Laker Film Room - Dedicated to the Study of Lakers Basketball

With Stanley Johnson's 10-day contract expiring on Monday and Avery Bradley's contract guarantee date approaching this week, the Lakers have some roster decisions to make. Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss Johnson's status and whether they expect him back on the team and then they get into Bradley's play of late and whether they'd guarantee his contract by this Friday's deadline. Later, the guys discuss what the roster still needs and what type of player they'd chase in advance of next month's trade deadline. 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 were able to grind out a win vs. the Timberwolves on Sunday night, committing to playing their small-ball lineups even when they were struggling defensively and on the backboards. Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss Frank Vogel's choice to stay small, the significance of giving these groups a chance to succeed and fail on their merits, and how the blueprint of playing this style is coming together to put this team on a path to becoming the best version of themselves. 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 played a strong game vs. the Grizzlies, but weren't able to contain Ja Morant or hold on to a double digit 3rd quarter lead in a frustrating loss. Mike and Darius discuss the game, including LeBron's great night, where the game got away from the Lakers, and how both teams being shorthanded impacted the outcome. Later, the guys discuss Talen Horton-Tucker's recent struggles and anticipate how the return of Austin Reaves and Frank Vogel can help both THT and the team find their stride. 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 downsized their lineup and traveled to No Big Island on Tuesday night, ending their 5 game losing streak with a win over the Rockets in the process. Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss the lineup shift and breakdown the positives they saw, particularly on offense. Later, the guys discuss Malik Monk's play and where he fits into the rotation when the team downsizes, some of ways the team has missed Frank Vogel, and why the idealized version of this team is a mix of playing the smaller lineups David Fizdale has prioritized with some of the defensive game planning and adjustments that Vogel brings as head coach. ReplyReply allForward Visit https://www.tickpick.com/lfr/ to save $10 on your first order of tickets. 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

Despite the Lakers 16-18 start, unusual circumstances in the Western Conference have left the them within a game of the 5th seed. In this episode, Pete and Mike discuss the group of teams the Lakers will be competing with for playoff position, and the key stretches of the season that can help them get there. Visit https://www.tickpick.com/lfr/ to save $10 on your first order of tickets. 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

Stanley Johnson looked like a natural fit in his debut with the Lakers, as the team added both him and Darren Collison to 10-day contracts. In this episode, Pete and Mike discuss why his synergy with the team makes sense, the continuing domination of the LeBron at the 5 groups, and how the Brooklyn game illuminated some of Russell Westbrook's worst attributes. Visit https://www.tickpick.com/lfr/ to save $10 on your first order of tickets. 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

Both the roster construction and circumstances of the season have lead LeBron James to play more and more as a big man. In this episode, Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss his continuing evolution as a player, and how the Lakers can continue to develop around LeBron's changing role. 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

Despite a great effort from LeBron James, the Suns pulled away from the depleted Lakers in the 2nd half to hand them another defeat. Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss the game, including why even with so many players unavailable and the team expected to struggle, there were still reasons to be frustrated with how this game played out. Later the guys talk about finding the right balance between stars and role players in more lineups, and whether Trevor Ariza has shown enough since returning from injury to be moved into the starting lineup. Visit https://www.tickpick.com/lfr/ to save $10 on your first order of tickets. 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

Talen Horton-Tucker and Dwight Howard are set to rejoin the Lakers after the team was reported to sign Jemerrio Jones to a 10-day contract and Mason Jones to a two-way deal. In this episode, Pete and Darius discuss the impact of these reinforcements, more on how Trevor Ariza helps, and continue their discussion on how the team can get the most out of this stretch without Anthony Davis. Visit https://www.tickpick.com/lfr/ to save $10 on your first order of tickets. 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 only the span of a few days, the Lakers have lost Anthony Davis for at least a month to a knee injury, had several players go into the NBA's health and safety protocols, signed Isaiah Thomas to a 10-day contract via a hardship exception, and had Trevor Ariza return to the lineup in his first action of the season after ankle surgery in September. Pete and Darius discuss all this news, including their initial impressions of Thomas and Ariza, as well as how losing AD changes the asks on LeBron and how much more or less taxing it is for him to play more minutes as a "big" with the team going to more center-less lineups. Visit https://www.tickpick.com/lfr/ to save $10 on your first order of tickets. 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

