Podcasts about lockedon20

The Celtics made a lot of noise on Friday, trading for Malcolm Brogdon (using Daniel Theis, Aaron Nesmith, and other contracts plus a first round pick) and signing Danilo Gallinari (usng the MLE). What does this mean for Marcus Smart? What's next? Is Brad Stevens just better at this job than his last one? John Karalis of Boston Sports Journal and Tom Westerholm of Boston.com discuss. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! PrizePicks Check out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy! Built Bar Built Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order. BetOnline BetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts! Rock Auto Amazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you. Arcade1up Pre-order now from arcade1up.com - that's Arcade, the number 1, Up, dot com - for an estimated early September ship date! They are giving away a NBA JAM Shaq edition to a Locked On listener! Enter for a chance to win a game console for your man-cave at arcade1up.com/lockedon. Sakara Sakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

NBA free agency kicked off Thursday afternoon, and the Lakers didn't let limited resources keep them on the sidelines. They signed a center (Damian Jones) and two forwards (Juan Toscano-Anderson and Troy Brown Jr.) to veteran's minimum contracts, and used their taxpayer midlevel exception, worth about $6.5 million, on former Spurs guard Lonnie Walker IV.On the one hand, the Lakers broke from last year's free agent trends in significant ways. First, they went much, much younger. The oldest of the quartet is Toscano-Anderson, at 29. On the other, the Lakers didn't pick up any of the shooting they banked last season. Or at least they thought they banked, in hindsight. All told, it reminds Lakers fans of the bind the team is in, trying to make impactful improvements to the roster. (It also reminds Lakers fans of who put the Lakers in this box to begin with... namely, the Lakers.)So what signings were the best? Which were the most questionable? Where do they go from here? Can the Lakers make any trades to fill in some of the gaps?And speaking of trades, Kevin Durant has demanded one out of Brooklyn, contacting owner Joe Tsai himself. And while he's highly unlikely to land in Los Angeles, it does put Kyrie Irving back into play. In fact, some reports suggest Irving might try to force his way to Los Angeles. It's reasonable to ask if this becomes the Thanos of NBA trades -- simply inevitable.HOSTS: Andy and Brian KamenetzkySEGMENT 1: Free agency, Day 1: The Lakers make four moves. What were they trying to accomplish?SEGMENT 2: Breaking down the names. Who do you like, who don't you like? How much better are the Lakers now?SEGMENT 3: The rumors that won't die -- Kyrie Irving is once again being linked to the Lakers, and it seems like it might happen, maybe later, maybe sooner, but at some point.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!PrizePicksCheck out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy!Built BarBuilt Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order.BetOnlineBetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts!Rock AutoAmazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you.Arcade1upPre-order now from arcade1up.com - that's Arcade, the number 1, Up, dot com - for an estimated early September ship date! They are giving away a NBA JAM Shaq edition to a Locked On listener! Enter for a chance to win a game console for your man-cave at arcade1up.com/lockedon.SakaraSakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Celtics were pretty quiet on day 1 of free agency, but the rest of the league was pretty busy throwing money around, Kevin Durant's trade request was the most shocking part of the day, and it could be something that gives the Cetlics a chance to pounce on some needed bench help. John Karalis of Boston Sports Journal looks at how the C's can take advantage of a CBA quirk with their TPE. Also, some of the day 1 signings which kept Boston on the sideline, and who is left that could be intriguing.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!PrizePicksCheck out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy!Built BarBuilt Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order.BetOnlineBetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts!Rock AutoAmazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you.Arcade1upPre-order now from arcade1up.com - that's Arcade, the number 1, Up, dot com - for an estimated early September ship date! They are giving away a NBA JAM Shaq edition to a Locked On listener! Enter for a chance to win a game console for your man-cave at arcade1up.com/lockedon.SakaraSakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Celtics made a lot of noise on Friday, trading for Malcolm Brogdon (using Daniel Theis, Aaron Nesmith, and other contracts plus a first round pick) and signing Danilo Gallinari (usng the MLE). What does this mean for Marcus Smart? What's next? Is Brad Stevens just better at this job than his last one? John Karalis of Boston Sports Journal and Tom Westerholm of Boston.com discuss.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!PrizePicksCheck out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy!Built BarBuilt Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order.BetOnlineBetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts!Rock AutoAmazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you.Arcade1upPre-order now from arcade1up.com - that's Arcade, the number 1, Up, dot com - for an estimated early September ship date! They are giving away a NBA JAM Shaq edition to a Locked On listener! Enter for a chance to win a game console for your man-cave at arcade1up.com/lockedon.SakaraSakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

NBA free agency kicked off Thursday afternoon, and the Lakers didn't let limited resources keep them on the sidelines. They signed a center (Damian Jones) and two forwards (Juan Toscano-Anderson and Troy Brown Jr.) to veteran's minimum contracts, and used their taxpayer midlevel exception, worth about $6.5 million, on former Spurs guard Lonnie Walker IV. On the one hand, the Lakers broke from last year's free agent trends in significant ways. First, they went much, much younger. The oldest of the quartet is Toscano-Anderson, at 29. On the other, the Lakers didn't pick up any of the shooting they banked last season. Or at least they thought they banked, in hindsight. All told, it reminds Lakers fans of the bind the team is in, trying to make impactful improvements to the roster. (It also reminds Lakers fans of who put the Lakers in this box to begin with... namely, the Lakers.) So what signings were the best? Which were the most questionable? Where do they go from here? Can the Lakers make any trades to fill in some of the gaps? And speaking of trades, Kevin Durant has demanded one out of Brooklyn, contacting owner Joe Tsai himself. And while he's highly unlikely to land in Los Angeles, it does put Kyrie Irving back into play. In fact, some reports suggest Irving might try to force his way to Los Angeles. It's reasonable to ask if this becomes the Thanos of NBA trades -- simply inevitable. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Free agency, Day 1: The Lakers make four moves. What were they trying to accomplish? SEGMENT 2: Breaking down the names. Who do you like, who don't you like? How much better are the Lakers now? SEGMENT 3: The rumors that won't die -- Kyrie Irving is once again being linked to the Lakers, and it seems like it might happen, maybe later, maybe sooner, but at some point. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! PrizePicks Check out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy! Built Bar Built Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order. BetOnline BetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts! Rock Auto Amazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you. Arcade1up Pre-order now from arcade1up.com - that's Arcade, the number 1, Up, dot com - for an estimated early September ship date! They are giving away a NBA JAM Shaq edition to a Locked On listener! Enter for a chance to win a game console for your man-cave at arcade1up.com/lockedon. Sakara Sakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Celtics were pretty quiet on day 1 of free agency, but the rest of the league was pretty busy throwing money around, Kevin Durant's trade request was the most shocking part of the day, and it could be something that gives the Cetlics a chance to pounce on some needed bench help. John Karalis of Boston Sports Journal looks at how the C's can take advantage of a CBA quirk with their TPE. Also, some of the day 1 signings which kept Boston on the sideline, and who is left that could be intriguing. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! PrizePicks Check out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy! Built Bar Built Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order. BetOnline BetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts! Rock Auto Amazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you. Arcade1up Pre-order now from arcade1up.com - that's Arcade, the number 1, Up, dot com - for an estimated early September ship date! They are giving away a NBA JAM Shaq edition to a Locked On listener! Enter for a chance to win a game console for your man-cave at arcade1up.com/lockedon. Sakara Sakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A common question after the Dejounte Murray trade between the San Antonio Spurs and Atlanta Hawks is whether the Cetlics could have gone for him at the trade deadline instead of Derrick White. John Karalis of Boston Sports Journal and Tom Westerholm of Boston.com discuss why they didn't, as well as how the Celtics might take advantage of the deal to go after role players on either team. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! PrizePicks Check out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy! Built Bar Built Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order. BetOnline BetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts! Rock Auto Amazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you. Arcade1up Pre-order now from arcade1up.com - that's Arcade, the number 1, Up, dot com - for an estimated early September ship date! They are giving away a NBA JAM Shaq edition to a Locked On listener! Enter for a chance to win a game console for your man-cave at arcade1up.com/lockedon. Sakara Sakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

