Speculation surrounding a potential blockbuster trade involving Cincinnati Reds star Elly De La Cruz has introduced an unexpected friction point for Los Angeles sports fans, hinging entirely on basketball loyalties.
During a Thursday appearance on the D-Mac and Reiter Show, former general manager and baseball analyst Jim Bowden addressed whether the Reds might entertain offers for their dynamic infielder this offseason. Bowden answered affirmatively, stating that such a transaction could align with the strategic needs of both the Dodgers and clubs like the Reds and Washington Nationals. He argued that the Dodgers should actively evaluate options for acquiring their next marquee superstar.
De La Cruz stands out as one of the sport’s most electrifying young talents. Last season, the 24-year-old shortstop posted a .283 batting average alongside an .880 OPS, while successfully combining 30 home runs with 30 stolen bases.
While the prospect of adding a player of his caliber to the Dodgers infield would ordinarily be met with universal enthusiasm in Southern California, local fans who also support the Lakers might face a psychological hurdle. De La Cruz has made no secret of his deep admiration for Steph Curry, frequently naming the Golden State Warriors star as his favorite basketball player.
The infielder recently amplified that allegiance by sharing multiple Instagram Story clips celebrating a Warriors victory over the Lakers. Specifically, the posts highlighted a sequence where Curry executed a dramatic crossover dribble that caused Lakers star guard Luka Dončić to lose his footing.
De La Cruz has previously noted conceptual parallels between their respective approaches to competition. In an August 2024 interview with the Cincinnati Enquirer, he remarked that he observes stylistic similarities between his own game and Curry’s on-court demeanor and execution.
Should trade discussions eventually materialize and bring the star shortstop to Los Angeles, local supporters who split their allegiance between the diamond and the hardwood may find themselves reconciling a budding baseball superstar with a vocal allegiance to one of the Lakers’ fiercest conference rivals.
