According to journalist Jovan Buha, the Portland Trail Blazers are seeking two first-round draft picks in any trade involving Jerami Grant. The Lakers have shown interest in Grant, but negotiations have stalled over the number of picks. The Lakers believe Grant's value does not warrant more than one first-round pick, considering his contract situation.
Reports indicate that a deal between the two teams was close, with Grant's agent, Rich Paul, advocating for a move to Los Angeles. However, Lakers GM Rob Pelinka hesitated at the last moment, causing the negotiations to fall through. Despite this setback, both teams remain in contact, indicating ongoing interest in completing the trade.
Another sticking point in the negotiations is the inclusion of guard D'Angelo Russell, whom the Blazers are not keen on acquiring due to their existing depth at the guard position. If a third team becomes involved in the trade, Russell could potentially be moved, but if the deal remains between the Lakers and Blazers, Russell is likely to stay with the Lakers.
For the Lakers, retaining Russell while acquiring a forward like Grant could be beneficial, as losing a starting-caliber guard without an adequate replacement would be risky. Grant signed a five-year, $160 million contract extension with the Blazers last offseason. In the 2023-24 season, he averaged 21 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 2.8 assists over 54 games.
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