For the Lakers, the start of Thursday's free agency period in the NBA is an opportunity to improve, and a reminder of how constrained they are in the effort. There are some intriguing names out there, many of whom could help a team with precious little depth... but the Lakers enter the fray with only one big chunk of change at their disposal - the taxpayer midlevel exception worth just over six million - and in the grand scheme of things, even that one isn't so big.So what should they prioritize? Is it Orlando center Mo Bamba? Golden State wing Otto Porter Jr.? What about a sleeper candidate like Miami's Caleb Martin or Isaiah Hartenstein from the Clippers? They only get one crack at it, and how they spend this money will have a major impact on the way the Lakers then fill other holes.And what about the older vets? Someone like Blake Griffin will inevitably be attached to the Lakers via the rumor mill. Given the experience of last season, how many of those guys can/should they get away with signing? Is there any space for the cagey, low minutes vet on this squad?Finally, the Buddy Hield rumor mill will never fully die. But whether for Hield or anyone else, do the Lakers have the flexibility to pull off a trade of significance?HOSTS: Andy and Brian KamenetzkySEGMENT 1: Who will be the 6:01 ET phone call as free agency opens? Who should get LA's attention (and the biggest chuck of its money)?SEGMENT 2: Bamba or Porter or Hartenstein or Martin or ??? Who are the best free agent targets for L.A.?SEGMENT 3: A brilliant tweet about Russell Westbrook. Plus, can the Lakers swing a trade of consequence?Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!PrizePicksCheck out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy!Built BarBuilt Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order.BetOnlineBetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts!Rock AutoAmazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you.Arcade1upPre-order now from arcade1up.com - that's Arcade, the number 1, Up, dot com - for an estimated early September ship date! They are giving away a NBA JAM Shaq edition to a Locked On listener! Enter for a chance to win a game console for your man-cave at arcade1up.com/lockedon.SakaraSakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

For the Lakers, the start of Thursday's free agency period in the NBA is an opportunity to improve, and a reminder of how constrained they are in the effort. There are some intriguing names out there, many of whom could help a team with precious little depth... but the Lakers enter the fray with only one big chunk of change at their disposal - the taxpayer midlevel exception worth just over six million - and in the grand scheme of things, even that one isn't so big. So what should they prioritize? Is it Orlando center Mo Bamba? Golden State wing Otto Porter Jr.? What about a sleeper candidate like Miami's Caleb Martin or Isaiah Hartenstein from the Clippers? They only get one crack at it, and how they spend this money will have a major impact on the way the Lakers then fill other holes. And what about the older vets? Someone like Blake Griffin will inevitably be attached to the Lakers via the rumor mill. Given the experience of last season, how many of those guys can/should they get away with signing? Is there any space for the cagey, low minutes vet on this squad? Finally, the Buddy Hield rumor mill will never fully die. But whether for Hield or anyone else, do the Lakers have the flexibility to pull off a trade of significance? HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Who will be the 6:01 ET phone call as free agency opens? Who should get LA's attention (and the biggest chuck of its money)? SEGMENT 2: Bamba or Porter or Hartenstein or Martin or ??? Who are the best free agent targets for L.A.? SEGMENT 3: A brilliant tweet about Russell Westbrook. Plus, can the Lakers swing a trade of consequence? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! PrizePicks Check out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy! Built Bar Built Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order. BetOnline BetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts! Rock Auto Amazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you. Arcade1up Pre-order now from arcade1up.com - that's Arcade, the number 1, Up, dot com - for an estimated early September ship date! They are giving away a NBA JAM Shaq edition to a Locked On listener! Enter for a chance to win a game console for your man-cave at arcade1up.com/lockedon. Sakara Sakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A common question after the Dejounte Murray trade between the San Antonio Spurs and Atlanta Hawks is whether the Cetlics could have gone for him at the trade deadline instead of Derrick White. John Karalis of Boston Sports Journal and Tom Westerholm of Boston.com discuss why they didn't, as well as how the Celtics might take advantage of the deal to go after role players on either team.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!PrizePicksCheck out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy!Built BarBuilt Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order.BetOnlineBetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts!Rock AutoAmazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you.Arcade1upPre-order now from arcade1up.com - that's Arcade, the number 1, Up, dot com - for an estimated early September ship date! They are giving away a NBA JAM Shaq edition to a Locked On listener! Enter for a chance to win a game console for your man-cave at arcade1up.com/lockedon.SakaraSakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Will Hardy is becoming the head coach of the Utah Jazz, and but there's one other assistant coach on the Celtics bench who can be the biggest winner in this transaction. John Karalis of Boston Sports Journal and Tom Westerholm of Boston.com discuss that, John's preferrred TPE target, and Marcus Smart's comments about the Finals and him being the starting point guard. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! PrizePicks Check out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy! Built Bar Built Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order. BetOnline BetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts! Rock Auto Amazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you. Arcade1up Pre-order now from arcade1up.com - that's Arcade, the number 1, Up, dot com - for an estimated early September ship date! They are giving away a NBA JAM Shaq edition to a Locked On listener! Enter for a chance to win a game console for your man-cave at arcade1up.com/lockedon. Sakara Sakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Will Hardy is becoming the head coach of the Utah Jazz, and but there's one other assistant coach on the Celtics bench who can be the biggest winner in this transaction. John Karalis of Boston Sports Journal and Tom Westerholm of Boston.com discuss that, John's preferrred TPE target, and Marcus Smart's comments about the Finals and him being the starting point guard. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!PrizePicksCheck out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy!Built BarBuilt Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order.BetOnlineBetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts!Rock AutoAmazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you.Arcade1upPre-order now from arcade1up.com - that's Arcade, the number 1, Up, dot com - for an estimated early September ship date! They are giving away a NBA JAM Shaq edition to a Locked On listener! Enter for a chance to win a game console for your man-cave at arcade1up.com/lockedon.SakaraSakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

