The Lakers have constructed most of their roster—just that pesky final center (presumably) remains—and generally to terms very favorable to the team. One wrinkle that was disclosed this week? Via Keith Smith, the cap guru, D'Angelo Russell waived the no-trade clause afforded him (and any other player signing a similar deal) thanks to his contract, which amounts to only one guaranteed year, since the second one is an option.

Why?

Does that mean Russell is, once again, on the trade block, before the ink even dries on this deal? Well, sort of? Russell will always be placed into trade rumors. He's been there since the Lakers drafted him. He was in rumors in Brooklyn. He was in rumors in Golden State. He was in rumors this summer. He'll be in rumors next year, the year after, and with whatever teams he plays for before he retires. But it's a setup that benefits everyone. If the Lakers are going well and Russell is playing well, he's not going to be dealt at all. If he's not? It benefits everyone to make his departure easier.

Meanwhile, Max Christie is looking excellent in Summer League, not just as a scorer but displaying a full floor game. The difference he could make in LA's rotation this season, if he's a guy the team would want to play 15-20 a night vs. can play 10-15 is dramatic. That's like acquiring a $5-10 million player via free agency, or making a trade where you sacrifice nothing. And it's the floor game that gets him in the rotation, not the scoring. That's the skill the Lakers are least likely to need. Jalen Hood-Schifino has also settled into very steady play. Very few mistakes, very little flash. Just solid decision after solid decision. The outside shot needs to come, but for now, the type of low turnover, low mistake ball he's playing is what the Lakers would need if he's pressed into service (or, of course, earns it).

Finally, Max Lewis signed a four-year deal. Are the Lakers getting smarter about locking up second rounders? Or is it a matter of representation?

HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky

SEGMENT 1: Russell waives his no-trade clause. What's up with that?

SEGMENT 2: Is Max Christie the new Austin Reaves?

SEGMENT 3: Jalen Hood-Schifino has an interesting comp, according to a viewer on the YT page.

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