Former Los Angeles Lakers star Anthony Davis is the NBA's top potential trade candidate for the upcoming season, according to ESPN analysts. This speculation surfaces as the Lakers themselves navigate a tough stretch, having lost their last four games including a 110-115 result against the Oklahoma City Thunder on May 12.
Why is Anthony Davis a top trade candidate?
Davis, now with the Washington Wizards, holds a massive player option. ESPN's Brian Windhorst detailed the situation on The Hoop Collective podcast. "Anthony Davis has a very big number he can opt into. It's over $60 million," Windhorst said. "I think his preference is to extend in Washington. If not in Washington, he can get traded somewhere where he can extend."
Windhorst's co-host, Tim McMahon, was even more direct. "If we're talking about potential in-season trade candidates, he is number one on the list," McMahon stated. The 33-year-old big man hasn't played a game for Washington yet, but insiders believe his time there could be short. If the Wizards struggle early, Davis might push for a move.
What has Davis done since leaving the Lakers?
Davis's career trajectory changed after the Lakers traded him to Dallas for Luka Doncic. His time with the Mavericks was plagued by injuries. He played only nine games at the end of the 2024-2025 season after the trade.
The following year wasn't much better. Davis managed just 20 appearances before another injury led to him being traded again, this time to the Wizards. When he was on the court last season, he averaged 20.4 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks per game. He shot 50.6% from the field but only 27.0% from three-point range.
His current contract is a major factor. For the 2026-2027 season, Davis will earn $58.1 million from the deal he originally signed with the Lakers. He then has a $62.7 million player option for the following year if he doesn't sign an extension before then.
How does this relate to the current Los Angeles Lakers?
The trade talk around a former franchise cornerstone arrives during a challenging period for the Lakers. The team's recent form is a concerning 1 win and 4 losses in their last five outings (LLLLW). That 110-115 loss to the Thunder on May 12 was part of a four-game losing skid.
While the Davis story is separate from the Lakers' current roster moves, it highlights the constant player movement in the league. Fans tracking the team's progress can review the full schedule and standings for context on the playoff race. The Lakers' front office is always evaluating talent, and stories about high-profile players like Davis inevitably draw attention.
The situation underscores a simple reality in the NBA, as Windhorst pointed out. "The reality is this: Anthony Davis is in a position to be a free agent in 2027 if he wants to." That gives him significant leverage, whether he stays in Washington or forces a trade to a contender. For the Lakers, the focus remains on building a winning roster, but the shadow of past stars making headlines is never far away.
