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Los Angeles Lakers: Why Jrue Holiday would be a perfect trade acquisition

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 25: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers handles the ball against Jrue Holiday #11 of the New Orleans Pelicans during the first half at Staples Center on February 25, 2020 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 25: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers handles the ball against Jrue Holiday #11 of the New Orleans Pelicans during the first half at Staples Center on February 25, 2020 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images)
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(Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports) – Los Angeles Lakers
(Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports) – Los Angeles Lakers

Jrue Holiday already has strong chemistry with Anthony Davis

In my article outlining why the Los Angeles Lakers would defeat the Clippers in a seven-game series, I cited that the Lakers team chemistry would be one of the three key factors that’d give the team the edge.

Although the two teams never got the chance to face off in the postseason, one thing was evident: the Lakers’ team chemistry was a big reason they won the title.

Usually, one of the concerns about big offseason moves is its effect on team chemistry.

However, in that department, Jrue Holiday has an advantage that other free agents cannot match: a strong bond with Anthony Davis.

On the court, he’s spent a large part of his career playing alongside Anthony Davis in New Orleans. Both players enjoyed some of their best statistical seasons on the court alongside each other and will have no problems meshing together on the hardwood.

A big reason why Holiday signed his five-year, 125 million dollar contract with the Pelicans was the presence of the talented Davis.

As per Bleacher Report:

"“He’s like 90 percent of the reason that I stayed,” Holiday told Andrew Lopez of NOLA.com and others. “He’s a talent that comes once in a generation. A 7-footer who can do everything at his skill level.”"

Most importantly, his off-court relationship with Davis seems as strong as ever, with Holiday harboring zero animosity towards AD for his trade requests.

Per the previously linked Bleacher Report article:

"“He had to what he had to do for his family and what’s best for his career. Anthony has always been professional with us and even more so, he’s been a friend and like a brother. Whatever his decision he makes, I can’t be upset with him. I know it’s a business and he’s doing what’s best for him.”"

One other notable off-court factor in the Lakers’ favor, is that Holiday, an LA-native, grew up as a Lakers fan. Being able to play in his hometown for his favorite childhood dream would be a dream come true for him.

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