When the Lakers were 3-5 and set to play the Suns, they seemed to be at an inflection point in the season, where another loss could send things in a tough direction.

They responded with a healthy string of wins running through the In-Season Tournament championship.

Tonight, their record is better (15-12), but with the Western Conference taking form (a very challenging form) the team is at a similar crossroads, starting tonight in Chicago against a sub-.500 Bulls team. Because after this one, the Lakers will visit Minnesota and Oklahoma City, then host Boston on Christmas Day. Save a game or two here and there, the schedule moving forward is relentless, and the Lakers will need to elevate in order to stay above water in the West.

The challenge comes at a time where the Lakers are slumping, and are fighting fatigue. Particularly LeBron James. They're also a little banged up, though are set to welcome Gabe Vincent back to the lineup against the Bulls. Vincent, who has missed most of the season, will be on a minutes restriction and fighting rust, but it's an important addition to the rotation at a time where Darvin Ham is working through some questions about who should play and who shouldn't.

Speaking of which, is it time to flip-flop D'Angelo Russell and Austin Reaves in the starting lineup? Would the Lakers benefit from a shakeup?

HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky

SEGMENT 1: The Lakers kick off a tough three-game trip tonight in Chicago.

SEGMENT 2: Gabe Vincent returns!

SEGMENT 3: Should Darvin Ham return Reaves to the starting lineup for Russell?

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