In this NBA, it's brawn over brains and muscle that matters

The NBA nudges closer to pro wrestling, and atmosphere is even more hostile in playoffs. The Clippers saw it with the 'We Don't Bluff' Grizzlies, and talents of a Steve Nash of the Lakers are lost.

Lakers need to improve, a lot, but their options are limited

Coming off a disappointing season and facing salary cap and luxury tax issues, Lakers will try to upgrade from a menu of second-tier players. A look at who's available:

Three basketball coaches focus on home court

Lakers head coach Mike D'Antoni buys in Manhattan Beach, ex-Lakers skipper Mike Brown lists in Anaheim Hills and former UCLA coach Ben Howland lists in Bel-Air.

Dwight Howard wants to get away before deciding on Lakers return

Kobe Bryant says it is 'very important' for the soon-to-be free agent to come back, and General Manager Mitch Kupchak says he's optimistic. Pau Gasol doesn't get strong indication of his future.

He's just the man to lead the Lakers: Phil for president

Franchise is in disarray, and perhaps only one man can fix it: Phil Jackson. But not in the way you might think.

Steve Nash makes Lakers' case: 'This is the place' for Dwight Howard

Nash calls this season the most frustrating of his 17-year career and wants to make next season 'a phenomenal experience.' To that end, he is 'very hopeful' the soon-to-be free agent center will return.

Think the Lakers should let Dwight Howard go? Think again

Fans are upset with Howard over Lakers' wasted season, and his ejection in final game. But he's still the best option to build around. Re-signing him is essential.

Lakers, Dwight Howard need to walk away from each other

The center has proven he can't handle being the face of a franchise like the Lakers. The team needs to rebuild and needs the financial flexibility it won't have if Howard is re-signed.

What's left of Lakers isn't nearly enough to beat Spurs

Drearily departed: Lakers' lost season ends tepidly as Spurs roll, 103-82, in Game 4.

Lakers' Pau Gasol is steady as he goes ... away?

Gasol stays classy as the Lakers' season ends with Game 4 loss to Spurs in first round, but he probably has played his last game for L.A. for team financial reasons. He appears stoic about his fate.

With season over, Lakers must consider payroll options

Dwight Howard can decide to become a free agent, the Lakers can amnesty a player and several reserves probably won't return. The Lakers have the largest payroll in the NBA and could look to lower taxes.

Mike D'Antoni takes chants, still hopes to turn them to cheers

Lakers Coach Mike D'Antoni says he hears fans calling for Phil Jackson and understands why they do it. He also admits mistakes and vows to turn things around.

Lakers' playoff outcome all but inevitable going into Game 4

They would have to do what's never been done before to come back from a 3-0 deficit to win four NBA playoff games. Beyond that, their future is uncertain.

This can't end soon enough for the Lakers

A 120-89 loss in Game 3 to the San Antonio Spurs puts the Lakers in a 3-0 series deficit that no miracles, casts, bandages or painkillers can help.

Lakers, down to backcourt of last resort, are crushed by Spurs

Kobe Bryant, Steve Nash and Steve Blake are out, Darius Morris and Andrew Goudelock start, and Lakers lose 120-89. They trail series 3-0; season could end Sunday.