LeBron to Keep His Number for Upcoming Season, Davis to Wear No. 3

What a strange time it is.

A month ago, the Los Angeles Lakers facilitated a trade to acquire Anthony Davis. Since the former New Orleans Pelicans superstar has worn the number 23 for the entirety of his career, LeBron James decided to switch back to the No. 6 jersey he last wore as a member of the Miami Heat. That initial idea has been pushed back for another season according to Chris Haynes of Yahoo! Sports for production purposes.

The NBA has a strict deadline for jersey number changes which can be carried out up until March 15. That being said, the league was willing to be flexible if the Lakers could work out a deal with Nike. Nike has reportedly declined James’ wishes, citing production issues and the financial backlash they would receive with the amount of No. 23 James inventory they have already manufactured.

Davis will now wear the no. 3 in his first season as a Laker.