona Shelburne, say that for the time being, at least, things are going to look pretty similar. Jeanie Buss will remain in charge, Rob Pelinka's job is safe, and Walter intends to be deliberate about how he moves forward. Which makes sense. He didn't make sweeping changes when taking over the Dodgers, either. They have always been operated by process. How Jeanie fits in long term will be fascinating. Walter apparently is very comfortable with how she's handled the business and the brand. And if we're all being fair, it's hard to think of someone who's necessarily more qualified to keep doing this stuff than her. Nobody really is disputing, or is even concerned, about that stuff. What people care about is how the basketball side will work. And over time, you would expect to see things beefed up on that end. More investment in scouting, in coaching, in training, and all the other places where it has lagged. No matter what Jeanie's job title is. From there... how does Luka feel about all of this? Well, if his social posts mean anything... he's pretty happy! HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: What change is coming, and how fast? SEGMENT 2: Luka's on board! SEGMENT 3: Of course competence matters for the Lakers. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! OLIPOPGet 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.  CarGurusBuy or sell your next car today with CarGurus at CarGurus.comto make sure your big deal is the best deal. WayFairGive your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. 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 codeLOCKEDONNBAfor $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuelRight 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)

Transcribed - Published: 20 June 2025

NBA mock draft madness! Who's the top pick and where will they land? Nick Angstadt and the Locked On NBA Squad dive into a thrilling mock draft, exploring potential picks and blockbuster trades. From the 76ers eyeing Ace Bailey to the Heat chasing Kevin Durant, every move is dissected. The hosts debate Bradley Beal's impact on the Phoenix Suns and analyze the Magic's bold trade for Desmond Bane. Will these roster shakeups redefine the NBA landscape? Tune in for heated debates on draft strategies, star player valuations, and the art of NBA team building. You won't want to miss the hosts' surprising takes on which moves could make or break a franchise's future. 0:00 Intro: Mock draft surprises and big trades 5:13 Where does the actual draft start? 13:16 Kevin Durant trade in mock draft 18:40 Analyzing the Nets' mock draft moves 27:21 Teams discuss their draft legacies 34:11 Breaking down specific mock draft picks 40:43 Evaluating the Desmond Bane trade to Orlando 47:22 Debating the Bradley Beal trade to Phoenix 54:37 Paolo Banchero's potential as Magic cornerstone

Transcribed - Published: 19 June 2025

Well, a quiet offseason isn't quiet anymore. Wednesday afternoon, ESPN's Shams Charania reported that the Buss family is selling most of its ownership stake to Dodgers owner Mark Walter at a price that values the franchise at about $10 billion. (The Athletic reports that number might rise to $12 billion.) It's a stunning development in some ways, somewhat foreseeable in others. And the end result—Walter takes ownership of the team—has been laid out for years, with him having right of first refusal should the family choose to sell. So over time, a ton of things will change. While the Lakers can't spend like the Dodgers (different sport, different CBA), those places where the team doesn't face a salary cap, it's reasonable to expect more dollars to flow. Coaching, scouting, front office personnel, medical staff, etc... this is all stuff where the Lakers can use unlimited cash to do what they want. And organizationally, it's reasonable to expect that (again, over time) the Lakers will start to look structurally and culturally more like the Dodgers. Which, again, is a good thing for fans. In the short term, things might look pretty similar. The family is keeping a 15% stake in the team. Jeanie Buss will remain governor. But make no mistake, this is a new era, and one that should benefit the Lakers in significant ways. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! OLIPOPGet 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.  CarGurusBuy or sell your next car today with CarGurus at CarGurus.comto make sure your big deal is the best deal. WayFairGive your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. 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 codeLOCKEDONNBAfor $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuelRight 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)

Transcribed - Published: 18 June 2025

It's an end of an era. The Lakers will no longer have controlling ownership of the franchise held by the Buss family. What started in 1979 ended on Wednesday, with reports that the Buss children have agreed to sell majority interest in the team to Dodgers owner Mark Walter at a price that values the franchise at about $10-$12 million. It's a massive number, but is the deal unexpected? People have been talking about a potential sale for a long time, and Walter, who already owned about a quarter of the team and had right of first refusal should the team ever be put up for sale, has always been the expected successor. Even if people didn't expect it for a little while longer. So what happens to Jeanie Buss? Well for now, she keeps doing her job. And reports indicate Buss might be around for a while, even, continuing as governor for the franchise. We'll see, but that's the current plan. What about Rob Pelinka? In the short term, nothing. But he's likely feeling a bit uncomfortable. In the meantime, the Dodgers can't suddenly rewrite the rules of the CBA to let them flex their money muscles. But what they can do is start investing heavily in all the places the league allows. They can build out staffs, hire the best people, and make the Lakers a prized destination. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: The Lakers are being sold to Mark Walter. SEGMENT 2: What happens to Jeanie? To Rob? SEGMENT 3: What changes for the Lakers? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! OLIPOPGet 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.  CarGurusBuy or sell your next car today with CarGurus at CarGurus.comto make sure your big deal is the best deal. WayFairGive your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. 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 codeLOCKEDONNBAfor $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuelRight 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)

