What happened: Asked how the defense looks different outside the Walker Kessler layer, Jake LaRavia said the Lakers have "some problems this year" because of their perimeter options. He described the roster as having "a lot of wing depth" as preseason work gets underway.

Why it matters: That gives the Lakers multiple defensive looks around Kessler instead of leaning on one wing stopper. It also points to a roster build that is trying to stack length and on-ball resistance across the perimeter before the 2026-27 season opens.

What to watch: The next read comes when exhibition rotations show which wing groups get the first run together. Roster cuts are due Oct. 20, so preseason usage will matter quickly.