This season, when James and Anthony Davis are on the court together, their net efficiency is 3.3. In comparison, Tatum and Jaylen Brown have a net efficiency of 9.7, Mitchell and Garland have 8.9, and Doncic and Irving have 9.7.
Judging from the data, James and Davis are still one of the most dominant duos in the NBA today. This leads to a frequently discussed topic: Does the Lakers really need a third star player?
Speaking of this, we must mention Reeves.
Point One: Data. Since Russell was traded to the Nets, specifically in the last five games against the Kings, Cavaliers, Trail Blazers, Hawks, and Rockets, Reeves has averaged 23 points, 6 rebounds, and 11 assists. Judging solely by the numbers, Reeves has reached the level of a star player.
Point Two: Clutch Moments. During the same period, Reeves' shooting percentage in clutch moments is zero. In other words, when he becomes the focal point of the team's offense and receives special attention from opponents, Reeves' ability to make tough shots is still lacking.
Based on these two points, Reeves has the potential to become a star, but he still needs time to hone his skills.
As for the other Lakers players, such as Christie and Knickert, they are more functional types. In other words, even when they mature, they can only be immediate combatants and are not on par with stars.
Considering these two points, at present, if the Lakers want to achieve something, they still need a third star player. More accurately, someone to help alleviate the pressure on James and Davis.
What trade assets does the Lakers have?
In fact, aside from a few players like James, Davis, and Reeves, most of the Lakers' players, including Hachimura, Vanderbilt, and others, are tradable.
In terms of draft picks, the Lakers have first-round picks in 2029 and 2031, as well as two second-round picks. Although not many, these two first-round picks have significant trade value—by this time, James will have already retired, and Davis will likely have passed his prime. In other words, there is a high probability that these picks will be top 8 or even top 5 selections.
Meanwhile, according to the NBA China official website, Beal is willing to waive his no-trade clause for the Lakers, Heat, and Nuggets.
So far this season, Beal has averaged 18.1 points and 3.2 assists. However, throughout his NBA career, which spans 772 games, he has averaged 22+4. Based solely on the numbers, Beal is undoubtedly a star-level player. In fact, during his tenure with the Wizards, Beal was selected to the NBA All-Star team three times.
Without considering whether the Lakers have the assets or are willing to trade for Beal, it is clear that he is still interested in joining the Lakers. However, in my opinion, this may not be good news for Anthony Davis.
Reason One: Contract. Excluding this season, Beal still has a big contract worth $110 million over the next two years. Obviously, if he fails to adapt, it will be difficult to handle the situation, especially since Beal also has a no-trade clause.
Reason Two: Competitive Form. This season, Beal's personal efficiency rating of 15.0 is the lowest since the 2014-15 season, combined with his age of 31, it is evident that Beal is starting to decline.
Based on these two points, we can understand that Beal's assistance to Davis is limited. My point is that, at present, it will probably not exceed what Reeves can offer. Moreover, due to the no-trade clause, it will be challenging to deal with him later.
Therefore, Pelinka should not get carried away and trade for Beal, as that would undoubtedly be a second "Westbrook."