Lakers Trade Rumors: Anthony Davis Isn't The Only Player Los Angeles Wants But Is Unlikely To Get

LeBron James Trevor Ariza — LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers handles the ball against Trevor Ariza #3 of the Phoenix Suns during the second half of the NBA game at Talking Stick Resort Arena on October 24, 2018 in Phoenix, Arizona. Christian Petersen/Getty Images

With the hours winding down until the 2019 NBA trade deadline at 3 p.m. EST Thursday, it’s looking more and more unlikely that the Los Angeles Lakers will be able to acquire Anthony Davis, at least during the season. The New Orleans Pelicans have rejected L.A.’s reported offer of Brandon Ingram, Kyle Kuzma, Lonzo Ball and two first-round picks, looking to be blown away with a trade package that includes several more draft picks.

If Davis stays put, the Lakers are almost certain to aggressively pursue him during the offseason. Los Angeles could have the opportunity to sign a max free agent in addition to trading for Davis in July.

The Lakers aren’t expected to challenge for a championship in LeBron James’ first season with the team, especially if they can’t acquire Davis. Los Angeles, however, is still looking to make other moves that might improve their chances of making a playoff run this season.

There were rumors that the Lakers might try to trade for Trevor Ariza earlier this season before the forward was traded from the Phoenix Suns to the Washington Wizards. Los Angeles reportedly is still interested in adding Ariza now that Washington looks to be sellers after trading a few veterans.

Lakers are interested, but Trevor Ariza and Washington Wizards remain in each's future plans, league sources tell ESPN. Ariza is enthusiastic about re-signing with Washington. Wizards' trades creating financial flexibility that'll make it easier to bring Ariza back on new deal
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 7, 2019

It sounds like a deal between the Lakers and Wizards is highly unlikely. Ariza and Washington are reportedly interested in working out a deal beyond this season when the forward’s contract is up.

Ariza could certainly help the Lakers, who would greatly benefit by surrounding James with more shooters. Los Angeles ranks second-to-last in the NBA by making three-pointers at a 33.4 percent clip. Only seven teams make fewer threes per game than the Lakers.

Ariza has made just 31.3 percent of his threes this season, but he’s a career 35.1 percent three-point shooter. He’s averaging 12.3 points, 5.6 rebounds and 3.8 assists per game and remains an above-average defender.

Los Angeles has already made one trade to improve their outside shooting. The Lakers acquired Reggie Bullock from the Detroit Pistons in exchange for Sviatoslav Mykhailiukand and a second-round draft pick.

The Lakers have plenty of work to do if they want to make the playoffs, let alone have any type of postseason run. Through 54 games, Los Angeles is the No.10 seed in the West and 2.5 games behind the L.A. Clippers for the No.8 seed.