NBA Rumors: The Lakers Want the Two-time Champion to Complete Their Championship-contending Team

The Los Angeles Lakers have made significant moves this summer, starting with the arrival of center Deandre Ayton and, more recently, with the addition of Marcus Smart, a former Defensive Player of the Year. But... could there be another defensive specialist in the backcourt on their radar?

According to Grant Afseth (FastbreakJournal, via Hoops Wire), the Lakers are being touted as a "possible destination to watch" in the case of Jrue Holiday. The six-time All-Defensive Team member and NBA champion in 2021 and 2024 is reportedly unhappy with his trade from Boston to Portland this summer, fueling rumors of a potential new move.

The player's physical condition, age (35 years), and contract — over $103 million for the next three years — have fueled speculation about a possible trade by the Blazers. Although there are no active negotiations with the Lakers at the moment, several sources have indicated to FastbreakJournal.com that Holiday remains a name to consider, especially in the context of surrounding LeBron James and Luka Doncic with defensive talent and experience. Other franchises are also closely monitoring the situation, but many see the Lakers as a natural fit if Portland decides to make a move.

Despite a slight decline in defensive performance, Holiday remains a top defender. However, his offensive numbers dipped last season: 11.1 points and 3.9 assists per game, well below his career averages (15.8 and 6.2, respectively). Additionally, there are lingering concerns about his physical health, particularly related to his knees, a detail that rival teams are very aware of, as noted by Afseth.

Luka Doncic's Opinion

This wouldn't be the first time the Lakers are stringent about a player's physical condition: this past February, they called off a trade with Charlotte for center Mark Williams after discovering medical issues. In Holiday's case, they would also take utmost precautions.

However, if Luka Doncic, who already has influence in the team's sports planning, is consulted, he surely wouldn't object. In 2022, the Slovenian stated: "Jrue is one of the best, if not the best, perimeter defenders for me. I don't think he gets enough credit for his defensive ability. For me, it's really tough to play against him."

Perhaps, if the rumors come to fruition, Doncic may not have to face him again. This time, they would play together.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Rumores NBA: El bicampeón que quieren los Lakers para completar su equipazo candidato al anillo