The Los Angeles Lakers came out victorious in a statement win against the Boston Celtics on Thursday night, but Anthony Davis is looking for much more than victory.
Now that the NBA trade deadline is two weeks away - on February 6 - Anthony Davis has called for the team's frontcourt depth to continue their drive toward the postseason. Will LA Town listen to their big man?
Why the Lakers Need a Traditional Center
During an interview with ESPN's Shams Charania, Davis said that the team needed a traditional center on the roster. "I think we need another big," Davis said. "I feel like I've always been at my best when I've been the 4, having a big out there."
After the Lakers decisively took down the Celtics 117-96, Davis explained further, shedding more light on the tactical advantages of playing alongside a true center. He pointed out the defensive disruption created and the offensive flexibility given to him.
"We know it worked when we won a championship with JaVale [McGee] and Dwight [Howard] at the 5 and I'm at the 4," he told Charania.
Davis's flexibility is his biggest strength, but he's really in a scenario where he can exploit both his shot-blocking and mid-range-scoring abilities.
A consistent center would help Davis be able to contribute without having to carry the heavy minutes and constant responsibility as a mainstay at the five spot.
Present Roster Composition and Issues
The Lakers have tested smaller lineups all season and have relied heavily on Davis to serve as the main presence in the paint. This strategy has been relatively successful but vulnerable to teams with premier big men.
Having a vetted center alleviate the physical responsibilities that fall on Davis would help make up for several key areas: the Lakers are wanting in defense in the interior and rebounding.
Potential Trades for the Los Angeles Lakers
While the specific trade options are not known, the Lakers might be targeting veteran big men who provide rim protection, rebounding, and playoff experience. Players like Myles Turner or Jakob Poeltl, whose names have been floated in trade rumors, could be viable additions to meet the Lakers' needs.
Whether the Lakers can pull off a deal to meet Davis' request remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the All-Star forward knows what's needed to give his team an edge.
For now, Lakers fans will wait and see if the front office heeds Davis' call for reinforcements in their quest for another title.
Recently, Sports World News reported that Davis and LeBron James are growing "concerned" about the organization's trade deadline strategy. The two stars expected the Lakers to make a big move ahead of the trade deadline.
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