The Los Angeles Lakers are Showing “Little Sign of Aggression” in Trade Talks
Despite pressure from LeBron James and Anthony Davis for the Los Angeles Lakers to make roster improvements before the trade deadline, the team is not exhibiting any urgency. ESPN’s Tim Bontemps and Brian Windhorst report that the Lakers have shown “little sign of aggression” in trade discussions with other teams.
The Lakers have been hesitant to trade their future first-round picks in recent seasons, and according to Bontemps and Windhorst, there is no indication that this position has changed.
Limited Trade Options Due to Previous Moves
One reason for the lack of trade activity surrounding the Lakers is that they recently traded D’Angelo Russell’s expiring $18.7 million salary to the Brooklyn Nets for Dorian Finney-Smith. This move makes it more challenging for the Lakers to execute a significant trade, as they have fewer assets to offer.
The Lakers have also dismissed trade rumors involving Austin Reaves, leaving them with limited expiring contracts on their roster, including Jalen Hood-Schifino ($3.9 million), Christian Wood ($3 million), Jaxson Hayes ($2.5 million), and Cam Reddish ($2.5 million).
Davis’ Request and Limited Center Availability
Anthony Davis has expressed a desire to have another big man added to the team, allowing him to return to playing the power forward position. However, acquiring an impactful center through a trade may be challenging due to the lack of availability of such players in the current market.
James and Davis’ Concerns
Shams Charania of ESPN reports that James and Davis have communicated their desire for the team to make significant moves before the trade deadline, but they have become concerned that the organization may not follow through with their request.
While the Lakers are under pressure to make a significant move, there needs to be a player available that another team is willing to trade. The current trade deadline market does not appear to present such an opportunity.
The Lakers may be outbid for players like Cam Johnson, who is reportedly being pursued by the Nets for two first-round picks or equivalent value.
Potential Marginal Moves and Roster Outlook
At this point, it is likely that the Lakers’ roster will remain largely unchanged by the trade deadline. They may make minor adjustments, but there are not many difference-making players available that would warrant a major trade.
Despite concerns about the team’s performance earlier in the season, the Lakers have improved their record and currently sit in fifth place in the Western Conference.