Transcribed - Published: 18 June 2025

The Lakers need a center. Everyone knows it. Getting one, however, won't be easy. Earlier in the week, we broke down the challenge of filling the hole through free agency. There aren't that many good centers on the market, and the Lakers can't offer all that much money. So that leaves the trade market. And there, the Lakers only have a few genuinely marketable assets. There's the first round pick they can offer, Dalton Knecht, and Austin Reaves. Could Reaves bring back a high end C? Are there any even kind of on the market where you feel sacrificing Reaves is worth it? All of this points to another truth: It's a trap for the Lakers to only focus their trade efforts on a center. They have other holes that need filling, and the priority should be getting the best players possible with the understanding that not everything can be fixed at once. Meanwhile, Tuesday was the 15th anniversary of LA's epic Game 7 Finals win over the Celtics. We take a look back. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Can the Lakers get a center in a trade? SEGMENT 2: Looking back at the 2010 Finals Game 7. SEGMENT 3: Are there any C's available that would be worth Reaves? 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.  CarGurus Buy or sell your next car today with CarGurus at CarGurus.comto make sure your big deal is the best deal. 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 codeLOCKEDONNBAfor $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)

Transcribed - Published: 18 June 2025

There was no real expectation that the Lakers could make a play for Houston center Steven Adams. The Rockets didn't want him to get away, and certainly wouldn't let it happen for the slightly-less-than-$6 million a year the LA can offer. But when Adams re-upped with the Rockets for $39 mil over three years, it's possible the Lakers hoped that number would be a little less. If Adams is worth $13 mil a year, how much will someone pay for Atlanta free agent Clint Capela? Brook Lopez (who is not even that good a fit, but is still a good player)? Orlando's Mo Wagner, who in theory could be put on the market by the Magic following Orlando's trade for Desmond Bane? (Note: There are signs the Magic are trying to find ways to keep him.) Given the lack of quality options, even a career backup like Luke Kornet might end up drawing a ton of attention. Does this mean the Lakers will have to focus on the trade market if they want to acquire a starting caliber five? Meanwhile, on Monday, we focused on the ways in which the Bane trade might impact the perception of Austin Reaves's value around the league. Could he fetch a similar package? If that's the case, is it worth listening to offers? And from LA's perspective, if a decision is made to trade Reaves—and to be clear, there's no indication such a decision has been made—are the Lakers better off using AR to get that center, or focus primarily on draft assets that could be used in future trades? HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: How Steven Adams staying in Houston impacts the Lakers. SEGMENT 2: How can the Lakers approach the center market? SEGMENT 3: What's the best way to use Reaves, if the Lakers decide to trade him? 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.  CarGurus Buy or sell your next car today with CarGurus at CarGurus.comto make sure your big deal is the best deal. 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 for 50% off your first year Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use codeLOCKEDONNBAfor $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)

Transcribed - Published: 17 June 2025

Locked On’s five episode NBA Mock Draft is here. For every episode of the 2025 Locked On NBA Mock Draft search Locked On NBA Draft wherever you get your podcasts.

Transcribed - Published: 16 June 2025

Sunday began with the NBA's first blockbuster move of the offseason, as the Memphis Grizzlies sent guard Desmond Bane to Orlando for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony and -- this is the big part -- four first round picks. That is a big haul for a player who is an excellent shooter and a high end contributor, but nonetheless has never made an All-Star team. So what's going on here? First of all, it shakes up the West. The first domino of the offseason often influences everything that comes next. Has Bane set the market for future deals this summer? How does this impact the Kevin Durant talks. And if Bane is worth four first rounders, at least to Orlando, what would Austin Reaves get if the Lakers put him on the market? Is he a four first-rounder guy? It's not that simple. Because markets aren't linear. Bane's value to Orlando—the NBA's worst 3-point shooting team last season—is different than how another team would value Reaves. Context rules in all NBA trades. Meanwhile, the Houston Rockets re-signed center Steven Adams to a three-year deal at $13 million per. No surprise he stayed in Houston, no surprise he signed for more than the Lakers could afford. But what does this mean for someone like Clint Capela? Or even a deeper level free agent like Boston's Luke Kornet? HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: A blockbuster deal sends Desmond Bane to Orlando. SEGMENT 2: What does the trade mean for AR's value? SEGMENT 3: What happens next? 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.  CarGurus Buy or sell your next car today with CarGurus at CarGurus.comto make sure your big deal is the best deal. 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 for 50% off your first year GametimeDownload the Gametime app, create an account, and use codeLOCKEDONNBAfor $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)

Transcribed - Published: 16 June 2025

One of the quiet underperformances of the playoffs for the Lakers was forward Dorian Finney-Smith, who essentially disappeared in five against the Timberwolves. One reason? He wasn't healthy, something confirmed on Thursday when it was reported that DFS underwent surgery to clean up a problematic left ankle. It's been bugging him for a while—he was banged up when the Lakers acquired him from Brooklyn—and the Lakers had to do some maintenance work just to get him through the season. Finney-Smith has a $15 million player option he can pick up for next season, something that shouldn't be impacted much by the news, since he's expected to be ready for training camp. But if he chooses to opt out, likely it's with the idea of re-signing with LA. But like a lot of players in the NBA's middle class, the 32-year old veteran needs to try and read how the new CBA will impact the market... which ain't easy. Meanwhile, one of the names that keeps popping up as a potential addition for the Lakers this summer is old friend Lonzo Ball, who returned to the court after 2-plus seasons on the sidelines. Ball played well (all things considered) with the Bulls, albeit with some restrictions on playing time. In theory, his defensive capabilities and length, along with secondary playmaking and (if he regains some form from before he was hurt) better-than-you-remember floor spacing would be beneficial. But what would you reasonably give up for him? Can't give up a first. Hard to give up Dalton Knecht. Could the Lakers put a deal together working one-on-one with the Bulls? Or would it take something bigger? HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: DFS gets ankle surgery. SEGMENT 2: How does this impact the offseason? SEGMENT 3: Lonzo returns? 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.  WayFairG ive your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. 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 codeLOCKEDONNBAfor $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)

