A recent Anthony Davis trade-talk update focused on the Lakers and Celtics.
A couple other prominent teams were omitted for a reason.
Both the Nets and Clippers seemingly have good enough assets to make the Pelicans a compelling offer. Maybe those assets just don’t match what New Orleans wants. Maybe neither Brooklyn nor L.A. is willing to part with enough.
The Nets were reportedly very interested in trading for Davis. But they are also the leading contender to sign Kyrie Irving and could be in play for Kevin Durant. Perhaps, Brooklyn is more focused on that star pairing.
The Clippers’ longstanding pursuit of Kawhi Leonard looks shaky. But they still have other courses. They can remain competitive around Lou Williams, Danilo Gallinari and Montrezl Harrell while simultaneously rebuilding around Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Landry Shamet and two first-round picks – including the Heat’s unprotected 2021 pick – acquired in the Tobias Harris trade.
Davis isn’t the end of the line for either team.
The Celtics are reportedly full steam ahead in trying to land Davis, maybe as part of a last-ditch effort to persuade Irving to stay. The Lakers have only a limited window to contend with LeBron James, and they also have the best assurances of Davis re-signing in 2020.
So, it’d be tough for Brooklyn and L.A. to keep up with those motivated teams. Apparently, the Nets and Clippers aren’t.
