If the Los Angeles Lakers want to become legitimate contenders for the NBA Championship, they might have to make a significant move during the NBA Trade Deadline.
The Los Angeles Lakers know that by moving Anthony Davis to power forward—his position of natural affinity—they will be able to separate themselves from the competition and realize his full potential.
Davis, who the Lakers rely on to be the defensive anchor and score on the offensive end, would feel a little less pressure if the team could sign a player who can score in the paint, stretch the floor, and defend the paint. With an additional scoring option in the post, Davis may have more room to maneuver and opponents may be forced to reconsider their attempts to double-team him.
A player who can stop guards from going to the lane and defend players like Nikola Jokic, Karl-Anthony Towns, Domantas Sabonis, or Chet Holmgren is needed on the defensive end, as the Lakers will probably face at least one of these talented players in a postseason series. Davis is among them.
Although center Nikola Vucevic recently inked a three-year contract extension in the offseason, the Chicago Bulls may be considering moving him. Zach LaVine’s name has been mentioned in trade rumors, and a roster retooling in the Windy City may result in Vucevic wearing a different uniform by the end of the season.
In the event that he becomes available, Pelinka might make a serious effort to acquire the two-time All-Star. Although Vucevic is a little past his prime, he is still a reliable player whose contributions could help the Lakers improve. He currently leads the team in scoring and rebounds per game with an average of 16.7 and 10.5.
Vucevic is a very important player, but his underappreciated passing ability is something that is often overlooked. He can locate his teammates when playing in the post and is among the league’s best at swing passes made during drives. He makes it difficult for the opposition defense to set up and keeps everyone moving forward offensively. Head coach Darvin Ham would ultimately decide if the Lakers acquired Vucevic.
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