Frank Vogel Still Has Faith in the Lakers. Do His Players? Plus, Does Westbrook Want a Trade?

Frank Vogel spoke to the media Wednesday, and when asked why he believes the Lakers still have a chance to right the ship and make some noise this year, he talked about faith. It's the belief in something you can't see, but that doesn't mean it's not possible, or doesn't exist. So while the Lakers, he said, haven't yet shown the ability to play at a high level for sustained stretches (a very frank admission from Vogel), that doesn't mean it can't happen. He still believes it can. But do the players agree? Meanwhile, the media and fans alike are increasingly turning their attention to what is sure to be a very interesting offseason, Most folks agree that Vogel won't be back, but is Rob Pelinka's job less secure than previously believed? Would the Lakers let him go, too? Is their ability to hire the best people hindered by the way in which they operate? The image of the Lakers as a mom-and-pop shop is getting a little more attention these days, harkening back to darker stretches in the team's recent history. For the Lakers, it's better to look progressive than provincial. One thing people often overlook - it wasn't just the city's natural appeal or some sort of magic fairy dust that has made the franchise what it is. The Lakers have, over the years, been blessed with extraordinary competence, both on the court, in the front office and on the sidelines. That type of talent is very, very hard to replicate, especially today when some of the team's historical advantages have been eroded by context. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky SEGMENT 1: Frank Vogel has faith. Does his team? SEGMENT 2: LeBron isn't packing it in early this season, at least not yet. And what about the offseason? SEGMENT 3: Are the Lakers equipped to make the sweeping changes that seem like they're coming, whether on the coaching front, with the roster, or even among decision makers? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! PrizePicks Check out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy! Built Bar Built Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you’ll get 15% off your next order. BetOnline BetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts! Rock Auto Amazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices