LeBron James Reacts To Lakers Trading For Anthony Davis From Pelicans
Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

Nearly five months after the Feb. 7 trade deadline, the Los Angeles Lakers eventually traded for Anthony Davis from the New Orleans Pelicans before the 2019 NBA Draft.

When the Pelicans hired executive vice president of basketball operations David Griffin, there was hope the two teams could potentially re-engage on Davis trade talks.

As Griffin tried to persuade Davis to stay, the 26-year-old did not change his stance on the trade request and the Pelicans began listening to trade offers. By waiting, the Lakers and Pelicans benefited greatly at the 2019 NBA Draft Lottery.

Although LeBron James has stayed relatively quiet since the 2018-19 NBA season ended and amid all of the drama, he welcomed Davis to Los Angeles, via Instagram:

 

View this post on Instagram

 

AD on da way!! @antdavis23 ????. Let’s get it bro! Just the beginning..???? #LakeShow

A post shared by LeBron James (@kingjames) on

While the Lakers finally landed their two All-Star players, it required most of the young core and draft picks:

Following a disappointing Year 1 with James, the Lakers decided to go all in on building a championship contender around him. And at just 26-years-old, Davis fulfills the team’s goal of winning now and for the next 6-7 seasons.

As there is uncertainty surrounding the Golden State Warriors, the Western Conference race is wide open and the Lakers have a legitimate chance with James and Davis.

Along with having two All-Star players now, the Lakers still have a max-contract slot available. While they have already been linked to Kemba Walker as the potential third All-Star player, they could split it into multiple role players.

Although it was a drama-filled start to the offseason, the future is bright. By trading for the next face of the NBA after James, players may be willing to take less to play with Davis in Los Angeles and compete for championships.

You May Also Like

Lakers News: LeBron James Has ‘Slimmed Up’ This Summer

Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James seems to be coming into this season with a chip on his shoulder as he is being doubted…

Lakers News: HBO’s ‘Winning Time’ Earns Emmy Nomination For Outstanding Cinematography

The 2022 Primetime Emmy nominations are officially in, with HBO’s Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty…

Metta World Peace Jersey Unveiled at Media Day

After changing his name from Ron Artest to Metta World Peace, fans…

Lakers Nation Roundtable: What Worries You Most About Team?

The Los Angeles Lakers have defied all of the preseason expectations so far this season…