Locked On Lakers - Daily Podcast On The Los Angeles Lakers

After the loss to the Clippers on Sunday, the Lakers spoke frankly about the reality of their situation. "We don’t have a huge margin for error. Nor can we create that margin organically,” said JJ Redick. "That’s how our team is constructed. We don’t have room for error — for much error," said LeBron James. From a practical standpoint, both agreed that because they lack any wiggle room, simply can't afford to have breakdowns in execution. They can't afford turnovers, or bad shots, or lapses in focus. And as Redick notes, it's something that's baked into the roster. "We don’t have a guy on our team that’s going to necessarily always draw two to the ball. We don’t have a guy on our team that’s going to be able to get past his guy one-on-one and get to the paint and spread it out to the perimeter. Like, that’s just not our team. So we have to do it through connectivity, through execution."When they do? Redick says they're really good. Except clearly they don't do it enough. Meanwhile, LeBron went as far as to say the Lakers need to play near perfect ball to win, in a game that is "never perfect." So what's going on here? Are LeBron and Redick putting out a call for more help from Rob Pelinka and the front office? A bit of CYA from both the coach (there's only so much I can do with what I've been given) and star (you can't expect me to carry these folks in year 22)? A moment of blunt talk at a very challenging moment in the season? Yes to all of it. And while, particularly regarding Redick, the talk will draw more attention to his coaching (if the roster is deficient, scheme becomes that much more important), it's ultimately going to put the focus on Rob Pelinka, a thing he tends to enjoy much more in good times than bad.  HOSTS: Andy and Brian KamenetzkySEGMENT 1: No margin for error. SEGMENT 2: What LeBron concedes in this conversation. SEGMENT 3: What this means for Pelinka.  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!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! TALKSPACETherapy is a game-changer. To match with a licensed therapist today, go to Talkspace.com/LOCKEDONNBA and enter promo code SPACE80 to get $80 off your first month and show your support for the show.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.FanDuelFrom the first whistle to the final drive, FanDuel makes the NFL Playoffs even more exciting! Right now, new customers can bet FIVE DOLLARS and get THREE HUNDRED BUCKS in BONUS BETS – if you win your first bet! Visit FANDUEL.COM to get started. Make this playoff season unforgettable with FanDuel, an official sportsbook partner of the NFL. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

The Lakers barely escaped disaster against the Nets on Friday night, but it was pretty clear they'd need to play significantly better to have a chance to beat the Clippers. Didn't happen. The Lakers were outplayed on both sides of the ball almost from the jump, and while they tried to make a push in the second half, the game was too far out of hand for rally caps to have an effect. Final score, 116-102. The team is so out of sorts at this point, it's hard to pinpoint which area is most problematic. The Lakers allowed the Clippers to shoot 58% in the first half, while struggling to score themselves (49 points at the break). The team's Big Three (Anthony Davis, LeBron James, Austin Reaves) combined for 55 points, not nearly enough to meaningfully compete. How about turnovers? The Lakers had plenty, particularly in the first half when they buried themselves in a hole. Dorian Finney-Smith, back in the lineup after missing a couple of games for the birth of his son? Zero points. Over the course of a season, aspects of a team's play can move in and out of rhythm. At times, all the parts seem to be working in concert, and the product reflects is. At other times, nothing seems to fit together. Even the simplest stuff becomes a challenge. That's where the Lakers are. The offensive approach is disintegrating. The defensive discipline has evaporated. The confidence and swagger the Lakers have exhibited at different points this year is nonexistent. This is not an overly talented team—the Lakers have to do the right stuff with consistency, and they're not even close. Fix it fast, or the (fast approaching) second half of the season is going to get ugly in a big hurry.  HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Thoroughly outclassed.  SEGMENT 2: What happened to the offense?  SEGMENT 3: Fixes need to come fast.  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!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! TALKSPACETherapy is a game-changer. To match with a licensed therapist today, go to Talkspace.com/LOCKEDONNBA and enter promo code SPACE80 to get $80 off your first month and show your support for the show.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.FanDuelFrom the first whistle to the final drive, FanDuel makes the NFL Playoffs even more exciting! Right now, new customers can bet FIVE DOLLARS and get THREE HUNDRED BUCKS in BONUS BETS – if you win your first bet! Visit FANDUEL.COM to get started. Make this playoff season unforgettable with FanDuel, an official sportsbook partner of the NFL. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) 

Lebron lead the Lakers with 25 pts, 11  asts and 2 3's  19 for Hachimura and A.D. had just 16. The Lakers edged the Clippers in fastbreak points 15-13.  Clippers lead by as many as 26. Nice performances from Ivica Zubac 21pts and 19 boards, James Harden also had a double double 21 pts 12 asts Norm Powell had 22 and Kawhi Leonard in 24 mins looked really good going 9 of 13 for 19. The Clippers doubled up the Lakers with 2nd chance points 15-7

