NBA lockout: Which Lakers will spend their time wisely?

For all the concern that the NBA lockout might eat into all or part of the 2011-2012 NBA season, it'd be misguided for players to think that's simply extended vacation time.

Sure, it might prompt them to rest more, tap into more endorsement opportunities or engage in the cliched exercise this off-season by "remaining open to playing overseas." But the smart NBA players will remain prepared just in case the season starts on time. That naturally leads to questions of who on the Lakers will be ready for that scenario. Click below the jump to find out.

These Lakers will use their time productively

Kobe Bryant - Before you do a double take and wonder how I could be on the fence about Bryant, consider the question. Of course, Bryant's going to be ready for the season in shape. But that's not the question. The question is will he spend his time wisely. If he plays overseas, it's not going to be a good use of his time because he needs to rest his body as much as possible. If Bryant minimizes his basketball schedule to barnstorming appearances and off-season training, then Bryant surely will have spent this off-season in a productive manner. Plain and simple.

Ron Artest -- It's too easy to say Artest will show up next season unprepared for the 2011-12 season because of all the ongoing distractions consuming his life. It's surely a legitimate concern, but frankly it's too hard to predict Artest. By the same token, Artest works out two hours a day so it's not like he's not playing basketball. The issue has never been his work ethic. It's been about how he manages his own hectic schedule. Case in point, Artest told Fox Sports Billy Witz last season that he recorded a song and had extensive meetings with his clothing line mere hours before Game 7 of the 2010 NBA Finals, and we all know how that turned out.

Luke Walton -- He's a hard worker, but consider this a draw. Regardless of what he does this off-season, I don't forsee Walton having a major role on the team next season.

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