Lakers Must Consider Moving On From LeBron James and Anthony Davis

The Los Angeles Lakers are in dire straits—outperformed by local rivals like the Dodgers, stuck with a lackluster roster, and fresh off a humiliating 41-point loss. Despite boasting the star power of LeBron James and Anthony Davis, the franchise appears destined for another disappointing season. Bill Plaschke of the Los Angeles Times believes the solution lies in an unthinkable option: trading LeBron and Davis.

Why Trading LeBron and AD Makes Sense

Plaschke argues that the Lakers’ current trajectory—a likely play-in tournament berth followed by a first-round exit—leaves little room for optimism. The team’s future is constrained by:

• Massive contracts: LeBron and AD’s deals consume a significant portion of the salary cap.
• Lack of draft capital: Without first-round picks, rebuilding options are limited.
• A shallow roster: Outside of James and Davis, the team lacks consistent performers capable of lifting the franchise.

Given these challenges, trading the Lakers’ two superstars could yield valuable assets—draft picks and young players—that could rejuvenate the team.

LeBron’s Perspective: Time for One Last Hurrah

LeBron, now in his 22nd season, has achieved nearly everything in Los Angeles:

• Winning a 2020 NBA Championship
• Breaking the all-time scoring record
• Playing alongside his son, Bronny James

At 39, LeBron’s production is declining, with defensive lapses and a league-worst plus-minus ranking among star players. A trade to a contender could offer him one last chance to chase a fifth ring—a fitting finale for his illustrious career.

Anthony Davis: A Career at a Crossroads

AD, still in his prime, faces a different dilemma. Despite his undeniable talent, Davis has yet to consistently dominate under JJ Redick’s system. Injuries and inconsistency continue to plague his game. Staying with the Lakers may mean a career of unfulfilled potential, while a trade could provide a fresh start with a team built to maximize his skills.

The Lakers’ Grim Reality

Even with young contributors like Austin Reaves and Dalton Knecht, the Lakers lack defensive toughness and the depth needed to compete in the stacked Western Conference. Recent performances—like allowing 24 threes against Miami and mismanaging late-game scenarios—underscore the team’s systemic flaws.

Redick’s postgame accountability, while admirable, highlights the disconnect between his vision and the current roster. “This is my team and I lead it,” he said, following a recent debacle. “I’m embarrassed.”

Rebuilding Without James and Davis

Plaschke envisions a scintillating rebuild led by Redick and a crop of young, malleable players. This approach could finally give the Lakers a clear direction, free from the weight of bloated contracts and aging stars.

LeBron and AD’s departure would signal the end of an era but offer a fresh start for a team that desperately needs one. As Plaschke puts it: “The prospects of watching the Lakers evolve without James and Davis are scintillating.”

A Bold, Necessary Move?

While trading LeBron James and Anthony Davis might seem radical, it could be the bold step needed to rescue a sinking franchise. For LeBron, it’s a chance to cap his legacy with another title run. For AD, it’s an opportunity to redefine his career. And for the Lakers, it’s the pathway to building a team that can genuinely compete in the years to come.

The ball is now in Rob Pelinka’s court—and time is running out.