The Lakers had indicated they'd try to find a way into Thursday's NBA Draft, and that's exactly what they did, executing a trade with Orlando to acquire the 35th pick. They spent it on 19-year old Michigan State wing Max Christie, who had a somewhat disappointing freshman season in East Lansing, but has a lot of appealing skills and plenty of runway to develop them, given his age. What should fans expect from him?

The Lakers also moved quickly to fill their two-way slots, adding Vanderbilt guard Scotty Pippen Jr. and Syracuse forward Cole Swider. Given the team's track record finding good players on the fringes, it's reasonable for fans to be optimistic some of these guys could make it in the league.

Perhaps the most interesting thing to come out of New York on Thursday night for the Lakers? GM Rob Pelinka told the assembled media that Ham has had lengthy conversations with Russell Westbrook about his role, and that Russ is ready to accept a defensive-first mindset. Will it translate to the court? Who knows? But there's a better chance Russ reforms his game in important ways this year than last, at the least.

Finally, it's time to open up the mailbag! What kind of free agents might the team attract as the market opens next week? And would you rather have intense star power with three guys and zero depth, or lesser stars and a more complete roster?

HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky

SEGMENT 1: Welcome, new Lakers!

SEGMENT 2: Russ says he's ready to commit to defense. Or Rob Pelinka says he says that. Do you buy it?

SEGMENT 3: Mailbag!

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