Lakers focus on supporting cast rather than dismantling duo. These two are expected to stay
The Los Angeles Lakers are sticking with LeBron James and Anthony Davis despite a 14-12 start this season, per Jovan Buha of The Athletic. Both players, earning $48.7 million and $43.2 million respectively, are deemed untouchable unless they request a trade. The Lakers aim to strengthen their roster around the duo instead of breaking it up.
LeBron’s son, Bronny James, is reportedly off-limits in trade talks unless LeBron himself is involved, due to his no-trade clause. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst mentioned the Golden State Warriors are monitoring LeBron’s status, but he has shown no interest in leaving Los Angeles, even rejecting a potential move to Golden State last year.
While the Lakers explore deals involving contracts like D’Angelo Russell ($18.7M), Rui Hachimura ($17M), Gabe Vincent ($11M), and Jarred Vanderbilt ($10.7M), moving these players has proven difficult. Efforts to trade Russell have stalled, leaving the Lakers focused on reshaping the supporting cast to complement their All-Star leaders.
Getting stronger and improving the roster around LeBron James and Anthony Davis
The Lakers see young players like Austin Reaves, Dalton Knecht, and Max Christie as essential to their long-term plans. These talents, on team-friendly contracts, are unlikely to be traded unless a major star becomes available.
While Kendrick Perkins speculated that the Lakers might consider trading LeBron James if he requested it, current reports show no such interest. The team remains focused on acquiring complementary players to boost performance, keeping their core group intact and signaling a commitment to compete with the existing roster.
