The Anthony Davis negotiations between New Orleans and Los Angeles was the NBA's premier open secret prior to the trade deadline, with Lakers president Magic Johnson pressuring Pelicans GM Dell Demps to make a move. But the public nature of Johnson and Demps' discussions reportedly dissuaded the Pelicans from completing any hypothetical trade.
Sports Illustrated's Chris Mannix assessed New Orleans' present situation on Thursday, adding a look behind the scenes in the Lakers' pursuit of Davis.
"Handled quietly, and the Pelicans might have been more open to dealing with the Lakers, sources familiar with the situation told The Crossover," Mannix wrote on Thursday morning.