The only thing worse than barely winning one of the ugliest basketball games the Lakers have played in years is barely losing one of the ugliest basketball games the Lakers have played in years. The Lakers used 38 points from Austin Reaves (13-23 from the floor) and 29 from LeBron James (plus eight rebounds, seven dimes) to squeak past the Brooklyn Nets at the Crypt, 102-101. On a night where Anthony Davis was unavailable thanks to a flare up of his plantar fasciitis and Dorian Finney-Smith was still away from the team celebrating the birth of his son, it felt like the Lakers might struggle to keep the offense humming. And man, did they ever struggle. The Lakers managed to get enough defense (against a VERY shorthanded Nets team) though it's hard to know how much of that was good defense vs. a bad Brooklyn roster, and even then the Nets still managed to get hot and hit a bunch of timely 3's. So in the end, it's a win that will absolutely not inspire even the slightest amount of confidence, but it's a win. It gets the Lakers to 22-17, and back up to a 6-seed with a game against the Clippers coming up Sunday.  HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!OpenPhoneThe #1 business phone system designed to help you keep your work and personal life separate.Right now, OpenPhone is offering 20% off your first 6 months when you go to OpenPhone.com/LOCKEDONNBA.and if you have existing numbers with another service, OpenPhone will port them over at no extra charge! Rocket RXRight now, our listeners can get 40% off your first order when you use code LOCKEDONNBA at RocketRX.com. Terms and Conditions apply.Rocket RX: Better sex, made simple.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. 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.Ultimate GMA special offer for Locked On NBA listeners: Use promo code LOCKEDONCBB (all caps) when you download Ultimate College Basketball HC at ultimate-cbb.com or look it up on the app stores, to get a free boost for your program. It’s the perfect way to kickstart your coaching career. Ultimate College Basketball HC—begin your coaching legacy today! 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 code LOCKEDONNBA. 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.  RobinhoodWith Robinhood Gold, you can now enjoy the VIP treatment. The new Gold Standard is here with Robinhood Gold. To receive 3% boost on annual IRA contributions,  sign up at robinhood.com/gold.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.FanDuelFrom the first whistle to the final drive, FanDuel makes the NFL Playoffs even more exciting!Right now, new customers can bet FIVE DOLLARS and get THREE HUNDRED BUCKS in BONUS BETS – if you win your first bet!Visit FANDUEL.COM to get started.Make this playoff season unforgettable with FanDuel, an official sportsbook partner of the NFL. 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)  

Austin Reeves scored a career-high 38 points, including 15 in the 4th quarter, and LeBron James added 29 points, 7 rebounds, and 8 assists as the Lakers, without Anthony Davis, held on to beat the New Jersey Nets 102-101. Former Laker D’Angelo Russell led the Nets with 19 points off the bench. The Lakers will look to extend their win streak to three games on Sunday night when they travel across town to play the Clippers.Lakers, LA Lakers, Los Angeles Lakers, LeBron James, Anthony Davis, Rui, Hachimura Austin Reeves, NBA, Lakers Post cast, JJ Redick, Dalton Knecht, Lakers vs Nets, Los Angeles Lakers vs New Jersey Nets Support Us, By Supporting Our Sponsors!Robinhood GoldRobinhood Gold provides the privileges of a high net worth for any net worth. These generous benefits are now available for only $5/month. The new Gold Standard is here with Robinhood Gold. Sign up at robinhood.com/gold. SKIMSShop SKIMS Mens at SKIMS.com/LOCKEDONNBA and SKIMS stores.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.

The Lakers have put a tremendous amount of faith in Austin Reaves. Not only have they asked him to take over the primary ballhandling/point guarding duties at a level he hasn't had to over the course of his career, they've also traded away the primary safety net (D'Angelo Russell). So it's Reaves or bust, not just big picture, but damn near every night. Some nights—Wednesday vs. Miami for example—the results are great. At other times, not so much. It's easy to forget with a player who seems like he's been around a little while now that things can still be new, and require a learning curve. JJ Redick made that clear Thursday in El Segundo, speaking to the media after practice. When Reaves remembers the assignment with his new gig, he tends to thrive. When he strays, not only does his play go down, it can drag LA's offense down with it. And the assignment is a hard one, not just because the NBA isn't exactly an easy league to learn on the job, but also because Reaves has to this point is his career tended to thrive as a chaos agent. He's often at his best when play is at its most scrambled, and things seem disorganized. But to this point, Reaves has taken advantage of those situations from a spot other than the primary steward of the offense. When he's in charge, it requires a more holistic approach that isn't always easy to manage. The Lakers' season, though, is largely dependent on how fast he figures things out, because there's really no Plan B.  HOSTS: Andy and Brian KamenetzkySEGMENT 1: Redick on Reaves. SEGMENT 2: The Lakers don't have a Plan B, so AR needs to be good all the time. SEGMENT 3: Is Redick ready to play multiple bigs at once?    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!OpenPhoneThe #1 business phone system designed to help you keep your work and personal life separate.Right now, OpenPhone is offering 20% off your first 6 months when you go to OpenPhone.com/LOCKEDONNBA.and if you have existing numbers with another service, OpenPhone will port them over at no extra charge! Rocket RXRight now, our listeners can get 40% off your first order when you use code LOCKEDONNBA at RocketRX.com. Terms and Conditions apply.Rocket RX: Better sex, made simple.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. 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.Ultimate GMA special offer for Locked On NBA listeners: Use promo code LOCKEDONCBB (all caps) when you download Ultimate College Basketball HC at ultimate-cbb.com or look it up on the app stores, to get a free boost for your program. It’s the perfect way to kickstart your coaching career. Ultimate College Basketball HC—begin your coaching legacy today! 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 code LOCKEDONNBA. 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.  RobinhoodWith Robinhood Gold, you can now enjoy the VIP treatment. The new Gold Standard is here with Robinhood Gold. To receive 3% boost on annual IRA contributions,  sign up at robinhood.com/gold.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.FanDuelFrom the first whistle to the final drive, FanDuel makes the NFL Playoffs even more exciting!Right now, new customers can bet FIVE DOLLARS and get THREE HUNDRED BUCKS in BONUS BETS – if you win your first bet!Visit FANDUEL.COM to get started.Make this playoff season unforgettable with FanDuel, an official sportsbook partner of the NFL. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

