“The rebuilding Trail Blazers have an interesting trade chip in Jerami Grant that could net them valuable assets from a Lakers team that’s desperately searching for another forward,” Wright said.
“While LA sits at 13-11 and struggles to build around LeBron James, Portland could capitalize on their win-now mentality.”
“The proposed deal would bring Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, and a coveted 2025 first-round pick to Portland. For a Blazers team focused on the future, acquiring another first-rounder could be crucial for their rebuilding timeline.”
“Hachimura … would give Portland a young forward with upside. Though he hasn’t matched his playoff performance from last year, the 25-year-old could benefit from increased opportunity in Portland’s development-focused system.”
“While Grant’s defensive versatility and shot creation would certainly help the Lakers contend, his declining numbers this season (15.3 points on 38% shooting) might actually make this the perfect time for Portland to maximize his trade value. The Blazers could sell high on Grant while adding both immediate assets and future draft capital.”
“Getting a first-rounder that far out (2029) from a Lakers team that might look very different by then could prove extremely valuable. The Blazers would be wise to seriously consider this offer while Grant’s value remains high and before the Lakers potentially look elsewhere for wing help.”
Grant is in year two of a five-year, $160 million contract. Beyond Portland, the 30-year-old wing has played for the Philadelphia 76ers, Oklahoma City Thunder, Denver Nuggets, and Detroit Pistons in his career.