LeBron James: Lakers star’s team-mate to END hopes of Saturday trade deal - NBA insider
LEBRON JAMES may be without Trevor Ariza at the Los Angeles Lakers, according to shock reports.
The Phoenix Suns star was said to be on his way to the Lakers this weekend.
But the man who was set to move in the opposite direction - Kentavious Caldwell-Pope - has several teams after his services.
The Athletic are reporting that the Houston Rockets are interested in signing the 25-year-old.
The Philadelphia 76ers are also looking at Caldwell-Pope despite bringing in Jimmy Butler already.
But KCP is focused on his Lakers career at present.
“No. I’m just focused on [teammates]. I’m playing here now,” Caldwell-Pope said following the Lakers’ 108-105 victory over the Miami Heat.
Speaking on the NBA podcast ‘The Starters’, Leigh Ellis explained why he believes Ariza will join the Lakers though.
“It’s hard to see what the downside is for the Lakers,” he said.
Phoenix Suns NEED Lakers three-way Ariza deal says pundit
“If he costs them KCP [Kentavious Caldwell-Pope] and some sort of future second round pick, do it.
“The Lakers, this isn’t a season where they just want to sort of do okay.
“They want to really contend.
“And the West outside of the Warriors is kind of open right now.
“Ariza is a veteran, he’s been there, he’s won a championship, they know what they’re getting.
“Why would you not get him if you’re the Lakers?”
LeBron and co are 17-10 this season as they push for a place in the playoffs.
The Lakers currently sit fifth in the Western Conference and next face the Houston Rockets on Friday at 1am UK time.