Monday, Shams Charania of The Athletic reported that the Brooklyn Nets and mercurial guard Kyrie Irving have reached an impasse in contract negotiations, making it more likely the Nets star decides to become a free agent. And if that happens, Charania says the Lakers, of course, would be among the interested parties.

So much to unpack.

On Monday's show the idea of Bradley Beal, another potential target for the Lakers should things go wrong with Beal and the Washington Wizards, was tossed around. Players like Beal come with significant injury risk, and would cost a lot of money. But Beal is a rock solid locker room presence. Kyrie? He's like dropping a load of incredibly self-important dynamite into the building. You're just begging for an explosion. On the other hand, Irving is a transcendent offensive talent. That much is undeniable.

So under what terms should the Lakers swing a deal (which would, definitionally, rid themselves of the Russell Westbrook contract), if it becomes an option? Would/should they give him a max contract, and hope for the best? Draw the line playing out next season and crossing the next bridge when they get there? Is a one year extension an option? And oh, does anyone know yet if LeBron James, with whom Irving won a chip back in Cleveland, would think another go round is a good idea? Especially after the disastrous Season Of Westbrook?

One thing is clear: If the Lakers are going to make a commitment to Irving, they need to secure a commitment from James.

HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky

SEGMENT 1: Kyrie Irving may become available, and if he does, the Lakers are reportedly interested.

SEGMENT 2: What are the terms under which a deal for Kyrie might make sense?

SEGMENT 3: Does LeBron want this kind of teammate this late in his career?

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