The Lakers collapsed over the final 15 minutes of Monday's game against San Antonio. On Wednesday, the Lakers looked stagnant and sloppy for the first 24 minutes, giving up 66 points and falling behind by 12 at the break. For a 20-17 team, playing a Heat squad without Jimmy Butler, they simply had to find a way to win. And it wasn't easy, but over the course of the second half, the Lakers increased the pressure defensively, holding Miami to 19 points in the third quarter, and only 23 in the fourth to win (relatively) comfortably, 117-108. It was a strange game, with Miami spending as much of it as they could in a zone, and the Lakers struggling to figure out how to penetrate it. The Lakers couldn't get any kind of production from the bench. But while it wasn't pretty and it's hard to feel like the Lakers discovered (re-discovered?) some sort of winning formula, they found a way in a game they had to have. There's a lot of work left to build the Lakers back up once again into a team that feels capable of consistently good play. It remains to be seen if they can even get there. But in the meantime, they have to figure out how to win enough games so that if the team does find—and then sustain—the next level, they're using that improvement to solidify a seed up in the top six in the West, not scrambling just to get into the play-in rounds. At the least, the first step was rediscovering the defensive intensity that helped the Lakers win six straight a couple weeks back. These Lakers aren't always going to play well, but they can always play hard. Forcing 20 Miami turnovers should have led to more than 23 points the other way, but those points plus the shots Miami wasn't able to take were what swung the game. The homestand was interrupted by tragedy, changing the complexion of this stretch of season that was supposed to go LA's way, getting them prepped for the long roadie at the end of the month. That's not how it's going to play out anymore. But if Wednesday was a "show me" game, where the Lakers had to prove they still were willing to work hard for a win after (bleeping) the bed on Monday, they cleared that bar... in the second half, at least.  HOSTS: Andy and Brian KamenetzkySEGMENT 1: The Lakers manage to grind out a win. SEGMENT 2: Balanced scoring, and Rui's best game in a long time. SEGMENT 3: Lots of work left to do, but they've got to win in the meantime.  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!OpenPhoneThe #1 business phone system designed to help you keep your work and personal life separate.Right now, OpenPhone is offering 20% off your first 6 months when you go to OpenPhone.com/LOCKEDONNBA.and if you have existing numbers with another service, OpenPhone will port them over at no extra charge! Rocket RXRight now, our listeners can get 40% off your first order when you use code LOCKEDONNBA at RocketRX.com. Terms and Conditions apply.Rocket RX: Better sex, made simple.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. 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.Ultimate GMA special offer for Locked On NBA listeners: Use promo code LOCKEDONCBB (all caps) when you download Ultimate College Basketball HC at ultimate-cbb.com or look it up on the app stores, to get a free boost for your program. It’s the perfect way to kickstart your coaching career. Ultimate College Basketball HC—begin your coaching legacy today! 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 code LOCKEDONNBA. 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.  RobinhoodWith Robinhood Gold, you can now enjoy the VIP treatment. The new Gold Standard is here with Robinhood Gold. To receive 3% boost on annual IRA contributions,  sign up at robinhood.com/gold.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.FanDuelFrom the first whistle to the final drive, FanDuel makes the NFL Playoffs even more exciting!Right now, new customers can bet FIVE DOLLARS and get THREE HUNDRED BUCKS in BONUS BETS – if you win your first bet!Visit FANDUEL.COM to get started.Make this playoff season unforgettable with FanDuel, an official sportsbook partner of the NFL. 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? 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The Lakers had six players score in double figures, led by Rui Hachimura’s 23 points, as the Lakers snapped their 3-game losing streak, beating the visiting Miami Heat 117-108. LeBron James and Anthony Davis added 22, and Austin Reeves had 14 points and 14 assists as the Lakers rallied from 12 down at the half to win by 9. The Heat were led in scoring by Tyler Herro’s 34 in the loss. The Lakers will look to continue their winning ways Friday night when they host the New Jersey Nets.Lakers, LA Lakers, Los Angeles Lakers, LeBron James, Anthony Davis, Rui, Hachimura Austin Reeves, NBA, Lakers Post cast, JJ Redick, Dalton Knecht, Lakers vs Heat, Los Angeles Lakers vs Miami Heat Support Us, By Supporting Our Sponsors!HUNGRY ROOTYou’re going to love Hungryroot as much as I do. 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. That’s Hungryroot.com/lockedonnba, code LOCKEDONNBA to get 40% off your first box and a free item of your choice for life. Hungryroot.com/lockedonnba, code LOCKEDONNBA—don’t miss out!WAYFAIRGive your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. That’s W-A-Y-F-A-I-R dot com. Every style. Every home

