Before I start rambling, this was a GREAT trade for both teams. You just have to put in in perspective.
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The main reaction is that the Lakers gave up too much, and that’s mostly false. When you trade for a top five player, you’re going to have to give up a LOAD, and that’s what the Pelicans desired. Was it maybe a bit too much? You could argue that, but it’s still not the point. Let’s also not forget that the Lakers almost gave up WAY more during the trade deadline – so they should consider themselves lucky.
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The concept I’m torn about is that since Davis is a free agent next year, and likely had a 50% chance of going to the Lakers (other 50% Knicks) next summer – I’m surprised the Lakers had to go a bit over the top to make this deal. Another point is that the Pels were desperate to trade AD. Though, they likely did this to make a better free agent pitch this summer for Kyrie / Kemba in particular. If they didn’t already have Davis – their sales pitch would’ve been much weaker.
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Now let’s get into the impact on each team specifically.
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For New Orleans, trading AD to the Lakers – a team that NEEDED him – was going to be a huge win from the start. Not letting this drag on was integral.
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Ball could be a top PG in the league if developed properly, since he truly has all the tools. Now he’ll play with a big chip on his shoulder after he was traded, as well. I also thing being out of the bright lights, and out of Lavar’s image will be crucial. Expect a huge jump for ZO2.
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Ingram is tricky as when healthy, he has the potential to be a legitimate superstar. Though, the blood clot issue is still a lingering concern that clearly the Pelicans felt comfortable enough about. If he pans out, boy is this a steal.
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Hart is another severely underrated piece, who will be a key piece of a potential Pelicans contender.
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This adds onto the three first rounders. The No. 4 pick this year could either lead to a great young player, or a trade chip. The other picks are pretty insignificant as they should be in the late 20’s (or 30 if the Lakers win it all!). Regardless, amazing value, and the Pelicans are now set for potentially a decade plus with the young core they are fabulously setting up.
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For the Lakers, it’s simple. The team is centered around LeBron, and I still believe that if it weren’t for recency bias, he’s the best player in the league at full strength. If you include the recency bias – it’s Kawhi without a doubt. People forget how incredible he was JUST a year ago. Though, with LeBron “aging”, the window is short. There was no way he was winning a title with a bunch of “what if” players, and he needs a true superstar sidekick. Plus, those guys can’t develop the same way under LeBron.
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Davis is a phenomenal player, and will remind the NBA just how good he is. And I’ll say it again, the second wave and connecting pieces of this trade are just as important, as it may guarantee a star free agent, and allow LeBron to build the team with solid veteran pieces – which I believe he will do. Hey, and don’t forget the Lakers didn’t give up Kuzma as well – the most NBA ready of that young core.
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So overall, great trade for both squads. I think in the end, everyone will be happy and this works out. Now, LeBron has no excuse to not win the title in a massive change of events. The clock is ticking, King James.