One day, LeBron James is going to retire. In fact, that day is coming soon. James is aging. Before we know it, he’ll be watching the NBA from the sidelines like the rest of us.
With that said, he did not look his age last season. James still delivered star performances on a nightly basis. As long as that’s true, the Los Angeles Lakers have a title window.
They need to capitalize on it. This summer, the Lakers retained D’Angelo Russell in free agency. Whether his ball-dominant style of play will be the best fit alongside James over a full season is to be determined.
If it isn’t, could the Lakers send him to the Los Angeles Clippers when he is eligible to be moved midseason?
The Trade Proposal
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: F Robert Covington, C Mason Plumlee
Los Angeles Clippers Receive: G D’Angelo Russell
At the risk of stating the obvious, every great player retires. Father Time is undefeated. Meanwhile, he presses some athletes harder than others. Some players are forced into retirement more quickly than they’d hoped.
That’s what makes James’ durability so impressive. The fact that he’s still a star-caliber producer at his age is remarkable. Every player isn’t so lucky.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: D’Angelo Russell, Los Angeles Lakers & LA Clippers Updates
Just look at Kawhi Leonard of the Los Angeles Clippers. Injuries have taken a toll on Leonard already. We’re not saying he’s nearing retirement, but the Clippers are surely concerned about his longevity.
Does this deal do enough to capitalize on his peak?
Why The Los Angeles Clippers Do The Deal
Well, the Clippers need a point guard. That much is certain. Sure, they’ve got Russell Westbrook. He’s still capable of being a quality contributor in spurts. At this stage in his career, he’s not a full-time solution as a starter.
Of course, by the time Russell is eligible to be traded, the Clippers may have solved their problem. This team is reportedly considering James Harden. If they trade for him, they won’t make this move.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: D’Angelo Russell, Los Angeles Lakers & LA Clippers Updates
Let’s assume that they don’t. Russell is a strong passer who can lead a pick-and-roll as a ball-handler. He’d provide the Clippers with the floor management that they need. Should the Lakers part with him?
Why The Los Angeles Lakers Do The Deal
By contrast, the Lakers don’t necessarily need a point guard. They have LeBron James. Is he a point guard? Not positionally. Still, James can lead an offense as well as anybody in NBA history. He doesn’t necessarily need to spend time off-ball watching Russell in pick-and-roll sets.
In some respects, this boils down to Austin Reaves. If he can provide some secondary playmaking, he could render Russell expendable.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: D’Angelo Russell, Los Angeles Lakers & LA Clippers Updates
In that event, this deal is perfect for the Lakers. It improves their depth. Plumlee is a solid defensive big with fantastic passing chops, and Covington is an ideal, low-usage 3-and-D wing. Each could help James make the most of the end of his career.
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