This morning, Sports Illustrated reporters Chris Mannix and Howard Beck discussed the Lakers' trade plans, and during their discussions, the names of Bradley Beal and Damian Lillard came up. According to two reporters, the Lakers made a promise to James: "When Beal or Lillard can be traded, the Lakers will pursue them with draft picks." ”
James + Davis + Lillard / James + Davis + Beal, such a Big Three combination may sound good, but when I think about it, I always feel that the Lakers are suspected of drawing a pie. "The so-called when Bill or Lillard can be traded", so when can this be traded?
Could it be when pioneers or wizards come to the door? That's not a good believe. After all, in the past two years, the transactions related to the Lakers have either been bloody losses or robberies, or they simply waited until the end of the trade deadline, did nothing, and signed a few base-salary players at random. By the way, these base salaries also have characteristics: short, old, and can't shoot.
As for why the main promise to James? The main reason for this is James's personal ability and business value. At the beginning of the season, James was not in good form and was repeatedly criticized by players. Recently, James's condition has gradually improved, and his average data has reached 29 points, 8.4 rebounds and 6.8 assists per game, and his shooting percentage has returned to 50%.
Compared to his former self as the first man in the league, James has indeed declined, but if the comparison is to other players in the league, James' hard power is still a first-line superstar. On the other hand, it's James' business value. As we all know, the team with James, the additional income of peripherals, tickets and other additional income will skyrocket.
The Lakers, as a well-known and powerful team in the league, can produce a 1+1>2 effect with James. From the current perspective, James has at least two more commercially valuable topics. First, Brownie joined the league, father and son on the same stage; Second, James retired from touring.
Both of these can bring huge profits to James's team, and it is for this reason that the Lakers are reluctant to let go of the God of Wealth. As for whether it will be possible to join forces with Lillard and Bill in the future? To be honest, I'm not optimistic, the Lakers have commitments every year, but the results are understood by everyone.