Ranking the top 5 potential trade partners for Blazers’ Anfernee Simons

3. Los Angeles Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers are strongly linked to Jerami Grant, but does Simons make more sense for them? Early in the offseason, the Lakers' 2029 first-round pick was deemed the No. 10 trade asset on the market this summer, while Simons was ranked at No. 9 by Bleacher Report's Zach Buckley. The Lakers already are set in the frontcourt between LeBron James and Anthony Davis, who can play the power forward and center positions if needed, depending on the construction of the rest of their roster.

The Lakers need more help in their backcourt. Austin Reeves is a solid player but shouldn't be relied on as heavily in the offense to generate looks as he is. If Reeves is the third star and best guard, your team isn't going to go very far in the playoffs, regardless of what Hall of Fame talent leads the way. D'Angelo Russell has promising stretches at times but isn't consistent enough to be considered the Lakers' long-term answer at point guard.

Simons would be a great fit for Los Angeles as someone who is a more reliable shooter than anyone currently on their roster, providing floor spacing for James and Davis to operate. His combo guard abilities would also take some of the pressure off the 39-year-old James as a playmaker. Davis' elite rim protection and defensive skill set would also make up for any concerns surrounding Simons as a defender.

Additionally, Simons is 25 compared to Grant, who is 30, giving the Lakers more comfort in making a trade without having to go all in and sacrifice their future in hopes of winning another ring with LeBron.