Once again, the Los Angeles Lakers are in the midst of trade rumors for a disgruntled superstar. This time, as many have predicted, that player is Anthony Davis, the Pelicans big man who has made the playoffs just twice since being drafted by the franchise.
On Monday, agent Rich Paul (who also represents LeBron James) announced that Davis has requested a trade, telling the Pelicans he will not sign an extension in the summer. With the Boston Celtics unable to trade for Davis without moving Kyrie Irving off their roster, the Lakers are now in the driver’s seat to acquire the young star.
According to Brad Turner of the LA Times, however, the price will be predictably steep, with any trade package for the 25-year-old needing to consist of the team’s most recent lottery pick as well as other valuable assets:
Hearing from sources if Lakers want Anthony Davis, who has requested a trade, LA has to start the deal with Lonzo Ball, Kyle Kuzma, Ivica Zubac, No. 1 pick.
— Brad Turner (@BA_Turner) January 28, 2019
The Lakers biggest decision won’t be whether to give up assets for Davis who projects to be a top player for another decade. It’s whether they should trade for him now rather than over the summer.
On one hand, trading for Davis now raises this season’s ceiling, saving it from potentially being James’ first time missing the playoffs. Trading for Davis in July would mean the Lakers have the opportunity to sign a max-level free agent before adding Davis to complete an overpowered big three, but it would bring the Celtics back into the hunt for a player they have kept tabs on for years.
It will not be an easy decision. The Lakers held firm when linked to Paul George and Kawhi Leonard and suffered the consequences but Davis is a different animal, altogether.
