It's been a tough year for Lakers fans, no question, and for many seeing the Boston Celtics in the NBA Finals only makes things worse. For many, the LeBron James/Anthony Davis Era was supposed to be the thing that helped the Lakers equal, or even pass, the C's in race for most titles in league history. Instead, this year Boston can widen the lead, again.

Moreover, they have an easier path to success going forward.

On a brighter note, the return of Boston to the Finals brings back memories of the last two Lakers/Celtics Finals series. The crushing defeat in 2008, and the incredible redemption of 2010, and a Game 7 that was monumentally impactful for the legacy of Kobe Bryant. It's hard to imagine a more significant pivot point, which is why that series broadly and that game specifically remain so compelling.

First, though, the Lakers released their preseason schedule. Normally not a big event, but it's a reminder that this year's problems began with a preseason that nobody, save perhaps Anthony Davis, took seriously enough. It set the wrong tone, and it was a mistake the Lakers are unlikely to make again this year.

Finally, the roster construction of the Celtics and Warriors drive home the challenge the Lakers are facing, not just to get back to an elite level next season, but to maintain it going forward.

HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky

SEGMENT 1: Why the Lakers will need to take the preseason more seriously this season.

SEGMENT 2: Remembering Kobe vs. the Celtics.

SEGMENT 3: Former Laker Robert Horry explains on Locked On Sports Today why the C's are built for the long haul, if they're willing to make some compromises. His comments dovetail with others from James Worthy, who talked about shortcomings in teambuilding for the Lakers with a radio station in Detroit last week.

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