The Lakers Eye Deadline Moves to Bolster LeBron-Davis Era
Anticipating Active Buying at the Trade Deadline
The Los Angeles Lakers are once again attracting attention as the NBA trade deadline looms on February 6. Known for their assertive front office strategies, the Lakers are expected to be among the more proactive teams in seeking roster enhancements. “They are expected to be one of the more active buyers leading into the Feb. 6 trade deadline as they try to maximize the final seasons of the LeBron James-Anthony Davis partnership,” notes NBA insider Jovan Buha.
The Quest for a Winning Combination
Historically, the Lakers have demonstrated their prowess in building championship-caliber rosters, most notably crafting a winning squad around LeBron James and Anthony Davis in 2020. However, not every trade has been a homerun. In 2023, acquisitions such as D'Angelo Russell, Jarred Vanderbilt, and Malik Beasley contributed to reaching the Western Conference finals, yet none evolved into long-term foundational players.
The Lakers' aggressive pursuit at the trade deadline hasn't always yielded desired results, including the near-misses on talents like Kyle Lowry in 2021 and Dejounte Murray in 2024. Interestingly, in 2022, the team showed complete inaction, a rare stance which they seem keen to avoid this year.
Challenges and Strategy
As the season progresses with a 14-12 record through 26 games, the Lakers find themselves ranked a concerning 22nd in net rating. While LeBron James and Anthony Davis remain a formidable duo, the team faces challenges, including Davis's recent bout with plantar fasciitis and the pressing need to optimize the twilight years of James's illustrious career—especially as he approaches 40 this month.
In addition to player health concerns, the Lakers face financial and strategic hurdles. James recently negotiated a no-trade clause, while Davis’s salary aligns with his max contract. Such deals might limit flexibility, but the Lakers' front office remains undeterred. They’re focused on strategic acquisitions to enhance the roster, despite limited draft assets.
Looking at the Bigger Picture
This offseason saw a shift in strategy, as the Lakers prioritized player development in their coaching decisions, yet they didn't pursue additional immediate-impact players after missing out on Klay Thompson in free agency. The franchise remains dedicated to winning now, without overextending its already stretched draft capital.
As the countdown to the trade deadline continues, the Lakers are keen on not letting potential opportunities slip by. With James and Davis as untouchable cornerstones—“Two players who almost certainly won’t be traded, barring them asking out of Los Angeles, are Davis ($43.2 million) and James ($48.7 million),” according to Buha—the focus remains on surrounding these stars with the right supporting cast to chase another title.