NBA Offseason Rumors: The Portland Trail Blazers forward could be acquired by the Los Angeles Lakers for $7,639,302 to support

The NBA offseason is in full swing, and teams across the league are looking to bolster their rosters in preparation for the upcoming season. One of the biggest storylines revolves around the Los Angeles Lakers and their potential interest in acquiring Portland Trail Blazers forward Jerami Grant.

With LeBron James nearing the twilight of his career, the Lakers are determined to build a championship-caliber team around him and Anthony Davis. Reports suggest that Los Angeles could pursue a deal for Grant to enhance their roster’s versatility and defensive capabilities. But would such a trade make sense for both teams? What would the trade package look like? Let’s break it all down.

Who is Jerami Grant?

Jerami Grant is a 30-year-old forward known for his defensive versatility, three-point shooting, and ability to create his own offense. Since entering the NBA in 2014 as a second-round pick, Grant has developed into a reliable two-way player. Over the years, he has played for several teams, including the Philadelphia 76ers, Oklahoma City Thunder, Denver Nuggets, Detroit Pistons, and most recently, the Portland Trail Blazers.

During the 2023-24 season with Portland, Grant averaged:

• 21.0 points per game
• 4.5 rebounds per game
• 2.8 assists per game
• 45.1% shooting from the field
• 40.2% shooting from three-point range
• 81.7% from the free-throw line

His ability to stretch the floor as a 6’8” forward makes him a desirable asset for any contending team, especially the Lakers, who need more shooting and perimeter defense.

Why Do the Lakers Want Jerami Grant?

The Lakers have been looking for a third scoring option alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. While players like Austin Reaves and D’Angelo Russell have shown flashes, neither has consistently filled that role.

Here’s why Grant fits the Lakers’ needs:

1. Defensive Versatility

Grant is known for his ability to guard multiple positions. With LeBron aging, the Lakers need players who can take on the defensive burden, allowing James to focus more on facilitating the offense. Grant’s ability to switch onto guards, wings, and even some big men makes him a perfect fit in Darvin Ham’s defensive schemes.

2. Reliable Three-Point Shooting

One of the Lakers’ biggest weaknesses in recent seasons has been their outside shooting. Grant shot over 40% from beyond the arc last season, making him a valuable floor spacer who can create more driving lanes for LeBron and Davis.

3. Secondary Scorer

When LeBron is off the floor, the Lakers often struggle to generate offense. Grant has proven he can create his own shot, whether in isolation or within a team system. He averaged 20+ points per game in each of the past three seasons, demonstrating his ability to carry an offensive load when necessary.

4. Long-Term Stability

LeBron’s contract situation is uncertain beyond the 2024-25 season. Acquiring Grant, who is under contract for four more years, gives the Lakers a foundational piece to build around alongside Anthony Davis and Austin Reaves.

What Would a Trade Look Like?

The main obstacle for the Lakers in acquiring Grant is his contract. He signed a five-year, $160 million extension with the Blazers in 2023, meaning any trade would require significant salary matching.

Possible Trade Package

The Lakers could send the following to Portland:

• D’Angelo Russell (PG) – $18.7M
• Jarred Vanderbilt (F) – $10.7M
• Jalen Hood-Schifino (G) – $3.9M
• 2029 First-Round Pick (Unprotected)
• 2025 Second-Round Pick

In return, the Lakers receive:

• Jerami Grant (F) – $27.6M
• Duop Reath (C) – $2.5M

Why This Trade Makes Sense for Both Teams

• For the Lakers: They add a much-needed two-way forward without sacrificing their immediate championship aspirations.
• For the Blazers: They get a young prospect in Hood-Schifino, a solid defender in Vanderbilt, and future draft capital to continue their rebuild around Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe.

However, Portland could hold out for more draft compensation or younger assets, making negotiations tricky.

Challenges in Completing the Trade

While this trade makes sense on paper, several challenges could prevent it from happening.

1. Financial Considerations

Grant’s contract is massive, and the Lakers would be committing long-term cap space to him. This could limit their ability to sign free agents in the future.

2. Competition from Other Teams

The Lakers aren’t the only team interested in Grant. Other teams, such as the Miami Heat, Phoenix Suns, and Dallas Mavericks, could also make offers.

3. Portland’s Asking Price

The Blazers may demand additional first-round picks or a younger player like Austin Reaves, which the Lakers might be unwilling to include.

Alternative Options for the Lakers

If the Lakers cannot land Grant, they might pivot to other options in the trade market. Some alternative targets include:

1. Klay Thompson (Golden State Warriors)
   • While primarily a shooter, Thompson would provide elite three-point shooting, something the Lakers desperately need.
2. Buddy Hield (Philadelphia 76ers)
   • Another sharpshooter, Hield could be acquired for a much cheaper price.
3. DeMar DeRozan (Free Agent)
   • The Lakers could sign DeRozan outright without giving up any assets.
4. Jerami Grant (Waiting for a Buyout)
   • If no trade materializes, the Lakers could wait and hope Grant becomes available via a buyout later in the season.

How Would Grant Impact the Lakers?

If the Lakers successfully acquire Grant, their projected starting lineup could look like this:

Starters:

• PG: Austin Reaves
• SG: LeBron James
• SF: Jerami Grant
• PF: Anthony Davis
• C: Jaxson Hayes

Bench:

• D’Angelo Russell (if not traded)
• Rui Hachimura
• Gabe Vincent
• Taurean Prince
• Christian Wood

This lineup would give the Lakers elite defensive flexibility and improved three-point shooting.

 Will the Lakers Land Grant?

The Lakers are in win-now mode and must make calculated moves to improve their roster. Jerami Grant is a logical trade target, but financial constraints and Portland’s asking price could make the deal difficult to finalize.

If the Lakers can acquire Grant for a reasonable package without mortgaging their future, it would be a significant step toward another championship run. However, if the price becomes too steep, they may have to explore alternative options.

With the offseason still unfolding, fans will eagerly watch how this saga develops. Will Grant wear the purple and gold next season? Only time will tell.