NBA Notes: Cavs, Lakers, Anthony Davis, Bucks, Trade Rumors

Cavaliers

The Cavaliers are rolling with the NBA’s best record (36-7), and while a few recent losses, including a tough one to the Rockets, might raise some eyebrows, they’re nothing to panic over, as I said on this week’s Hoops Wire Live.Donovan Mitchell, Georges Niang, Cavaliers, Cavs, NBA

No team stays undefeated, and sometimes losses like this can be the lessons a team needs to grow stronger. The key isn’t dominating in January, but being at your best when it really counts — come April, May, and hopefully June.

As it stands, the Cavs are more than capable of winning a championship this season. Despite some lingering doubt, particularly from Cleveland fans, the team has shown they can hang with the best.

The point is, it’s not about how well you play in these middle months; it’s about peaking at the right time. The Cavs are proving they can do that. Don’t let a loss or two cloud the bigger picture — they’re in a great spot.

Lakers

The Lakers are showing little urgency in trade talks despite LeBron James and Anthony Davis‘ concerns about upgrading the roster, especially with their two tradeable first-round picks.

ESPN’s Tim Bontemps and Brian Windhorst report the Lakers’ reluctance to part with future assets, indicating a lack of aggression in the market.

Davis, in particular, has voiced his desire for a traditional center to allow him to play his preferred power forward position, recalling the success the Lakers had during their 2020 championship run with JaVale McGee and Dwight Howard at the five.

While LA is 24-18 under first-year head coach JJ Redick, Davis believes adding another big man could get them back to championship contention. The question is, will the front office be willing to make a move?

Bucks

The Bucks are actively exploring trades involving Khris Middleton, Bobby Portis, and Pat Connaughton in an effort to bring in an impact player, according to ESPN’s Tim Bontemps and Brian Windhorst.

With just their 2031 first-round pick to offer, the Bucks also need to shed around $6.5 million to stay below the second apron for trade flexibility.

  • Despite a solid 25-17 record, Milwaukee has struggled against top Eastern teams, going 0-8 against the Cavaliers, Celtics, and Knicks this season.
  • With Giannis Antetokounmpo playing at an MVP level, the Bucks are hoping to make a move to bolster their title hopes.
  • Middleton, Portis, and Connaughton were key pieces in the 2021 championship run, but after multiple early playoff exits, the Bucks are looking to shake things up.
  • The potential impact on Giannis, especially regarding Middleton’s close friendship with him, remains a key concern for the front office.

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