That the Lakers are and will remain for a while a work in progress is a well-developed story at this point. (Hardly uninteresting, but definitely not unspoken.) What makes things interesting is the scope of that work. One of the major issues facing Frank Vogel, his triumvirate of stars and a brand new supporting cast - balance. So many potential tradeoffs when it comes to potential lineups, or tactics to maneuver through a long regular season.

Among them:

• How can the Lakers leverage their size (not just among centers, but certainly including them) while also playing a modern game, offensively?
• How much defense can be sacrificed in the name of generating more points?
• What's the right balance when it comes to Russell Westbrook and his traditional style of play?

These questions and more run throughout the episode, all enhanced by the presence of The Ringer's Seerat Sohi, one of the most unique basketball voices out there today. It's a full on engagement in the pros and cons of Westbrook, the skepticism some have about how ultimately he (and the Lakers by extension) might fare when the playoffs roll around, and the process of being in love with the process, and why it matters that Lakers veterans LOVE them some process.

Plus, a deep dive into the Ben Simmons saga in Philly, and we break down some of Seerat's work writing about HBO's Succession for The Ringer.

HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky, with Guest Seerat Sohi (The Ringer)

SEGMENT 1: Was Seerat on board with the Westbrook deal when it happened? How fixable are the potential shortcomings he brings personally? Conversely, how high does the ceiling get for the team if it works?

SEGMENT 2: What's the right balance for the Lakers, when it comes to size? Can/should Frank Vogel sacrifice defense in the name of offense? How good is Vogel at doing that?

SEGMENT 3: How the hell did the Ben Simmons thing break down so fast? How did so many smart people seem to make poor choices? Or was this inevitable? PLUS.... Some bonus talk! It's time to talk about Logan Roy, the kids and Waystar Royco!

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