The Los Angeles Lakers remain one of the most storied teams in the NBA. With 17 world championships, the expectation remains that a deep playoff run is the bare minimum. As a result, anything less falls short. In recent years, even with LeBron James, the Lakers could not reach the heights of the Kobe Bryant era.
While the team did win a championship with James, many dispute its legitimacy. As James ponders his next move as a free agent, guards Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves could be the future foundation. One former NBA player believes the franchise may want to look towards a former player for help.
Kendrick Perkins Thinks That the Lakers Need to Pursue Anthony Davis
As mentioned, James continues to examine his future. Meanwhile, Doncic and Reaves wait for the franchise to make moves. The Lakers finished 53-29, then were swept by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference Semifinals. ESPN NBA analyst Kendrick Perkins believes the team needs to inquire about Anthony Davis.
“[The Lakers should] revisit the relationship with Anthony Davis. … Austin Reaves and Luka, together, cannot be your two best players to lead you to a championship.”
—@KendrickPerkins on the Lakers’ roster construction 👀 pic.twitter.com/3kv765JoyG
— First Take (@FirstTake) June 19, 2026
“Maybe revisit the relationship with Anthony Davis,” asserted Perkins. Davis played 312 games over six seasons in Los Angeles. The highlight of his tenure came in 2020 when the Lakers won the NBA championship. Perkins, who won a title with the Boston Celtics, discussed the precarious timing of Doncic’s comments, who demanded a top center.
“By the way, if you’re Deandre Ayton, how do you feel about seeing these comments right now. I think he has another year on this deal.”
According to Spotrac, Ayton has a player option with the Lakers. He needs to opt in by June 29. Last season, in 72 games, Ayton averaged 12.5 points and eight rebounds. In contrast, Davis averaged 20.4 points. While the numbers seem disparate, one factor stands out.
Injuries continue to be part of Davis’ legacy. Furthermore, Perkins does not believe that the combination of Doncic and Reaves can bring a title back to Los Angeles.
“If the Lakers are trying to get to the promised land and trying to win another championship, Austin Reaves and Luka, together, cannot be your two best players to lead you to a championship.”
Davis is still under contract to the Washington Wizards for the next two seasons. Trading for him will cost a combination of draft capital and players. Additionally, Reaves is a free agent and could command a sizable contract. Can the Lakers return to the league’s elite franchise status?
