Most of us live with some regrets. Who among us always makes the right decision? Some people will tell you that they wouldn’t change a thing. Sure. We’re dubious, but we’re happy for you. Sometimes, NBA teams have regrets as well.
They make a decision in a certain context. If that context changes, that decision can end up looking like a mistake. For example, the Portland Trail Blazers extended Jerami Grant this summer.
Then, Damian Lillard requested a trade. With that in mind, we wouldn’t be surprised to see the Blazers shop Grant when the trade restrictions on his new contract are lifted. Here are three teams that we think should take a look at him.
Los Angeles Lakers
Why would the Blazers regret signing Grant? Well, if they’re trading Lillard, they’ll be rebuilding. Grant is more suited to play with a contender. The Lakers will be contenders next season. This team will have LeBron James and Anthony Davis on their roster. Barring catastrophe, they’ll be in the mix for the NBA title.
Grant would be the perfect addition. He’s a versatile defensive forward who can space the floor and create his own shot. In fact, Grant is a perfect fit for any team with competition aspirations.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jerami Grant, Portland Trail Blazers & Los Angeles Lakers Updates
With that in mind, he won’t come cheap. The Lakers could afford him if they’re willing to part with Rui Hachimura and some draft capital. Otherwise, the Blazers will have to look elsewhere.
Atlanta Hawks
Will the Hawks be contenders next year? That would be a bold claim. with that said, they will be in win-now mode. As the rumors die down, it seems obvious that Trae Young isn’t going anywhere. The Hawks just extended Dejounte Murray as well. Finally, they also traded John Collins this summer.
Will they need a replacement for Collins? We think so. This team is suddenly light on forwards. Grant would be a perfect addition to this roster.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jerami Grant, Portland Trail Blazers & Atlanta Hawks Updates
If the Hawks can afford him, that is. The Blazers may be interested in Onyeka Onkongwu, but otherwise, they’re light on draft capital. The Blazers may be able to get a better deal elsewhere. Could they turn back to California?
Sacramento Kings
This season, the Kings made the playoffs. After a 16-year playoff drought, that was satisfying enough for this organization. Next season, the calculus changes for this team. The Kings can’t be content with a playoff appearance – they need to go on a playoff run.
Do they need Grant? Not necessarily. Keegan Murray plays a similar role. He was impressive as a rookie, and he ought to improve as a sophomore.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jerami Grant, Portland Trail Blazers & Sacramento Kings Updates
Will he be as good as Jerami Grant? That’s a high bar for a sophomore player. If the Kings are serious about contending next season, they ought to consider sending Murray to play with his brother in Portland and acquiring Grant. Hopefully, they won’t regret it.
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