Laker Film Room - Dedicated to the Study of Lakers Basketball

In the first of a series celebrating the 15-year anniversary of the 2009 title team, Pete & Mike are joined by 2x Lakers champion Josh Powell to discuss his experience on that team, the intensity of their practices and overall approach, what it took to grind his way onto an NBA roster after going undrafted, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Lakers did not come out ready to play against the Kings and got blasted Wednesday night, falling behind by 20 points in the 1st quarter and never being able to fully dig themselves out of the hole. Pete and Darius discuss the role LeBron and Anthony Davis played in the slow start, LeBron's great play after that, AD's physical struggles during the game, and the ways the Kings took advantage of the Lakers' individual and collective defense. And then later, the guys discuss possible in-house solutions for how to support AD in more physically taxing matchups. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Lakers shot the lights out and thrashed the Grizzlies in one of their best offensive performances of the season Tuesday night. Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss the game, highlighting the historically great shooting night the Lakers had, some shifts they've made offensively that have helped generate those shots, and how Anthony Davis' dominance on defense helped shut down the paint on the other end. Then later, the guys highlight what they're seeing from Cam Reddish on both sides of the ball and a big defensive tweak that has upped the team's aggressiveness. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Lakers had an eventful and successful weekend, winning games on Friday and Sunday vs. the Suns and Blazers to get back to .500 on the season. Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss the weekend's events, diving into both wins, the starting lineup change, Anthony Davis' strong play to close out Portland, D'Angelo Russell's passing, Austin Reaves and Cam Reddish adapting to their new roles, and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Lakers wrap up their road trip in Phoenix on Friday night and enter the game in real need of a win against a backdrop of frustrations, injuries, and a winless record on the road. Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss the vibe around the team and why waiting on better player health to solve all their issues would be a mistake. Then later, the guys discuss the matchup with the Suns, who will be without Devin Booker, but will have Bradley Beal back to test the Lakers defense. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Without Anthony Davis (among others), the Lakers got blown out in Houston by the Rockets on Wednesday night. Pete and Darius discuss the loss, but also break down how the game highlights larger structural issues with the team's offense that are not necessarily just about injuries and who is or is not available to play. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The shorthanded Lakers fell by single point to the Heat on Monday night, losing not only the game, but Anthony Davis to a hip spasm in the 3rd quarter and D'Angelo Russell to an ejection for arguing with the referees. Still the Lakers hung tough, and missed a shot at the buzzer that could have won the game. Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss the game, diving into the team's injury issues, the improved effort and attentiveness on the backboards, Austin Reaves back to being Austin, the LeBron and Christian Wood pairing offensively, and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Lakers surrendered 36 second chance points in a blowout loss on Saturday, a franchise-high for Orlando. The guys discuss the reasons behind this recurring issue, why the short term solutions may be different than the long term ones, and why LeBron is a central consideration in addressing the defensive glass. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Lakers are on the road for their first extended trip of the season, beginning in Orlando for a rematch with the Magic. Mike and Darius discuss the current state of the team heading into these games, including health updates on Gabe Vincent (among others), the impact injuries are having on the rotation and the success of some of the big lineups being used as a result, and AD's continued dominance defensively. And then later, the guys discuss a preview of the Magic game. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Down four rotation players, the Lakers came back from another big first half deficit to take a late game lead vs. the Clippers, nearly gave it away at the end, but then held on in overtime to get the victory. Pete and Darius discuss the up, down, and up again nature of the game, highlighting LeBron's great scoring night, another impressive AD performance, a 2nd half offense surge from the guards, going big defensively (and then later not) and why that mattered, and much more. And then later, the guys discuss Austin Reaves finally finding his rhythm and the adjustments made that helped him do it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Lakers won a slog of a game vs. the Magic on Monday night, getting great games from Anthony Davis and D'Angelo Russell, along with another good Christian Wood performance on defense and the glass. Pete and Darius discuss the game, what's working for the Lakers on defense, their continued challenges offensively, and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Lakers lost in overtime to the Kings in frustrating fashion on Sunday night and, in the aftermath, Darvin Ham said he planned to look at his rotations and fine tune things. Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss the game, the starting lineups struggles, the issues on their defensive glass, and much more. And then later, the guys dive into the team's lineups, what's working, what isn't, what they would like to see changed. Lastly, the guys discuss Austin Reaves' struggles to start the season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Lakers got their first win of the season over the shorthanded Suns with a furious 4th quarter comeback led by LeBron and Anthony Davis, along with great defensive support from Christian Wood. Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss the frustrating early parts of the game, the Lakers spamming their physical advantages late, AD's 4th quarter, and Wood's defense on Kevin Durant and his defensive rebounding. Then later, the guys discuss the growing pains the team is showing offensively and they debate how to better integrate Austin Reaves on that end of the floor. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Lakers are back in action against the Suns on Thursday night and will need to make improvements offensively from their loss vs. Denver to get a win. Pete, Mike, and Darius explore some of the team's struggles offensively, discuss areas where they hope to see improvement, and then forecast how those adjustments can manifest vs. the Suns in looking forward to Thursday night. And then later, the guys discuss the Suns injury issues and how that could impact the game on both sides of the ball. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Lakers lost to the Nuggets on opening night in a game that felt like a continuation of their playoff series. Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss the game, including the team's struggles offensively when LeBron was off the floor, AD's scoreless 2nd half, LeBron's reduced minutes, and the Nuggets general connectivity and chemistry compared to the Lakers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Opening night is nearly here and the Lakers begin their season with a rematch of the Western Conference Finals vs. the Nuggets. Pete and Darius preview the game, focusing on how the Lakers offensive shifts to more five-out looks can help them vs. the Nuggets defense, the challenges of their own transition defense vs. Denver, and the ever present problem of defending Jokic in the halfcourt. And then later, the guys discuss the mindset of the players heading into this game and how D'Angelo Russell's play looms large as a potential pivot point. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Lakers closed out their preseason with a loss to the Suns on Thursday night. Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss the game, the strong performances from LeBron and Anthony Davis in the 1st half, the challenges the team faced with their bench groups, and how much of a stepping stone this game really was for the regular season opener next week. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As the Lakers head into their final preseason game on Thursday night, Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss the team's attempt to balance building continuity with managing players' minutes this preseason, Jarred Vanderbillt's health, who the fifth starter should be, and the battle for minutes and the challenge of building out a rotation with as much talent as this team has. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Lakers’ rotational players have been more dominant on offense than last year, while having significantly more length on defense than last season. The guys discuss the tall & skilled nature of the roster, how that helps unlock AD’s perimeter game, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With LeBron, Anthony Davis, and Austin Reaves all sitting out, the Lakers got strong performances from D'Angelo Russell and Gabe Vincent (among others) to take down the Sacramento Kings on Wednesday night. Pete and Darius discuss the game, looking at the strong night from the guards, Taurean Prince making his case to start, Christian Wood's work on the backboards, the team's defensive performance, and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With LeBron and Austin Reaves making their preseason debut, the Lakers beat the Nets on Monday night. Pete and Darius discuss the game, focusing on Taurean Prince getting the start, Austin and D'Angelo Russell's hot shooting, and Jaxson Hayes' making his mark. And then later, the guys discuss their first impressions of LeBron and AD continuing to look fantastic on both ends of the floor. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Lakers dropped their preseason opener to the Warriors on Saturday night, falling 125-108 in a game that got away from them in the 2nd half. Pete, Mike, and Darius offer their takeaways from the contest, focusing on Anthony Davis and D'Angelo Russell's strong showing, some of the schematic changes the team flashed offensively, the play of Christian Wood and Jaxson Hayes in the competition for the backup Center spot, and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Lakers open their preseason with a game against the Warriors in San Francisco on Saturday. Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss their expectations heading in, how LeBron sitting out impacts their view of the game, how they evaluate back of the rotation players in these games, and who of the new players they're most interested in watching and why. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Lakers opened training camp on Tuesday and the reports coming out of day one are encouraging and full of spirited optimism. Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss the first day of practice, with a focus on Anthony Davis taking on more responsibility, how LeBron looks physically, Jalen Hood-Schifino getting some shine, and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Whether it was the general sense of optimism, the appreciation of continuity, the championship aspirations, or the commitment to doing the work to get there, the Lakers media day was filled with many through lines from all the players. Pete, Mike, and Darius offer their takeaways from the first media session of the season and what stood out most to them. