The Los Angeles Lakers are always looking for ways to stay competitive and maximize their championship window, particularly with LeBron James nearing the end of his storied career. As a result, they may feel pressure to make a move and acquire a forward from a rival team who can add depth, defense, or scoring. One name that has been linked in rumors is Jerami Grant of the Portland Trail Blazers.
Grant is a versatile two-way forward, known for his defense and his ability to score inside and out. With his combination of length, athleticism, and shooting, he would fit well alongside the Lakers’ current core of James, Anthony Davis, and newly added pieces like Gabe Vincent and Christian Wood. As Davis spends more time at center, Grant could slot in at power forward, providing elite defensive versatility and floor spacing. He could also help reduce the workload on LeBron, who turns 40 this season.
Portland is in the midst of a rebuild after trading Damian Lillard and may be open to moving Grant for future assets. The Lakers, however, may need to part with some key young players like Rui Hachimura or Austin Reaves, or valuable draft capital, to make the deal work.
The pressure to make such a trade comes not only from the urgency of winning with LeBron but also the competitive Western Conference. Teams like the Denver Nuggets, Phoenix Suns, and Golden State Warriors are already stacked, and adding a player of Grant’s caliber could be the difference between a deep playoff run and an early exit.
Ultimately, while the Lakers have some solid pieces in place, the pressure to add another star-quality forward could push them to make a move sooner rather than later.