What a 24 hours for the Lakers, who see Russell Westbrook and Avery Bradley join Dwight Howard and Talen Horton-Tucker in the health and safety protocols, Malik Monk produce negative tests and be able to rejoin the team, and the signing of Isaiah Thomas as a backup guard with a hardship exemption. Pete and Darius discuss all the latest news, while also getting into how the team might approach the upcoming games this weekend with such a depleted team. Later, the guys dive into how Frank Vogel might handle the rotation and some specifics they're looking forward to in Friday's matchup with the T'Wolves. 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 Wayne Ellington knocked down a last second 3-pointer to force overtime and Austin Reaves hit a near buzzer beater 3 to close out the OT, the Lakers won a thriller of a game vs. the Mavericks on Wednesday night. Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss all things from the game -- including Mike pinch hitting on the radio call -- to break down the team's resilience, Austin's big shot, why the LeBron at the 5 groups struggled, and why these types of games are giving the team the reps they need to keep improving. 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 NBA is under siege with new COVID cases and the Lakers are the most recent team to be impacted as Talen Horton-Tucker, Dwight Howard, and Malik Monk all enter the NBA's health and safety protocols. As we all hope for low impact cases, quick recoveries, and containment of the virus, the basketball will (for now) go on. With that, Pete, Mike, and Darius react to the news by first discussing THT's recent play and how much losing him hurts, and then exploring how to replace him in the starting lineup and why they'd all choose Austin Reaves. Later, the guys discuss Kent Bazemore and whether he too should get a chance in the rotation as another wing option to help supplement Monk's absence. Visit https://www.tickpick.com/lfr/ to save $10 on your first order of tickets. 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

Five years ago today, the Laker Film Room Podcast was born. Today, then, we celebrate the only way we know how: with another podcast. Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss all things LFR podcast -- from the origin story of how it all came together to some of their favorite memories from doing the pod and everything in between. A special thanks to all of you who continue to listen and have supported us all these years. Visit https://www.tickpick.com/lfr/ to save $10 on your first order of tickets. 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 posted consecutive blowout wins over the weekend and LeBron James was the central reason why in both games. Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss Bron's resurgence and how it's come right as it's been most needed by both the team and, really, for himself. Later the guys talk about LeBron's improving health and how those have combined with schematic tweaks from the team to help him succeed. Visit https://www.tickpick.com/lfr/ to save $10 on your first order of tickets. 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 another disappointing loss on Thursday night, the Lakers have to take a long look in the mirror to determine what type of team they're going to be. Are they going to play hard every night? Are they going to commit to executing on both sides of the ball? Or, are they going to continue to cough up the ball on offense and only care half the time on defense? Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss the current state of the team and how the Grizzlies game was another example of the Lakers showing us all who they've been too many times this season. Later, the guys discuss the importance of accountability within the players and talk about tweaks that could help get the team back on track. 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 whether there is a paradigm shift in Coach Vogel's lineups, as evidenced by the win over the Celtics, discussing whether this Lakers' team can be a small ball team led by ball handling, as opposed to shooting. Later, they discuss whether this upcoming road trip can further galvanize the team, and Mike reminisces about a momentous road trip during his first year with the Lakers - culminating in Kobe scoring 61 at the Garden. 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 took down the hated Celtics on Tuesday night in what was likely their best performance of the season. Pete & Darius discuss a great night that featured AD's return to the 5, Russell Westbrook's contributions on both ends, LeBron setting the tone, and more. Visit https://www.tickpick.com/lfr/ to save $10 on your first order of tickets. 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

Through a quarter of the season, the Suns and the Warriors have differentiated themselves as the class of the Western Conference and, really, as two of the best teams in the entire NBA. Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss what stands out to them about what those teams are doing, in what areas the Lakers currently lag behind them and how they can close that gap. Later, the guys discuss where the Lakers might have some advantages over those teams -- particularly in a playoff setting -- and whether the Lakers current structure and roster are well equipped enough to actually challenge both teams down the road. Visit https://www.tickpick.com/lfr/ to save $10 on your first order of tickets. 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 break down the Lakers' game against the Clippers on Friday, talking about the starting lineup, spacing, THT's effectiveness defending Paul George on defense, and much more. Visit https://www.tickpick.com/lfr/ to save $10 on your first order of tickets. 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 some unexpected good news on Thursday, with LeBron James returning from health and safety protocols earlier than expected and Trevor Ariza participating in his first practice of the season. In this episode, Pete, Darius, and Mike discuss a rare bit of good fortune and the ramifications of Dwight Howard replacing DeAndre Jordan in the starting lineup. 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

