Lakers News: Rob Pelinka Discusses Possible Max Anthony Davis Extension
As the NBA summer continues on, the time for free agent signings is pretty much over. Every now and then, a player that is left on the market will sign but for the most part, rosters are set except for any trades. The Los Angeles Lakers are no different in this as their roster is set other than them looking to add one more big man to backup star Anthony Davis.
The team does have some business coming down the line however as Davis is extension eligible starting in August.
Starting on August 4, Davis is eligible for a new three-year deal that is worth $167.6 million. But according to the new CBA, the Lakers can’t even start talking to Davis about the extension until he becomes eligible for it but General Manager Rob Pelinka gave some brief comments about the thought process heading into that time.
“I wish the CBA allowed us to talk about negotiations … but there’s pretty strict rules around that,” Pelinka said. “… But couldn’t think more highly of Anthony Davis as a Laker and as a player. He’s helped deliver a championship to our franchise. He’s been an incredible captain and leader. We saw last year, willing to play through a hard foot injury to get our team to the Western Conference finals. So, just love having him as a part of our team.”
Pelinka all but hinted that the team likely plans on signing Davis to the extension if he is interested as well. The pairing as seen success together and it’s in the Lakers best interest to extend Davis so they have some star player on the roster in the post-LeBron James era.
James had hinted at a possible retirement at the end of the season but all signs are pointing to him returning for his 21st season to give it another go with Davis.
Keeping Davis on the team will be crucial, especially if James does leave after this upcoming season because the team owes the New Orleans Pelicans one of their next two first round draft picks. With Davis on the roster, the Lakers likely wouldn't fall to the bottom of the standings and then hand New Orleans a top pick.
It also allows the team to create a new duo with Davis as other star players around the league may want to come to LA to pair with him. It's a win-win for both sides and once the extension talks open, I expect this to get done rather quickly.
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