Be wary of NBA trade rumors during this time of year. Teams are sending out smoke signals. They’re concealing their intentions. After all, that’s a critical part of negotiating.
Look at the Portland Trail Blazers. At first, it was rumored that they had no interest in trading Jerami Grant. Now, it’s being suggested that they’re open to the idea. What should we believe?
We should believe the more recent rumors. The Blazers are rebuilding – they’ve got every incentive to move Grant. In all likelihood, they’ve been postering to increase his trade value. After all, he’s on a long-term, lucrative contract. Could the Sacramento Kings make a move for him anyway?
NBA Trade Proposal
Portland Trail Blazers Receive: F Harrison Barnes, F/C Trey Lyles, 2026 First-Round Pick (Lottery Protected – SAC)
Sacramento Kings Receive: F Jerami Grant
With that said, some rumors will have some truth in them. That’s what makes this time of year so confusing. Who knows what to believe?
For example, it’s been rumored that the Kings don’t want to add any major contracts to their books. Is that true? It’s hard to say. In all likelihood, there’s some truth in it – but it’s not a hard and fast rule, either.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jerami Grant, Portland Trail Blazers, Sacramento Kings Updates
The Kings likely won’t trade for, say, Zach LaVine of the Chicago Bulls. He doesn’t fill a team need, and the Kings shouldn’t want to take his salary on. Is Grant a strong enough fit for this roster to stomach his contract?
Why The Sacramento Kings Do The Deal
Yes. Let’s look at the Kings roster. They’re built around two dynamic playmakers in Domantas Sabonis and De’Aaron Fox. That’s allowed them to build an elite offense, but relying on Sabonis in the middle can pose problems for them on the other end of the floor.
So, the Kings should prioritize adding wings that can guard multiple positions. Grant fits. He can handle either forward position, and if he ends up switched to a guard, it’s not the end of the world. He also provides offensive value as a floor spacer and shot-creator.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jerami Grant, Portland Trail Blazers, Sacramento Kings Updates
The Kings should be happy to add him at this price. Grant will be a direct replacement for Barnes – and an upgrade. Otherwise, Grant is worth the price of Lyles and a protected first. Should the Blazers accept that offer for Grant?
Why The Portland Trail Blazers Do The Deal
Arguably, the Blazers should hang onto Grant. His trade value may increase as his contract gets closer to expiring. Meanwhile, he’s not impacting their lottery odds – the Blazers are one of the worst teams in the NBA.
Sure. On the other hand, there are no guarantees that his value will increase. Grant is at a stage of his career where he could begin to decline. Meanwhile, the Blazers should be interested in maximizing the number of reps they can give their young players.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jerami Grant, Portland Trail Blazers, Sacramento Kings Updates
So, moving Grant now would make sense. This is the type of return that Portland can expect. They’re doing this deal for the lottery protected first. The Blazers may also be able to move Barnes for some value this summer. By then, NBA trade rumors will be heating up again.