Transcribed - Published: 13 June 2025

Every offseason, Luka Dončić is subject to criticisms about his level of fitness. This offseason brings plenty of that, but in a new context. This is the first time that Luka can't shrug off the chatter by pointing at his numbers. He's coming off of, for him, a subpar season. The Dallas Mavericks essentially said he's a bad bet, not worth the risk that would come with signing him to an extension. It might be a little much to call it a "prove it" summer—he's still Luka Dončić—but it's an important one. And Luka knows it... and has been leveraging social media to make a point of his offseason work. The man is not new to this scene. He knows how it will be interpreted to continue posting workout pics, videos, and even shots of the food he's eating. None of this is accidental. All of it, hopefully, ends up being a giant middle finger to the Mavs for letting him go. Meanwhile, Indiana has taken a pretty surprising 2-1 lead over the Thunder, following its Game 3 win in Indianapolis. The Pacers are currently shocking the basketball world, but from the perspective of the Lakers and what needs to change for them to compete next year, it's abundantly clear that both of these teams have a level of athleticism up and down their rosters that dwarfs what the Lakers can muster. That's something Rob Pelinka needs to address this offseason. He can't turn LA into the Thunder by the fall, but he can make it a point to bump up the level of athleticism available to JJ Redick. It won't be easy, though. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Luka keeps posting workout content. SEGMENT 2: The context is different this summer for Luka. SEGMENT 3: The Lakers badly need athletes. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! OLIPOPGet 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.  WayFairGive your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. Door DashSign 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 MoneyTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year GametimeDownload the Gametime app, create an account, and use codeLOCKEDONNBAfor $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuelRight 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)

Transcribed - Published: 12 June 2025

Tuesday, we talked a lot about the possibility—remote as it may be—that the Lakers could acquire Utah's Walker Kessler. It's a long shot first because there's no indication that while the Jazz might be willing to listen to offers for their young big, that they are actually interested in trading him. Second, the Lakers would struggle to put a package together that would appeal to Utah (without overpaying, at least). So what about other options? In Milwaukee, the perception is that Brook Lopez (former Laker) could be on the market, sooner rather than later. Still a good shot blocker, can definitely stretch the floor... but Lopez has never been a great rebounder and let's just say isn't the high flying rim runner Luka reportedly favors. Steven Adams? Again, fills some needs (rebounding, toughness, defense) without addressing many others. What about Atlanta vet Clint Capela, who is believed to be on the move this summer? He's a guy who seems to come as close as anyone will to ticking multiple boxes for LA... but will his market be higher than a taxpayer mid-level? Because that's all the Lakers can offer. Finally, we open the mailbag to talk about LeBron and maintenance. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Brook Lopez? SEGMENT 2: Ok, what about Steven Adams? Clint Capela? SEGMENT 3: Keeping an eye on LeBron. 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.  WayFair Give your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. 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 codeLOCKEDONNBAfor $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)

Transcribed - Published: 11 June 2025

The Lakers badly need a center. Everyone knows it. Walker Kessler is a very good young pivot who rebounds, can catch a lob and has fantastic defensive metrics. He's the kind of player a team could build around. Buuuuuuuuut, reports out of Utah say they're listening to everything this offseason. Some guys (Jordan Clarkson, Collin Sexton, John Collins) might be available, but someone like Kessler? For the right deal, they'd listen. Of course, the "right" deal in this context would mean the proverbial Godfather offer. Something Utah can't refuse. Can the Lakers even assemble a deal like that, whether for Kessler or anyone else? It's the bind LA is in. The best they could do would be Austin Reaves, Dalton Knecht, Rui Hachimura a pick and some swaps. That's obviously more than you'd want to give up for Kessler, but the question becomes relevant when trying to figure out how the Lakers compete with other teams putting together their best offer. The Lakers and Utah would be interesting trade partners, and if they're trying to get better (as the Lakers are) Reaves could be a fit. But then again, if they're trying to win, why would Utah trade Kessler? And if they're not trying to win and decide to continue stockpiling assets, then Reaves feels less logical, given that he's already 27 and about to get paid. LA's biggest trade chip is Reaves, but he might not have a universal market. It's tricky! So if the Lakers can't get Kessler, and they likely can't, there's a good chance they have to settle for a player that doesn't tick all the boxes. If that's the case, which boxes are most important? HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Walker Kessler is available... but not really. SEGMENT 2: Do the Lakers have a "Godfather Offer" to make for him, or anyone else? SEGMENT 3: What qualities matter most in a C? 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.  WayFair Give your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. 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 codeLOCKEDONNBAfor $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)

Transcribed - Published: 10 June 2025

The Lakers have some work to do this summer to improve the team enough to realistically compete for a title, but multiple reports indicate that might not be so easy. Why? Not just because the price for certain players (namely centers) might be steep, but because the rest of the league might be in the mood to punish them for being gifted Luka Dončić at the trade deadline. The Athletic's Jovan Buha (among others) reports that the "Lakers Tax" might be in play this offseason, as teams are at the very least sensitive to the idea of making a team that was just gifted Luka Doncic better. So if the Lakers want Daniel Gafford, the Mavs might insist not just on Dalton Knecht, but also a first rounder (and balancing salary). That's a lot for a guy who has never been able to establish himself as a starting center in the NBA. Plus, the Lakers are going to have to pay him next offseason. Do they like him that much? Broadly, how much can/should the Lakers overpay for a center, if at all? Are they in position to overpay at all? Meanwhile, Giannis is reportedly staying in Milwaukee. How does that impact the Lakers? Plus, we open the mailbag to talk LeBron. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: The Lakers and Daniel Gafford. Is an overpay coming? SEGMENT 2: Can the Lakers overpay for anyone? SEGMENT 3: Giannis, trades and the Lakers. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! OLIPOPGet 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.  WayFairGive your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. Door DashSign 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 MoneyTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year GametimeDownload the Gametime app, create an account, and use codeLOCKEDONNBAfor $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuelRight 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)