There were no credible scenarios in which Lakers guard Russell Westbrook decided to decline his $47.1 million player option for next season. Not in a world where maybe - maybe - he'd be in line to get someone's midlevel exception for about $10 mil. And that's a best-case scenario. So while Tuesday's news that Westbrook has exercised the option and is, save a trade, set to return isn't surprising, it's one more step towards actually taking the floor for L.A. this year. That's something few thought would happen at the end of last season. So how is the relationship with Westbrook? Has the team been bluffing with all the nice stuff they've said about him this offseason? Is there a chance everyone can reset the relationship and get him to play ball with a new outlook and new role? Would Russ accept it? Would it really make a difference if he did? (How many guys change their games to start doing the little things in their 15th year?) And how was the relationship impacted by the whole Kyrie Irving saga, which linked Brooklyn's guard to the Lakers? To discuss all of this, along with Malik Monk's potential future with the Lakers and a preview of what the team might do in free agency when it kicks off this week, Jovan Buha of The Athletic joins the show. He brings all his insight about the state of Westbrook and the Lakers, his understanding of Monk's priorities (based on a great new feature on the guy) and more. LISTEN UP! HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky with guest, Jovan Buha SEGMENT 1: Russ is back. Back again. Russ is back, Russ is back, Russ is back, Russ is back, Russ is back... SEGMENT 2: How close were the Lakers to getting Kyrie Irving? Was there fire to go with the smoke? SEGMENT 3: Would Monk stay with the Lakers for less than he'd get on the open market? Would the Lakers try hard to keep him, over other options? How will they approach free agency when it kicks off Thursday afternoon? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! PrizePicks Check out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy! Built Bar Built Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order. BetOnline BetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts! Rock Auto Amazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you. Arcade1up Pre-order now from arcade1up.com - that's Arcade, the number 1, Up, dot com - for an estimated early September ship date! They are giving away a NBA JAM Shaq edition to a Locked On listener! Enter for a chance to win a game console for your man-cave at arcade1up.com/lockedon. Sakara Sakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

There were no credible scenarios in which Lakers guard Russell Westbrook decided to decline his $47.1 million player option for next season. Not in a world where maybe - maybe - he'd be in line to get someone's midlevel exception for about $10 mil. And that's a best-case scenario. So while Tuesday's news that Westbrook has exercised the option and is, save a trade, set to return isn't surprising, it's one more step towards actually taking the floor for L.A. this year. That's something few thought would happen at the end of last season.So how is the relationship with Westbrook? Has the team been bluffing with all the nice stuff they've said about him this offseason? Is there a chance everyone can reset the relationship and get him to play ball with a new outlook and new role? Would Russ accept it? Would it really make a difference if he did? (How many guys change their games to start doing the little things in their 15th year?)And how was the relationship impacted by the whole Kyrie Irving saga, which linked Brooklyn's guard to the Lakers?To discuss all of this, along with Malik Monk's potential future with the Lakers and a preview of what the team might do in free agency when it kicks off this week, Jovan Buha of The Athletic joins the show. He brings all his insight about the state of Westbrook and the Lakers, his understanding of Monk's priorities (based on a great new feature on the guy) and more.LISTEN UP!HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky with guest, Jovan BuhaSEGMENT 1: Russ is back. Back again. Russ is back, Russ is back, Russ is back, Russ is back, Russ is back...SEGMENT 2: How close were the Lakers to getting Kyrie Irving? Was there fire to go with the smoke?SEGMENT 3: Would Monk stay with the Lakers for less than he'd get on the open market? Would the Lakers try hard to keep him, over other options? How will they approach free agency when it kicks off Thursday afternoon?Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!PrizePicksCheck out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy!Built BarBuilt Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order.BetOnlineBetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts!Rock AutoAmazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you.Arcade1upPre-order now from arcade1up.com - that's Arcade, the number 1, Up, dot com - for an estimated early September ship date! They are giving away a NBA JAM Shaq edition to a Locked On listener! Enter for a chance to win a game console for your man-cave at arcade1up.com/lockedon.SakaraSakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mailbag Monday was moved to Tuesday and this batch of questions mostly focused on Boston's failures in the Finals. John Karalis spins it all forward to see how these things that went wrong will color the way the team and the front office can fix the issues. Among the topics, trust and the turnovers, the short turnaround, bench help, and Boston's home playoff issues.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!PrizePicksCheck out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy!Built BarBuilt Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order.BetOnlineBetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts!Rock AutoAmazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you.Arcade1upPre-order now from arcade1up.com - that's Arcade, the number 1, Up, dot com - for an estimated early September ship date! They are giving away a NBA JAM Shaq edition to a Locked On listener! Enter for a chance to win a game console for your man-cave at arcade1up.com/lockedon.SakaraSakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mailbag Monday was moved to Tuesday and this batch of questions mostly focused on Boston's failures in the Finals. John Karalis spins it all forward to see how these things that went wrong will color the way the team and the front office can fix the issues. Among the topics, trust and the turnovers, the short turnaround, bench help, and Boston's home playoff issues. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! PrizePicks Check out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy! Built Bar Built Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order. BetOnline BetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts! Rock Auto Amazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you. Arcade1up Pre-order now from arcade1up.com - that's Arcade, the number 1, Up, dot com - for an estimated early September ship date! They are giving away a NBA JAM Shaq edition to a Locked On listener! Enter for a chance to win a game console for your man-cave at arcade1up.com/lockedon. Sakara Sakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The world woke up Monday to news that the relationship between Kyrie Irving and the Brooklyn Nets continued to deteriorate, and the star guard had permission to look for a sign and trade deal that would end his stay with the Nets. The Lakers, it was said, were the only team that showed interest. But Brooklyn, it was said, didn't want Russell Westbrook. So would it be a three-team deal? Four? How far would the Lakers go to simultaneously add the dynamic (if problematic) scorer and rid themselves of the Westbrook problem? Well, by 4 pm local time, it was a moot point. Kyrie announced, in the most pretentious way possible, he'll be staying with the Nets. Irving opts into the final year of his contract, and while that doesn't mean he can't be traded, it does mean he can't be part of a sign-and-trade that would bring him the contract Brooklyn seems unwilling to provide. So what does this situation say about Kyrie? The league's shifting approach to stars? The Lakers? And L.A.'s relationship to Westbrook? All of it is relevant and discussed herein. From there, it's a look at NBA free agency, which kicks off on Thursday. Specifically, The Athletic's Jovan Buha reports that Malik Monk, one of the team's few bright spots from last season, would be willing to take a little less to stay with the Lakers. Which would probably be required, were the Lakers to retain him. LA simply can't compete with what other teams can offer Monk, should they be so inclined. But even if the Lakers can give Monk their biggest available exception (a little over six million dollars) should they? Does Monk fill the greatest need in a summer where the Lakers have very few assets on hand? HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Kyrie-to-LA heats up... then ends just as fast. SEGMENT 2: Why the Lakers handled this news cycle the right way, vis-a-vis Westbrook. SEGMENT 3: Should the Lakers use their taxpayer midlevel exception on Malik Monk, if that would keep him here? