If the Lakers will have two new players for this season, neither comes from free agency.
An anomaly for a franchise that dreams of winning the title, but Bleacher Report has the solution.
At least if it pleases the fans.
With LeBron James and Anthony Davis, the Lakers are still convinced that they have the resources to win the NBA title.
Not sure that everyone shares their enthusiasm, but that explains the franchise’s very passive strategy since the start of free agency.
The Purple and Gold have not recruited anyone on the market since July.
Not great, especially when you see that the competition has strengthened. Whether we’re talking about the Mavericks, the Nuggets or the Clippers: everyone has tried something, but not the Lakers. Rob Pelinka is confident, convinced that players like Bronny James and rookie Dalton Knecht will be able to bring a little something extra.
A major trade for the Lakers?
Still, the Angelenos have tried their luck recruiting on the market. Their offensive for Klay Thompson didn’t work, as did Gary Trent Jr. Jerami Grant is the latest name in fashion, but no deal in sight with the Blazers. Journalist Zach Buckley, who works for Bleacher Report, thinks he has the solution.
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Lakers receive: “Jerami Grant and Duop Reath”
Blazers receive: “D’Angelo Russell, Jarred Vanderbilt, Jalen Hood-Schifino, a 2029 first-rounder, 2025 second-rounder (via the Clippers)”
Getting Grant wouldn’t be a bad thing for the Angelenos, just like getting rid of Russell at point guard.
However, it’s doubtful that many will appreciate the departure of Vanderbilt, who is very effective if he can stay healthy.
One problem to note for Grant: a good scorer but few rebounds on arrival, which is a concern for a 3/4 position.
Do the Angelinos really want to spend that much for him? Unlikely.
This trade is not necessarily the worst idea in the world, but the Lakers probably do not want to give up that many assets, especially for a player like Jerami Grant.
Still, Rob Pelinka must act, especially since D’Angelo Russell is not unanimous.
