The Los Angeles Lakers find themselves in urgent need of a dominant frontcourt presence following the blockbuster trade that sent Anthony Davis to Dallas in exchange for Luka Dončić. While the pairing of Dončić and LeBron James gives the Lakers one of the most dynamic duos in the league, their lack of size was glaring in their first-round playoff loss to the Timberwolves. Playing Dorian Finney-Smith and Rui Hachimura at center again simply isn’t a viable solution.
In the wake of Memphis trading Desmond Bane to Orlando, some speculated the Grizzlies may be heading toward a full teardown—perhaps even making franchise cornerstones Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. available. That speculation, however, appears premature.
Los Angeles Lakers Need Size, But Jaren Jackson Jr. Isn’t the Answer—At Least Not Now
ESPN’s Brian Windhorst shut down any possibility of Jackson heading to Los Angeles, stating flatly: “No chance. No chance. Absolutely not worth a discussion.” Jackson is reportedly in line for a contract extension worth over $200 million, and according to ESPN’s Tim Bontemps, the Grizzlies are not interested in trading either Jackson or Morant.
Jackson, 25, is coming off the best offensive season of his career, averaging 22.2 points and 5.6 rebounds per game. Though his shot-blocking numbers have dipped since winning Defensive Player of the Year, his resume remains elite: two All-Star selections, two block titles, three All-Defensive team nods, and a DPOY award. Memphis appears intent on building around him, not selling high.
For the Lakers, this is a frustrating development. Jackson’s defensive prowess and offensive upside make him an ideal complement to their star duo. But unless the Grizzlies radically change direction, Los Angeles will have to look elsewhere to shore up its frontcourt—and solidify its championship hopes.