Lakers vs. Celtics! It always means something, even when the teams aren't competing for titles against each other. And Tuesday's edition at the Crypt is poised to be a fascinating game for L.A., especially. They've shown signs of life, but have a lot of ground to make up to get back to .500, and challenge for a playoff spot. After beating Milwaukee on the road trip - the East's second best team - can they beat the NBA's best? It's a big measuring stick game, as well as an important one in the standings as the Lakers make their way through a brutal December schedule.

To break it all down, we welcome the great John Karalis, host of Locked On Celtics!

We start by looking at the rivalry itself. What does it mean to today's players, especially these Celtics? Does this game mean a little more, even to a younger generation of players who haven't played a Finals vs. LA? Meanwhile, why have the Celtics been so good bouncing back from a turmoil-heavy offseason? One that made the regular controversy that surrounds every Lakers summer seem tame by comparison? It starts with two excellent stars in Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown who feel like they may not have been getting all the credit they deserve. Then, a great supporting cast including balanced contributors off the bench (like Malcolm Brogdon).

Looking at the game, where are the Celtics vulnerable? They just lost to Golden State, the fastest paced team in the league. Are the C's vulnerable to pace? Sort of, but you have to stop them at the other end first, which is a tall order. Ball movement, Karalis says, is critical to Boston's success this season. But there are times they get a little complacent. Can the Lakers exploit them?

How about the Lakers? What does Karalis see from the purple and gold, from across the country, with perhaps a less emotional investment? What can the Lakers be with Anthony Davis playing at this level, and a healthy LeBron James?

How much room for improvement is there for L.A.?

HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky, with Guest John Karalis!

SEGMENT 1: What is the state of the Lakers/Celtics Rivalry in 2022?

SEGMENT 2: Why is Boston so good this year? Are they vulnerable to teams who can play on the break?

SEGMENT 3: Can the Lakers make a push in the West? What would it take for them to improve enough to be a legitimate contender?

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