Certain nights throughout a season can be described as "show me" games. One where the context clearly demands a certain level of effort and performance if a team is going to demonstrate the requisite seriousness and focus to consider themselves a legitimate playoff threat, let alone a title contender. Tonight's game against the Heat at the Crypt? It's a "show me." Miami arrives with a middling record (20-18, 10-11 away from home) and without Jimmy Butler, who continues to serve a team-imposed suspension. So on their home floor, the Lakers ought to win this one. But more importantly, the last 16 minutes of Monday's loss to San Antonio were an embarrassment. Up 10 with four minutes left in the quarter—and up eight with three minutes remaining—the Lakers went on to lose by 24. It's not easy to lose a 16 minute strech by 36 points, but here we are. And this was on a night where the Lakers, at least on the surface, pledged to bring it on behalf of the city. That doesn't mean they're going to win, but the capacity to maintain focus should have been there. (And if it had, they win.) The wild swings this team makes are just as revealing as anything they do inside games. They've shown flashes of being the type of team that can compete credibly in the playoffs and maybe get through a couple of rounds. They've also made being blown out part of the routine. It happens... a lot. Whether the Lakers have enough on the roster to really make a push remains to be seen. At the least, the flaws are there, and they're real. But if they're not going to be the team that overwhelms with talent, they need to be one that does it with precision and heart. It's not easy, but it's required.  HOSTS: Andy and Brian KamenetzkySEGMENT 1: Monday's loss is still leaving a bad taste. SEGMENT 2: No Dorian Finney-Smith (likely) tonight vs. Indiana. SEGMENT 3: What can the Lakers fix on D? 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!OpenPhoneThe #1 business phone system designed to help you keep your work and personal life separate.Right now, OpenPhone is offering 20% off your first 6 months when you go to OpenPhone.com/LOCKEDONNBA.and if you have existing numbers with another service, OpenPhone will port them over at no extra charge! Rocket RXRight now, our listeners can get 40% off your first order when you use code LOCKEDONNBA at RocketRX.com. Terms and Conditions apply.Rocket RX: Better sex, made simple.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. 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.Ultimate GMA special offer for Locked On NBA listeners: Use promo code LOCKEDONCBB (all caps) when you download Ultimate College Basketball HC at ultimate-cbb.com or look it up on the app stores, to get a free boost for your program. It’s the perfect way to kickstart your coaching career. Ultimate College Basketball HC—begin your coaching legacy today! 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 code LOCKEDONNBA. 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.  RobinhoodWith Robinhood Gold, you can now enjoy the VIP treatment. The new Gold Standard is here with Robinhood Gold. To receive 3% boost on annual IRA contributions,  sign up at robinhood.com/gold.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? 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The Lakers can't quite decide what they are, or what they're supposed to be. On an emotional Monday night at the Crypt—in which the Lakers both honored the first responders and volunteers working tirelessly to gain full control of the wildfires still active around the city and care for those who have been displaced—LA started strong and faded hard. They were blown out over the second half 73-40 (and particularly in the fourth quarter, 37-13), getting sloppy with the ball and costing themselves far too many possessions... though it could be argued the Lakers didn't do much with the opportunities they didn't kick away. Final score, 126-102. LA loses its third straight game. The consistency simply isn't there. And after a good run, the Lakers suddenly look a lot like the team that had everyone worried that a good record was mostly a mirage. The defense, fueled on Monday by an inept, turnover prone offense, isn't holding at the high level we saw after the NBA Cup layoff. The offense is easily compromised, lacking secondary ballhandling and playmaking. San Antonio made life very hard for LeBron James and Austin Reaves by putting extra pressure on the ball, particularly when only one of them was on the floor. Getting Jarred Vanderbilt back, likely at some point next week, will help. But it's not a cure all. JJ Redick is going to need to find other levers to pull, including potentially flipping Dorian Finney-Smith and Rui Hachimura in the starting lineup. Good teams sustain good play for a month or two at a time, not just a week or two. The Lakers aren't there yet, and need to find the formula to change that.  HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: The Lakers get thumped in the second half. SEGMENT 2: What went wrong with the defense? Was it the fault of the offense, actually?  SEGMENT 3: PUSH THE BUTTON, JJ! 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!OpenPhoneThe #1 business phone system designed to help you keep your work and personal life separate.Right now, OpenPhone is offering 20% off your first 6 months when you go to OpenPhone.com/LOCKEDONNBA.and if you have existing numbers with another service, OpenPhone will port them over at no extra charge! Rocket RXRight now, our listeners can get 40% off your first order when you use code LOCKEDONNBA at RocketRX.com. Terms and Conditions apply.Rocket RX: Better sex, made simple.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. 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. 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         Victor Wembanyama had 23 points and 8 rebounds, and Chris Paul added 13 points and 10 assists as the San Antonio Spurs snapped their 3-game losing streak in beating the hometown Lakers 126-102. Anthony Davis scored 30 points and grabbed 13 rebounds in the loss, while LeBron James contributed with 18 points and 8 assists. The Lakers will look to get back on the winning side of things Wednesday night when they host the Miami Heat. ULTIMATE COLLEGE BASKETBALL HC •      If you’ve ever dreamed of being a college basketball head coach, this is your chance to step into those shoes! In Ultimate College Basketball HC, you control every detail of your program—from recruiting players and hiring coaching staff to overseeing training camps, handling NIL deals, and managing scholarships. It’s all in your hands!•      Here’s a special offer for Locked On NBA listeners: Use promo code LOCKEDONCBB (all caps) inside the game store to get a free boost for your program. It’s the perfect way to kickstart your coaching career. To download Ultimate College Basketball HC, just visit ultimate-cbb.com or look it up on the app stores. Ultimate College Basketball HC—begin your coaching legacy today!Gametime •      Take the guesswork out of buying tickets with Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Again, create an account and redeem code L-O-C-K-E-D-O-N-N-B-A for $20 off. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime! Open Phone •               Open Phone works through an app on your phone or computer and integrates with tools like Hubspot and hundreds of others. It also uses AI-powered call transcripts and summaries, so you’ll have a rundown of your calls and action items the second 