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! PrizePicks Check out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy! Built Bar Built Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order. BetOnline BetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts! Rock Auto Amazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you. Arcade1up Pre-order now from arcade1up.com - that's Arcade, the number 1, Up, dot com - for an estimated early September ship date! They are giving away a NBA JAM Shaq edition to a Locked On listener! Enter for a chance to win a game console for your man-cave at arcade1up.com/lockedon. Sakara Sakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The world woke up Monday to news that the relationship between Kyrie Irving and the Brooklyn Nets continued to deteriorate, and the star guard had permission to look for a sign and trade deal that would end his stay with the Nets. The Lakers, it was said, were the only team that showed interest. But Brooklyn, it was said, didn't want Russell Westbrook. So would it be a three-team deal? Four? How far would the Lakers go to simultaneously add the dynamic (if problematic) scorer and rid themselves of the Westbrook problem?Well, by 4 pm local time, it was a moot point. Kyrie announced, in the most pretentious way possible, he'll be staying with the Nets. Irving opts into the final year of his contract, and while that doesn't mean he can't be traded, it does mean he can't be part of a sign-and-trade that would bring him the contract Brooklyn seems unwilling to provide.So what does this situation say about Kyrie? The league's shifting approach to stars? The Lakers? And L.A.'s relationship to Westbrook? All of it is relevant and discussed herein.From there, it's a look at NBA free agency, which kicks off on Thursday. Specifically, The Athletic's Jovan Buha reports that Malik Monk, one of the team's few bright spots from last season, would be willing to take a little less to stay with the Lakers. Which would probably be required, were the Lakers to retain him. LA simply can't compete with what other teams can offer Monk, should they be so inclined.But even if the Lakers can give Monk their biggest available exception (a little over six million dollars) should they? Does Monk fill the greatest need in a summer where the Lakers have very few assets on hand?HOSTS: Andy and Brian KamenetzkySEGMENT 1: Kyrie-to-LA heats up... then ends just as fast.SEGMENT 2: Why the Lakers handled this news cycle the right way, vis-a-vis Westbrook.SEGMENT 3: Should the Lakers use their taxpayer midlevel exception on Malik Monk, if that would keep him here?Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!PrizePicksCheck out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy!Built BarBuilt Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order.BetOnlineBetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts!Rock AutoAmazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you.Arcade1upPre-order now from arcade1up.com - that's Arcade, the number 1, Up, dot com - for an estimated early September ship date! They are giving away a NBA JAM Shaq edition to a Locked On listener! Enter for a chance to win a game console for your man-cave at arcade1up.com/lockedon.SakaraSakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Kyrie Irving saga has caused some people to take things in Brooklyn a step further and start speculating who might trade for Kevin Durant if he wants out. Would you trade Jaylen Brown (and someone else to make the money work) for Durant? John Karalis of Boston Sports Journal and Tom Westerholm of Boston.com discuss why they think it's appealing but not the best idea. Plus, why did Yam Madar pull out of summer league? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! PrizePicks Check out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy! Built Bar Built Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order. BetOnline BetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts! Rock Auto Amazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you. Arcade1up Pre-order now from arcade1up.com - that's Arcade, the number 1, Up, dot com - for an estimated early September ship date! They are giving away a NBA JAM Shaq edition to a Locked On listener! Enter for a chance to win a game console for your man-cave at arcade1up.com/lockedon. Sakara Sakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Free agency begins this week in the NBA, and the Lakers have a tremendous amount of work in front of them. But as the curtain rises on rebuilding yet another brand new Lakers roster, there's more smoke billowing around the Kyrie Irving-to-LA conversation. Not any fire, yet, it would appear, but with careful NBA reporters saying that LeBron James and Kyrie are communicating and that there's some substance to the interest, it's not nothing, either. And with James Harden reportedly set to take a less-than-max-length extension with Philadelphia, does that change the arithmetic around Kyrie's leverage, whether in Brooklyn or L.A.? What about LeBron's leadership? In an interview with Bloomberg, Golden State's Draymond Green noted that LeBron's presence would help mitigate Kyrie's relative lack of leadership skills. Certainly not a guy you'd want as a frontman, for sure... which means LeBron has to be here as long as Irving would be. Is James committed to Los Angeles in that way? Finally, as free agency starts, we open up the mailbag to look at some of the team needs, and whether or not the team will recalibrate its strategy around signing free agents. Should they bring back anyone? Dwight Howard? Carmelo Anthony? Should they guarantee spots for Stanley Johnson or Wenyen Gabriel? It's gonna be real tough to pull together a coherent roster on minimum deals and one taxpayer exception, that's for sure. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: The Kyrie rumors are percolating. Credible sources say there's something to it. SEGMENT 2: Draymond Green weighs in on how LeBron's influence could help it work, should Kyrie land in Los Angeles. SEGMENT 3: Should the Lakers bring Carmelo Anthony back? What about Dwight? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! PrizePicks Check out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy! Built Bar Built Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order. BetOnline BetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts! Rock Auto Amazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you. Arcade1up Pre-order now from arcade1up.com - that's Arcade, the number 1, Up, dot com - for an estimated early September ship date! They are giving away a NBA JAM Shaq edition to a Locked On listener! Enter for a chance to win a game console for your man-cave at arcade1up.com/lockedon. Sakara Sakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Free agency begins this week in the NBA, and the Lakers have a tremendous amount of work in front of them. But as the curtain rises on rebuilding yet another brand new Lakers roster, there's more smoke billowing around the Kyrie Irving-to-LA conversation. Not any fire, yet, it would appear, but with careful NBA reporters saying that LeBron James and Kyrie are communicating and that there's some substance to the interest, it's not nothing, either.And with James Harden reportedly set to take a less-than-max-length extension with Philadelphia, does that change the arithmetic around Kyrie's leverage, whether in Brooklyn or L.A.?What about LeBron's leadership? In an interview with Bloomberg, Golden State's Draymond Green noted that LeBron's presence would help mitigate Kyrie's relative lack of leadership skills. Certainly not a guy you'd want as a frontman, for sure... which means LeBron has to be here as long as Irving would be. Is James committed to Los Angeles in that way?Finally, as free agency starts, we open up the mailbag to look at some of the team needs, and whether or not the team will recalibrate its strategy around signing free agents. Should they bring back anyone? Dwight Howard? Carmelo Anthony? Should they guarantee spots for Stanley Johnson or Wenyen Gabriel?It's gonna be real tough to pull together a coherent roster on minimum deals and one taxpayer exception, that's for sure.HOSTS: Andy and Brian KamenetzkySEGMENT 1: The Kyrie rumors are percolating. Credible sources say there's something to it.SEGMENT 2: Draymond Green weighs in on how LeBron's influence could help it work, should Kyrie land in Los Angeles.SEGMENT 3: Should the Lakers bring Carmelo Anthony back? What about Dwight?Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!PrizePicksCheck out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy!Built BarBuilt Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order.BetOnlineBetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts!Rock AutoAmazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you.Arcade1upPre-order now from arcade1up.com - that's Arcade, the number 1, Up, dot com - for an estimated early September ship date! They are giving away a NBA JAM Shaq edition to a Locked On listener! Enter for a chance to win a game console for your man-cave at arcade1up.com/lockedon.SakaraSakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Kyrie Irving saga has caused some people to take things in Brooklyn a step further and start speculating who might trade for Kevin Durant if he wants out. Would you trade Jaylen Brown (and someone else to make the money work) for Durant? John Karalis of Boston Sports Journal and Tom Westerholm of Boston.com discuss why they think it's appealing but not the best idea. Plus, why did Yam Madar pull out of summer league?Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!PrizePicksCheck out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy!Built BarBuilt Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order.BetOnlineBetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts!Rock AutoAmazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you.Arcade1upPre-order now from arcade1up.com - that's Arcade, the number 1, Up, dot com - for an estimated early September ship date! They are giving away a NBA JAM Shaq edition to a Locked On listener! Enter for a chance to win a game console for your man-cave at arcade1up.com/lockedon.SakaraSakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Josh Lloyd looks at the 2022 NBA Draft and conducts his third mock draft of the season. Tune in to see where Chet Holmgren lands, as well as movement for Paolo Banchero, AJ Griffin, and more. The Locked On Fantasy Basketball Podcast is brought to you by Basketball Monster.Join the Discord hereSupport Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!PrizePicksCheck out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy!Built BarBuilt Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order.BetOnlineBetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts!Rock AutoAmazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you.SakaraSakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout.Intro Music by Ben LloydInstagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Josh Lloyd looks at the 2022 NBA Draft and conducts his third mock draft of the season. Tune in to see where Chet Holmgren lands, as well as movement for Paolo Banchero, AJ Griffin, and more. The Locked On Fantasy Basketball Podcast is brought to you by Basketball Monster. Join the Discord here Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! PrizePicks Check out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy! Built Bar Built Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order. BetOnline BetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts! Rock Auto Amazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you. Sakara Sakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Intro Music by Ben Lloyd Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Steph Curry was awesome in Game 4 of the NBA Finals, but the Boston Celtics still had a chance to overcome his amazing performance. Instead, they spent the final five minutes of the game getting outscored by 15, and losing the game by 10. John Karalis of Boston Sports Journal is inside the TD Garden and has some tough words for a team that admitted they got too stagnant.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!PrizePicksCheck out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy!Built BarBuilt Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order.BetOnlineBetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts!Rock AutoAmazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you.SakaraSakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout.Find and follow Locked On Celtics on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: http://karal.is/nvmgfiSpotify: http://karal.is/0q0arqStitcher: http://karal.is/guxlm7Google Play: http://karal.is/pna13zLocked On Celtics is a daily Boston Celtics podcast by Boston Sports Journal beat writer John Karalis. It's an inside look at the C's from a former professional basketball player who is at practices & games. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Steph Curry was awesome in Game 4 of the NBA Finals, but the Boston Celtics still had a chance to overcome his amazing performance. Instead, they spent the final five minutes of the game getting outscored by 15, and losing the game by 10. John Karalis of Boston Sports Journal is inside the TD Garden and has some tough words for a team that admitted they got too stagnant. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! PrizePicks Check out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy! Built Bar Built Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order. BetOnline BetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts! Rock Auto Amazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you. Sakara Sakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Find and follow Locked On Celtics on your favorite podcast platforms: Apple Podcasts: http://karal.is/nvmgfi Spotify: http://karal.is/0q0arq Stitcher: http://karal.is/guxlm7 Google Play: http://karal.is/pna13z Locked On Celtics is a daily Boston Celtics podcast by Boston Sports Journal beat writer John Karalis. It's an inside look at the C's from a former professional basketball player who is at practices & games. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On Thursday's show, it was time to review some of the street free agents the Lakers have brought into the building to get a look, and see if they'd be a fit somewhere on the roster for next season. Friday, it's a deeper look into the challenge of improving the team via free agency. Jovan Buha at The Athletic has a list of potential free agents, along with needs. But how many of the players who could make an impact would actually be available?Is it more important to find a player at a different position, or retain Malik Monk?And how about this for a hypothetical: Russell Westbrook (and likely some stuff) for Utah's Rudy Gobert, who has been the subject of trade rumors this week. Likely Utah feels they could do better (can't blame them) but are there any reasons the Lakers, or Lakers fans, would hesitate to add The Stifle Tower, who has DPOY potential on a yearly basis, but also has run into serious issues in the postseason and is owed eleventybillion dollars over the next few years?Finally, LeBron wants to own an NBA team, and he wants it to be in Vegas. That feels... like a very strong proposal.HOSTS: Andy and Brian KamenetzkySEGMENT 1: Looking at potential free agents, and the challenge ahead for the Lakers.SEGMENT 2: Westbrook for Gobert? Who says no? (Ok, would there be reasons for the Lakers to say no?)SEGMENT 3: LeBron, ownership and Las Vegas. Aaaaaaaaand, go.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!PrizePicksCheck out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy!Built BarBuilt Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order.BetOnlineBetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts!Rock AutoAmazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you.SakaraSakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Boston Celtics defense on Steph Curry has been a topic of some debate, with some quesstioning whether the Celtics need to change things. John Karalis and Tom Westerholm discuss that, and John argues that the drop coverage is part of a plan to dare Curry to beat Boston all by himself. Plus, more love for Robert Williams and some really dumb accusations of dirty play against Al Horford.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!PrizePicksCheck out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy!Built BarBuilt Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order.BetOnlineBetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts!Rock AutoAmazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you.SakaraSakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On Thursday's show, it was time to review some of the street free agents the Lakers have brought into the building to get a look, and see if they'd be a fit somewhere on the roster for next season. Friday, it's a deeper look into the challenge of improving the team via free agency. Jovan Buha at The Athletic has a list of potential free agents, along with needs. But how many of the players who could make an impact would actually be available? Is it more important to find a player at a different position, or retain Malik Monk? And how about this for a hypothetical: Russell Westbrook (and likely some stuff) for Utah's Rudy Gobert, who has been the subject of trade rumors this week. Likely Utah feels they could do better (can't blame them) but are there any reasons the Lakers, or Lakers fans, would hesitate to add The Stifle Tower, who has DPOY potential on a yearly basis, but also has run into serious issues in the postseason and is owed eleventybillion dollars over the next few years? Finally, LeBron wants to own an NBA team, and he wants it to be in Vegas. That feels... like a very strong proposal. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Looking at potential free agents, and the challenge ahead for the Lakers. SEGMENT 2: Westbrook for Gobert? Who says no? (Ok, would there be reasons for the Lakers to say no?) SEGMENT 3: LeBron, ownership and Las Vegas. Aaaaaaaaand, go. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! PrizePicks Check out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy! Built Bar Built Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order. BetOnline BetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts! Rock Auto Amazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you. Sakara Sakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Boston Celtics defense on Steph Curry has been a topic of some debate, with some quesstioning whether the Celtics need to change things. John Karalis and Tom Westerholm discuss that, and John argues that the drop coverage is part of a plan to dare Curry to beat Boston all by himself. Plus, more love for Robert Williams and some really dumb accusations of dirty play against Al Horford. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! PrizePicks Check out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy! Built Bar Built Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order. BetOnline BetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts! Rock Auto Amazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you. Sakara Sakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Boston Celtics looked good to start the game, but the typical third quarter from the Golden State Warriors made it feel like things were falling apart again. This time, though, they found the energy to pull through and pull away in the fourth. John Karalis explains why the home court was really an advantage, why Robert Williams was the key to the win, and how Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and Marcus Smart all had big roles in the Game 3 win. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! PrizePicks Check out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy! Built Bar Built Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order. BetOnline BetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts! Rock Auto Amazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you. Sakara Sakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum has made no secret throughout his career of his admiration, even idolization, of Lakers legend Kobe Bryant. It's a topic that has come up a lot during the playoffs, and Boston's run to the Finals, given gestures like Tatum wearing a "24" wristband in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Finals. It's put some Lakers fans in a weird position, one where they're actually pulling for a Celtic, and even the Celtics, in the Finals against Golden State.Is that against the rules? What are the rules, anyway?The Lakers are already on to the business of building out next season's roster. It's a given they'll have a lot of slots to fill via free agency, and not a lot money to do it. So journeymen like Langston Galloway, Kyle Guy, Alize Johnson, and D.J. Wilson —all of whom were in El Segundo this week—represent the kind of player to which the Lakers will have access. Finding the right combination of limited players that can be put in the best position to succeed while also fitting in with the team's stars (if necessary) won't be easy. But that's the challenge.How likely is it Rob Pelinka and crew will find the right mix?HOSTS: Andy and Brian KamenetzkySEGMENT 1: The Lakers are auditioning free agents. What it means, in the micro and the macro.SEGMENT 2: Jason Tatum has put some Lakers fans in an odd position.SEGMENT 3: What are the rules of fandom, anyway?Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!PrizePicksCheck out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy!Built BarBuilt Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order.BetOnlineBetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts!Rock AutoAmazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you.SakaraSakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Boston Celtics looked good to start the game, but the typical third quarter from the Golden State Warriors made it feel like things were falling apart again. This time, though, they found the energy to pull through and pull away in the fourth. John Karalis explains why the home court was really an advantage, why Robert Williams was the key to the win, and how Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and Marcus Smart all had big roles in the Game 3 win.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!PrizePicksCheck out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy!Built BarBuilt Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order.BetOnlineBetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts!Rock AutoAmazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you.SakaraSakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum has made no secret throughout his career of his admiration, even idolization, of Lakers legend Kobe Bryant. It's a topic that has come up a lot during the playoffs, and Boston's run to the Finals, given gestures like Tatum wearing a "24" wristband in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Finals. It's put some Lakers fans in a weird position, one where they're actually pulling for a Celtic, and even the Celtics, in the Finals against Golden State. Is that against the rules? What are the rules, anyway? The Lakers are already on to the business of building out next season's roster. It's a given they'll have a lot of slots to fill via free agency, and not a lot money to do it. So journeymen like Langston Galloway, Kyle Guy, Alize Johnson, and D.J. Wilson —all of whom were in El Segundo this week—represent the kind of player to which the Lakers will have access. Finding the right combination of limited players that can be put in the best position to succeed while also fitting in with the team's stars (if necessary) won't be easy. But that's the challenge. How likely is it Rob Pelinka and crew will find the right mix? HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: The Lakers are auditioning free agents. What it means, in the micro and the macro. SEGMENT 2: Jason Tatum has put some Lakers fans in an odd position. SEGMENT 3: What are the rules of fandom, anyway? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! PrizePicks Check out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy! Built Bar Built Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order. BetOnline BetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts! Rock Auto Amazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you. Sakara Sakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On Monday, Darvin Ham was introduced to the LA media as head coach. On Tuesday, he began shaping his staff. Most notable were the names of the guys from last year's staff he let go - David Fizdale, Mike Penberthy, John Lucas III - and one of the two guys he kept. Phil Handy is widely considered among the best assistant coaching in the NBA, a guy many believe should be getting more shine for head jobs. Handy, who worked with Ham on Mike Brown's Lakers staff a decade ago and has a deep relationship with LeBron James, isn't going anywhere. He, along with Quinton Crawford, will be part of next year's group as well. It's another piece of good news, and an indication that Ham will be able to make a strong pitch to those coaches he wants to see join his staff, including some who might be under contract in other cities. How much does it matter that he find a guy with head coaching experience? What about the other things Ham emphasized? Like defense? Accountability? Sacrifice? Particularly on the defensive side of things, is he capable of delivering if Rob Pelinka doesn't deliver a better roster? Finally, Pelinka says the Lakers lacked toughness last year, and it's hard to argue. But why? How much of that was on Vogel, and how much can be addressed by changing coaches? HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Darvin Ham is making moves, letting three members of last year's staff go... but keeping Phil Handy. SEGMENT 2: What kind of staff is Ham going to assemble? Does he need a guy with head coaching experience? What about specialists? SEGMENT 3: The Lakers weren't tough last year. Why? Can Ham help fix that? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! PrizePicks Check out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy! Built Bar Built Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order. BetOnline BetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts! Rock Auto Amazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you. Sakara Sakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The NBA Finals move to Boston for Game 3 and things are wildly different for the Boston Celtics (and everyone) which certainly messes with everyone's routine. But the message to the team is simple when it comes to turnovers. John Karalis and Tom Westerholm discuss the new atmosphere around the Finals and where the Celtics can clean things up. Plus, Ime Udoka's message about handling Draymond Green and their complete confidence in the team winning.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!PrizePicksCheck out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy!Built BarBuilt Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order.BetOnlineBetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts!Rock AutoAmazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you.SakaraSakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The NBA Finals move to Boston for Game 3 and things are wildly different for the Boston Celtics (and everyone) which certainly messes with everyone's routine. But the message to the team is simple when it comes to turnovers. John Karalis and Tom Westerholm discuss the new atmosphere around the Finals and where the Celtics can clean things up. Plus, Ime Udoka's message about handling Draymond Green and their complete confidence in the team winning. