NBA Trade Rumors Roundup, January 21st: Lakers Trade ruled out, Dennis Smith Jr. return and more

Lakers trade ruled out

Cleveland Cavaliers v New Orleans Pelicans

The Los Angeles Lakers have been linked with making a trade for a second All-Star before the February trade deadline, although Eric Pincus is reporting that the Lakers will instead wait until the summer, as the team still wants Anthony Davis:

If (Rich) Paul scares off other suitors with promises that he'll pair up his two top clients together in Los Angeles, he might be able to leverage the Pelicans into taking Ingram (and possibly Ball) instead of Kuzma...

The NBA trade deadline is only a few weeks away, but New Orleans isn't likely to decide on Davis until after the season. That will give the Lakers more time to develop their young core, be it to star alongside James or to build trade value for that elusive second star.

Anthony Davis has two years remaining on his current deal with the Pelicans, although he can opt out in 2020. So far this season Anthony is averaging 29.3 points, 13.3 rebounds and 4.4 assists per game.