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Par Pierre-Andréa Fraile | Journaliste sportif
Always on the lookout for the slightest bargain on the transfer market, the Lakers have certainly not escaped the Grizzlies’ recent major trade. And, according to many observers, they could be looking to capitalize on it.
Brian Windhorst and Shams Charania had warned everyone: the NBA summer market was likely to be very turbulent this year. With their popcorn in hand, fans were nonetheless waiting for the first major move to kick-start hostilities. Their wishes were finally granted on Sunday, as Desmond Bane joined the Magic in exchange for an XXL package.
Possible rebuild in Memphis, a chance for the Lakers?
Based in Memphis since 2020, Bane was one of the Grizzlies’ key players. His sudden departure for Orlando came as a surprise to many observers, even if the consideration obtained by his franchise was attractive. However, the Grizzlies may not be finished overhauling their roster, and may have other big surprises in store. Journalist Kevin O’Connor was prepared for this on X :
Kevin O’Connor: If I were the Grizzlies, I’d consider destroying my entire roster right now and trading Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. to the highest bidders. That would allow them to tank for the promising Draft 2026 class.
The same is true of Bill Simmons, for whom a Jaren Jackson Jr. departure now seems much more plausible than before:
Bill Simmons: (Ryen) Russillo and I had already planned to record our Sunday podcast at 10 a.m. no matter what. But after what just happened, I’m going to suggest at least 39 trade ideas involving Jaren Jackson Jr. He better get ready for it.
It’s true that if the Grizz were to confirm their rebuilding plans, their star inside would be very likely to pack up.
After all, he appears to be the Memphis player with the highest market value, and would have no trouble finding suitors elsewhere in the league. The list of potential suitors would undoubtedly include… the Lakers, in search of a starting pivot capable of stabilizing their defense. And who better to do this than JJJ, Defender of the Year in 2023, whose profile seems ideal.
At just 25, Jackson is already one of the league’s most referenced big men and comes from the same generation as Luka Doncic. He could therefore form a formidable duo with the Slovenian for many years to come, and make Los Angeles very happy. It remains to be seen what offer the Purple & Gold could pass on to the Grizzlies, and whether it would prove sufficient to complete the deal.
