The Portland Trail Blazers are reportedly eager to include D’Angelo Russell in any potential trade with the Lakers for Jerami Grant. According to The Athletic’s Jovan Buha on his ‘Buha’s Block’ podcast, the Blazers see Russell as a valuable asset and are keen on acquiring him to strengthen their backcourt.
“I’ve heard Portland is very interested in D-Lo despite having several guards. They believe his skill set and experience would be a great addition to their roster. So, if you’re including D-Lo, the Lakers would likely be more inclined to make the deal – I think two first-round picks makes the most sense.”
This actually makes a lot of sense from the Trail Blazers’ perspective. Russell, although on an expiring contract, brings a unique playmaking ability and scoring prowess that Portland is looking to add. Any deal with the Lakers that includes Russell would address the Blazers’ desire for a high-caliber guard who can complement their existing lineup.
Russell is making a little over $18 million next season and is on an expiring contract. As for Grant, he is signed until 2027 and has a player option that could extend the deal until 2028. He makes almost $30 million next season, with his salary increasing each season.
It’s hard to see the Lakers matching Grant’s salary in a trade without Russell. Russell is one of the highest earners on the roster, not named LeBron James and Anthony Davis, and removing him from a potential deal complicates the Lakers’ ability to acquire Grant.
Furthermore, the Trail Blazers are willing to negotiate around two first-round picks, a significant ask considering the Lakers’ recent reluctance to part with such assets. Ever since the failed Russell Westbrook trade, GM Rob Pelinka has been cautious about deals to protect the Lakers’ future.
Would Jerami Grant Be The Lakers’ Third Option?
Jerami Grant has proven to be a capable first option on a struggling team. However, his role would likely shift if he joined the Lakers, where he would be the third option behind LeBron James and Anthony Davis. This change could impact his scoring numbers significantly.
Last season with the Trail Blazers, Grant averaged 21.0 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 2.8 assists. If he can consistently average at least 14-15 points per game with the Lakers, potentially leading the second unit, he could be a valuable asset for them as they aim to return to contender status.
Additionally, Grant is a strong wing defender and can take on defensive assignments that LeBron James and Anthony Davis may prefer to avoid. This versatility would give head coach JJ Redick more flexibility in managing the team’s defensive strategy.
Overall, the Portland Trail Blazers’ interest in including D’Angelo Russell in a potential trade for Jerami Grant reflects their strategic approach to strengthening their backcourt. While the Lakers face challenges in matching salaries and meeting the Blazers’ demands for draft picks, the potential acquisition of Grant could significantly bolster their chances of contending for the championship.