The Los Angeles Lakers’ three-point shooting hasn’t been stellar to begin the 2024-25 season, but they could make a wise move to help bolster that aspect of their team.
Trading away a reliable role player and acquiring a near-automatic perimeter shooter would instantly solve the Lakers’ long-range shooting woes.
“The Lakers have shown promise this season, but their roster still lacks an elite shooter to space the floor consistently for Anthony Davis and LeBron James,” Fadeaway World’s Eddie Bitar wrote Saturday.
“Michael Porter Jr. would address this need perfectly. His career 40.9% three-point shooting makes him one of the league’s top marksmen, and his ability to stretch defenses would open up driving lanes for LeBron and opportunities for Davis to dominate inside.”
“Porter Jr. also adds versatility with his 6-foot-10 frame, making him a tough matchup on both ends of the floor.”
“Adding Porter Jr. would bolster the Lakers’ title hopes, as his shooting complements their star duo’s strengths and he would be a ‘Splash Brother’ alongside Dalton Knecht as well.”
“Playing alongside elite playmakers in James and Davis would likely improve Porter Jr.’s efficiency, pushing him closer to his career shooting norms.”
“While Porter Jr.’s defensive limitations might pose challenges, the Lakers’ existing defensive structure could mitigate his weaknesses, especially with Davis anchoring the paint.”
“Essentially, the Lakers having two shooters who can nail over 38% consistently would be a perfect case for their starting lineup.”
“The downside of this trade for the Lakers is losing Austin Reaves, who has emerged as a reliable role player and secondary ball-handler.”
“However, the upgrade in shooting and offensive firepower Porter Jr. provides outweighs the loss of Reaves, (Jarred) Vanderbilt, and (Gabe) Vincent, none of whom offer the same game-changing skillset. This trade could cement the Lakers as a top contender in the West.”
Bitar’s proposed trade would send Reaves, Vanderbilt, Vincent, and a 2029 first-round pick to the Nuggets for Porter Jr.
Porter Jr. has been one of Denver’s most consistent outside shooting threats since making his Nuggets debut in 2019.
The Missouri product has utilized his impeccable off-ball instincts, impressive manipulation tactics, and clean release to shoot above 39% from three-point land during five of his first six NBA seasons.
Without Porter Jr.’s significant contributions from deep, there’s a good chance the Nuggets wouldn’t boast a 9-6 record through the first 15 games of the 2024-25 season.
The Lakers could use a three-point shooting specialist like Porter Jr., but the franchise would likely be reluctant to pull the plug on Reaves.
The 6-foot-5 guard is a steady contributor who’s earned James’ trust over time, but landing Porter Jr. would give the Lakers the boost they desperately need from beyond the arc.
If Los Angeles truly wants to frighten teams in the Western Conference, they’ll consider contacting Porter Jr.