The Los Angeles Lakers are still searching for the right mix to get back into true NBA contention. The Portland Trail Blazers are continuing to reshape their roster and build off last season.
So, yes, NBA fans, your least-favorite writer has come up with another fake trade.
But at least it’s a hypothetical swap that could serve both sides. (I think.) It goes like this: Rui Hachimura to Portland in exchange for Jerami Grant. Now, let’s examine.
Grant, 31, is in the third year of a five-year, $160 million contract signed in 2023. He will make $32 million this season and is under contract through 2028.
Typically a versatile scorer and defender, Grant averaged 14.4 points, 3.5 rebounds and 2.1 assists last season in just 47 games.
His ability to guard multiple positions and stretch the floor could give Los Angeles the proven veteran it needs alongside Luka Doncic, LeBron James and offseason additions Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart.
Hachimura, 27, is in the second year of a three-year, $51 million deal that runs through 2026. He averaged 13.1 points and 5.0 rebounds last season while shooting 51 percent from the field and 42 percent from deep.
At this stage, he likely has already reached his ceiling, but his size, shooting and mid-tier contract could make him a good fit in Portland’s rotation. He would also provide a reliable forward presence next to the likes of Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe, with more flexibility than Grant’s long-term deal.
For the Lakers, the question is whether Grant’s veteran edge and big contract are worth moving on from Hachimura’s steadiness and affordability. For the Blazers, it would be a matter of trading a strong veteran for financial flexibility and a player more aligned with their developing core.
As always with trade concepts, execution would depend on how each front office views its priorities. But in theory, this could be the type of deal that works for both sides.
Thoughts? Feel free to comment below. I actually read the comments on the website (as opposed to those on social media).
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Hi Sam – you quoted the wrong stats for Grant. You used 2023-24 numbers. His 2024-25 numbers crashed hard. As an obsessed Blazers devotee, I do think the 2023-24 numbers are a better indicator of his potential value… the Blazers rightfully fell in love with Avdija and Camara and there was no room for starter minutes for Grant. His effort suffered. I appreciate that you are not brutally dissing Grant like most NBA writers. Grant appears difficult to move right now, hopefully he will improve his attitude as a non-starter.
Jim, thanks so much for the correction! I went in and fixed that. Apparently I had Hachimura’s stats wrong too. Blazers were my first favorite team as a kid. I’m excited to see what they can do this season. Appreciate you reading and taking the time to comment! – Sam
The only reason they haven’t extended Rui is due to future flexibility (Gianni’s/Jokic free agency.) While there’s theoretically a better fit with Grant’s skillset, he definitely peaked and had a bad year. Lakers intent to keep/resign AR and I just don’t see this happening now –: despite prior interest in acquiring him.
All great points Adam. It would be risky with Grant’s contact and meh season. Appreciate you checking us out!