The New Orleans Pelicans have reportedly counteroffered the Los Angeles Lakers' initial trade package for Anthony Davis, asking for Lonzo Ball, Kyle Kuzma, Josh Hart, their fourth overall pick in this year's NBA Draft and a future unprotected first-rounder, according to Brandon Robinson of the Scoop B podcast.
The Lakers originally offered a package composed of Brandon Ingram, Ball, and their No. 4 overall pick on Wednesday, an offer that didn't get much traction with Pelicans executive vice president David Griffin.
Griffin made his demands known early in the week, telling inquiring teams he expects an All-Star player, a player with the potential to become an All-Star and two first-round picks as compensation for Davis.
The price is seen around league circles as ridiculously high, but that has been the trend recently when it comes to franchises trading their stars. The price demand was also this high when it came to trading Kawhi Leonard and Jimmy Butler, two stars at their peak before being shipped to their next destination.
As for this reported counteroffer, the Pelicans seem to be insistent in getting Kuzma as a centerpiece of their return for Davis. The exclusion of Ingram from this offer is notable, but perhaps there is still concern that his season ended with blood clots, which has now put a warning label on him for any team involving him in trade discussions.
Most recently, Chris Bosh was forced to end his career earlier than he might have wanted after not being cleared by doctors to return with his blood clot condition. Ingram's condition is said to be not nearly as serious, but it's still something to consider when making a blockbuster deal like this.
Follow Us
Subscribe