Transcribed - Published: 9 June 2025

Many tried to sell this NBA Finals between Oklahoma City and Indiana as a clunker. Two small market teams without the league's biggest stars (even though it does have, you know, its MVP). Well, Game 1 showed how much potential for sheer entertainment this series contains. A jumper from Tyrese Haliburton won the game for the Pacers with .3 seconds left on the clock. Indiana's depth was on display, something the Lakers could certainly use. Moreover, Indiana's consistent ability (driven by Haliburton) to execute late in games has been a presence throughout the postseason. That is an area in which the Lakers have fallen short every series after reaching the Western Conference Finals a couple of seasons ago. Twice against Denver, this year against Minnesota. Leads or close games in crunch time that they can't hold on to. And finally, Chris Paul reportedly wants to finish his career in Los Angeles, which means he has two choices. Lakers or Clippers. He's been on both teams (though not for very long as a Laker, and could certainly help the roster overall. But he's also over 40, can't defend like he used to doesn't score a ton anymore. He does pass the ball incredibly well, still. He orchestrates well. He's a pretty good 3-point shooter. So if the rumor is true, should the Lakers pull the trigger? HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: A thriller of a Game 1. SEGMENT 2: How Game 1 shined a light on what's wrong with the Lakers. SEGMENT 3: To CP3 or not to CP3? That is the question. 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 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. Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year 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)

Transcribed - Published: 6 June 2025

The NBA has become a wasteland for coaches over the last few months. This week, the Knicks canned Tom Thibodeau, despite just having made the Eastern Conference Finals. Why? The reasons are still emerging, but it's reasonable to say that Thibs is someone who tends to wear on players and organizations over time. The same can be said for Michael Malone, who did last a decade in Denver but clearly wore through his welcome despite having a successful team and a very recent title. Taylor Jenkins in Memphis? Fired. Mike Brown? Mike Budenholzer? All fired. Many had just received contract extensions. All had, on one level or another, been successful, either in that gig, or in others. All gone. So how does JJ Redick, who showed real promise in his first season on LA's sideline but also some shortcomings (particularly in the playoffs) parlay his best qualities into the type of long career the Lakers say they were hoping for when they hired him? How do ownership and management play into the equation? If he can't make it happen, what aspects of his coaching are personality are most likely to be his undoing? HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Thibs is out, the NBA is cold. SEGMENT 2: How can JJ avoid that fate? SEGMENT 3: What qualities will help and hurt Redick? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! OpenPhoneStreamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/lockedonnba BetterhelpThis episode is sponsored by Betterhelp. Your well-being is worth it. Visit BetterHelp.com/lockedonnba today to get 10% off your first month. Monarch MoneyTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year FanDuelRight 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)

Transcribed - Published: 5 June 2025

Basically every Lakers fan knows that Luka Dončić is eligible for a contract extension this offseason. Everyone knows that the Lakers will give Luka whatever it is he wants, whether talking dollars, years, player options and whatever. What people may not know is just how long Luka has to make this decision. most of the good parts of the NBA offseason will be past by the time his date of eligibility rolls around. That's August 2nd. But Luka doesn't have to sign that day, or the day after, or the day after that. 8.2 is just the first day Luka can sign. The last day? June 30... of 2026. So what does all this mean for the Lakers? They need very much to display competence between now and August. That doesn't mean massive, roster reshaping moves that completely revamp LA's roster. (Though by all means, if great opportunities present themselves, go for it.) It means smart choices, well-reasoned and thought out, where each decision is made with the idea of how these players will fit together as a group, not just an assembly of talent. They have to display good communication skills, and basically appear to have their **** in order. Luka doesn't appear to have any desire to go anywhere. He doesn't want to move again, after gaining some comfort in LA. So don't give him a reason. PLUS... the bottom feeders in the West are making decisions about their futures, and all of it will impact the Lakers this summer. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Luka has a LONG timeline. SEGMENT 2: What does it mean for LA? SEGMENT 3: The cellar dwellers in the West are makin' plans. Why that matters for the Lakers. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! OpenPhoneStreamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/lockedonnba BetterhelpThis episode is sponsored by Betterhelp. Your well-being is worth it. Visit BetterHelp.com/lockedonnba today to get 10% off your first month. Monarch MoneyTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year FanDuelRight 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)

Transcribed - Published: 4 June 2025

The Lakers will be looking to upgrade their talent any way they can going into next, year, and will have to get pretty creative about it. One source of improvement for the rotation that might be a little unexpected? How about Bronny James? That, via long time NBA writer Sean Deveney: "And it appears the Lakers are dead-set on pushing for Bronny James to be part of the rotation next year. "I don't think there's any doubt that's their plan," one Western Conference executive said. "I know the guy gets a lot of grief because of who his dad is, but we've seen a lot fo tape on (Bronny) and the fact is, he was a lot better player in April than he was in October, and definitely in July.... He's 20 years old," the exec said. "He had a whole year where his development was thrown all out of whack. But he can defend the perimeter and he showed he can shoot the 3. If he can show that wasn't a fluke, he is going to start getting 10, 15 minutes a night because the team is going to feel like they can trust him. I think he is going to do all that. He is going to be a regular for them next year." Is that really possible? What would it take for Bronny, who definitely improved over the course of the year but was still a ways off from being a positive contributor, to be a rotation player next year? Or even capable of being one? What would it mean for the Lakers if it happened? Plus, LeBron James has an idea on how to keep the physicality of the postseason, but not go from, in his words, 0 to 100 in terms of abrupt change from Game 82 of the regular season to the first game of the playoffs. Would it work? HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: LeBron has an idea for the playoffs and officiating. SEGMENT 2: Would the fix make a difference? SEGMENT 3: Real PT for Bronny? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! OpenPhoneStreamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/lockedonnba BetterhelpThis episode is sponsored by Betterhelp. Your well-being is worth it. Visit BetterHelp.com/lockedonnba today to get 10% off your first month. Monarch MoneyTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year FanDuelRight 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)

