This season, Davis has averaged 3.5 assists from 51.5 passes per game. In terms of assists alone, he ranks ninth among big men. In fact, considering the 7+ assists he has recorded against teams like the Thunder, Kings, and Hawks, it is evident that Davis' playmaking ability has improved this season.
Regarding Davis' playmaking, it is important to note:
Firstly, efficiency. With an average of 51.5 passes per game, Davis has an assist-to-turnover ratio of 1.83. Across the league, this surpasses most perimeter players, including Jaylen Brown (1.67) and Harden (1.66).
Secondly, enhancement. This season, 13 Lakers players have received passes from Davis and taken shots, with only Russell, Vincent, and Milton shooting below 40%. To some extent, Davis' passes have an enhancing effect on his teammates' shooting.
However, despite the improvements in playmaking compared to previous seasons, there is still a significant gap between Davis and players like Jokic and Sabonis. Of course, the Lakers do not position Davis as a facilitator-type center.
What does Davis' improvement in playmaking mean for the Lakers?
Firstly, after Russell's departure, Reeves has taken on the majority of the team's organizational responsibilities. Statistically speaking, in the last 7 games, he has averaged 75.2 passes per game, which is a new high in his NBA career and the first time exceeding 60+ passes.
On a positive note, from the five games starting against the Warriors and ending against the Rockets, Reeves has recorded double-digit assists in four games, demonstrating his potential to become a dual-guard.
Of course, as previously mentioned, given the upward trend in Davis' playmaking, this stage also presents a good opportunity for him to continue honing his skills.
Secondly, playmaking ability, or the ability to become an offensive "pivot," will inevitably extend a player's career longevity. Simply put, even after a decline in athletic ability, one can still maintain a presence in the league with their skill set.
Meanwhile, according to the NBA China official website:
The Bulls are open to trading Vucevic, with interest from teams such as the Lakers and Warriors.
This season with the Bulls, Vucevic has averaged comprehensive stats of 20+10+3. More importantly, as an interior player, he averages 3.3 assists per game. In fact, throughout his NBA career spanning 935 games, Vucevic has averaged 2.9 assists, indicating a relatively stable performance in passing and ball control.
Based on the Bulls' openness to trading Vucevic, I believe the Lakers have a very good chance of acquiring him.
Reason One: Contract. Vucevic has a remaining contract worth $41.5 million over 2 years. Considering his age of 34, the Lakers cannot guarantee a big contract after this one ends, but the issue is the Lakers' high exposure. This means that as long as he performs well, he will not worry about contracts in the future, as seen with previous players like Monk and Schroder.
Reason Two: Opportunity. Looking solely at this season, apart from Davis, the Lakers have no other reliable interior players. Obviously, Vucevic will have guaranteed opportunities upon joining. With guaranteed opportunities, the first point will be triggered—preparing for subsequent contracts.
Therefore, it can be said that the Lakers are attractive to Vucevic. Combined with the Bulls' open trading stance, the Lakers are very likely to acquire Vucevic.