Report: Early completion of Davis trade eliminates Lakers' max-contract slot

The Los Angeles Lakes finally gifted LeBron James a star running mate but may have ruined their shot at adding a third.

The Lakers are expected to officially acquire Anthony Davis from the New Orleans Pelicans on July 6, meaning they'll potentially end up with just $23.7 million in cap space if the perennial All-Star doesn't void his $4-million trade bonus, sources told ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski and Bobby Marks.

This means potentially missing out on available max-contract free-agent targets like Kemba Walker, Kyrie Irving, and Jimmy Butler and being forced to settle for second- and third-tier stars.

If the Pelicans agree to wait until July 30 to complete the deal, it'd give the Lakers $32.5 million in space - enough to offer an additional max contract.

The Lakers gave up Lonzo Ball, Brandon Ingram, Josh Hart, three first-round picks - including their upcoming No. 4 overall pick - and two pick swaps in the trade with the Pelicans.