The Lakers are leading the race to get Jerami Grant from the Blazers, but thereโs a snag.
Jovan Buha from The Athletic says the Blazers don’t want D’Angelo Russell’s $18.6 million expiring contract. They already have enough guards like Scoot Henderson, Anfernee Simons, and Dalano Banton.
“I’ve heard Portland doesn’t want D-Lo because they have a million guards anyway. So, it doesn’t really make sense for them,” Buha mentioned on his “Buha’s Block” podcast .
Financial Complications:
For the Lakers, including Russell is crucial to balance the trade financially. They donโt want to give up Austin Reaves or rookie Dalton Knecht either. Rui Hachimura, who will earn $17 million in 2024-2025, might also need to be part of the deal along with some draft picks.
The Rose Garden Report earlier said that Portland wants at least two first-round picks for Grant. The Lakers can trade their 2029 and 2031 first-rounders but arenโt keen on giving up so much for Grant.
Fans might think this is too steep a price for one player.
Grant signed a five-year extension worth $160 million last year with four years remaining on it. This means he would be a long-term investment for the Lakers and not just a temporary fix.
Last season, Grant averaged 21 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 2.8 assists while shooting 40.2% from three-point range for the Blazers. Heโs known as a solid three-and-D player who can defend multiple positions on the court.
Adding him could help solve many defensive problems for the Lakers when paired with Anthony Davis and LeBron James.
What do you think? Should the Lakers go all out to get Jerami Grant?
