As the NBA approaches the trade deadline on February 6, the Los Angeles Lakers are poised to be key players in the market. Known for their aggressive pursuit of a championship-caliber roster, the Lakers are driven by the goal of maximizing the remaining years of LeBron James and Anthony Davis's formidable partnership. Jovan Buha notes, “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.”
Lakers’ Ambitions and Challenges
The Lakers have a storied history of assembling rosters that drive them deep into the playoffs. This legacy continued when LeBron James and Anthony Davis led a talented squad to the NBA Championship in 2020. Fast forward to 2023, and while acquisitions such as D'Angelo Russell, Jarred Vanderbilt, and Malik Beasley propelled the team to the Western Conference finals, these players have not become long-term mainstays for the franchise.
For the Lakers, the past few trade deadlines have been filled with potential additions that failed to materialize. In 2021, there were attempts to acquire Kyle Lowry, and in 2024, Dejounte Murray was on their radar. Interestingly, in 2022, the Lakers made the unusual decision to refrain from engaging in any trade activities at the deadline.
Current Season Overview
As of this season, the Lakers' performance hovers around a middling 14-12 record through 26 games, placing them 22nd in net rating—a clear indication of the struggles they face on the court. Despite these hurdles, LeBron James and Anthony Davis remain the cornerstone players of the franchise, navigating a season rife with challenges. James, notably, has secured a no-trade clause in his contract, underscoring his pivotal role in the team’s future endeavors. Meanwhile, Davis battles plantar fasciitis, further testing the team’s resilience.
Financial Considerations and Strategy
Financials are a crucial component of the Lakers’ strategy moving forward. The duo of Davis and James commands significant salaries, with Davis earning $43.2 million and James pulling in $48.7 million. These figures align with their status as untouchable assets within the organization, as Jovan Buha reiterates, “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).”
However, the Lakers are restricted in their ability to make future trades due to limited draft assets. This is coupled with the missed opportunity to acquire Klay Thompson during free agency, leaving the organization to refocus on developing their existing talent through strategic coaching decisions in the offseason.
Looking Ahead to the Trade Deadline
As the trade deadline approaches, the Lakers are expected to be proactive in their pursuits, seeking to bolster their roster while navigating significant constraints. The organization recognizes the urgency to capitalize on the remaining prime years of their star player duo. With the right moves, the Lakers aim to return to the glory that has historically defined their franchise. This season's trade deadline presents another pivotal opportunity for the Lakers to enhance their depth and competitiveness, a task the front office appears ready to tackle with vigor and strategic acumen.