The Anthony Davis trade saga seems to be momentarily over with the Los Angeles Lakers reportedly pulling out from negotiations with the New Orleans Pelicans. Despite being unable to make the blockbuster trade, it doesn’t appear as though the Lakers’ trade deadline work is over.
Magic Johnson and Rob Pelinka have long rumored to be interested in finding shooters at the deadline to shore up what has been arguably the biggest weakness for the roster. To that end, according to ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne, the Lakers are still interested in forward Trevor Ariza who has been rumored to be a target for much of the season.
In non-Anthony Davis news, Lakers continue to have a fondness for Trevor Ariza, should the Wizards make him available at the deadline.
— Ramona Shelburne (@ramonashelburne) February 5, 2019
The Lakers wanted Ariza earlier in the year but the Phoenix Suns traded the former Lakers champion to the Washington Wizards, instead. With John Wall out for the rest of the year and the Wizards three games out of the playoffs in the Eastern Conference, it is at least possible that the 3-and-D wing would be available.
Ariza is averaging 15.2 points, 5.7 rebounds and 4.2 assists per game since joining the Wizards but he has shot just 38.5 percent from the field and 33.3 percent from three on the year.
It’s unclear whether the Wizards’ front office will be sellers at the deadline or if they will continue attempting to make the postseason in what has been a disappointing year. They could potentially recoup some of the assets they sent to get Ariza from the Suns.
