As the season progresses, the Lakers are facing a grim reality. Yes, you read it right! After a rough start, with a 3-7 skid, they’re on track for a third consecutive appearance in the play-in tournament. The question on everyone’s mind: Will LeBron James and Anthony Davis want to spend their primes stuck in mediocrity? As trade rumors heat up, the team may soon need to make bold decisions to rebuild, especially considering their aging stars and lack of assets.

Amid this uncertainty, the NBA Hall of Famer, Vince Carter shared his thoughts on Anthony Davis. He acknowledged AD’s talent in Run it Back on FanDuel TV’s latest episode but questioned his ability to fully embrace his role as the Lakers’ leader.

“We all b**ched about him being alpha number one,” Carter remarked, referring to the pressure Davis faced in New Orleans as the top guy. In Los Angeles, it’s a different dynamic, with LeBron James taking the lead. Carter emphasized that Davis needs to stop overthinking and just play his game.

“I just need AD to be AD,” he stated, urging the big man to bring the energy consistently. For the Lakers to have any chance of success, Davis needs to step up, and other players need to find their rhythm. The question now is: Can AD rise to the occasion and lead the Lakers through this challenging season? However, amidst all this here’s a media Veteran giving his opinion.

Is it time for the Lakers to rebuild? Bill Plaschke calls for bold moves

Imagine a legendary team like the Los Angeles Lakers losing with a score of 134-93 loss to the Miami Heat. It’s unacceptable, right? The same persistent issues from last season have resurfaced: poor defense, excessive turnovers, inconsistent endgame execution, and a lack of bench depth. While the season has more games to go, people seemed to be done. Recently Los Angeles Times journalist Bill Plaschke argues that it might be time for a major shift. He suggests the Lakers should consider moving on from both LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

“The Lakers are no better than a bottom seed in the Western Conference,” he wrote. “They’re headed for a third consecutive play-in tournament appearance, with a likely first-round exit.” He believes the situation is already dire. With no first-round pick and inflated salaries, the Lakers’ future looks uncertain.

In his view, the best scenario would be for Bron to request a trade. As he is nearly 40 years old, it would be a shame for him to waste his final years on a team struggling with mediocrity. As for AD, Plaschke feels he would thrive elsewhere, showing off his talents for a contender. As he wrote at the beginning of his story, “Dear LeBron, … ask out. Dear A.D., … follow him.”  

It’s a bold suggestion, but there’s logic behind it! The Akron hammer is no longer capable of carrying the heavy load and would be better suited for a team where he can contribute in short bursts. The Warriors have been mentioned as a potential suitor, seeking his experience while the Lakers could benefit from acquiring younger, more energetic players.

As for AD, he’s the Lakers’ most valuable trade asset. His MVP-caliber play this season would surely attract suitors. Plaschke points out that trading Davis could net the Lakers multiple draft picks, helping their rebuild. However, James’ no-trade clause and AD’s injury history complicate matters.

Still, given the Lakers’ history of trading superstars, the idea of parting ways with both isn’t far-fetched. The real question remains: Will the Lakers take the bold step toward a much-needed rebuild? Do let us know your view in the comment session below.