The Lakers, obviously, are at a critical juncture in their season. It's getting awful close to make-or-break time, in terms of understanding just how realistic a deep playoff run is going to be. And fundamentally, that means getting Anthony Davis back on the floor. That could happen Tuesday, as the Lakers star was upgraded to probable after nearly suiting up against the Heat on Sunday. Not only does Davis make the team better on both sides of the floor based solely on his talent - for all the talk of vaguely disappointing play from him this season, it's in the context of a guy being a top 15 player instead of a top 5 - he also allows: some pressure to come off LeBron offensively slots Westbrook into a better spot (and gives Russ another large man to pass to at the rim) helps the Lakers settle into their small-ball identity for real. ...and more. Really, there's nothing that doesn't improve with Davis available. But perhaps most importantly, with nine games left before the trade deadline (assuming Davis plays Tuesday) it gives the Lakers a decent chunk of time to see what exactly they are, what the needs might be, and whether or not they're good enough to make an aggressive upgrade at the deadline worthwhile. And if the Lakers do make a move, what kind of move is available? The pieces they have to offer aren't any different - Talen Horton-Tucker, Kendrick Nunn and a first-round pick - but perhaps the return might be? Would the Lakers have a shot at Jerami Grant? Lesser deals for a Terrance Ross-type? Would they actually pull the trigger on a trade sending Westbrook to Houston for John Wall? What if that deal expanded to include Eric Gordon, too? There's a ton to unpack with those ideas, and the process stars in this episode! HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: What Anthony Davis does for the Lakers when he returns. SEGMENT 2: Why the next nine games are critical for understanding just what the Lakers have heading into the trade deadline. SEGMENT 3: Would you trade Westbrook for Wall? What about an enhanced version of that deal? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Built Bar Built Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15” and you’ll get 15% off your next order. BetOnline AG There is only 1 place that has you covered and 1 place we trust. Betonline.ag! Sign up today for a free account at betonline.ag and use that promocode: LOCKEDON for your 50% welcome bonus. PrizePicks Don’t hesitate, check out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy! TrueBill Don’t fall for subscription scams. Start cancelling today at Truebill.com/LOCKEDONNBA. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices