— The Times' Ben Bolch provides a big-picture assessment on the Lakers' progress thus far. He also explains how fatigue has already caught up to them. 

— The Orange County Register's Kevin Ding explains how limited practice time has contributed to the Lakers' turnovers. 

— ESPN Los Angeles' Andy Kamenetzky explains why Kobe Bryant isn't looking forward to matching up with the Phoenix Suns. 

— Sports Illustrated's Britt Robson ranks the Lakers at No. 6 overall and argues that Bryant needs to dial back his shooting. 

— Lakers Nation's Mark Heisler says the Lakers should pursue Deron Williams instead of Dwight Howard. 

— Lakers.com's Mike Trudell highlights Bryant winning Western Conference player of the week honors. 

— Forum Blue and Gold's Darius Soriano previews the Lakers-Suns game. 

Tweet of the Day: "What makes up a team? That's all that is important.. U win and lose together!!!" -- MettaWorldPeace (Lakers forward Metta World Peace)

Rick Friedman Reader Comment of the Day: "Priority number one on that list should be getting a new point guard that can hold the ball and create for the rest of the team taking the load off of Kobe and his bad wrist!!" -- Omar Estrada

— Mark Medina

Email the Lakers blog at mgmedin@gmail.com