Los Angeles Lakers guard D'Angelo Russell (1) and forward Anthony Davis (3) celebrate against the Atlanta Hawks in the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Trading Anthony Davis could unlock the Lakers' title hopes

By Adam Taylor | Last updated 3/27/24

Anthony Davis was acquired to be LeBron James' successor as the best player on the Los Angeles Lakers. Yet, even with LeBron at 39 years old, that succession hasn't taken place. He is still the most talented player on Darvin Ham's roster.

As such, former NBA guard Jamal Crawford believes the Lakers should consider trading Davis. He believes it would allow the Lakers to rebuild their roster around LeBron.

"They don't have enough to even compete right now," Crawford said during a decent appearance on "The Big Podcast." "You can get four or five pieces that fit LeBron if LeBron is still going to be the best player. But really, if I can get a Kyrie Irving type, they need another dominant wing scorer."

Jamal Crawford thinks the Lakers should trade AD

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— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) March 27, 2024

When at his best, Davis is an MVP-level talent. He can dominate games on both sides of the floor. Any concerns regarding his injury history have begun to be answered this season. He's played in 68 games, averaging 24.7 points, 12.6 rebounds and 3.6 assists while shooting 55.3% from the field and 28.9% from three-point range.

The Davis-LeBron duo is among the most fearsome in the NBA. Nevertheless, there is some logic to Crawford's comments. Assuming the Lakers got players and picks in return for Davis, they could re-tool their roster. They could give LeBron the shooters he needs to be at his most effective. And, they could bring in some younger talent to develop for the future.

Davis, 31, still has value around the NBA. Teams will undoubtedly be willing to part with significant assets to get a deal over the line. Rob Pelinka would need to be confident that LeBron doesn't plan on retiring or leaving Los Angeles soon. He has a player option on his contract for next season and is extension-eligible.

Still, if LeBron is willing to stay, and there is legitimate interest in Davis, the Lakers would be wise to listen to the offers being passed across the negotiating table. Maybe it's what they need to unleash one final run from LeBron en route to a championship.

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