The L.A. Lakers have been heavily involved in the NBA rumor mill this offseason.
Los Angeles has been searching for a player to elevate their championship prospects, but so far, they’ve come up short.
General manager Rob Pelinka is still actively exploring options while LeBron James and Anthony Davis aim to win a gold medal for Team USA at the 2024 Paris Olympics. The next target on his list plays a few states to the north.
The Portland Trail Blazers have made their two best players available, and one of them could be a great fit alongside the Lakers’ star duo. While LA has shown interest, it’s uncertain if Pelinka can offer a package tempting enough for the Blazers.
Lakers Reportedly Interested in Blazers’ Jerami Grant
Grant would provide additional length and shooting around James and Davis
Portland is reportedly shopping Jerami Grant and Anfernee Simons as they aim for a high pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, potentially targeting Cooper Flagg.
According to Yahoo Sports’ Jake Fischer (h/t HoopsHype), the Lakers could consider pursuing Grant to boost their chances for the 2024-25 season.
“The Lakers have limited options of available players who could make a difference. To my knowledge, (Jerami Grant) is someone that’s been on the radar.”
Grant has developed into a high-level starter in his two seasons with the Trail Blazers. The 30-year-old has averaged 20.7 points and 4.1 rebounds on 46/40/82 shooting splits during his time in Portland.
He’s proven he can lead an offense when needed, but also effectively played second and third fiddle to Damian Lillard and Simons, showing he would be a valuable asset behind James and Davis.
Trading for Grant would be a sensible move for the Lakers, but the challenge remains whether Pelinka will meet the Blazers’ demands.
