The Los Angeles Lakers entered this offseason with high hopes of making some changes to its current roster. After being eliminated in the first round by the Denver Nuggets, Lakers faithful were expecting changes to be made. The only significant move was hiring head coach JJ Redick. This is not to say that the organization did not try. Several names like Klay Thompson, Jonas Valanciunas, DeMar DeRozan, and others had been linked to the purple and gold. Unfortunately, all of these players have signed elsewhere. However, one name continuously in trade rumors with the Lakers is Portland Trail Blazers forward Jerami Grant.
Analyzing Lakers Rumored Trade Target’s Fit
If the Lakers pursue Jerami Grant, I think a trade offer would most likely revolve around Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, Cam Reddish, and a 2029 first-round pick.
Grant would be more than an ideal target as the Lakers continue to poke around the trade market.
— Jake Weinbach (@JWeinbachNBA) July 28, 2024
Grant’s Versatility
Grant has played for five teams since being drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2014. Currently, he is a versatile forward for the Portland Trail Blazers. Grant has shown to be a solid player in any organization he’s played for. His three 3-and-D skillset makes him a viable option for many rosters. Many teams are looking for a player like Grant. He has the versatility of creating shots, knocking down threes, and providing defense. Last year, the veteran forward averaged 21.0 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game. He also shot 40.2% from beyond the three-point line. Although these numbers can be skewed as he’s arguably the number two option on his team, it’s still to say he’d potentially be a great pickup for LA.
Hesitancy With Grant
The big question causing a hold-up for the purple and gold in acquiring Grant is what they must give in return. Spending their limited trade assets and taking on Grant’s pricey contract doesn’t make much sense. He is scheduled to make $29.7 million this season and has three more years left on his contract. His salary increases every season, including in his final year when he will be paid $36.4 million at 33.
Moreover, Rui Hachimura has excelled since being traded to LA from the Washington Wizards. He is also four years younger than Grant, with a higher ceiling being where he’s at in his career. Hachimura averaged 13.6 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game in 2023-24. He actually shot better than Grant from deep, coming in with 42.2%.
An anonymous NBA executive doesn’t believe Jerami Grant would make the Lakers better.
“If they get Grant, I am not sure they are that much better as a team…he is not a very good defender. I am not sure he is that much better than Rui.”
(Via @SeanDeveney) pic.twitter.com/xl4uyQMvTy
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) August 5, 2024
The Last Word
Grant could be worth it for Los Angeles. But for now, being hesitant and careful with what you give up is the smart move. In acquiring a contract like Grant’s, giving away some key trade assets might not be worth it in the long run. The Trail Blazers reportedly wanted two first-round picks for Grant, but the Lakers were unwilling to meet that demand despite their interest.
The lack of urgency on changing this roster seems to be the consensus for the Lakers this offseason. They are looking and trying to make the right moves. The team that Rob Pelinka and the organization have built since the trade deadline of 2023 has had success in some way. The roster is molding and building chemistry through the ups and downs. Expect a similar roster to last year, hoping for a healthier, stronger year ahead.
