--The Times' Mike Bresnahan talks to Lakers Coach Mike Brown over lunch about his off-season preparations.

--NBA.com's David Alrdridge answers 10 questions regarding the NBA lockout.

--The New York Times' Jake Appleman was there to see Deron Williams' horrible debut in Turkey for the Besiktas basketball team. 

--NBA.com's Steve Aschburner argues it's unrealistic to think both the owners and players union will present their best offer yet.  

--Sports Illustrated's Sam Amick argues the players union must find a way to broker a deal by Monday. 

--CBS Sports' Ken Berger breaks down how both sides can make a deal. 

--Sheridan Hoops' Nick Gibson anaylzes what Kobe Bryant going to Italy would mean to him. 

--Fox Sports' Randy Hill argues agents' involvement in the labor deal isn't helping matters. 

--The Washington Post's Michael Lee shares a heartwarming story about Bryant's affection for Kwame Brown and Smush Parker. 

--ESPN Los Angeles' Andy Kamenetzky looks at the odds of the Lakers letting go of certain players because of the amnesty clause. Good news Laker fans: Luke Walton is highly likely, while Kobe Bryant is staying here.

--Sports Illustrated's Zach Lowe breaks down a few nuances regarding the labor talks. 

--ESPN Los Angeles' Dave McMenamin has enjoyed watching the various exhibition showcases during the NBA lockout.

--Lakers.com's Mike Trudell reflects on Mike Dunleavy's coaching career with the Lakers. 

--The Orange County Register's Randy Youngman talks to Bill Walton, who believes the NBA season will start on time.

--Yahoo! Sports' Adrian Wojnarowski praises Kevin Garnett for taking a strong stand with the players union. 

--Forum Blue and Gold's J.M. Poulard analyzes Lamar's Odom worth to the Lakers. 

Tweet of the Day: "I hope everyone knows that I was only kidding about @MettaWorldPeace on @JayLeno Monday night." -- MagicJohnson (Lakers legend Magic Johnson)

--Mark Medina

E-mail the Lakers blog at mgmedin@gmail.com

Photo: NBA players' association president Derek Fisher understands a labor agreement must be reached soon if the season is going to start on time. Credit: Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times