Lakers News: Reporter Reveals How LeBron James Is Approaching Trade Deadline
It has been a trying season so far for the Los Angeles Lakers, but they are trying to push through. The 2023-24 season hasn't gotten off to the kind of start that anyone would have hoped for, but there is still time to turn things around.
The team has dealt with many injuries this year, and it has hurt them on the court. They have dropped winnable games, which has caused frustration.
But the biggest issue for this team has been that stars LeBron James and Anthony Davis have been largely healthy and available. Despite this, Los Angeles has continued to struggle.
With the trade deadline approaching next month, the Lakers will need to make some moves. This roster isn't good enough as currently constructed, but L.A. doesn't have a lot to work with.
Dave McMenamin of ESPN breaks down how James is approaching the trade deadline this season.
"James' patience has been tested, sources told ESPN, but he figures his best response to the slump is to lead by example on and off the court and hope everyone in the organization applies the same standard. James consults with the coaching staff when called upon and joins dialogue with the front office when scenarios are brought to him, but his focus remains maximizing his role… There's a risk to canvassing the trade market, almost assuredly parting with a future draft pick to combine with one of the players the Lakers would send out."
Per Dave McMenamin of ESPN
James doesn't have a lot of time to waste, so the clock is ticking on the Lakers. They will need to find a way to make this team more competitive going forward, even if it means sacrificing the limited draft capital they have.
Los Angeles general manager Rob Pelinka will have to find ways to be creative once again at the deadline. The fate of the season will depend on it, and they don't have much time to lose.