How This Deal Impacts Los Angeles Lakers
The Los Angeles Lakers likely don’t want to trade Anthony Davis. It was only two years ago in the Orlando Bubble that he and LeBron James helped lead the team to the NBA Championship. However, if they take a look at their long-term outlook, trading him is something that may have to consider sooner than later.
Davis is the only player on the team that would demand a return package that can help the Lakers restock the roster and draft capital. While they wouldn’t be able to land a package such as the one they sent to the New Orleans Pelicans for him, they can still get a solid haul.
Terry Rozier would answer a lot of their problems at the point guard position with his 3-point shooting and defense. He has playoff experience from his time with the Boston Celtics and won’t be phased by those bright lights.
Kelly Oubre Jr. is a good upgrade on the wing. He could play some minutes at the power forward spot with Davis on the move. If he could replicate what he did with the Phoenix Suns when deployed at the four spot, the Lakers would be in business.
P.J. Washington is the kind of versatile big man that would thrive playing alongside LeBron James. He is a capable floor spacer and has made some major strides defensively.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Updates On Anthony Davis, Charlotte Hornets & Los Angeles Lakers
James Bouknight and Kai Jones are first-round picks from 2021 that didn’t receive much playing time as rookies. They would have a clearer path to playing time with the Lakers given the current construction of their roster. The duo could become long-term pieces in Los Angeles if they live up to expectations.
The draft picks are extremely valuable to Los Angeles. They lack draft capital, so this would give them a chance to add some young players down the road. The 2024 first-round provides them a chance to be in the running to select Bronny James, as his landing spot is where LeBron James said he would finish his career, playing alongside his son.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Updates On Anthony Davis, Charlotte Hornets & Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers would also have the necessary draft capital to attach to Russell Westbrook to move him in a deal. This could be the first of multiple deals as Los Angeles could reshape the roster around James, bringing in someone such as Kyrie Irving in a trade with the Brooklyn Nets.