The Lakers will play basketball tonight at the Crypt, hosting the San Antonio Spurs. Broadly, it's a sign that officials believe they have a better handle on the still-burning fires in Los Angeles, because they're willing to have emergency personnee available for a game at LA Live (and another at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, with the Clippers hosting a home game of their own). It's been a trying week for everyone around the city, including Lakers players and team personnel. The home JJ Redick and his family have been living in since moving to LA burned down in the Palisades fire. LeBron James, like many residents of Brentwood, spent the weekend facing mandatory or potential evacuation. But there's simply no way the NBA would stage games unless they were told in no uncertain terms that the risk of diverting critical public safety resources was low. So now that they're back on the floor, what will it look like? The emotional toll in moments like this can be challenging. Obviously the arena will be a place of mixed emotions. People excited to see their team, hoping to have a moment where they're rallying for their city, a brief respite from the realities a few miles away, and more. The team will certainly honor those who have lost so much, and the first responders trying to protect them. There will be even more energy and celebration as Michael Cooper, one of the most beloved members of the Showtime Lakers, will finally have his jersey retired. It's a lot to pack into one night. But of course, what we see tonight is just the start of weeks, months, and years of recovery. One thing that is likely safe to say: While the Lakers don't always handle their basketball decisions, they almost always nail the moment in times like these. Whatever the team chooses to do will likely hit the right notes. And LeBron James, who was excellent helping lead the team and the community when the Lakers resumed play following the death of Kobe Bryant, will likely meet the moment as well. It's just one game, but it's likely a welcome sight for a lot of Angelenos.  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!OpenPhoneThe #1 business phone system designed to help you keep your work and personal life separate.Right now, OpenPhone is offering 20% off your first 6 months when you go to OpenPhone.com/LOCKEDONNBA.and if you have existing numbers with another service, OpenPhone will port them over at no extra charge! Rocket RXRight now, our listeners can get 40% off your first order when you use code LOCKEDONNBA at RocketRX.com. Terms and Conditions apply.Rocket RX: Better sex, made simple.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. 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.Ultimate GMA special offer for Locked On NBA listeners: Use promo code LOCKEDONCBB (all caps) when you download Ultimate College Basketball HC at ultimate-cbb.com or look it up on the app stores, to get a free boost for your program. It’s the perfect way to kickstart your coaching career. 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As expected, Thursday's game between the Hornets and Lakers at Crypto.com Arena was postponed due to the wildfires raging throughout the Los Angeles area. Attempting to hold a basketball contest amidst all this chaos and tragedy would have been both tone-deaf and logistically irresponsible, particularly at a time when JJ Redick is dealing with the loss of his Pacific Palisades home. As such, that event has been tabled, and there's a good possibility that Saturday and Monday's upcoming games vs. the Spurs will require relocation to play on time. And whatever solution is landed upon by the Lakers and the league is obviously a first-world problem compared to the plight of so many Angelenos. In the meantime, this show continues its attempt at a welcome distraction for many of its listeners. The actual basketball conversation centered around the second return of fan voting for the All-Star Game, which currently has LeBron James paced as a starter for the 21st consecutive season, although not by enough for it to be a lock. It also has Anthony Davis paced to make the team, although also not by enough for it to be a lock. This speaks far more to the overwhelming competition in the West than anything LeBron or AD are lacking as players this season. It's a brutal conference, and the All-Star names in the mix reinforce this.Hosts: Andy and Brian KamenetzkySegment 1: It's a difficult time for sports - and life - in Los Angeles right now.Segment 2: Will LeBron's All-Star starting streak remain intact? And is AD gonna make the team?Segment 3: More on the All-Star voting.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!PrizepicksNow’s the perfect time to join.Download the app todayand 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!Rocket RXRight now, our listeners can get 40% off your first order when you use code LOCKEDONNBA at RocketRX.com. Terms and Conditions apply.Rocket RX: Better sex, made simple. Ultimate GMA special offer for Locked On NBA listeners: Use promo code LOCKEDONCBB (all caps) when you download Ultimate College Basketball HC at ultimate-cbb.com or look it up on the app stores, to get a free boost for your program. It’s the perfect way to kickstart your coaching career. Ultimate College Basketball HC—begin your coaching legacy today!Turbo TaxReady for stress-free taxes and the most money back, guaranteed? Head over to TurboTax.com today and get matched with your Expert. Only available with TurboTax Live Full Service. Real-time updates only in the iOS mobile app. See guarantee details at TurboTax.com/guarantees.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.FanDuelFrom big upsets to game-winning drives, the NFL Playoffs are better with FanDuelnew customers can bet FIVE DOLLARS and get TWO HUNDRED BUCKS in BONUS BETS - GUARANTEED - Win or Lose.Visit FANDUEL.COM to get started. Make this playoff season unforgettable with FanDuel, an official sportsbook partner of the NFL.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)

This is a difficult time in Los Angeles, with fire impacting massive portions of the city, unfathomable loss already and great uncertainty still ahead. How it influences the NBA calendar isn't a priority concern, but that said at least as of Wednesday night, there has been no announcement about whether the Lakers and Charlotte will actually be playing tonight at the Crypt. (It seems like a bad idea to do anything that puts people in their cars and has the potential to require the attention of first responders, especially since it's abundantly clear that this crisis is not going to end today, but we'll see what the league chooses to do.)  Our thoughts are everyone in the community, especially those directly affected, including our colleague Darian Vaziri, host of Locked On Clippers, whose family home was lost in the fire. In this episode, we talk about the human impact of the fires, including on the Lakers. JJ Redick's family, for example, was evacuated from the Pacific Palisades neighborhood on Tuesday. From there, it's a conversation about Jared Vanderbilt, who finally, truly, this-time-for-real seems near a return from his multiple foot surgeries. The Lakers will have more to say in a week or so, but Vando is back on the floor doing full court work, with contact. That's good news for the team, especially as we get closer to the trade deadline, which is a month away now. To see Vanderbilt back in the lineup, get a feel for what he's capable of doing, how he fits and so on, gives Rob Pelinka more data points as he tries to allocate the team's limited trade capital as effectively as possible.  HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: The fires in LA are impacting everything and everyone, including the Lakers and the NBA.SEGMENT 2: Seriously, this time it seems like Jarred Vanderbilt is set to return soon. SEGMENT 3: Getting Vando back is a big deal.  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!PrizepicksNow’s the perfect time to join.Download the app todayand 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! Rocket RXRight now, our listeners can get 40% off your first order when you use code LOCKEDONNBA at RocketRX.com. Terms and Conditions apply.Rocket RX: Better sex, made simple.Ultimate GMA special offer for Locked On NBA listeners: Use promo code LOCKEDONCBB (all caps) when you download Ultimate College Basketball HC at ultimate-cbb.com or look it up on the app stores, to get a free boost for your program. It’s the perfect way to kickstart your coaching career. Ultimate College Basketball HC—begin your coaching legacy today! Turbo TaxReady for stress-free taxes and the most money back, guaranteed? Head over to TurboTax.com today and get matched with your Expert. Only available with TurboTax Live Full Service. Real-time updates only in the iOS mobile app. See guarantee details at TurboTax.com/guarantees.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.FanDuelFrom big upsets to game-winning drives, the NFL Playoffs are better with FanDuelnew customers can bet FIVE DOLLARS and get TWO HUNDRED BUCKS in BONUS BETS - GUARANTEED - Win or Lose.Visit FANDUEL.COM to get started. Make this playoff season unforgettable with FanDuel, an official sportsbook partner of the NFL. 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)  

There have been a few good candidates for "Worst" among the (now) 16 losses suffered by the Lakers over the course of this season. But Tuesday, the Lakers may have set a new bar. They went into Dallas facing a Mavs team without Luka Doncic or Kyrie Irving, and playing on the second night of a back-to-back in which they had to travel back to from Memphis to Dallas after losing to the Grizzlies Monday night. Starting center Derek Lively was in foul trouble for much of the game, which is problematic for Dallas since their backup, Daniel Gafford, is on the shelf as well. LA, meanwhile, had a day of rest to think about a disappointing loss in Houston Sunday evening, and even got some reinforcements in the form of Gabe Vincent, who returned to the lineup after missing games with an oblique injury. And by beating Dallas, the Lakers could put a little space between themselves and a key competitor in the Western Conference.And yet, the Lakers lost, 118-97. When people question how good the Lakers are, and whether or not Rob Pelinka ought to be investing what's left of the team's prime assets in this season, it's games like this that give them pause. Good teams do not lose this game. They may not play great, they might hit some rocky points, but in the end, they win the game. (Really good teams knock Dallas out early, and never let them get confident, but let's walk before we run.) So if you're Pelinka, how do you react to nights like this? Can you believe that the Lakers are capable of enough consistency to push through the late stretch of the season, then into multiple rounds of playoff basketball, with enough high-end consistency to make an "all in" move seem like a reasonable gamble? There is an excellent chance that at the end of the year, the Lakers will see the standings and point to this game as a reason something more favorable didn't happen. It's possible, too, that it could be a reason the team doesn't go big at the deadline.  HOSTS: Andy and Brian KamenetzkySEGMENT 1: Horrible, horrible loss. SEGMENT 2: Nobody stepped up to get the job done, and the defense was really bad. SEGMENT 3: It starts with the stars - 39 points from LeBron and AD? That's not enough.  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!PrizepicksNow’s the perfect time to join.Download the app todayand 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! Rocket RXRight now, our listeners can get 40% off your first order when you use code LOCKEDONNBA at RocketRX.com. Terms and Conditions apply.Rocket RX: Better sex, made simple.Ultimate GMA special offer for Locked On NBA listeners: Use promo code LOCKEDONCBB (all caps) when you download Ultimate College Basketball HC at ultimate-cbb.com or look it up on the app stores, to get a free boost for your program. It’s the perfect way to kickstart your coaching career. Ultimate College Basketball HC—begin your coaching legacy today! Turbo TaxReady for stress-free taxes and the most money back, guaranteed? Head over to TurboTax.com today and get matched with your Expert. Only available with TurboTax Live Full Service. Real-time updates only in the iOS mobile app. See guarantee details at TurboTax.com/guarantees.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.FanDuelFrom big upsets to game-winning drives, the NFL Playoffs are better with FanDuelnew customers can bet FIVE DOLLARS and get TWO HUNDRED BUCKS in BONUS BETS - GUARANTEED - Win or Lose.Visit FANDUEL.COM to get started. Make this playoff season unforgettable with FanDuel, an official sportsbook partner of the NFL. 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) 

Quentin Grimes scored 23 off the bench and former Laker Spencer Dinwiddie added 22 as the Dallas Mavericks, playing without Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, beat the Los Angeles Lakers 118-97. Anthony Davis led the Lakers with 21 points and 12 rebounds, while LeBron James had 18 points, 10 rebounds, and 8 assists in the loss. The Lakers will look to get on the winning side of things Thursday night when they host the Hornets. Lakers, LA Lakers, Los Angeles Lakers, LeBron James, Anthony Davis, Rui, Hachimura Austin Reeves, NBA, Lakers Post cast, JJ Redick, Dalton Knecht, Lakers vs Mavericks, Los Angeles Lakers vs Dallas Mavericks Support Us, By Supporting Our Sponsors! BILT•      Bilt Rewards. If you’re a renter, Bilt, you can now earn points on rent payments, just like you do with groceries or travel. Paying rent now comes with serious perks, and it’s completely free to join!FAN DUEL Get ready to tackle the NFL action with FanDuel America’s – Number One Sportsbook! Because right now, new customers can bet FIVE DOLLARS and get TWO HUNDRED in BONUS BETS, if you win!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.Mint MobileTo get the new customer offer and your new 3-month premium wireless plan for just $15 a month, go to mintmobile.com/lockedonnba. See Mint Mobile for details.PRIZEPICKS – is the best place to get real money sports action. Run your game all season long on Prize Picks. America’s#1 daily fantasy sports app. Robinhood GoldRobinhood Gold provides the privileges of a high net worth for any net worth. These generous benefits are now available for only $5/month. The new Gold Standard is here with Robinhood Gold. Sign up at robinhood.com/gold. ROCKET MONEYCancel your unwanted subscriptions and reach your financial goals faster with Rocket Money. Go to RocketMoney dot com slash lockedon today. That’s RocketMoney dot com slash lockedon. RocketMoney dot com slash lockedon.SKYLIGHT FRAME•      If you’re having a hard time finding the perfect gift, you have to try Sky Light Frame. You can try Skylight Frame today when you go to SkylightFrames.com/nba

At 20-15 and sitting fifth in the Western Conference (as of Monday night), the Lakers are very firmly in that cluster of teams that have shown themselves to be better than the fringe-y teams but not as good as the elite ones. As Rob Pelinka shifts into high gear (or at least Trade Season does), the Lakers have a very narrow window to pass through when it comes to making impactful moves. They've already used their most straightforward trade chip, D'Angelo Russell (along with a handful of second round picks) to acquire Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton. They don't have much inventory left. One of the biggest things the Lakers can do, then, is maximize the assets they have. And with every day that passes since DFS arrived in LA, it seems like the Lakers are on a path to do just that. Or try to, at least. It would mean swapping Finney-Smith and Rui Hachimura in the starting lineup. Why? For defense, for better bench scoring, and to make the best use of what the Lakers have. There are other compelling reasons, as well. Will JJ Redick pull the trigger?  HOSTS: Andy and Brian KamenetzkySEGMENT 1: Why the second half against Houston was very important. SEGMENT 2: Rui or Finney-Smith in the starting lineup? SEGMENT 3: Do the Lakers need to trade for positions or skill sets?  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!PrizepicksNow’s the perfect time to join.Download the app todayand 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! Ultimate GMA special offer for Locked On NBA listeners: Use promo code LOCKEDONCBB (all caps) when you download Ultimate College Basketball HC at ultimate-cbb.com or look it up on the app stores, to get a free boost for your program. It’s the perfect way to kickstart your coaching career. Ultimate College Basketball HC—begin your coaching legacy today! Turbo TaxReady for stress-free taxes and the most money back, guaranteed? Head over to TurboTax.com today and get matched with your Expert. Only available with TurboTax Live Full Service. Real-time updates only in the iOS mobile app. See guarantee details at TurboTax.com/guarantees.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.FanDuelFrom big upsets to game-winning drives, the NFL Playoffs are better with FanDuelnew customers can bet FIVE DOLLARS and get TWO HUNDRED BUCKS in BONUS BETS - GUARANTEED - Win or Lose.Visit FANDUEL.COM to get started. Make this playoff season unforgettable with FanDuel, an official sportsbook partner of the NFL. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) 

