Los Angeles Lakers Receive: C Christian Wood, G Eric Gordon, F Jae’Sean Tate, 2023 First-Round Pick (MIL), 2028 First-Round Pick (HOU)

Houston Rockets Receive: F/C Anthony Davis

With this deal, the Los Angeles Lakers split the difference between punting on 2022-23 and going all-in on a championship pursuit.

The acquisition of Wood, Gordon, and Tate ought to equip them to stay competitive next season. For all of the buzz around Russell Westbrook’s inability to play alongside LeBron James, it may have been his fit with Davis that was more problematic.

After all, Westbrook thrives alongside floor-spacers. Davis shot 16.9% from distance last season. Wood shot a clean 39%. Meanwhile, Gordon is a high-end floor spacer as well. This deal may be addition by subtraction for the Lakers.

On the other hand, it may be a simple case of subtraction. The Lakers are taking a pure talent downgrade here. Even in spite of receiving a pair of picks, that may not sit well with them.

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In that event, inviting a third team to the bargaining table may help these sides reach an agreement.