As the trade deadline approached, the Atlanta Hawks prepared to send Murray away, but the Los Angeles Lakers abruptly pulled out of trade talks. Buha, the exclusive reporter for the Lakers, confirmed the veracity of the news. Initially, the focus of the battle between the two sides was Rivers, but then the situation exceeded the expectations of Lakers management. Russell has been outstanding after returning to the starting lineup, scoring 20+ points in six consecutive games, which is astounding. In addition, in the last 8 games, he has averaged 275 points and 64 assists, shooting 52% from the field and 54% from three-point range. These outstanding performances are a testament to his worth.
Last offseason, Russell emerged as one of the most high-profile players on the free agency. He averaged 174 points, 29 rebounds and 61 assist, but didn't get a satisfactory **. Lakers management showed decisiveness and signed him directly to a two-year contract worth $36 million, but with a player option for the second year. However, as the season wore on, Russell's role on the pitch waned. Despite the fans' desire to trade him out, management hesitated. They don't want to give up future first-round picks as well as first-round swaps. Meanwhile, Murray of the Eagles is in excellent form. Just as the two sides were at an impasse, Russell erupted.
While the Lakers still have many problems to solve, Murray's annual salary of $30 million is more than enough to make up for it. His excellent defense, calm ball control and play in key moments enriched the team's tactical play. Jeanie Buss chose to walk away from the trade, partly because of the team's good chemistry, and partly because management could use high-quality assets to run the market after the season. Although there is a certain meaning to such a statement, after careful consideration, the owner of the Clippers Ballmer directly negotiated with the Lakers. This has led some to believe that the Lakers lack the quality needed to compete for a championship.
When the offseason was brought in, Lakers management signed the longest three-year contract. Most of the bench players are kept under $20 million a year. This allows the team to benefit from maintaining salary space flexibility and future trade market initiative. However, after renewing the contract of Davis, Jeanie Buss was confused and faced with James's departure. They had to contend with a three-year, $300 million super contract. If the Lakers can't keep a championship roster this season, James could leave Los Angeles. Perhaps that's what the team's hierarchy is hoping for.
Once James leaves, Jeanie Buss will have more salary space to build around Anthony Davis. In addition, if the Lakers fail to bring in at the trade deadline, they will have three first-round picks in the summer draft. At that point, they will have more attractive trade value and can use these assets to strengthen the team. At present, the Lakers have a record of 24 wins and 23 losses, and with their current roster, they are likely to make the playoffs, but they are still some way from competing for the championship. Unless management continues to explore trade possibilities, they can only be a stepping stone on the road to a championship that will give teams like the Clippers and Nuggets more opportunities.