There have to be some changes coming for the Los Angeles Lakers. The question is, where will it begin? They underachieved in a big way throughout the 2021-22 NBA season and went from title threats to not even making the Play-In Tournament.
This was supposed to be one of the best teams in the league but the chemistry was not there and the team did not stay healthy. While Westbrook has been dominating rumors, they could be going in a different direction.
Anthony Davis helped lead the Lakers to a championship in his first season but has struggled with injuries since. Over the last two years, Davis has played just 76 games. He is still putting up big numbers but has declined from three-point range. This includes shooting 18.6% from deep this season.
At 29-years-old, Davis’ injury concerns might not be diminishing and this could worry the franchise.
If Davis is up for grabs, there will certainly be some interested teams. The Toronto Raptors come to mind as an option that could be looking to build an intriguing duo in the frontcourt. Pascal Siakam continues to improve and is now one of the better players in the East.
The Raptors experienced their ceiling as a team in the first round of the 2022 NBA playoffs after being sent home by the Philadelphia 76ers. Making a splash move to take a few steps as a team could be the best option to consider.
Let’s look at a hypothetical NBA trade scenario involving the Los Angeles Lakers and Toronto Raptors with Anthony Davis being the centerpiece.
Toronto Raptors Receive: C/F Anthony Davis
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: G Gary Trent Jr., F OG Anunoby, C Precious Achiuwa, 2024 First-Round Pick, 2026 First-Round Pick
Despite the recent injuries, there is still plenty of value around Anthony Davis. He is one of the best big men in the league and this is valuable if he is able to stay healthy.