LA Lakers Rumors Roundup: Lakers front office, ownership punishing LeBron James; Anthony Davis could return next week, and more

LeBron James reportedly pushed the LA Lakers' acquisition of Russell Westbrook last season, but it didn't pan out. The latest report suggest that the Lakers front office and ownership are punishing James by not making any significant improvements in their roster.

Meanwhile, Anthony Davis could return from his foot injury next week. Davis has not played a game since December 16 against the Denver Nuggets. He started working out recently and was rumored to be feeling pain free.

Here's the latest LA Lakers rumors roundup for January 21 brought to you by Sportskeeda:

LA Lakers front office, ownership punishing LeBron James

It has been widely speculated that LeBron James pushed the LA Lakers front office to trade for Russell Westbrook last season. However, the move didn't work out, as the Lakers failed miserably to make the playoffs.

According to ESPN's Kendrick Perkins, the Lakers ownership could be punishing James for the Westbrook deal. Perkins noted that the front office not trading their two first-round picks is an indication that "The King" will need to settle for the move he wanted.

"It almost feels like, in my opinion, that Rob Pelinka and Jeanie Buss is punishing LeBron for the Russell Westbrook trade," Perkins said. "Meaning, 'You played a huge part in getting Russell Westbrook here, and we know we have these two draft picks, and we're not going to trade them because you wanted him. You wanted him, 'Bron, so now you have to deal with it. You made your bed; you have to lay in it.'"

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Anthony Davis could return as soon as next week

Anthony Davis has not played a game since last December 16 when he suffered a foot injury against the Denver Nuggets. The LA Lakers announced that Davis' injury was a stress reaction, and he will be out indefinitely.

Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN reported that Davis continued to progress in his rehabilitation and recovery. He remains pain-free and could even make his return to the court during the Lakers' five-game road trip that starts next week.

Davis was having a bounce back season before injuring his foot. He was averaging 27.4 points, 12.1 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 1.3 steals and 2.1 blocks per game. He was also shooting 59.4% from the field and was back to his dominant self.

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Kendrick Nunn named LA Lakers' best trade asset

Kendrick Nunn has played well in the absence of Austin Reaves and Lonnie Walker IV. Nunn might be the LA Lakers' best trade asset remaining, as per an NBA executive.

The executive told Sean Deveney of Heavy Sports that Nunn getting some playing time increases his value. He gets to showcase himself to other teams who might be interested in acquiring his services.

"He could help someone, but they need to show he is healthy," the executive said. He's got a very manageable contract and they're dying for size on that team. They're not going to trade LeBron (James) or Anthony Davis obviously. So the best package they can put out there is Nunn and (Patrick) Beverley and one of their picks. Honestly, he is their best trade piece right now."

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