Anthony Davis and LeBron James had a demand for the Lakers front office. They want to see activities that would warrant their championship aspirations. But with their hands tied up with an invisible rope, Rob Pelinka doesn’t seem to make a move. There are some faces in the trade market, some good ones like the reported Indiana Pacers center Myles Turner, and some a bit on the skeptical side like Nikola Vucevic and Jonas Valanciunas.

ESPN’s senior insider Brian Windhorst dissected the current issues with the Lakers’ weak roster on the latest episode of The Hoop Collective. And let’s just say, that his and Tim Bontemps’ analysis of Anthony Davis’ situation and the Purple and Gold aren’t pleasing. It is rather, a warning that the front office should see and understand.

“He [AD] had bigs next to him when they won the championship in the bubble, and so on and so forth,” Windy commented. The 2019-2020 NBA Season for the Lakers was nothing less than a dream. Anthony Davis and LeBron James had the depth in the team to bring LA its 17th title. There were players like Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Dwight Howard, and Kyle Kuzma. But then one wrong move of trading Kuzma and Caldwell-Pope and bringing Russell Westbrook shook the roster to the core.

What ‘big’ is the Lakers doing that’s going to elevate them to anything close to contender status? Can Jonas Valanciunas do that? Can Nikola Vucevic do that if they’re able to put something like that together? “No, no. The thing about this is Valanciunas has been a guy that’s been rumored since summer because,” Brian Windhorst shared. “There were the reports that LeBron made it clear he would take less money and one of the guys who would take less money for.” So, Bron was willing to see a pay cut for the Washington Wizards’ $10 million center.

However, Tim Bontemps’ words on the topic could add to Anthony Davis and Co.’s trouble. Just to make it clear the Lakers do not have too many good options to choose from now. It’d be insane for the Lakers to trade for Jonas Valanciunas. “He can’t switch.” Simple as that. Imagine putting him on the court with Austin Reaves! “Teams would have two guys they could attack.” It’s the same story with Vooch. “Vucevic can’t guard anybody either.” None of these guys are good enough. Not even close.

The Lakers have been stuck with the same issue for years. Ever since they let go of Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and made the Russell Westbrook trade, it’s been clear—they’ve lacked perimeter athleticism. “They can’t guard anybody.” And that’s been their downfall. However, if the team truly wants to bolster their championship chances, they can still chase after Myles Turner. In return, they’ll have to give on some key members. So, will the Lakers be willing to risk it all?

Anthony Davis & Co. might still have a chance at solidifying their 2024-25 roster and the future

Recently Jovan Buha hinted that Myles Turner could be on the move due to his contract situation. After signing a two-year, $40.9 million extension, he’s to earn $19.9 million in 2024-25. Last season, he made $35.1 million, with a $17.1 million bump. So, if Turner hits the trade market, the Lakers and GM Rob Pelinka have a golden opportunity. The math’s clear: go for the big guy. His 28-year-old frame could be the perfect fit for LA.

“If Myles Turner is available I think, if you’re the Lakers you have to go and get him,” Jovan Buha recommended. “Because he just fits perfectly next to AD on both sides of the floor. He spaces the floor and he’s a rim protector.” In this potential trade, the Lakers would have to give up Rui Hachimura, Jalen Hood-Schiffino, Cam Reddish, and their 2029 1st-round draft pick. This doesn’t seem like a bad deal, given Anthony Davis would find someone to back him on the court.

The Lakers are anyway failing to sign the Utah Jazz star Walker Kessler as informed by Shams Charania on Sunday. So, instead of pushing for players like Nikola Vucevic at $20 million and Jonas Valanciunas at $10 million (total of $30M) who won’t be the guards the team needs, the team could look into having Turner. He is averaging 15.4 ppg and a 48.3 FG%, the Pacers center seems to be a promising candidate for Pelinka and Co.

As you can see, LA’s front office is at a crossroads. Their roster lacks the depth and athleticism needed for a championship run. Meanwhile, Valanciunas and Vucevic won’t solve their issues. However, Myles Turner offers a glimmer of hope. His skill set complements Anthony Davis perfectly. The Lakers have a chance—if they act quickly. Will Pelinka risk the future for a shot at glory? Only time will tell.