GT, I pretty much agree about your general thoughts about L.A. sports and cultural dynamics. From an observational sociological perspective I find it endlessly intriguing on a number of levels. You covered some of the themes in your comments. The last few years I've been reading massive amounts of material on the history of Southern California and various L.A. subjects, and have acquired a fairly solid second hand understanding to give me a broader perspective. I still am very surprised at myself for being so infatuated with the L.A./Hollywood environment. Even though some of my family moved there thirty years ago I never felt the urge to go there. Even after many invitations to visit. But once I finally did head down on a vacation I really felt comfortable and in sync in some subtle way. Obviously as a tourist I have the luxury of picking and choosing to do things I enjoy and hang out where I want to, so I don't have to deal with the endemic social and economic issues facing a resident. I seriously could see myself living there under certain conditions, but I really prefer trying to have the best of both worlds. Fun vacations and the capacity to return home afterwards.

There are essentially three things that keep drawing me back. Most importantly, I've reconnected with this branch of my family, got to meet kids (now young adults) I never had seen in person, caught up on many years with little communication. We used to be quite close when younger. Just one of the undocumented examples of how the 'quiet revolution' in Quebec led directly to the scattering of many non-Francophone families to diverse geographical directions. Another thing I like is the way creativity is such a major part of the culture and economy. I've never been anywhere else like that, and it really caught me by surprise. I even was drawn into one of the loops through some casual conversation, even though I had no motive or intentions in mind at all. The attitude of 'let's make this happen' is stimulating and challenging, even if the end result is out of one's personal control. And then there's the weather and geography. What's not to like? Not to mention the museums, beaches, scenery, shopping and all the entertainment options.

Re the Lakers. I think it will be impossible for them to change philosophies while Jim Buss and Kupchak are in charge, but they are in a hell of a dilemma Maybe somehow the Phil/Jeannie forces will gain control or at least have significant input. It will be some kind of soap opera till next season starts, regardless of what happens. You have to wonder what would have happened if Stern hadn't vetoed the Paul trade.