Malik Monk is proving to be exactly what the Lakers need as a backup guard who can change the game with his shot making and scoring ability. His 2nd half vs. the Kings, where he posted a +41 in the boxscore, attests to that. But, with LeBron James out, should Monk take on a bigger role and be moved to the starting lineup? If so, who should he replace? Is his defense good enough to play a bigger role? Does his positive on-court partnership with Russell Westbrook override whatever concerns exist? Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss Monk's overall game to this point in the season by digging into these questions 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

Dwight Howard was not expecting to play against the Kings on Tuesday night. Then, after only a few minutes into the game, Frank Vogel put DeAndre Jordan on the bench and turned to his future Hall of Fame big man for a defensive spark and energetic play. 35 minutes later, Dwight had scored 12 points, pulled down 13 rebounds, and was a +27 in the boxscore. Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss Dwight's big night and him making his case to leapfrog Jordan in the Lakers rotation. Later, the guys discuss different lineup options that feature Dwight and the challenges Frank Vogel faces when trying to find consistency in veteran minimum role players. Visit https://www.tickpick.com/lfr/ to save $10 on your first order of tickets. 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 Center should LeBron play? Why have these lineups worked and how taxing are those minutes? What teammates fit best next to LeBron when he plays the 5 and can they survive defensively? With Frank Vogel saying he likes the looks of the lineups with LeBron at the 5 and committing to giving them more time, Pete, Mike, and Darius answer these questions and explain why they're on board with this shift and why it makes sense for LeBron at this stage of his career. Visit https://www.tickpick.com/lfr/ to save $10 on your first order of tickets. 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 a .500 team through 22 games and a common theme in the contests they've won is that they have done a lot of the "little things" well. And, the opposite is very much true in the games they've lost. Pete, Mike, and Darius explore this idea of the little things and why the Lakers don't always commit to doing them, even though it clearly impacts winning and losing on a fundamental level. Later, the guys get into whether it's fair to ask LeBron and Anthony Davis to do more of these things in order to compensate for some of their teammates' inability to do them. Visit https://www.tickpick.com/lfr/ to save $10 on your first order of tickets. 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 loss to the Knicks followed a familiar formula where the team showed a real lack of urgency and an inability to muster the needed effort to compete and win during a key stretch of the game. Pete, Darius, and Mike discuss this trend, why it happens, and how the team ultimately worked their way out of that funk to go on the run that got them back into the game vs. the Knicks. Later, the guys discuss Russell Westbrook's recent stretch of strong play and how both he and his teammates are adjusting to each other. Visit https://www.tickpick.com/lfr/ to save $10 on your first order of tickets. 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

Injuries and early season struggles have led Frank Vogel to try a variety of different lineups as he searches for solutions. In this episode, Pete and Darius discuss the hints and clues found in the resulting lineup data, including THT’s positive impact on an emerging Russ + AD group, the team’s surprising rebounding struggles when LeBron is on the floor, and more. Visit https://www.tickpick.com/lfr/ to save $10 on your first order of tickets. 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 a day LeBron James got ejected for a flagrant 2 foul and the Lakers nearly found themselves in a brawl as a result, the team had a great comeback win over the Pistons. Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss the game's events, including how Russell Westbrook put the team on this back in the 4th quarter, how Anthony Davis joined him, and how Frank Vogel made some strategic shifts to help his team along the way. Later, the guys get into what the larger takeaways from the game are and whether what the showed down the stretch can be lasting or not. Visit https://www.tickpick.com/lfr/ to save $10 on your first order of tickets. 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 continue to start Anthony Davis at Center and, in general, shift towards lineups that only play a single traditional big man at a time, their defensive approach will need to continue to be refined and adapt to these new lineup types. Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss the evolving nature of the Lakers defense, using the success of the zone defense the team played against the Bucks as a jumping off point. Later, the guys try to determine what defensive approach can be best in the short and long term and how much it might need to change night to night and lineup to lineup considering the team's 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

The Lakers may have lost to the Bucks, but the positive steps taken offensively and some of the adaptability they showed defensively were encouraging. Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss the game and, more specifically, why Russell Westbrook's decision making within offensive possessions was a key driver of the team's success on that end of the floor. Later, the guys discuss Talen Horton-Tucker's continued strong play in his return from injury and why both his offensive development and defensive tools were helpful against the Bucks and how they project to help the team long term. Visit https://www.tickpick.com/lfr/ to save $10 on your first order of tickets. 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 a 5-game road trip about to begin and LeBron James returning soon, the Lakers are facing an important part of their schedule that Frank Vogel believes will be "good for the team." Pete and Darius break down the specific things they'd like to see improve on this trip and why playing with better pace and tempo are a key part of the identity the team is trying to form. Later, the guys discuss Anthony Davis' importance in the matchups vs. the Bucks and Celtics and why LeBron's return represents a line of demarcation for what expectations should be for the team's success. Visit https://www.tickpick.com/lfr/ to save $10 on your first order of tickets. 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 suffered another blowout loss on Monday night, falling to the Bulls in a game that saw the defense struggle to contain Chicago's dynamic guards and the offense sputter under the weight of active and creative double teams. Pete, Darius, and Mike discuss the game, highlighting some of the offensive struggles from the game and detailing why they fit into some larger issues on that side of the ball this season. Later, the guys sort through some of the things they'd like to see shift offensively, particularly now that Anthony Davis is playing so many minutes at Center. Visit https://www.tickpick.com/lfr/ to save $10 on your first order of tickets. 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 a much needed bounce-back win on Sunday vs. the Spurs and a major lineup shift combined with the return of Talen Horton-Tucker were big reasons why. Pete and Darius start out talking Kent Bazemore's DNP-CD, but then dive deep on THT's return, highlighting how well he played on offense, his improved defensive effort and execution, and how his play down the stretch really helped seal the win. Later the guys discuss Wayne Ellington's hot shooting night and why some of the little things on defense were so important when the team played their smaller lineups. 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 leading by 5 at halftime, the Lakers got blown out in the 2nd half by the Timberwolves, losing a game where they looked increasingly fatigued and without enough juice to run with a young opponent. Pete and Darius discuss the game and explain whether this was preventable or if it's just one of those nights that happens in the NBA. Later, the guys discuss what they learned about the Lakers in a week they went 2-1 and what to make of Kent Bazemore's recent struggles. 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

Russell Westbrook had 5 turnovers in the 4th quarter of Monday's win over the Hornets and, while extreme, this represents some of the ball security struggles he's had this season so far. Pete, Mike, and Darius parse some of Russ' turnover issues with his general decision making as a lead ball handler and try to navigate what can and cannot change in trying to get better results without compromising the traits that make Westbrook the dynamic player he is. Visit https://www.tickpick.com/lfr/ to save $10 on your first order of tickets. 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 held on to outlast the Hornets on Monday night, earning a much needed win in overtime and stopping their 2-game losing streak in the process. Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss the game by focusing on some of the more positive aspects they saw -- from the starter's first shift together to Frank Vogel's quick lineup shift in the 3rd quarter to AD's overall impact on a game when he wasn't his best physically. Later the guys get into some of the lineup qualities the team will need to help support Anthony Davis when he plays center and discussed some of the specifics of the plays he made late in the game that helped seal the win. Visit https://www.tickpick.com/lfr/ to save $10 on your first order of tickets. 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 James still out and the Lakers other injuries still very much impacting their ability to play productive lineups, what should our expectations of the team be night to night? Pete, Mike, and Darius try to answer this question, discuss how they're looking at this upcoming stretch of home games, and whether playing more lineups that lean towards offense could lead to smaller successes within any given game. Visit https://www.tickpick.com/lfr/ to save $10 on your first order of tickets. 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

Another LeBron James injury coupled with another loss to the Thunder have the Lakers frustrated and looking for solutions to a growing number of problems. Postgame, Frank Vogel said the Lakers must have "big picture patience and short term urgency". With that as a backdrop, Pete, Mike, and Darius look at the current state of the team and sort through their current level of expectations considering the state of the roster and the upcoming slate of games vs. tougher opponents. 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

When the Lakers are at their best defensively, they're flying around the court, trapping, and really pressuring offenses into mistakes and misses. This style, however, isn't a sustainable approach over the marathon that is the NBA season. Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss how the Lakers can play a more conservative brand of defense effectively, offer their own ideas of how to accomplish this, and question whether it's possible at all with the current injuries and roster construction. 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 held on to beat the Rockets on Tuesday night in a wild ride of a game that, in many ways, represents the Lakers season to this point. Pete, Mike, and Darius break down the performance against the Rockets, highlighting how well the team scored in the paint and what ingredients went into that success. Later, the guys get into more lineup questions and dive into why Carmelo Anthony's shooting and scoring prowess is making him a key ingredient in some of the team's best performing groups. Visit https://www.tickpick.com/lfr/ to save $10 on your first order of tickets. 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