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mike and Darius react to the trade that sends Jrue Holiday to the Celtics, diving into Jrue going East and not improving any of the Western teams, Boston getting stronger but at a compromise to their depth, and the state of the top-tier contenders and how the Lakers matchup after this deal (and the Dame trade). And then later, the guys wonder about Portland's long term plans and whether any additional trades could impact the Lakers chances in the West. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On Thursday afternoon, Rob Pelinka and Darvin Ham spoke to the media in the lead up to Lakers training camp opening next week. Pete, Mike, and Darius offer their takeaways from the press conference, focusing on the general heading coming into training camp, expectations for Anthony Davis coming off his summer of work, the versatility of the roster and how that impacts lineups and schemes, and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Pete & Mike react to the big Damian Lillard trade and how they believe it will affect the Blazers, Bucks & Suns, as well as how they see it affecting the balance of power in the Eastern and Western Conferences. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the last podcast before the regular season revs up, Pete, Darius & Mike answer more of your mailbag questions: what 3 stats they look at in a box score, Darius' choices for Filipino food, dream guests for the pod, new guys who will bring leadership to the Lakers, the last time they played pickup basketball & MORE. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How concerned should we be about the Lakers center depth and defense when Anthony Davis is out or if he misses games? Is the Lakers point of attack defense good enough? Have the Lakers done enough this offseason to better match up against Nikola Jokic and the Nuggets? Pete, Mike, and Darius answer these questions and more in a mailbag edition of the LFR Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After a season of instability and change challenged Darvin Ham in ways few first time head coaches have had to deal with, he enters this season with much more stability, a talented roster, and championship aspirations. Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss how last season's run impacts what we know about Ham's approach and how they think it applies to this season, the potential for diversity in the team's defensive schemes, the endless lineup possibilities Ham will have at his disposal, and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

D'Angelo Russell's re-signing may not have inspired the same enthusiasm from fans as when the Lakers brought back Austin Reaves or Rui Hachimura, but D-Lo's return is nonetheless significant. Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss Russell's place on this roster, the many ways his contributions and skill set elevate the team, and where some of the concerns about his style of play still exist — particularly in the playoffs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Lakers and Jarred Vanderbilt have agreed to a contract extension, building on their continuity from last season and keeping another young player in-house for the coming season and beyond. Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss the deal and how it reinforces the shift in approach towards team building the team has taken from past years. And then later, the guys discuss Vando's role on the upcoming team, debate his status as a starter vs. a reserve, and discuss the ways in which the shooting talent the team added can benefit Vando and the lineups he plays in. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Pete, Mike, and Darius begin to map out the tiers of the Western Conference to determine where the Lakers fit and which teams they envision rising and falling. And then later, they discuss where Austin Reaves fits into larger conversations about the better players in the league, and how the specifics of his game impact where he should be ranked against his peers and some more well established names. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Austin Reaves had a fantastic overall showing for Team USA at the FIBA World Cup, but was also targeted defensively by multiple teams as the tournament wore on. Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss how this approach could impact Austin's season with the Lakers, and how concerned they are about the different ways teams could try to attack him. And then later, the guys discuss the general defensive approach of team, and what adjustments could be in store to accommodate the strengths and weaknesses of potential bench units. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Team USA failed to medal at the FIBA World Cup in the Phillippines after a tough loss to Canada in the bronze medal game. Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss some of the issues with the team, the continuity challenges the US roster faces, the job Steve Kerr did as head coach, and much more. Then later, the guys debate what the 2024 Olympic team could look like and discuss the report that LeBron could return to Team USA for one final chase of the gold. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the Lakers roster now set, Pete, Mike, and Darius take stock in the team and discuss their overall feelings about the roster, whether there are still any needs, and the potential tradeoffs between their offensive ceiling and their defensive floor. And then later, the guys discuss two-big lineups, Anthony Davis' defensive versatility, and how expanding his offensive game can translate to success on both sides of the floor. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Lakers have signed Christian Wood to fill out their roster and add to their big man depth. Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss Wood's immense talent, his fit on this roster, why he was available this late in the free agency period, and the general risk vs. reward of his acquisition. Then later, the guys begin to break down potential lineup options for Wood and how he might fit next to LeBron and/or Anthony Davis. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With LeBron going into his 21st season, Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss the unprecedented level he continues to play at, how the roster construction could lead to a shift in his offensive approach, how much LeBron's role could end up being a function of age vs. his own approach to games vs. the roster, and much more. And then later, the guys debate the appropriate defensive ask for LeBron at this stage of his career. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As Austin Reaves continues to shine for Team USA, Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss how his play at the World Cup could inform what his usage and offensive role looks like for the Lakers this upcoming season. Then later, the guys discuss Gabe Vincent, his game, and how he might slot into a Lakers roster that is much different than the one he played on in Miami. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Pete and Darius discuss the Lakers overall depth, their open 14th roster spot and how the choice made in filling that spot impacts the optionality Darvin Ham has for different lineups. And then later, the guys debate Rui Hachimura and Jared Vanderbilt as potential starters. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss Austin Reaves' strong play with Team USA in the lead up to the World Cup, his continued growth as a player, and why his defensive versatility will be key to the Lakers ceiling. Then later the guys discuss Jaxson Hayes and Cam Reddish as "second draft" prospects and where both can fit in, both from a tools and role standpoint, on this roster. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Darius & Mike break down the Lakers 2023-2024 schedule, taking into account the in-season tournament, the road heavy start, how their feelings about the schedule changes based on how they view about the team, the extended stretch with little travel for the team & much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Austin Reaves' inclusion on Team USA's World Cup roster is a great recognition of his rising status in the NBA and a reflection of his well rounded game. Mike and Darius discuss Reaves' summer to this point, the opening of Team USA's camp this week, where he might fit into the World Cup rotation, and their general expectations for how this experience will serve him heading into training camp and his third NBA campaign. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Pete & Mike discuss the shifting economics of the NBA brought about by the new CBA, with Anthony Davis' potential extension on the horizon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jarred Vanderbilt helped catalyze the Lakers’ turnaround with his defense and infectious energy - but played fewer minutes as each playoff series progressed. Pete & Darius discuss why Vando is an important player on the 23-24 Lakers, how the stars can help him help them, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Pete & Mike discuss reports that the Lakers want to add another big, what skill sets they want from a big & the possibility of the team using more two-big lineups. Later, Mike breaks down the in season tourney & how different teams might approach it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As the Lakers wrap up summer league play, we have gotten good looks at several of the team's young prospects and learned more about their strengths, weaknesses, and where they continue to grow towards becoming real contributors at the NBA level. Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss what they've seen so far, diving into Max's growth as an on-ball player, Jalen Hood-Schifino's work in the P&R and how it contrasts to his challenges in isolation vs. switches, Maxwell Lewis' intriguing skill set and the realities of his learning curve at this level, the offensive pop of both D'Moi Hodge and Colin Castleton, and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How much does the Bradley Beal trade and the addition of several good players on minimum contracts elevate the Suns in the West? How does losing Bruce Brown and Jeff Green affect the Nuggets? Will Chris Paul on the Warriors actually work? Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss these topics, and take detour to talk about the Celtics' identity shift, when they dive into a busy offseason around the NBA. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Pete, Mike, and Darius continue their analysis of the Lakers free agency signings, looking more closely at Cam Reddish as an upside play and how Taurean Prince fits into the rotation as a combo forward whose spot up shooting can complement both LeBron and Anthony Davis. Then later, the guys start to discuss the team's defensive potential with this new group, including Jarred Vanderbilt's role in the rotation and whether the team could switch more with their new personnel. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Support Pete here: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lakerfilmroom Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lakerfilmroom Pete’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakerFilmRoom Pete’s Playback: https://www.playback.tv/lakerfilmroom For Feedback or Questions: [email protected] To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices