A former Lakers scout is skeptical that team executive Rob Pelinka will build a team around Luka Doncic that will win the NBA championship.

Nov 5, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes (11) meets with Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) after a basket scored against the San Antonio Spurs during the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

The Los Angeles Lakers have been exploring an interesting trade deal with Sacramento Kings as their needs intensify.

Bobby "Slick" Leonard made his name during his three seasons at Indiana University Bloomington in the early 1950s. He averaged 15.5 points a game there and hit the game-winning free throw that gave the Hoosiers a win in the 1953 NCAA championship game over the University of Kansas.

Friday, Jan. 9, 9:30 p.m. CST, Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, California TV: FanDuel Sports Network Wisconsin, Spectrum SportsNet

Trade talks are heating up for the Los Angeles Lakers. Dillon Brooks is a name being discussed. The Lakers want to add a strong defender. Brooks fits the bill. He can guard top players. This would help LeBron James and Luka Doncic.

Kobe joined an up-and-coming Lakers team that was filled with veteran presence and was destined to compete for a title, thanks to Shaquille O'Neal's signing in the same offseason. Although he had talent, Bean had to learn how to adapt and play behind experienced players, fighting for his role and gradually growing into a leader.

The Los Angeles Lakers have spent weeks drawing scrutiny for their inconsistency, defensive lapses, and internal tension. On many nights, they look like a team headed toward a major shakeup. Yet the standings tell a very different story.