Mark Jackson argued in favor of the New Orleans Pelicans trading Anthony Davis to the Los Angeles Lakers, though he failed to disclose a potential motivating factor.
During the first quarter of Saturday night’s Lakers-Golden State Warriors game, ABC’s team of announcers discussed the Anthony Davis trade rumors. They mentioned that the Lakers reportedly offered Lonzo Ball, Michael Beasley, Kyle Kuzma, Rajon Rondo and a first-round pick to the Pelicans for Davis, an offer New Orleans did not consider to be serious.
Jackson said he thinks the Pelicans should take that trade, while fellow commentator Jeff Van Gundy disagreed.
Here’s how their exchange went:
Jackson: “If you look at that proposed trade on the deal, if you’re New Orleans, make the deal.”
Van Gundy: “No way!”
Jackson: “You’re going to lose Anthony Davis for nothing,
Van Gundy: “I have a year and a half … I’m looking for better.”
Jackson: “I say you’re greedy.”
Jackson then said he was surprised with Van Gundy’s reaction.
The consensus among fans is that the Lakers’ offer for Davis was not suitable, which is the same reason they failed to land Kawhi Leonard or Paul George in trades. Ball reportedly does not want to play for New Orleans; Beasley and Rondo are free agents after the season; so the trade might amount to Kuzma and a late first-round pick for Davis, which isn’t much.
So why would Jackson being imploring the Pelicans to make the trade?
Jackson is represented by Klutch Sports, the same agency that represents LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and another Laker, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope. Agent Rich Paul is the one who initiated the Davis trade rumors by issuing a statement during the week. Not only does Jackson have the motivation of helping out two players represented by his agents, but there have been reports saying Jackson could be a candidate to replace Luke Walton if Walton were fired by the Lakers. Three years ago, a report had said LeBron wanted Jackson to be his coach in Cleveland, so you know he supports Jackson.
If ABC is going to have its broadcasters discuss such matters, they have a responsibility to disclose such key details to their viewers.
