The Los Angeles Lakers appear to have shifted their stance on pursuing a third star alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

 

According to Jovan Buha of The Athletic, there are voices within the Lakers organization advocating for a focus on building depth rather than chasing another superstar.

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Buha mentioned on The Athletic NBA Show (at the 20-minute mark) that there has been recent resistance from the Lakers regarding the strategy of assembling a three-star lineup. However, he noted that LeBron James is likely to have significant influence over the final decision.

 

Buha also highlighted that LeBron has been a consistent advocate for the Lakers to pursue a third star through trades.

DENVER, CO - APRIL 29: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers speaks at a press conference after the game against the Denver Nuggets during Round One Game Five of the 2024 NBA Playoffs on April 29, 2024 at the Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by Bart Young/NBAE via Getty Images)

The path for the Lakers to secure a third star has become less clear compared to earlier in the season. D’Angelo Russell, who seemed like a potential target, is likely to explore free agency, necessitating a sign-and-trade for any superstar acquisition.

 

Such a move would involve packaging Russell with veteran contracts for salary-matching, potentially compromising the Lakers’ future draft-pick flexibility. Given the circumstances, it’s reasonable for the Lakers to hesitate. LeBron James is nearing 40, and Anthony Davis, while still in his prime, has a history of injuries and hasn’t proven himself as a solo championship leader.

 

Balancing immediate championship aspirations with long-term franchise health is crucial. Sacrificing assets for a short-term championship run with an aging James and injury-prone Davis carries significant risk. Opting for a middle-ground approach, focusing on roster and coaching staff adjustments around Davis and James for the upcoming season, may yield better long-term results, despite potentially lengthening the odds of a title in the near future.

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