Proposed Lakers Trade Swaps AD For No. 1 Pick Package If LeBron Leaves

The Los Angeles Lakers are entering a really important offseason. They are set to make big changes and LeBron James’ contract situation is definitely a priority. The four-time NBA champion has to make a decision on his future with the Lakers. If LeBron decides to leave the Lakers, the front office can make a trade move for AD.

Connor Thoms from Bleacher Report discussed the trade scenario, suggesting that the Lakers should send Anthony Davis to the Atlanta Hawks and get the No.1 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft.

“Let’s just say we get into a scenario where LeBron James leaves for some reason,” Thoms explained during a May 13, 2024 live stream. “LeBron James leaves the Lakers, say he goes to play with Bronny, and all the sudden the Lakers are going into a rebuild. Let’s take a look at Anthony Davis.

“… I just want to take a look at what a trade might look like for Anthony Davis. It would have to include, I would imagine Dejounte Murray to give them someone they could probably flip. Or you would throw in Clint Capela here to make the money work rather. Or maybe [the Hawks] even keep Dejounte Murray and you just throw in Bogdan Bogdanović instead.”

LeBron plays big role in Lakers AD trade

It all depends on LeBron’s contract decision. He can opt out of his current contract and re-sign with the team. According to Jovan Buha from The Athletic, LeBron will probably retire as a Laker. It’s too soon to predict his next move, but all signs are pointed in that direction.

Was there any thought that tonight was your last game with the Lakers?

LeBron James: “I’m not going to answer that.” pic.twitter.com/tOySUdsmbI

— Ben Golliver (@BenGolliver) April 30, 2024

If LeBron decides to take his talent somewhere else, the Lakers will have to reshape their core. Will they build a team around Davis? The big man averaged 27.1 points, 12.6 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 2.5 blocks per game with the Lakers this past season. He didn’t lose too many games due to injuries, so yes, he could be a good leader for the team.