Shems Charania warns Lakers to ignore Anthony Davis’ trade deadline demands

The Lakers are fighting for a playoff spot in the 2024-25 NBA season Anthony Davis dreams of the seasonaveraged 25.9 points, 11.9 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 2.2 blocks and 1.3 steals per game while shooting 52.4 percent.

However, the Lakers have serious problems adjusting to the promotion, one of them being defense, an area where the team has not been at its best. They are ranked 28th in points allowed in the suit and 25. in giving up second-chance points in the league. This prompted Davis to look harder for help in the frontcourt.

Speaking to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Davis made that clear he believes the Lakers need a true center.

“I think we need another big one,” Davis said. “I was always the best when I was four.” We know it worked when we won the championship with JaVale (McGee) and Dwight (Howard) at five and me at four. Our 2020 team was the perfect build: shooters, defensive dogs, shooters, size and everyone knows their role.

Recently, Shams Charania spoke about how serious is this situation during the NBA countdown segment.

“It’s not about that LeBron James“, Charania explained. “Anthony Davis is in his prime and wants to win another championship.” He told me his motivation with LeBron is to bring another title to LA. They never got that parade in 2020, and that comes from his desire to win.”

Davis has been looking for a center since 2023but so far the Lakers haven’t done anything to fix this problem. Right now, their main option is Jaxon Hayes, who has improved but isn’t a strong rim protector like Brook Lopez or Jarrett Allen. Without a reliable center to handle those responsibilities, Davis ends up having to work too hard on defense, which leaves the team open to threats in the paint.

The Lakers have some valuable trade options, such as their 2029 and 2031 first-round picks, that could help them bring in someone who can make a difference. Possible targets include Nikola Vucevic, Miles Turner, Jonas Valančunas and Jakob Poltl. But if the Lakers don’t make a move, they risk upsetting Davis, who sees this as a key step toward another title.

Charania warned that ignoring Davis’ concerns could jeopardize the team’s chances of competing for a championship and harm their relationship with him. The Lakers are currently 25-18 and are the fifth seed in the Western Conference. They are in a good spot to make the playoffs, but must make changes before the Feb. 6 deadline to take full advantage of Davis and chase another championship.