Insider cites Anthony Davis reunion to cure JJ Redick frustration

As it is The Los Angeles Lakers continue to search for answers amid growing defensive woesa familiar name resurfaced in league discourse. On the latest episode of The Hoop Collective, ESPN NBA Insider Tim MacMahon proposed a bold solution: reuniting the Lakers with Dallas Mavericks star ahead Anthony Davis.

MacMahon presented the idea as a direct response to the Lakers’ recent struggles under the head coach JJ Redickespecially in the defensive part.

“I have a solution for them. They can trade for a perennial all-around big man. Call the Mavericks. Call them three-way because the Mavericks have two GMs. Call them. Hey, we want AD back. I’m not sure about AD’s health right now.”

Brian Windhorst was quick to note Davis’ latest setback.

“He’s hurt today.”

MacMahon acknowledged the risk, but continued to push the concept.

“Here’s the little thing that he’s eligible for an extension in the offseason, but bring AD back to LA.”

Windhorst added a caveat rooted in Davis’ previous tenure with the franchise.

“Just don’t play center.”

The trade underscored a lingering theme from Davis’ first stint with the Lakers, when concerns about position usage and durability often dogged him. Still, MacMahon’s comments suggest that Los Angeles’ current needs may outweigh those risks.

Davis’ latest injury is a strained right groin died on Christmas Day during Dallas lost 126–116 to the Golden State Warriors. The 32-year-old exited after just 11 minutes, finishing with three points, two blocks and one steal while shooting 1-for-4 from the field.

The Lakers’ defensive slump is fueling speculation about an Anthony Davis reunion

Despite the injury, Davis remained productive when available. In 16 games this season, he is averaging 20.5 points, 10.9 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 1.6 blocks and 1.3 steals per game, while shooting 52.1 percent from the field and 32.3 percent from three-point range, playing 29.9 minutes per game. His two-way impact continues to place him among the league’s elite defenders, a trait McMahon believes could immediately address Los Angeles’ shortcomings.

The Lakers’ defensive problems are becoming more pronounced. Over the last 10 games, Los Angeles has allowed 121.4 points per game, ranking 24th in the league during that span. The slide coincided with visible frustration on the sideline, as Redick repeatedly emphasized accountability and effort after losses.

Los Angeles enters the weekend on a three-game losing streak after a 119–96 loss to the Houston Rockets on Christmas Day. The Lakers will look to regroup Sunday night when they host the Sacramento Kings (7-23) at 9:30 PM ET, continuing a five-game homestand.

Meanwhile, Dallas is 12-20 and dealing with its own inconsistencies after major roster changes over the past year. The Mavericks will try to bounce back Saturday night against the Kings at 5:00 PM ET as part of a three-game road trip.

While McMahon’s proposal remains hypothetical, it underscores the urgency surrounding both franchises. For the Lakers, the idea of ​​bringing Davis back represents a potential defensive reset. For the Mavericks, any discussion involving their star power forward would have significant implications as the trade deadline nears.