Trade Target : Los Angeles Lakers to bag $10.64 million Memphis Grizzlies guard to bolster roster around LeBron-Luka duo…..

The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly setting their sights on adding sharpshooters this offseason, and one name that has emerged as a potential target is Memphis Grizzlies’ guard Luke Kennard. This player could be a key addition to the Lakers’ roster as they aim to build a competitive team around their superstar duo of Luka Doncic and LeBron James.
(Disclaimer: The information and analysis presented in this article are based on current speculations. While the details are sourced from credible insights, it’s important to note that these are not confirmed moves or official statements. Readers are encouraged to take this analysis with a grain of salt and stay tuned for official updates as the offseason unfolds.)

Luke Kennard, a six-foot-five shooting guard of the Memphis Grizzlies, has built a reputation as one of the league’s most reliable three-point shooters. This season, he’s shooting an impressive 44.6% from beyond the arc, maintaining a career average of 43.9%. His ability to stretch the floor and knock down shots consistently makes him an ideal fit for the Los Angeles Lakers, who are prioritizing floor spacers to complement their star players.

Luke Kennard’s affordability is another factor that makes him an attractive option for the Lakers. Currently earning $9.3 million in the final year of his contract, Kennard has never made more than $15 million annually. This financial flexibility is crucial for the Los Angeles Lakers, who are managing significant salary commitments to Doncic and James.
As Colin Keane of the Sporting News notes: “Surrounding Luka Doncic with floor spacers at every position who can destroy you from three will be a recurring priority for Lakers GM Rob Pelinka until Doncic retires.”

Luke Kennard’s NBA journey began when he was drafted by the Detroit Pistons in 2017. After spending two and a half seasons in Detroit, he was traded to the LA Clippers, where he continued to showcase his shooting prowess. In 2022, he was traded to the Memphis Grizzlies, where he has become a key contributor.
Now, as an upcoming unrestricted free agent, Kennard is expected to draw interest from multiple teams, including the Los Angeles Lakers. The Grizzlies will likely attempt to retain him, but the Lakers’ front office, led by GM Rob Pelinka, is known for its strategic negotiating tactics.

The Los Angeles Lakers’ offseason strategy revolves around adding cost-effective shooters who can thrive alongside their star players. Kennard’s skill set aligns perfectly with this vision. His ability to knock down threes at a high clip would provide much-needed spacing for Doncic and James, allowing them to operate more effectively on the court.
The Lakers’ desire to assemble a team with a variety of players is further demonstrated by their interest in Kennard. Dalton Knecht, a rookie shooter, was traded away earlier this season, but Pelinka was able to reverse the transaction and keep him. Knecht’s future with the squad is still up in the air, though, which highlights the necessity for dependable shooters like Kennard.

While Luke Kennard’s fit with the Lakers is undeniable, the team will face competition from other suitors. The Grizzlies are expected to make a strong push to retain him, and other teams in need of shooting could also enter the fray.
However, Pelinka’s track record of successful negotiations, including the acquisition of Luka Doncic, gives the Lakers a fighting chance. As Keane points out: “We’ll see if the magical negotiating tactics that allowed Pelinka to pry Luka away from the Mavs can get to work snagging Kennard away from what will be multiple suitors.”
The Los Angeles Lakers’ pursuit of Luke Kennard shows their commitment to building a roster capable of competing at the highest level. His shooting, affordability, and fit with the team’s stars make him a prime target for the upcoming offseason. While challenges remain, the Los Angeles Lakers’ front office has proven its ability to pull off significant moves in the past.
Also read: How the Los Angeles Lakers Transformed Into a True Title Contender Ahead of the Playoffs
As the offseason approaches, all eyes will be on Rob Pelinka and the Lakers to see if they can successfully lure Kennard away from Memphis and bolster their roster for a championship run.