Happy D'Angelo, Ingram the 6th Man, and a Statue for Metta

The Lakers are (almost) back!

And that means we are, too! With a few minor adjustments. Like a total lack of music, thanks to some licensing questions with ESPN podcasts. So rather than run afoul of the law, we'll abide until we can find a workaround.

But thankfully, we're still plenty able to talk hoops. And with Moday's media day right around the corner, we tackle the big topics of conversation surrounding the purple and gold. Start with D'Angelo Russell, who hearts the new coaching staff in ways he, well, may not have hearted the previous one. So how much shade is Russell really throwing Byron Scott?

What about Luke Walton's decision to bring Brandon Ingram off the bench? Then there are projections! ESPN has the Lakers pegged to win 24.5 games this year. Too high? Too low? Or juuuuuuust right? (Surely there's a way to win a half game somewhere.)

Finally, the Lakers have signed Metta World Peace to one more make-good deal. Occasion enough to give him a statue! And, of course, more Secret Audio From the LaMarcus Aldridge Pitch Meeting.