The months pass by, but NBA fans remain stunned that the Los Angeles Lakers were able to get Luka Doncic for such an affordable price. Despite Anthony Davis putting together his best performance as a Dallas Mavericks player, Doncic has quickly acclimated alongside LeBron James and the two have been on an offensive tear since the trade.
It hasn’t been all roses, though. The team had lost eight of 12 games before picking up back-to-back wins heading into a big game against the Golden State Warriors on Thursday night. What led to all those losses? Frankly, they might be missing Davis more than they ever expected.
LeBron James opens up about Luka Doncic trade shock and their instant chemistry on the Lakers
Did Lakers mess up rescinding Mark Williams trade?
James Dator of SB Nation wrote about the missed opportunity the Lakers had to truly compete for an NBA Championship this season. Their failed trade for Mark Williams could really come back to haunt them, particularly in the postseason.
Charlotte has played 20 games since the deal fell through. Williams has missed just two due to foot soreness, and a one more for load management. In the 17 games he’s played Williams has been on a tear, registering 12 double-doubles – averaging 15.3 points, 11 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks. Essentially Mark Williams has been everything the Lakers need for their playoff push.
Dator outlines the defensive struggles the Lakers have experienced since trading away Davis. Of course, they got Doncic in exchange, so they can’t be too upset. But complementing the Doncic addition with Williams would have made them one of the most complete teams in the league.
The Lakers front office had valid reservations about Williams’ injury history. It’s extensive and the team doctors clearly weren’t thrilled with his medicals. But as things stand, the Lakers probably wish they had pulled the trigger on the trade.