The Los Angeles Lakers have been searching for a complementary star to play alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis to get back into the realm of NBA Finals contention. They have had rumored interest in dozens of star players, including Portland Trail Blazers two-way forward Jerami Grant.
The Lakers are not considered a good landing spot for Jerami Grant
Some believe that Grant, 30, could be the missing piece to round out the Lakers roster, as he provides efficient scoring with solid defense and wouldn’t cost the same price as a coveted superstar. Despite that, the Blazers still want two first-round picks from Los Angeles, a price tag that the Lakers have made clear that they do not want to meet.
Bleacher Report’s Andy Bailey listed the Lakers as Grant’s worst possible landing spot, citing the impact of the other forwards on the roster and the $160 million contract as a turn-off:
“Rui Hachimura is four years younger, makes about half as much money and was arguably more productive last season,” Bailey wrote.
Grant does not move the needle for the Lakers
Last season, Grant averaged 21 points per game on 45% shooting from the floor and 40% from three, but missed 28 games with various injuries, including a hamstring injury. Hachimura averaged 13.6 points on greater efficiency, shooting 53% from the floor and 42% from three in 68 games, with 39 of those being starts.
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While both players have similar on-court value that could be impactful for the Lakers, opting to keep the younger Hachimura while he has stayed fairly healthy over the past two seasons might be the smarter move as opposed to shelling out assets for Grant. Grant is a great player who can make a strong impact, but giving up a first-round pick or two for a player who doesn’t move the needle could set the team back in the waning years James and Davis have left in their Hall of Fame careers.
Grant’s massive contract makes a trade very risky
Taking on Grant could also limit their financial flexibility to keep making improvements for the team thanks to his $160 million contract, which doesn’t expire until 2028 (includes a player option in 2027).
The Lakers still have work to do if they wish to compete in a very deep Western Conference, but making a high-risk move for Grant may not be the answer. It remains to be seen if the Lakers make any splashes before the start of the season, but they should consider setting the bar higher and go all in on a player who significantly improves their team.
