3. Trading Anthony Davis for Bradley Beal
Bradley Beal has a player option on what would be the final year of his deal-making this trade all the more hypothetical. However, a sign-and-trade makes sense for both sides when you consider the logistics and the situations both teams are in. Beal fits the Lakers and gives the team a perimeter player capable of carrying the team when LeBron is out.
For the Wizards, Beal is headed into the final year of his deal if he opts in while Davis is already under contract. Washington would be acquiring a star player they can build around and give the team a scary pairing of Kristaps Porzingis and Anthony Davis. Much like the aforementioned trades, this is a move that only works if Beal is recruited to the Lakers and the Wizards are left with little choice but to move on from their star player.
Despite his success in Washington Beal hasn’t been a winning player and a change of scenery is great for both sides. Despite dealing with an injury last season Beal has consistently stayed on the court throughout his career and would be a perfect piece for the Lakers to pair with LeBron James.
This team needs playmakers and Beal needs an established team that can help him find elusive playoff success. It’s a win for both sides if Beal is willing to complete the sign-and-trade and gives the Wizards a star player to build around and unlike the other trades keeps Davis from crossing paths with the Lakers in the playoffs.