Lakers Exploring Trade Options: Grant and Johnson on the Radar
The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly exploring significant roster changes as they aim to improve upon last season’s performance, which saw them finish as a Play-In team, secure the No. 7 seed, and exit in the first round of the playoffs. Recent rumors suggest the Lakers are targeting Portland Trail Blazers forward Jerami Grant and Brooklyn Nets forward Cameron Johnson as potential acquisitions.
Grant, known for his three-and-D capabilities, would provide an immediate boost to the Lakers on both ends of the court. However, the Blazers’ asking price for Grant remains steep. With a four-year contract worth $132.4 million, including a player option for the final year, acquiring Grant would require a complex trade scenario.
Portland is reportedly not interested in acquiring Lakers guard D’Angelo Russell, who has an $18.7 million contract. This complicates the Lakers’ efforts, as Russell’s contract would have facilitated a straightforward trade for Grant. Instead, the Lakers may need to explore alternative trade structures or find a third team to facilitate the deal.
If Russell is not included in the trade, the Lakers would likely need to involve Rui Hachimura, whose $17 million salary is close to Russell’s. Adding Hachimura to the mix, along with Gabe Vincent’s $11 million and potentially a minimum contract player like Cam Reddish or Christian Wood, could make the trade feasible. However, it remains uncertain if Portland would be interested in such a package.
In addition to Grant, the Lakers are also expressing interest in Cameron Johnson of the Brooklyn Nets. While Johnson may not be as high-profile as Grant, he offers a similar skill set at a more manageable contract. This interest in Johnson could provide the Lakers with leverage in their trade discussions, potentially offering an alternative path to strengthening their roster.
