Matthew Valento

Matthew Valento graduated from Boise State University with a major in integrated media and strategic communications and a minor in journalism. He grew up in Santa Clarita, California and played basketball at Saugus High School. Along with writing for LakersNation.com, Matthew also hosts a basketball podcast called, "The Basketball Maestros." Contact: MattV@MediumLargeLA.com Twitter: @matthewvalento Instagram: matthew.valento
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Lakers Rumors: Potential For Fringe Trade To Upgrade Roster

Up to this point in the season, the Los Angeles Lakers have exceeded expectations given the injuries and adversity thrown their way. With Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves showcasing an extremely high ceiling as a backcourt, the Lakers have themselves…

Lakers News: Kobe Bryant & Shaquille O’Neal Championship Balls Sell In Auction

An iconic moment in Los Angeles Lakers history was Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal joining forces. Bryant, who was drafted out of high school in 1996, would grow into a dynamic pairing next to the most dominant center ever. Despite…

Lakers News: Gabe Vincent Praises JJ Redick & Coaching Staff

JJ Redick is in the midst of his second season as head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers and he is taking positive strides in terms of growth. Not to say Redick's rookie year was not impressive, but there were…

JJ Redick: Lakers Will Be Cautious With Austin Reaves But Should Return In One Week

Unfortunately, the Los Angeles Lakers received more injury news as it was announced that Austin Reaves will be re-evaluated in one week with a mild left calf strain. Calf strains have seemingly become a common injury this season and teams…

When Will JJ Redick Give Jarred Vanderbilt Another Opportunity In Lakers Rotation?

Veteran forward Jarred Vanderbilt has found himself on the outside looking in from the Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick's rotation in recent weeks. Vanderbilt's energetic defense got him to where he is today, but his shortcomings on offense…

Lakers News: JJ Redick ‘Looking At Everything’ To Fix Defensive Struggles

Following a disappointing effort in the Emirates NBA Cup quarterfinals against the San Antonio Spurs, Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick is searching for answers on the defensive end. Against a youthful Spurs team, L.A. struggled to match their…

Lakers News: Klay Thompson Compares Cooper Flagg To Kobe Bryant

Cooper Flagg of the Dallas Mavericks was one of the most anticipated draft prospects in recent memory, with multiple teams attempting to tank for his services. Despite being 18-years-old, his upside is regarded as all-time great worthy, seeing how he…

Lakers News: Austin Reaves Believes Luka Doncic Makes Game Easier For Him Despite Putting Up Big Numbers In His Absence

The Los Angeles Lakers are in an intriguing position with Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves and LeBron James leading the charge as all three are used to having the ball in their hands. Luckily, each one can command a lineup should…

Gabe Vincent: Austin Reaves Has Been ‘Spark’ For Lakers All Season

Austin Reaves' emergence as a star for the Los Angeles Lakers has been a great storyline to begin this season as he is showcasing that he can be a long-term fit alongside Luka Doncic. With LeBron James nearing the end…

Lakers Injury Report: LeBron James Questionable, Luka Doncic Available & Marcus Smart Out Vs. 76ers

The Los Angeles Lakers released their injury report for Sunday night's game against the Philadelphia 76ers and LeBron James (right sciatica and left foot joint arthritis) is questionable whilwe Luka Doncic (personal) is available to return and Marcus Smart (left…