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! PrizePicks Check out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy! Built Bar Built Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order. BetOnline BetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts! Rock Auto Amazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you. Sakara Sakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On Monday, Darvin Ham was introduced to the LA media as head coach. On Tuesday, he began shaping his staff. Most notable were the names of the guys from last year's staff he let go - David Fizdale, Mike Penberthy, John Lucas III - and one of the two guys he kept. Phil Handy is widely considered among the best assistant coaching in the NBA, a guy many believe should be getting more shine for head jobs.Handy, who worked with Ham on Mike Brown's Lakers staff a decade ago and has a deep relationship with LeBron James, isn't going anywhere. He, along with Quinton Crawford, will be part of next year's group as well. It's another piece of good news, and an indication that Ham will be able to make a strong pitch to those coaches he wants to see join his staff, including some who might be under contract in other cities.How much does it matter that he find a guy with head coaching experience?What about the other things Ham emphasized? Like defense? Accountability? Sacrifice? Particularly on the defensive side of things, is he capable of delivering if Rob Pelinka doesn't deliver a better roster?Finally, Pelinka says the Lakers lacked toughness last year, and it's hard to argue. But why? How much of that was on Vogel, and how much can be addressed by changing coaches?HOSTS: Andy and Brian KamenetzkySEGMENT 1: Darvin Ham is making moves, letting three members of last year's staff go... but keeping Phil Handy.SEGMENT 2: What kind of staff is Ham going to assemble? Does he need a guy with head coaching experience? What about specialists?SEGMENT 3: The Lakers weren't tough last year. Why? Can Ham help fix that?Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!PrizePicksCheck out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy!Built BarBuilt Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order.BetOnlineBetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts!Rock AutoAmazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you.SakaraSakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Lakers officially introduced Darvin Ham as the new head coach, and the press conference, which was by all accounts a rousing success, featured thoughts from the new guy about topics ranging from Russell Westbrook (in attendance), Anthony Davis, LeBron James, and much more. To begin, what qualified him for the job. As Rob Pelinka noted, this is a man who's paid his dues beginning in the G-League as both a coach and General Manager, but as Ham noted in glowing detail, his time on Mike Budenholzer's staffs in Atlanta and Milwaukee (where he was part of the 2021 championship) made lasting impressions on him. (As did his first NBA coaching job with the Lakers on Mike Brown's staff.)Ham also talked a lot about the role of Russell Westbrook, who for the time being is expected to be a part of the team next season. Ham expects the point guard to make sacrifices, just like everyone else. But he also reiterated his belief in a former MVP he thinks has been way too prematurely written off. For that matter, he also has big hopes for Anthony Davis, who he described as "the key" to the Lakers reaching their best form. As for LeBron James, Ham wants to manage his minutes as much as possible, but remains in awe of what the almost-38 year-old can do at this stage of his career.And finally, Ham's confidence and authority while selling himself as a first-year head coach was unmistakable, and absolutely convincing. He didn't seem even slightly intimidated by this prospect. But as Ham noted, once you've been accidentally shot in the face, as was the case for him in 1988, most situations lose their ability to create pressure. Basketball is just a challenge.Hosts: Andy and Brian KamenetzkySegment one: Ham's aura, which impressed everyone in the audience.Segment two: Ham discussing Westbrook.Segment three: Ham discussing Davis.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!PrizePicksCheck out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy!Built BarBuilt Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order.BetOnlineBetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts!Rock AutoAmazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you.SakaraSakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Lakers officially introduced Darvin Ham as the new head coach, and the press conference, which was by all accounts a rousing success, featured thoughts from the new guy about topics ranging from Russell Westbrook (in attendance), Anthony Davis, LeBron James, and much more. To begin, what qualified him for the job. As Rob Pelinka noted, this is a man who's paid his dues beginning in the G-League as both a coach and General Manager, but as Ham noted in glowing detail, his time on Mike Budenholzer's staffs in Atlanta and Milwaukee (where he was part of the 2021 championship) made lasting impressions on him. (As did his first NBA coaching job with the Lakers on Mike Brown's staff.) Ham also talked a lot about the role of Russell Westbrook, who for the time being is expected to be a part of the team next season. Ham expects the point guard to make sacrifices, just like everyone else. But he also reiterated his belief in a former MVP he thinks has been way too prematurely written off. For that matter, he also has big hopes for Anthony Davis, who he described as "the key" to the Lakers reaching their best form. As for LeBron James, Ham wants to manage his minutes as much as possible, but remains in awe of what the almost-38 year-old can do at this stage of his career. And finally, Ham's confidence and authority while selling himself as a first-year head coach was unmistakable, and absolutely convincing. He didn't seem even slightly intimidated by this prospect. But as Ham noted, once you've been accidentally shot in the face, as was the case for him in 1988, most situations lose their ability to create pressure. Basketball is just a challenge. Hosts: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky Segment one: Ham's aura, which impressed everyone in the audience. Segment two: Ham discussing Westbrook. Segment three: Ham discussing Davis. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! PrizePicks Check out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy! Built Bar Built Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order. BetOnline BetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts! Rock Auto Amazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you. Sakara Sakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Three-plus years ago, the Lakers introduced Frank Vogel as head coach in a press conference where he was an afterthought, thanks to a missed postseason, Magic Johnson's abrupt departure, Luke Walton's firing, coaching search shenanigans, and more. Later today (Monday), Darvin Ham will be introduced to replace Vogel, and while the team is hardly in a perfect place, there should be at least less overall angst. That should help make the day one of greater optimism, where Ham will have the opportunity to really make an impression on the city and his future players. What should Lakers fans want to hear from Ham? What are the most interesting questions that could be asked in order to get a feel for who he might become as head coach. And once everyone is done with Darvin, what questions are there for Rob Pelinka, who still hasn't spent a ton of time addressing Lakers media (and by extension, Lakers fans)? Of course, Ham's success will depend a lot on the roster he's given. There is still a ton of mystery in that regard, given how many holes the team has to fill. One player (presumably) returning next season is Austin Reaves. He was a great surprise this year, but was also the beneficiary of low expectations and being a bright spot amidst a raging tire fire surrounding him. What can the Lakers expect from Reaves? Is he a starter? A high class reserve? Someone who, on a more successful team, might not be worthy of as much playing time? HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Monday's press conference introducing Darvin Ham will look a lot different than the one introducing Frank Vogel, and that's a very good thing for the Lakers. SEGMENT 2: What would you ask Ham? What would you want to hear in response? SEGMENT 3: Evaluating Austin Reaves. How does he fit into the rotation next season? