The Los Angeles Lakers have had a decent start to the 2024-25 NBA season. Still, they are constantly on the lookout for roster improvements, focusing on a solid third offensive option and a capable starting center.
The Los Angeles Lakers have had a decent season in 2024-25, holding an 11-8 record and currently positioning themself in a playoff spot. Thanks to the brilliance of perennial MVP candidate Anthony Davis (28.4 PPG, 11.6 RPG, 2.1 BPG) and the presence of LeBron James (22.3 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 9.1 APG), the Lakers will always be able to defeat any opponent on a good night. However, that doesn’t mean the team doesn’t have problems that are obvious to see.
For one, the Lakers might need a third option who can consistently come up with 20 points on a given night and play alongside Davis and James at a high level. Secondly, the Lakers have been in the market for a capable starting center who can allow Anthony Davis to start at power forward, his preferred position. While we have speculated on the best potential targets for the Lakers when it comes to the center position, there is a way the Lakers can acquire an impactful center and at the same time, add a third option who is All-Star caliber.
The Lakers can consult the Portland Trail Blazers, a team on the rebuild, for a chance to acquire Jerami Grant and Robert Williams III to build one of the most complete teams in the Western Conference. Let’s present the proposed trade details and also dive into why this will work for the Lakers and their championship goal this year.
Proposed Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Jerami Grant, Robert Williams III
Portland Trail Blazers Receive: D’Angelo Russell, Rui Hachimura, Max Christie, Jalen Hood-Schifino, 2029 First-Round Pick (LAL)
Lakers Get Blockbuster Two-In-One Package
The acquisition of Jerami Grant and Robert Williams III would significantly elevate the Los Angeles Lakers’ roster on both ends of the court. Grant, a versatile forward who averages 16.1 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game this season, provides a much-needed consistent third offensive option. His three-point shooting (career 36.3%) and ability to create his own shot make him a perfect fit alongside Anthony Davis and LeBron James. Grant also brings defensive versatility, capable of guarding multiple positions, which aligns well with the Lakers’ defensive philosophy.
Robert Williams III, aka “The Time Lord,” is an elite rim protector and rebounder, addressing the Lakers’ need for a starting center. Despite injury concerns, Williams has been highly efficient this season, averaging 9.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks in just seven appearances this season. His defensive IQ and ability to anchor the paint would allow Anthony Davis to thrive in his preferred role as a power forward. Furthermore, Williams’ presence provides a safety net for Davis, reducing the physical toll on the Lakers’ superstar.
This trade would also maximize LeBron James’ remaining years by giving him complementary pieces. Grant’s scoring ability and Williams’ defensive prowess create a balanced lineup capable of competing with elite teams in the Western Conference. The Lakers would position themselves as serious championship contenders by addressing their two biggest needs—consistent scoring and a dominant interior presence.
Trail Blazers Embrace The Rebuild With A Nice Package
For the Portland Trail Blazers, this trade signals a clear commitment to their rebuilding process. Moving Jerami Grant and Robert Williams III allows the team to focus on developing their young core, including Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe. In return, the Blazers acquire D’Angelo Russell, who is only averaging 12.1 points, 4.8 assists, and 2.6 rebounds while shooting 30.6% from beyond the arc. Russell’s scoring and playmaking could bolster the Blazers’ offense when he gets back to his usual form, as evidenced by his averages of 18.0 points and 6.3 assists per game last year.
Rui Hachimura, who is averaging 12.0 points and 5.3 rebounds on 46.9% shooting from three, brings a blend of size and scoring versatility to Portland. As a 26-year-old forward, Hachimura fits well into Portland’s timeline and could thrive in a larger offensive role. Max Christie and Jalen Hood-Schifino, both promising young players, add depth and potential to the Blazers’ roster. Christie, a 6’6″ wing, has shown flashes of three-and-D potential, while Hood-Schifino is a playmaker with upside as a backup guard.
The inclusion of the Lakers’ 2029 first-round pick provides long-term value for the Blazers. With their focus on rebuilding, Portland gains a mix of young talent and draft capital that aligns with their strategy. This trade ensures that the Blazers remain competitive while building for the future.
Lakers Starting Lineup Would Look Great After This Trade
PG – LeBron James, Gabe Vincent, Quincy Olivari
SG – Austin Reaves, Dalton Knecht, Bronny James
SF – Jerami Grant, Cam Reddish, Maxwell Lewis, Amel Traore
PF – Anthony Davis, Jarred Vanderbilt, Christian Wood
C – Robert Williams III, Jaxson Hayes, Christian Koloko
The Lakers’ starting lineup post-trade would be one of the most well-rounded in the league. LeBron James running the point ensures elite playmaking, while Austin Reaves, averaging 16.7 points, 4.8 assists, and shooting 35.5% from three, provides a reliable backcourt scorer and facilitator. Adding Jerami Grant as a small forward creates a dynamic offensive trio, as his ability to attack off the dribble and knock down threes complements LeBron and Davis perfectly.
In the frontcourt, Anthony Davis moves to power forward, his natural position, where he can dominate on both ends without the wear and tear of playing center full-time. At center, Robert Williams III brings elite shot-blocking and rebounding, anchoring a defense that can switch and contest at every level. Together, Davis and Williams form a formidable defensive duo, capable of stifling any opposing frontcourt.
The bench would also remain deep and versatile. Players like Cam Reddish, Gabe Vincent, and Jaxson Hayes provide depth across multiple positions, while promising rookies like Dalton Knecht and Bronny James add youthful energy. With this revamped roster, the Lakers would not only improve their chances in the playoffs but also sustain competitiveness throughout the grueling regular season.