Programming note: Watch the pregame edition of Warriors Outsiders on Wednesday night at 6:00pm P.T., streaming live on the MyTeams app.
We might be getting a lot closer to seeing Anthony Davis in a Lakers uniform.
Magic Johnson and Pelicans GM Dell Demps have spoken twice today and Los Angeles has improved its offer substantially, a source told Brad Turner of The Los Angeles Times.
Lakers now waiting on Pelicans go respond, per source. But it's all that the Pelicans wanted to trade AD. Young talent from Lakers, cap relief and draft picks.— Brad Turner (@BA_Turner) February 4, 2019
The Lakers are now willing to take back Solomon Hill in exchange for Brandon Ingram, Kyle Kuzma, Lonzo Ball, Rajon Rondo, Lance Stephenson, Michael Beasley and two first-round picks.
In order for a deal to get done, the Lakers were always going to have to part ways with more assets because New Orleans actually holds the leverage right now. Why? If Davis is still on the Pelicans past Thursday's deadline, it allows more teams to enter the sweepstakes as the draft and free agency approach.
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Although the Celtics are not on Davis' wish list (neither are the Warriors), that could totally change pending on how the next several months shake out. If Boston makes a deep run in the playoffs and Kyrie Irving decides to re-sign, Davis could end up pushing for a trade to the Celtics.
But that wouldn't be possible if the Lakers strike now.
Among New Orleans' priorities in an Anthony Davis deal - young players/picks/cap relief - Pels are determined to get back one player w/ All-NBA potential. Do Pels see that in Ingram, Kuzma or Ball? Boston's Jayson Tatum fits mold. Can Pels pry Tatum? All internal Pels questions.— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 4, 2019
In case you are curious -- the Warriors don't face the Lakers again until April 4. That matchup could look a whole lot different than the one that transpired on Saturday night at Oracle Arena.
The deadline is Thursday at Noon PT and the clock is ticking...
Drew Shiller is the co-host of Warriors Outsiders. Follow him on Twitter @DrewShiller
