The Los Angeles Lakers aren’t entering the 2024-25 NBA season with a marquee offseason addition, with rookie Dalton Knecht arguably the only rotational player they added this summer. The franchise will want to make a push for a championship with LeBron James and Anthony Davis despite not showing that desire in how they approached their roster-building this offseason. Nonetheless, a late-summer trade could still salvage their offseason.
The Portland Trail Blazers are in full rebuild mode with an exciting young core of players, alongside a veteran wing presence like Jerami Grant. Given the length and price of Grant’s long-term contract which expires in 2028, the Blazers might be incentivized to let him go for a cheap price providing it doesn’t tie up long-term cap space. The Lakers could have the perfect offer to get Grant and his expensive contract out of Portland.
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Jerami Grant
Portland Trail Blazers Receive: Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, Jalen Hood-Schifino, 2025 Second-Round Pick (LAC)
The Lakers add a 3-and-D scorer who can contribute as a 20-point scorer whenever required alongside his strong all-around defensive game. While they sacrifice two guards and a well-fitting Rui Hachimura, they need to make a deal like this to have a chance at being competitive next season. The Blazers get interesting players and a second-round pick which could land in the 30s given the uncertainties around the Clippers.