Turmoil in Boston? That's a shame. Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss Marcus Smart's comments about teammates Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum, the Celtics struggles, and dive into why having big wings as your primary shot creators can have its limitations. Then, in moving onto more things they enjoy seeing, the guys go around the NBA to discuss Ja Morant's rise, the new look Bulls, and how the changes in how games are officiated is positively impacting the viewing experience. Visit https://www.tickpick.com/lfr/ to save $10 on your first order of tickets. 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 wins over the Cavs and the Rockets over the weekend, the Lakers look like they're in the early stages of figuring things out as a team. Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss some of the things they're encouraged with after the two wins, zeroing in on better defensive effort and how the team's "small" starting lineup played against Houston. Later, the guys discuss Avery Bradley's play and how he symbolizes some of the strides the team has made defensively. Visit https://www.tickpick.com/lfr/ to save $10 on your first order of tickets. 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 fell apart, blowing a huge first half lead to lose their game vs. the Thunder. Pete, Mike, and Darius perform an autopsy on the game, offering their thoughts on what went wrong and why the team wasn't able to get things back on track once the Thunder started to make their comeback. Later, the guys discuss the team's defensive identity and how much of the team's struggles on that end of the floor is related to personnel vs. scheme vs. the mentality and focus of the players. 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

Not all wins are created equal, and a come from behind win on the road, on a night the Lakers didn't have LeBron James and several other role players, with top flight performances from Russell Westbrook and Anthony Davis, counts a little bit more as a building block victory for this team. Pete and Darius discuss the win, highlighting Russ' big night and how the Lakers can try to bottle up some of what worked this game for when LeBron returns. Later, the guys discuss AD's big night on both sides of the floor as well as Malik Monk's huge contributions to the win. Visit https://www.tickpick.com/lfr/ to save $10 on your first order of tickets. 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 NBA season is only a week old, but we've already been treated to some great individual performances and some teams looking to make more noise than preseason projections predicted. Pete, Mike, and Darius go around the NBA to talk about what they've liked so far this season, focusing in on some Western Conference teams and players who have caught their eye for better and, in some cases, for worse. Visit https://www.tickpick.com/lfr/ to save $10 on your first order of tickets. 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 beat the Memphis Grizzlies for their first win of the season and Carmelo Anthony's big scoring night was a major reason why. Pete, Mike, and Darius discuss how Melo got it going, why the sets and lineups he's used in led to his success, and how he fits on this roster is coming into greater focus through three games. Later, the guys discuss Melo's defense and why the way Vogel schemes around him hint at the ways the team is best suited to play defense overall. Visit https://www.tickpick.com/lfr/ to save $10 on your first order of tickets. 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

LeBron James said that Russell Westbrook, like himself and Anthony Davis, shouldn't be worried about "fitting in" on the Lakers, but instead, as one of the team's stars, he sometimes needs to "stand out" and just play his own game. Pete, Mike, and Darius explore the idea of how Russ can best be deployed in order to be most effective and Russ' own role in making that happen. Then later, the guys discuss the upcoming matchup with the Suns and offer predictions on how the game will go. 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

Russell Westbrook's struggles on opening night should not be surprising considering some of the lineups he played in and how much he was (or was not) set up for success. Pete, Mike, and Darius debate some of the lineup decisions made and whether catering more to Russ' style of play will better promote success or whether, due to injuries and roster construction, making those changes would just be setting the team up for different types of struggles where weaknesses from other players get exposed 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 season opener to the Warriors 121-114 in a game that saw LeBron and Anthony Davis score and defend well, but none of their teammates really have a positive night on either side of the ball. Pete and Darius breakdown the game, focusing on LeBron and AD's strong nights, how the big starting lineup fared, some of the team's defensive struggles, and how injuries forced some really ill-fitting lineups onto the floor. Later, the guys discuss Russell Westbrook's rough night and how a convergence of his own limitations and the groupings he played with contributed to his struggles. Visit https://www.tickpick.com/lfr to save $10 on your first order of tickets. 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 forecasting how far the Lakers can go this season, it's best to first examine their position in the Western Conference relative to the rest of the teams. Pete, Mike, and Darius go through the entire conference, using a tiered system to analyze who are the conference's best teams and how the Lakers stack up against them, as injuries and uncertainty loom large for several of its best teams. Visit https://www.tickpick.com/lfr to save $10 on your first order of tickets. 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