-- ESPN Los Angeles' Brian Kamenetzky talks to Lakers forward Pau Gasol, who acknowledges his uncertainty that the Lakers will keep him. The trade deadline is March 15.

--The Times' Baxter Holmes highlights Lakers coach Mike Brown downplaying Metta World Peace's frustrations regarding him being a "stats guy."

--The Times' Bill Plaschke catches up with Lakers executive vice president Jeanie Buss, who admits this year has been different for her. She hasn't attended many Laker games this season.

--The Orange County Register's Janis Carr explains why Lakers coach Mike Brown remains optimistic about his current roster.

-- ESPN's Dan Le Batard talks with Lakers forward Matt Barnes in a revealing interview, below, about a number of topics, including his past chippiness with Kobe Bryant

--Wired.com's Kyle Stack talks with Bryant, who refutes a study that suggests he takes bad shots late in the shot clock.

--The Daily News' Elliott Teaford notices the Lakers have a more positive vibe than in recent games.

--Lakers.com's Mike Trudell explains how Steve Blake's return solidifies the bench.

--Silver Screen and Roll's Actuarially Sound analyzes various lineup combinations.

Tweet of the Day: "I've heard the arguments. Can't help the feeling that Pau Gasol's on the trading block mostly because he's so close to Phil." -- lazenby (Lakers author Roland Lazenby) 

Rick Friedman Reader Comment of the Day: "If Ron put as much effort in his 3 point shot as he does changing his name and being a Lin fan, the Lakers would be undefeated." -- Samuel Wright

-- Mark Medina

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

Photo: Lakers forward Pau Gasol, left, battles with Atlanta guard Jeff Teague for a rebound during Tuesday's game. Credit: Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times