As the saying often goes, this 119-115 loss to the Houston Rockets was “a tale of two halves” for the Lakers. In the first half, the Lakers looked like a team either experiencing some undefeated nightlife in Houston or that had gotten a little too high on their own supply of “The Lakers are back and playing defense, baby!!!” coverage over the last couple of weeks. Even acknowledging the very obvious age and athleticism advantage that anybody would have expected on the Rockets’ side, the Lakers spent the opening 24 minutes in a much slower (and seemingly more disinterested) gear. The first half featured various Houstonians streaking down court in transition off every Laker turnover or missed shot. The Lakers got absolutely crushed in the second chance points battle. (They didn’t record *any* until the second half.) Jalen Green scored 18 of his 33 total points in the FIRST QUARTER, inside and out, with precious little resistance from Lakers defenders. Frankly, it felt lucky that the Lakers were only down 18 entering halftime. The game hadn’t even felt that close. But something must have been effectively (or angrily) stated by JJ Redick in the visitor’s locker room, because the Lakers were a completely different team during the final 24 minutes. Especially defensively. (Redick made a curious early substitution, pulling Rui Hachimura for Dorian Finney-Smith, which could be a preview of Tuesday’s starting lineup in Dallas, and either way, was indicative of the more successful defense the Lakers coach was clearly trying to crank up.) The ball was moving to better effect. The rebounding became less lopsided. And the Lakers looked like a team that was capable of matching this upstart Rockets team bounce for bounce. However, that disastrous start left the Lakers too little of a cushion to absorb any mistakes, and there were a few critical ones in the last couple of minutes. LeBron James was called for an offensive foul with 38.1 seconds left in the game.  Down three with 5.1 seconds left, inbounder Max Christie (who I’d argue isn’t experienced enough for this job in crunchtime to begin with) either panicked or forgot the team had another timeout left, and turned the ball over trying a pass to LeBron. (Who, to his credit, tried to call timeout, but none of the refs noticed.) A few seconds later, now down four and looking for a miracle, the ball was successfully inbounded to LeBron, who hit a three… that was wiped out because of Anthony Davis’ illegal screen. In the end, the final score was a reinforcement of what’s become evident all season. The Lakers are a good team… but not yet at a level with a high margin of error. Are they capable of beating a team like the Rockets despite a halfa**ed first half? Possibly. But not nearly capable enough that you’d ever want to bet on them pulling it off.   

Anthony Davis scored 30 points and grabbed 13 rebounds to go along with 5 blocks, but it wasn’t enough, as the Houston Rockets outlasted the visiting Lakers 119-115. Jalen Green led the Rockets with 33 points, while Amen Thompson added 23 points and 16 rebounds. The Lakers will look to get back on the winning side of things Tuesday in Dallas against the Mavericks. Lakers, LA Lakers, Los Angeles Lakers, LeBron James, Anthony Davis, Rui, Hachimura Austin Reeves, NBA, Lakers Post cast, JJ Redick, Dalton Knecht, Lakers vs Rockets, Los Angeles Lakers vs Houston Rockets Support Us, By Supporting Our Sponsors! BILT•      Bilt Rewards. If you’re a renter, Bilt, you can now earn points on rent payments, just like you do with groceries or travel. Paying rent now comes with serious perks, and it’s completely free to join!FAN DUEL Get ready to tackle the NFL action with FanDuel America’s – Number One Sportsbook! Because right now, new customers can bet FIVE DOLLARS and get TWO HUNDRED in BONUS BETS, if you win!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.Mint MobileTo get the new customer offer and your new 3-month premium wireless plan for just $15 a month, go to mintmobile.com/lockedonnba. See Mint Mobile for details.PRIZEPICKS – is the best place to get real money sports action. Run your game all season long on Prize Picks. America’s#1 daily fantasy sports app. Robinhood GoldRobinhood Gold provides the privileges of a high net worth for any net worth. These generous benefits are now available for only $5/month. The new Gold Standard is here with Robinhood Gold. Sign up at robinhood.com/gold. ROCKET MONEYCancel your unwanted subscriptions and reach your financial goals faster with Rocket Money. Go to RocketMoney dot com slash lockedon today. That’s RocketMoney dot com slash lockedon. RocketMoney dot com slash lockedon.SKYLIGHT FRAME•      If you’re having a hard time finding the perfect gift, you have to try Sky Light Frame. You can try Skylight Frame today when you go to SkylightFrames.com/nba

The Lakers entered Friday's game against the Hawks at the Crypt with some tangible momentum, having won three of their last four, and six of their last eight. They used a very efficient effort on both sides of the ball to keep it going, picking up their 20th win of the season, 119-102. Offensively, LA was led by LeBron James, who followed up Thursday's 38-point effort against Portland with 30 points tonight. Anthony Davis was a monster, with 18 points, 19 rebounds, plus six "stocks" (steals+blocks). Austin Reaves? 20 points, seven boards, six assists. Off the bench, Dalton Knecht broke out of his shooting slump, hitting three of four from downtown. And as a team, the Lakers shot nearly 50 percent from the floor (48.9%), including 43% from 3-point range. They hit 80 percent of their free throws. Put all of that together, and it's a winning formula on offense, assuming you bring the requisite defense. And that they did. Beyond the impact of Anthony Davis's blocks and steals, the Lakers used solid defensive pressure to hold Atlanta to 41% shooting. There wasn't anything particularly flashy about what the Lakers did, which is one of the reasons the win was noteworthy. They just delivered a solid, efficient game to overwhelm a Hawks squad that had been playing well heading in. 20-14 is where the Lakers needed to be as they head to Texas for two games before returning home for an extended homestand. They have some winnable games upcoming, and the Lakers are playing in a way where you'd expect wins to come.  HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky 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!Rocket RXRight now, our listeners can get 40% off your first order when you use code LOCKEDONNBA at RocketRX.com. Terms and Conditions apply.Rocket RX: Better sex, made simple.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.FanDuelThe NFL Playoffs are almost here, but it’s not too late to get in on the regular season action with FanDuel because right now, new customers can finish the season strong with TWO HUNDRED and FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS if your first FIVE DOLLAR bet wins. Visit FANDUEL.COM to get started. 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)