Portland Trail Blazers forward Jerami Grant has finally addressed the rumors linking him to a potential move to the Los Angeles Lakers under their new head coach, JJ Redick. The speculation has been mounting ever since the Lakers officially announced Redick as their head coach on Monday.

The Lakers are looking to bolster their roster during this critical transaction period, focusing on the NBA Draft and free agency. According to a recent report by Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports, the Lakers have shown significant interest in trading for Grant.

“Los Angeles has also made that No. 17 selection available via trade, sources said, as the Lakers have evaluated the market for a significant contributor alongside James and Davis,” Fischer wrote. “The Lakers, remember, held serious talks with Atlanta about acquiring Dejounte Murray in the lead-up to February’s trade deadline. Jerami Grant, a client of Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul, is believed to be another potential addition on the Lakers’ wishlist, according to league sources.”

Grant, who signed a five-year, $160M contract with the Trail Blazers that runs through 2028, averaged an impressive 21.0 PPG last season. His performance has made him a valuable asset and a potential high-level third option next to LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

When asked about the possibility of joining the Lakers, Grant expressed his thoughts: “I have a lot of respect for the Lakers organization and what they’ve accomplished. Playing alongside guys like LeBron and AD would be an incredible opportunity, but my focus right now is on what I can achieve with the Trail Blazers. We’ll see what happens in the future.”

Grant’s response indicates a measured approach to the swirling trade rumors, acknowledging the prestige of the Lakers while remaining committed to his current team. His comments have added more intrigue to an already exciting off-season for the Lakers.

With their first-round draft pick and other assets in play, the Lakers are positioned to make significant moves this summer. Whether or not they manage to secure Grant or another star player, it’s clear that the franchise is intent on building a formidable team around James and Davis.

The NBA community will be watching closely as the Lakers navigate this pivotal period, with Grant’s potential move being one of the key storylines to follow.