Transcribed - Published: 3 June 2025

The NBA Finals are here, and the mediasphere seems unsure of what to do with a series that doesn't include big cities or the most name brand stars. Still, a Finals that features the league's MVP, along with a fantastic story out of the East (Tyrese Haliburton, going from spare part/meme on the Olympic team to Eastern Conference champ) should be something the NBA can market. And they should lean into it, because at some point it has to move past the LeBron/KD/Steph/Giannis/big markets-or bust mindset that has gripped the league. That this seems to be such a point of stress is a reflection of how often the NBA's media partners have failed to help promote the league in a positive way. But the good news? TV contracts are locked in. Ratings don't matter. If the league decides to showcase this group and treat it like an opportunity, it could do some long-term good. Meanwhile, when the Knicks lost to the Pacers, there were immediate questions about the future of Karl-Anthony Towns in New York. Not because KAT was bad in the playoffs—he wasn't— but because the defensive combination of Towns and Jalen Brunson is, to say the least, a challenge. The Knicks have surrounded those two with about as many capable defenders as you can, and still fell short. Does that mean it can't work at all? Do the Lakers face a similar question with Austin Reaves paired with Luka Dončić? Yes... and no. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: These Finals should be an opportunity. SEGMENT 2: What the league keeps getting wrong. SEGMENT 3: Do the Knicks and Lakers have similar problems? 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 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. Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year 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)

Transcribed - Published: 2 June 2025

There are a lot of ways teams are building winners around the NBA right now. One of the big topics of conversation is depth. Oklahoma City is already in the Finals. They've got depth in almost cartoonish quantities. Indiana is expected to join them, and have plenty of depth as well. The Lakers, as you may have heard, are lacking in that department. Whether it was a good idea or not, teams with reliable depth don't go entire halves without making a substitution. (And even had they stuck a couple guys on the floor, it would only have been for a few minutes.) Moreover, it's not just that the Lakers lack depth in numbers, they also have too much redundancy. So how do they fix it? With a limited number of assets, do they try and create a group with higher levels of more cohesive talent at the top of the roster? Do they try to give themselves more viable options 1-9, even if it means a little less high end talent up top? What's the best formula here to build around Luka? SEGMENT 1: The Lakers need talent. They need depth. They need more coherent pieces. SEGMENT 2: How does Pelinka approach the issue? SEGMENT 3: One big thing the Lakers are missing. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! WayFairGive your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. Monarch MoneyTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year. Door DashSign 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 FanDuelRight 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)

Transcribed - Published: 30 May 2025

After a season of upheaval, Lakers need to figure out how to create an identity heading into next year. The good news is that Rob Pelinka and Co. don't have to do a lot of thinking to figure out the core of that identity - It's Luka Dončić. The identity is a team that plays hard, plays defense, plays unselfishly. Sure. All teams say that. But the path to that is figuring out how to create those attributes with players that fit beautifully around Luka. It's a heliocentric model, where Dončić is the sun. LeBron James, the former sun, can work in this world (and have plenty of celestial moments himself). Austin Reaves? It can work, if the other pieces adjust accordingly. But right now the team is so out of balance, some changes will need to be made in order to create a more coherent structure. With that in mind... how about a blockbuster (hypothetical) trade, where EVERYTHING that isn't nailed to the floor and can be traded goes, in the interest of bringing more balance to the roster. Get a center, get a wing, and so on. Is this monster 3-team deal Andy constructed a good blueprint for LA? HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: What kind of identity should the Lakers construct around Luka? SEGMENT 2: Can the Lakers create better top end talent AND better depth? SEGMENT 3: How about this (hypothetical) blockbuster? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! WayFairGive your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. Monarch MoneyTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year. Door DashSign 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 FanDuelRight 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)

Transcribed - Published: 29 May 2025

According to ESPN's Shams Charania, LeBron James plans to pick up his player option for 2026, worth about $52.5 mil. While Shams noted there's still time for things to change, this appears to be the most likely outcome for LeBron and the Lakers. And in some ways, it's the most expected, given the options. While there was always the dream (pipe dream, really) that James might leave about $20 mil on the table so that the Lakers would have access to a larger mid-level exception, that's always felt like a longshot. It's also always been unlikely that James would decline the option and leave for somewhere like Cleveland or Golden State (which would cost him about $40 mil, at least). But the idea James would decline his option, then sign another 1+1 with the Lakers, giving him control until after the 2026-2027 season? That was always a live possibility. So among the realistic outcomes, this one was the best for LA, and arguably for James as well. We explain why. How the Lakers move forward, with some certainty around LeBron, is an interesting question. If the Lakers return the same group and make reasonable improvements at center, they'll be a good squad. But good enough to win the West? Can they make those types of improvements in one offseason, with limited resources? Would they be smarter to wait for next summer? That's up to Luka. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: LeBron is expected to pick up his option. SEGMENT 2: Why that's good for LA. SEGMENT 3: Gap year for the Lakers? That's up to Luka. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! WayFairGive your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. Monarch MoneyTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year. Door DashSign 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 FanDuelRight 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)

