Based on the Los Angeles Lakers’ list of rumored trade targets, it would make sense for the franchise to identify the perfect wing asset on the market.
With Herb Jones out of the picture (the New Orleans Pelicans view him as an untouchable asset this season), the Lakers must try their hand at striking a deal for the next best available perimeter-oriented asset.
In Lake Show Life’s Svyatoslav Rovenchuk's eyes, Luka Doncic’s former Dallas Mavericks teammate and current emerging star for the Philadelphia 76ers is a solid backup plan for the franchise.
“76ers are emerging as the one team positioned to help the Lakers now,” Rovenchuk wrote Tuesday. “If not Oubre, Grimes could be an intriguing name to envision in Los Angeles.”
“The Dallas Mavericks even attempted to put him beside Luka Doncic before sending both out of town in 2024-25. A down year in terms of his offensive efficiency could drop his trade price just enough for the Lakers.”
“It is important to remember that Grimes can veto any trade after a restricted free agency holdup with the 76ers during this past offseason. Even so, one would not imagine a player interested in a payday passing up the opportunity to be featured in the spotlight of Los Angeles.”
Grimes and Doncic were teammates in Dallas during the 2024-25 season. Of course, their partnership didn’t last long, as Doncic was traded to the Lakers and Grimes was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers last February.
With the 76ers, Grimes has rejuvenated his previously lackluster NBA career, showcasing his underrated shot-making alongside Tyrese Maxey, Paul George, and Joel Embiid.
Grimes, who averaged 21.9 points per game with the 76ers last season, is contributing 13.3 points in a less demanding offensive role with the 24-21 Eastern Conference squad this year.
Grimes could be a solid role player in JJ Redick’s system in Los Angeles if Rob Pelinka pulls the trigger on a midseason trade.
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