In a bold move that could shake up the Western Conference playoff landscape, the Los Angeles Lakers have reportedly secure veteran shooting guard Gary Trent Jr., formerly of the Toronto Raptors, in a deal estimated at $18.6 million.
The move signals the Lakers’ aggressive push to retool their roster and maximize their championship window with the legendary LeBron James and superstar Luka Dončić leading the charge.
Trent Jr., just 26, brings a much-needed combination of three-point shooting, on-ball defense, and playoff experience to a Lakers team that has struggled at times with perimeter scoring and consistency from role players.
Averaging 16.8 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game last season, he has carved out a reputation as a gritty two-way guard who thrives under pressure and isn’t afraid of the big moment.
Strategic Fit With LeBron and Luka
Trent’s ability to space the floor is expected to open up driving lanes for Luka, while also giving LeBron a reliable kick-out option on the perimeter. His defensive toughness and switchability also allow him to guard multiple positions — a trait that aligns perfectly with the Lakers’ defensive-minded schemes.
“With Trent Jr. on board, the Lakers have finally added the kind of two-way wing player they’ve been missing since the 2020 championship run,” said one anonymous league scout. “He doesn’t need the ball to be effective, and that’s exactly what you want next to Luka and LeBron.”
What This Means for the Lakers’ Rotation
Trent is expected to slot in as the starting shooting guard or a sixth-man sniper off the bench, depending on how head coach JJ Redick adjusts the lineup. His presence could also ease the burden on younger players like Austin Reaves and Dalton Knecht, providing veteran stability during crucial stretches.
Additionally, sources say the front office is not done making moves. With the addition of Trent, the Lakers may look to trade or restructure existing contracts to free up more flexibility for midseason acquisitions or further roster tweaks.
Championship Implications
With the West stacked with talent — including the reigning champion Nuggets, the Suns’ Big Three, and a rising Thunder squad — the Lakers know they need more than just star power. Depth, shooting, and defense are critical, and Gary Trent Jr. checks all three boxes.
NBA insiders are already calling this a “steal” for the Lakers if Trent can stay healthy and maintain his shooting efficiency. “He’s exactly the kind of piece that wins you playoff series,” said ESPN’s Brian Windhorst. “He won’t need 20 shots a night, but he’ll hit the shots that matter.”
Next Steps
While the team has yet to make an official announcement, Trent Jr. is expected to join the squad for training camp, where chemistry-building with Luka and LeBron will be a top priority. If the trio can click early, the Lakers might just have the edge they need to bring banner No. 18 to Los Angeles.