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! PrizePicks Check out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy! Built Bar Built Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order. BetOnline BetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts! Rock Auto Amazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you. Sakara Sakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Boston Celtics had a familiar story to tell about their loss in Game 2 to the Golden State Warriors. Once again, it was turnovers that told the story and a monster Warriors 3rd quarter. John Karalis is at Chase Center to break down the loss, and the one thing the Celtics can do to take control of the Finals Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! PrizePicks Check out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy! Built Bar Built Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order. BetOnline BetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts! Rock Auto Amazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you. Sakara Sakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Boston Celtics had a familiar story to tell about their loss in Game 2 to the Golden State Warriors. Once again, it was turnovers that told the story and a monster Warriors 3rd quarter. John Karalis is at Chase Center to break down the loss, and the one thing the Celtics can do to take control of the FinalsSupport Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!PrizePicksCheck out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy!Built BarBuilt Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order.BetOnlineBetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts!Rock AutoAmazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you.SakaraSakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Three-plus years ago, the Lakers introduced Frank Vogel as head coach in a press conference where he was an afterthought, thanks to a missed postseason, Magic Johnson's abrupt departure, Luke Walton's firing, coaching search shenanigans, and more. Later today (Monday), Darvin Ham will be introduced to replace Vogel, and while the team is hardly in a perfect place, there should be at least less overall angst.That should help make the day one of greater optimism, where Ham will have the opportunity to really make an impression on the city and his future players.What should Lakers fans want to hear from Ham? What are the most interesting questions that could be asked in order to get a feel for who he might become as head coach. And once everyone is done with Darvin, what questions are there for Rob Pelinka, who still hasn't spent a ton of time addressing Lakers media (and by extension, Lakers fans)?Of course, Ham's success will depend a lot on the roster he's given. There is still a ton of mystery in that regard, given how many holes the team has to fill. One player (presumably) returning next season is Austin Reaves. He was a great surprise this year, but was also the beneficiary of low expectations and being a bright spot amidst a raging tire fire surrounding him.What can the Lakers expect from Reaves? Is he a starter? A high class reserve? Someone who, on a more successful team, might not be worthy of as much playing time?HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Monday's press conference introducing Darvin Ham will look a lot different than the one introducing Frank Vogel, and that's a very good thing for the Lakers.SEGMENT 2: What would you ask Ham? What would you want to hear in response?SEGMENT 3: Evaluating Austin Reaves. How does he fit into the rotation next season?Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!PrizePicksCheck out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy!Built BarBuilt Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order.BetOnlineBetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts!Rock AutoAmazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you.SakaraSakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Josh Lloyd looks at the 2022 NBA Draft and conducts his second mock draft of the season. Tune in to see where Jaden Ivey and Jeremy Sochan end up, and more. The Locked On Fantasy Basketball Podcast is brought to you by Basketball Monster. Join the Discord here Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! PrizePicks Check out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy! Built Bar Built Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order. BetOnline BetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts! Rock Auto Amazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you. Sakara Sakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Intro Music by Ben Lloyd Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Josh Lloyd looks at the 2022 NBA Draft and conducts his second mock draft of the season. Tune in to see where Jaden Ivey and Jeremy Sochan end up, and more. The Locked On Fantasy Basketball Podcast is brought to you by Basketball Monster.Join the Discord hereSupport Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!PrizePicksCheck out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy!Built BarBuilt Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order.BetOnlineBetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts!Rock AutoAmazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you.SakaraSakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout.Intro Music by Ben LloydInstagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Celtics blew the doors off the Miami Heat in Game 2, following a similar script in this series as the last one. Boston got hot from 3 early on, but their stifling defense was on full display as well, and for the first time in a long time, it was powered by their normal starting 5. John Karalis in in FTX Arena with that, why this win was exacty what he expected, and one aspect of it that is actually of concern heading into Game 3.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!PrizePicksCheck out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy!Built BarBuilt Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order.BetOnlineBetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts!Rock AutoAmazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you.Athletic GreensTo make it easy, Athletic Greens is going to give you a FREE 1 year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE travel packs with your first purchase. All you have to do is visit athleticgreens.com/NBANETWORKSakaraSakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Boston Celtics made a lot of mistakes in Game 1 against the Miami Heat, and a lot of them are correctable. A lot of them came in the halfcourt, especially in the third quarter, but a very important part of this came much earlier in the game that made the third quarter possible. John Karalis and Tom Westerholm discuss the breakdowns and what can be fixed heading into Game 2.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!PrizePicksCheck out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy!Built BarBuilt Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order.BetOnlineBetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts!Rock AutoAmazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you.Athletic GreensTo make it easy, Athletic Greens is going to give you a FREE 1 year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE travel packs with your first purchase. All you have to do is visit athleticgreens.com/NBANETWORKSakaraSakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Celtics looked good for the first half but then completely imploded in the third quarter to give up their lead and fall behind by 20. Jimmy Butler's mental edge was evident in the win and his duel with Jayson Tatum. John Karalis gets into that, how the C's completely fell apart after the half, and then has some words of encouragement.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!PrizePicksCheck out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy!Built BarBuilt Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order.BetOnlineBetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts!Rock AutoAmazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you.Athletic GreensTo make it easy, Athletic Greens is going to give you a FREE 1 year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE travel packs with your first purchase. All you have to do is visit athleticgreens.com/NBANETWORKSakaraSakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Celtics and Heat jump right into their first round series on Tuesday night. What are the key matchups? Who will the best player in the series be? Who will be second? Will the Celtics get stumped by Miami's crazy defenses? Will the Heat get picked on by Boston's offensive stars? John Karalis is joined by Dave Ramil and Wes Golberg of Locked on Heat to break down the whole series.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!PrizePicksCheck out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy!Built BarBuilt Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you'll get 15% off your next order.BetOnlineBetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts!Rock AutoAmazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you.Athletic GreensTo make it easy, Athletic Greens is going to give you a FREE 1 year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE travel packs with your first purchase. All you have to do is visit athleticgreens.com/NBANETWORKSakaraSakara is a wellness company anchored in food as medicine, on a mission to nourish. Go to Sakara.com/LOCKEDON20 or Enter Code “LOCKEDON20” for 20% off at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices