The Los Angeles Lakers are heading into the 2024-2025 NBA season with a clear need at the center position. Despite being linked to several potential targets, no significant moves have been made on the Lakers’ trade front. However, recent Lakers News has sparked rumors of potential trades involving the Portland Trail Blazers’ Robert Williams and possibly even Jerami Grant. Could these players be the key to solving the Lakers’ roster concerns?

Why the Lakers Need a Center

• Injury Concerns and Depth Issues:With injuries already impacting key players like Jarred Vanderbilt and Christian Wood, the Lakers find themselves in dire need of a reliable center who can anchor the defense and provide stability in the frontcourt. Anthony Davis has proven to be most effective when paired with a true center, allowing him to focus on his natural power forward position.
• Defensive Presence:The Lakers’ defensive identity is a cornerstone of their success, and adding a center who can protect the rim and rebound effectively is crucial. The Western Conference is filled with dominant big men, and the Lakers need someone who can hold their own in the paint against these top-tier opponents.

Robert Williams: A Potential Trade Target

• Profile:Robert Williams, known as “Time Lord,” is a 6’9″ center with a 7’6″ wingspan, making him an elite shot-blocker and rebounder. He has established himself as one of the most impactful defensive players in the league when healthy, known for his ability to alter shots and defend the pick-and-roll.
• Fit with the Lakers:Williams would be an excellent fit alongside Anthony Davis, forming a formidable defensive duo. His shot-blocking and rebounding would allow Davis to focus more on his offensive game, and together, they could create a defensive wall that would be tough for any opponent to penetrate. Williams’ ability to run the floor and finish at the rim would also provide a boost to the Lakers’ transition game.
• Trade Feasibility:Acquiring Williams from the Trail Blazers would likely require the Lakers to part with some valuable assets, potentially including a combination of draft picks and players. However, given the Lakers’ current roster needs, a move for Williams could be well worth the cost.

Jerami Grant: A Versatile Forward Option

• Profile:Jerami Grant is a 6’8″ forward who brings versatility on both ends of the floor. Known for his scoring, defensive versatility, and ability to guard multiple positions, Grant would be a significant addition to any contending team.
• Fit with the Lakers:While Grant is not a center, his ability to play both forward positions and his defensive prowess would add another layer to the Lakers’ lineup. Pairing him with LeBron James and Anthony Davis could create a dynamic frontcourt capable of switching defensively and spacing the floor offensively. Grant’s scoring ability would also help alleviate some of the offensive burden on LeBron and AD, making the Lakers a more balanced team overall.
• Trade Feasibility:The acquisition of Grant would likely require a substantial package, including draft picks and potentially a player like D’Angelo Russell or Rui Hachimura. However, if the Lakers are looking to maximize their title window with LeBron and AD, making a bold move for Grant could be the way to go.

Conclusion: A Crucial Decision for the Lakers

As the Lakers continue to navigate the trade market, the possibility of acquiring Robert Williams or Jerami Grant looms large. Both players would address significant needs for the Lakers—Williams as a defensive anchor in the paint, and Grant as a versatile forward who can score and defend at a high level. While the cost of acquiring either player would be substantial, the potential rewards could be even greater, positioning the Lakers as a top contender in the Western Conference.

Lakers Nation will be watching closely as the front office weighs its options. Whether through a trade for Williams, Grant, or another target, one thing is clear: the Lakers need to make a move to solidify their roster and give themselves the best chance to compete for a championship this season.