Former Los Angeles Lakers President of Basketball Operations Magic Johnson approves of the team's trade for Anthony Davis.
Rob Pelinka and Co. reached a deal with the New Orleans Pelicans to acquire Davis. The Lakers sent Lonzo Ball, Brandon Ingram, Josh Hart and three first-round picks — including the No.4 pick of the 2019 draft — for the six-time All-Star.
Great job by Owner Jeanie Buss bringing Anthony Davis to the Lakers! Laker Nation, the Lakers are back in a championship hunt! Congratulations to the entire organization. I know LeBron James has a big smile on his face. I’m loving this!!
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) June 15, 2019
Great trade Rob Pelinka! Job well done.
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) June 15, 2019
To recall, Johnson and Pelinka tried to make a trade for Davis during the February trade deadline. Back then, the Lakers were reportedly willing to trade Ball, Ingram, Hart, Kyle Kuzma, Ivica Zubac, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and two future first rounders for AD. However, the Pelicans refused to pull the trigger and opted to wait for the summer to see what other offers they could get.
In comparison to their previous offer, the latest trade seems to be better for the Lakers.
The Celtics reportedly could have acquired Davis, but their refusal to include rising star Jayson Tatum in the deal put the Lakers in a strong position in the AD pursuit.
Los Angeles undoubtedly has every reason to commend the team for making the trade that puts them well in contention for the NBA championship. LeBron James now has the ideal running mate, and it's now the Lakers job to surround them with the right role players.