*We will have a live chat today at 4 p.m. Bring your questions!

--The Times' Broderick Turner explains why the players union publicly says it won't cave in to the owner's demands.

--The Times' Lance Pugmire talks to Jerry West about his strained relationship with Phil Jackson and more. 

--NBA.com's David Aldridge explains how the league thrives on dynasties. 

--Sports Illustrated's Sam Amick notices that the players union is fighting back. 

--The Orange County Register's Janis Carr talks with Darius Morris on why he's anxious about the NBA lockout. 

--Ball Don't Lie's Eric Freeman criticizes David Stern's media blitz. 

--Sheridan Hoops' Mark Heisler believes the season will start Dec. 1

--Pro Basketball Talk's Kurt Helin mentions how a federal mediator will meet separately with NBA players and owners Monday before meeting Tuesday. 

--ESPN Los Angeles' Brian Kamenetzky sizes up the feasibility of the players starting their own league. 

--Fox Sports ranks Magic Johnson as the NBA's second-best player of all time. 

--Forum Blue and Gold's Darius Soriano argues that Pau Gasol doesn't deserve a Top 10 ranking. 

Tweet of the Day: "The more tweets I read, the more I’m getting this. There’s a good learner’s curve on this thing." -- ShowtimeCooper (USC womens' basketball Coach Michael Cooper, the former Laker)

Rick Friedman Reader Comment of the Day: " I consider myself a die hard Laker and Clipper fan as well. If the differences between players and owners are not resolved and we lose a season, I just may find another sport to invest my interest in." -- Karen Osano Johnson

-- Mark Medina

Photo: Derek Fisher, president of the NBA players union, addresses reporters after a meeting with members on Friday at the Beverly Hilton hotel. (Damian Dovarganes / Associated Press / Oct. 14, 2011)