Transcribed - Published: 28 May 2025

Last week, early reports of Luka Dončić dedicating himself more seriously to fitness were giving Lakers fans some encouragement. This weekend, things looked even better. In the form of pictures! From Luka's Insta page, and from pictures taken of him in the crowd at Real Madrid and even food pics from his wife's social media. We saw a thinner looking player, and what appeared to be a healthy, delicious meal! So only a few weeks after the season ended, at the very least, Dončić -- who is not stupid and knows full well that pictures of him will be dissected to no end -- appears to have put himself on a solid path to begin a critical offseason. ONe that doesn't just matter for the Lakers this year, but as as a sign of what might be to come. Because remember, Nico Harrison bet that Luka was a bad long-term gamble for the Mavs. And as much as Harrison's logic (or his skill executing trades) might come into question, it's certainly true that long term, Luka needs to take better care of himself. All athletes do as they start to get older. Meanwhile, Austin Reaves's agent is setting expectations for this season, and he's setting them high. Meanwhile, there's a number out there for what Reaves might look for assuming he hits free agency after next season. Is it a good one for the Lakers? HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Skinny Luka? SEGMENT 2: Does it matter why Luka gets in shape? SEGMENT 3: What's a good number for Reaves? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! WayFairGive your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. Monarch MoneyTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year. Door DashSign 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 FanDuelRight 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)

Transcribed - Published: 27 May 2025

There is virtually no limit to the level of scrutiny Luka Dončić is set to receive this summer around his fitness. So when anyone says anything on the subject that provides some potential insight, it'll get attention. That's the case with Jason Gallagher, a producer of JJ Redick's "Old Man and the Three" Podcast, as well as the "Mind the Game" pod hosted (formerly) by Redick and then and now by LeBron James, appeared on a Dallas sports pod, "The Dumb Zone." “I’ve heard from folks that are pretty honest about the conditioning stuff or whatever that Luka has already like begun to clean slate, like starting anew. He’s already like in this mindset of changing a lot about himself. Now, I’ve heard it before, but not from specific people that have been critical of him," Gallagher said. Obviously that doesn't relay concrete plans or things he's been doing, but if what Gallagher is being told is true, it is an indication that Luka at the very least gets the criticism and understands he can, and needs, to do better in this area than he has over the course of his career. It's critical for his rep, and obviously for the Lakers. Redick ended the season talking about the need for the Lakers to have championship level fitness, and certainly didn't exclude Luka from that, or imply that he's met the bar. Meanwhile, what can the Lakers learn from teams still in the playoffs? HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Luka is rethinking his approach to conditioning, says one source. SEGMENT 2: Does it matter why Luka gets into shape? SEGMENT 3: What can the Lakers learn from teams still in the playoffs? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! CarGurusBuy or sell your next car today with CarGurus at CarGurus.comto make sure your big deal is the best deal. SKIMSShop 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. Monarch MoneyTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year. FanDuelRight 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)

Transcribed - Published: 23 May 2025

LeBron James is now the oldest player in NBA history to garner MVP votes. Wednesday, when the league announced the results, not surprisingly Shai Gilgeous-Alexander walked away with his first trophy, with Nikola Jokic the runner up. But down there in sixth was LeBron James. His first MVP votes came as a 19-year old with the Cavs in his rookie season. And now, he's finished 6th. Pretty remarkable, and well-deserved after a season where he averaged over 24 points, and almost eight assists and rebounds per game. So what does this mean going forward? LeBron has now played 141 games over the last two seasons, putting at least some of the durability and health questions to bed... except he's going to turn 41 this year so really, do those questions ever go away? Is it reasonable to expect more of the same from LBJ, especially knowing the team will be built around Luka Dončić, who will be assigned most of the heavy lifting offensively? Plus, the debate about Shai and foul-hunting consumed NBA social media after the Thunder beat Minnesota in Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals. Is "the discourse" on to something? Or does everyone need to get offline a little more? HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: LeBron finishes sixth in MVP voting. SEGMENT 2: What can LA expect from him going forward? SEGMENT 3: Shai, the playoffs, officiating and how it all impacts the Lakers. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! CarGurusBuy or sell your next car today with CarGurus at CarGurus.comto make sure your big deal is the best deal. SKIMSShop 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. Monarch MoneyTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year. FanDuelRight 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)

Transcribed - Published: 22 May 2025

The NBA announced its All Rookie squads, and (not surprisingly) Dalton Knecht wasn't among the 10 honored first year players. To his credit, Knecht was relatively close, finishing in a tie for 13th in vote total. It's a fair result for a guy who had a lot of highs and lows over the course of the season. His strong suits were clear (shooting, offense, athleticism) and his weaknesses (defense) equally so. Now the Lakers, who have already shown a willingness to trade him, have to make a decision this offseason. Is the guy more valuable to them? Or as a lure to fill holes around the roster? The goal for LA is to build a team that works for Luka Dončić. Knecht fits that profile. He can shoot, he can get to the rim, he can finish above it. On the other hand, he's one of about 2.5 human beings on the roster who have genuine value as players (as opposed to an expiring contract) in a trade (the others being Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura). So Rob Pelinka, just as he does with Reaves, is going to be confronted with some tough choices about Knecht, too. Plus... could LeBron actually leave? There's one at least semi-plausible scenario. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Knecht gets some All-Rookie love. SEGMENT 2: What to do with DK? SEGMENT 3: Could LeBron really go? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! CarGurusBuy or sell your next car today with CarGurus at CarGurus.comto make sure your big deal is the best deal. SKIMSShop 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. Monarch MoneyTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year. FanDuelRight 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

Transcribed - Published: 21 May 2025

NBA Squad Show: Conference Finals are set to COLLIDE as New NBA Era changes championship landscape Can the Oklahoma City Thunder overcome the Minnesota Timberwolves' depth in the Western Conference Finals? As the NBA playoffs heat up, the Thunder's defensive prowess faces a stern test against the Timberwolves, who have been a force in the West all season. Join Nick Engstad, Doug Norrie, and Ryland Styles as they break down the thrilling Game 7 between the Denver Nuggets and Oklahoma City Thunder, and preview the upcoming conference finals. The discussion highlights key players like Nikola Jokic, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Tyrese Haliburton, while exploring how the NBA's Collective Bargaining Agreement is reshaping team-building strategies. With insights into the Eastern Conference Finals matchup between the Indiana Pacers and New York Knicks, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the evolving NBA landscape. Tune in for expert analysis and discover how these playoff battles could redefine the league's future. 0:00 Intro: Denver vs OKC Game Seven analysis 5:46 Western Conference Finals: Thunder vs Timberwolves 13:55 Eastern Conference Finals: Pacers vs Knicks 22:08 CBA impact on team building and roster depth 28:16 Draft lottery results and tanking strategies

Transcribed - Published: 21 May 2025

There was a lot of feedback to Monday's show running down the league's (mostly) starting centers and judging whether they qualify as a "foundational piece," i.e. the level of player the Lakers reportedly would have to receive in order to send out Austin Reaves in a trade. In the process, we saw a variety of opinions on: AR's level as a player. His overall trade value. Whether we had the right players in the right categories. How much other stuff the Lakers might have to add to some of these hypothetical deals to make something happen. And obviously, for the highest level players on the list of guys we decided were even theoretically possible, it might cost Reaves plus more. Maybe Dalton Knecht, maybe draft capital, maybe both. But what about going the other way? Brooklyn's Nic Claxton is broadly believed to be gettable without sacrificing Reaves. But what about Claxton and someone like Cam Johnson, who could fill some needs for LA? Would that (type of deal, playing for depth) be worth AR? Plus... lots of former Lakers are playing big roles for conference finalists. Is it generating any nostalgia for Lakers fans? HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: More Reaves-for-a-center talk. SEGMENT 2: Is there an alternative to foundational pieces? SEGMENT 3: Looking back at baby Lakers, all grown up. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! CarGurusBuy or sell your next car today with CarGurus at CarGurus.comto make sure your big deal is the best deal. SKIMSShop 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. Monarch MoneyTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year. FanDuelRight 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)

Transcribed - Published: 20 May 2025

The Lakers, it is reported, would trade Austin Reaves for a "foundational piece." That doesn't have to be a center, necessarily, but certainly the five is LA's biggest need, and as LA's best trade chip, people are going to at least make those connections. But practically speaking, who exactly would that mean? Like, sure, the Lakers would trade Austin for Nikola Jokic or Wemby... but that's not a world we live in. So what names out there are even remotely possible? And of the guys that are even more possible, would any of them actually be worth sacrificing Reaves? It's a tricky place, for sure. Because the list of names worthy of Reaves isn't long, and the list of gettable centers includes many where Reaves would be too high a price to pay. It's a tough needle for Rob Pelinka to thread. Meanwhile, the league may get some clarity on the Giannis situation, as he and the Bucks are expected to meet this week to talk about his future in Milwaukee. A resolution to this doesn't mean he's coming to the Lakers - he's not - but would help keep offseason movement robust, which does favor the Lakers. If everyone is waiting around to figure out Giannis's future, that hurts LA. The Lakers need action. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Who are the centers that might be available for Reaves? SEGMENT 2: What does the rest of the market look like? SEGMENT 3: Giannis and Milwaukee and how it impacts LA. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! CarGurus Buy or sell your next car today with CarGurus at CarGurus.com to make sure your big deal is the best deal. 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. Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year. 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)

Transcribed - Published: 19 May 2025

The Austin Reaves Conversation is definitely a real thing. In his Thursday newsletter, Dan Woike of the LA Times relays how the Lakers are looking at things. First things first, Reaves is not untouchable. But to move him, the Lakers (quite rightly) will want a foundational piece in return, not some rental or a transitional player. Reaves is a very good player, and they'd need a very good player in return. That's how it should be. On the other hand, the Lakers are also (and this isn't new) very attached to Reaves, in part because they value his story. He's one of their guys, signed, developed in the G-League, and now good enough to be in that class of fringe, near All-Star caliber players. They like the win for themselves, and they recognize the popularity of Reaves with the fan base. Those are not good reasons to keep him. Reaves is a feather in the front office's cap no matter what happens, and fans want a winning roster. If they make a good trade that includes Reaves, the fans will be on board. One name that popped up this week as potentially available at a position of need? Jakob Poeltl, Toronto's starting center, coming off his best season as a pro. Is he on the same level as a guy like Reaves? Does he tick enough boxes for the Lakers to use their limited capital to make a run at him? HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: The Lakers don't consider Reaves untouchable. SEGMENT 2: One really bad reason to keep him. SEGMENT 3: Jakob Poeltl? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! PrizepicksNow’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 HungryrootWith 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. CarGurusBuy or sell your next car today with CarGurus at CarGurus.comto make sure your big deal is the best deal. WayFairAfter 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 4kDid 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 DashSign 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 MoneyTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com 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 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)

