PART 2: No, the Lakers aren't better without LeBron, BUT...

·25 min·2 clips

Justin Tindall questions if Luke Kennard deserves a multi-year deal after the Lakers' win.

Anthony Irwin opens the episode by reading a super comment from Justin Tindall about the Lakers' win, praising Austin Reaves' return and criticizing Luka Dončić for taking too many threes. Irwin agrees that 16 threes from Dončić were excessive, attributing it to fatigue and suggesting the Lakers use him more in the pinch post. He discusses Luke Kennard's three-point shooting and potential contract, noting the Lakers' improved efficiency since his arrival. Irwin then addresses a comment calling LeBron James a 'cancer,' firmly rejecting the idea that the Lakers are better without him, citing their 8-2 record with Dončić and Reaves but arguing LeBron's clutch play is still needed. He explores trade scenarios, mentioning Trey Murphy, Jaden McDaniels, Mikal Bridges, and OG Anunoby as potential wing targets, cautioning against overpaying like the Timberwolves did for Rudy Gobert. Irwin analyzes Austin Reaves' performance, highlighting his ability to get downhill, use the mid-range, and draw fouls to stay in rhythm. He references JJ Redick's confidence in Christian Wood's consistency and proposes reducing Wood's minutes for higher intensity. Irwin details LeBron James' engaged bench presence, including wearing team gear and coaching teammates, contrasting it with earlier criticism of his demeanor. He notes how this impacts younger players who admire him. The episode touches on Mikal Bridges' shooting struggles and foul trouble against the Lakers. Irwin concludes by summarizing the Lakers' progress against good teams like the Nuggets and Knicks, expressing hope for playoff momentum and announcing upcoming guest appearances.

As heard by us

A Lakers trade debate on Kennard, wing upgrades, and the draft-capital cost of chasing a playoff push.

Lakers Lounge uses Luke Kennard's next contract as a way into the Lakers' bigger roster question: how much future draft capital is too much for a wing upgrade.

Read the full review in PlayNext →

Why you'd press play

You want the Lakers trade debate without treating every useful wing like an automatic two-pick swing.

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