NBA News Roundup, April 5th, 2019: Anthony Davis set to join the Celtics over Lakers, Andre Roberson injury update and more

After another year of exciting action, the 2018/19 NBA season is quickly coming to a close. The 2019 Playoffs are just one week away, and while the participants from the West have long been established, four teams from the East are currently locked in an intense battle for the final three playoff spots.

Elsewhere, teams such as the Los Angeles Lakers are already gearing up for a major summer of in-and-outs, whereas lottery teams have all eyes on the upcoming NBA Draft. So, as we head into the final days of the regular season, here is all the news that you need to know for April 5th.

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#1. Lonzo Ball parts ways with agent

Lonzo Ball has agreed to part ways with his agent of two years

Despite not playing since the start of 2019, Lonzo Ball continues to be in the news. Just days after he sued Big Baller Brand co-founder Alan Foster for damages of at least $2 million, Ball has decided to part ways with his agent, Harrison Gaines.

Ball emphasized that the breakup had nothing to do with the recent Big Baller Brand controversy, and in a statement released to ESPN, Ball thanked Gaines for his years of service:

Harrison Gaines has been a trusted advisor and close friend for many years. He guided my NBA career with integrity and always had my best interests at heart. Harrison has always had my back and although we will no longer be working together after mutually deciding to part ways; our relationship will always be bigger than basketball

Gaines had worked as Ball's agent since the point guard declared for the 2017 NBA draft. While Ball was Gianes' first client, he has since gone on to represent players such as Isaiah Austin and Jabari Brown.

#2. Celtics favorites to sign Anthony Davis

New Orleans Pelicans v Indiana Pacers

Ahead of the February trade deadline, the Los Angeles Lakers made a big move for Anthony Davis. After Davis handed in a late trade request, the Lakers offered a package that included Brandon Ingram, Lonzo Ball, Kyle Kuzma, and three first-round picks.

The Pelicans refused to deal the 6-time All-Star, although the Lakers are expected to return for their number one target this summer. However, Magic Johnson and Laker executives appear to face an uphill battle, as Anthony Koon is reporting that the Boston Celtics hold a major advantage:

The Lakers are interested in moving for Davis, the fact remains that the Celtics have a better crop of assets to deal and Ainge seems hellbent on landing Davis no matter the cost. With the Lakers simply not having the pieces to compete with the Celtics for Davis

During the 18/19 season, Davis has averaged 25.9 points, 12.0 rebounds and 3.9 assists per game. His current contract will expire next summer.

#1. Andre Roberson's season appears to be over

Oklahoma City Thunder v Phoenix Suns

Andre Roberson hasn't played a single minute of basketball since January 2018. The 27-year-old has repeatedly suffered setbacks in his recovery from a left knee injury (ruptured patellar tendon) and Royce Young is reporting that the OKC Thunder will be without their defensive stopper throughout the postseason:

Billy Donovan says there’s no indication from the team’s medical staff that Andre Roberson is anywhere near a return to game action. He said there was a plan to try and get Roberson some games with the Blue, but that didn’t happen and their season is over now. It is highly unlikely Roberson returns this season, outside of the Thunder making a deep playoff possibly opening the door for it.

Roberson has been a regular starter for the Thunder since 2013. He was named to the 2017 All-Defensive Second Team, and during his absence, OKC's defensive rating has significantly dropped.