Transcribed - Published: 16 May 2025

The assignment for Rob Pelinka is clear: Build a winning roster around Luka Dončić. In the short term, that (likely) includes LeBron James. In the long run, it won't. Is Austin Reaves part of the equation? It seems like it, but is that set in stone? The Lakers have a lot of needs—center, rebounding and wing depth at the top of the list—without a lot of assets to make it happen. Pelinka has some expiring contracts (Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent most notably), some potentially appealing players (Hachimura, Dalton Knecht) and a few draft assets (a first rounder in '31 or '32, a second rounder, a handful of pick swaps). That's not much. Hopefully there's a lot of activity, which could help the Lakers pick off prized targets with less competition, but without question, Pelinka is going to have to choose carefully and make sure every player he acquires is a good fit around Luka. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: What does Rob Pelinka have to work with? SEGMENT 2: How do the Lakers prioritize? SEGMENT 3: Is Knecht a good asset? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! PrizepicksNow’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 HungryrootWith 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. CarGurusBuy or sell your next car today with CarGurus at CarGurus.comto make sure your big deal is the best deal. WayFairAfter 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 4kDid 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 DashSign 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 MoneyTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com 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 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)

Transcribed - Published: 15 May 2025

Lakers fans love wallowing in the misery of the Celtics, but even Lakers fans don't wish for this sort of thing. Monday in Game 4 against the Knicks, Boston star Jayson Tatum went down with a ruptured Achilles. He'll miss much of/most of/all of next season (the exact recovery is TBD, but even with modern surgery and treatment, it's a months-long recovery). So now Boston, a team that would have had major decisions to make even if they'd managed to repeat as champions, are looking at a potential down year without its star. So do you add the C's to the list of teams that could be active? On top of what Dallas does to reform its Cooper Flagg-having squad, or San Antonio leveraging it's gift of a 2nd pick to try and get Giannis? Will another Eastern Conference team smell opportunity and get super aggressive to try and try to take advantage of some weakness among traditional powers? All of this can impact the Lakers, who have some major improvements to make and could very well benefit from a very active summer around the league. More trades and more movement mean more opportunities for Rob Pelinka to do what's required. Meanwhile, we open the mailbag to answer a couple LeBron related questions. Could LeBron leave the Lakers to sign a low money deal with Cleveland or Golden State? And whether this summer or a couple summers from now, when LeBron finally walks away from the Lakers, how will he rank among Lakers greats? It's a different question than where he fits in among all time NBA greats. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: The Tatum Injury is the latest shakeup to the NBA offseason. SEGMENT 2: Is more offseason activity around the league better for the Lakers? SEGMENT 3: LeBron's place among Lakers greats. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! PrizepicksNow’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 HungryrootWith 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. CarGurusBuy or sell your next car today with CarGurus at CarGurus.comto make sure your big deal is the best deal. WayFairAfter 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 4kDid 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 DashSign 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 MoneyTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com 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 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)

Transcribed - Published: 14 May 2025

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! PrizepicksNow’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 HungryrootWith 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. CarGurusBuy or sell your next car today with CarGurus at CarGurus.comto make sure your big deal is the best deal. WayFairAfter 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 4kDid 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 DashSign 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 MoneyTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com 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 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)

Transcribed - Published: 13 May 2025

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! PrizepicksNow’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 HungryrootWith 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. CarGurusBuy or sell your next car today with CarGurus at CarGurus.comto make sure your big deal is the best deal. WayFairAfter 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 4kDid 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 DashSign 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 MoneyTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com 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 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)

Transcribed - Published: 12 May 2025

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 4kDid 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. BetterhelpThis episode is sponsored by Betterhelp. Your well-being is worth it. Visit BetterHelp.com/lockedonnba today to get 10% off your first month. UpworkVisit 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. OpenPhoneStreamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/lockedonnba Door DashSign 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 MoneyTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com 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 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)

Transcribed - Published: 9 May 2025

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. 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)

Transcribed - Published: 8 May 2025

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 4kDid 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. BetterhelpThis episode is sponsored by Betterhelp. Your well-being is worth it. Visit BetterHelp.com/lockedonnba today to get 10% off your first month. UpworkVisit 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. OpenPhoneStreamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/lockedonnba Door DashSign 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 MoneyTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com 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 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)

Transcribed - Published: 7 May 2025

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)

Transcribed - Published: 7 May 2025

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 4kDid 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. BetterhelpThis episode is sponsored by Betterhelp. Your well-being is worth it. Visit BetterHelp.com/lockedonnba today to get 10% off your first month. UpworkVisit 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. OpenPhoneStreamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/lockedonnba Door DashSign 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 MoneyTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com 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 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)

Transcribed - Published: 6 May 2025

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 4kDid 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. BetterhelpThis episode is sponsored by Betterhelp. Your well-being is worth it. Visit BetterHelp.com/lockedonnba today to get 10% off your first month. UpworkVisit 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. OpenPhoneStreamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/lockedonnba Door DashSign 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 MoneyTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com 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 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)

Transcribed - Published: 5 May 2025

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: The Lakers had a transformative season, with a lot to be proud of... while still falling short of expectations and goals. He's expecting a lot of movement in the NBA this offseason, and the Lakers will be aggressive reshaping the roster around Luka Dončić, LeBron James and Austin Reaves. They need centers. Definitely need centers. (And a good defensive wing, too.) From JJ Redick: The Lakers need to come back in championship physical condition. While he's not just talking about Luka... he's clearly setting a bar for him. You can't talk about fitness on a Luka team without people making that connection, and Redick knows this. He knows he has room to improve. 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 4kDid 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. CarGurusBuy or sell your next car today with CarGurus at CarGurus.comto make sure your big deal is the best deal.  WayFairAfter 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 MoneyTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com 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 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)

Transcribed - Published: 2 May 2025