Latest NBA Trade Gives Lakers Perfect Chance to Acquire Veteran Wing

The Lakers may have a sneaky opportunity to trade for an accomplished veteran wing who perfectly complements LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

Portland acquired F Deni Avdija from the Washington Wizards on Wednesday. Avdija plays the same position as previously rumored trade target Jerami Grant, giving the Trail Blazers justification to send the veteran to a new, more competitive team.

Grant averaged 21 points per game last year while shooting 40.2% from beyond the arc while playing solid defense. For a roster on an aggressive championship timeline, he's the ideal addition without requiring an enormous haul.

Trail Blazers Make Jerami Grant Expendable by Trading for Deni Avdija

The Trail Blazers haven't outright said that Grant is available, but their actions certainly indicate he's not part of their long-term plans. They've got the foundation of a young core now and Grant doesn't fit that timeline.

He's only 30 years old and has plenty of good basketball ahead of him, though he'd be better suited to chasing a deep playoff run with the Lakers. Grant has three years left on his contract with a player option for a fourth, and he's the kind of player who could help Los Angeles ease into the post-LeBron years when they come.

Even if it costs a promising player like Austin Reaves, and I don't think it necessarily would, Rob Pelinka needs to strongly consider making an offer for Grant. At 6'7", 210 LBs, he's versatile defensively while capable of handling a scoring load and giving the Lakers much-needed shooting.

For Grant, the Lakers can give him a truly competitive team as he embraces being an elite 3-and-D player. It's a win-win for all parties, but Pelinka has to make it happen. The Trail Blazers are likely listening, and upgrading the roster is a great way to welcome JJ Redick to the organization.

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