It's been a tough year for Lakers fans, no question, and for many seeing the Boston Celtics in the NBA Finals only makes things worse. For many, the LeBron James/Anthony Davis Era was supposed to be the thing that helped the Lakers equal, or even pass, the C's in race for most titles in league history. Instead, this year Boston can widen the lead, again.Moreover, they have an easier path to success going forward.On a brighter note, the return of Boston to the Finals brings back memories of the last two Lakers/Celtics Finals series. The crushing defeat in 2008, and the incredible redemption of 2010, and a Game 7 that was monumentally impactful for the legacy of Kobe Bryant. It's hard to imagine a more significant pivot point, which is why that series broadly and that game specifically remain so compelling.First, though, the Lakers released their preseason schedule. Normally not a big event, but it's a reminder that this year's problems began with a preseason that nobody, save perhaps Anthony Davis, took seriously enough. It set the wrong tone, and it was a mistake the Lakers are unlikely to make again this year.Finally, the roster construction of the Celtics and Warriors drive home the challenge the Lakers are facing, not just to get back to an elite level next season, but to maintain it going forward.HOSTS: Andy and Brian KamenetzkySEGMENT 1: Why the Lakers will need to take the preseason more seriously this season.SEGMENT 2: Remembering Kobe vs. the Celtics.SEGMENT 3: Former Laker Robert Horry explains on Locked On Sports Today why the C's are built for the long haul, if they're willing to make some compromises. His comments dovetail with others from James Worthy, who talked about shortcomings in teambuilding for the Lakers with a radio station in Detroit last week.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!PrizePicksCheck out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy!Built BarBuilt Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you’ll get 15% off your next order.BetOnlineBetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts!Rock AutoAmazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices