Lakers reportedly interested in Blazers forward Jerami Grant

In search of roster upgrades across the league, the Lakers are reportedly interested Blazers swingman Jerami Grant, a longtime target of the franchise.

The Lakers’ search across the league for roster upgrades has brought up some very familiar names. Most notable currently is DeMar DeRozan, who has fulfilled his contractual obligation to be linked to the Lakers whenever he is a free agent.

The newest name that has come up is another one that has been linked to the Lakers for quite some time in Blazers wing Jerami Grant. The Lakers’ interest in him dates back to his time on the Pistons. While they obviously didn’t land him then, they haven’t stopped their pursuit now.

According to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, the Lakers have reportedly talked to the Blazers about a Grant trade once again.

In addition to DeRozan, another notable player the Lakers have interest in besides DeRozan is Blazers forward Jerami Grant, league sources told HoopsHype. Grant, represented by Klutch Sports Group with Lakers stars LeBron James and Anthony Davis, has shot 40.2 percent from 3-point range and averaged 20.7 points the past two years in Portland. Grant’s ability to guard up to four positions is also intriguing.

Trading for Grant would certainly be a choice for the Lakers. It would feel a lot like making a trade for the sake of making a trade.

While their stats might not look similar at a glance, there isn’t a lot separating Rui Hachimura and Grant. The former was more efficient last season while the latter had a lot more chances, attempting 10 more shots per game.

Grant is more of an on-ball player and recorded a higher assist percentage last season. But even for how much Hachimura struggled as a rebounder, Grant was worse.

So, while he may be a Klutch guy, he isn’t a solution to the problems the Lakers had last season. He’d change the dynamic of the team and provide a bit more scoring, the drop off in other areas exists as well.

And all of that is assuming it’s just a Hahcimura-Grant swap. If there’s any asset the Lakers have to attach, it makes the trade even worse.

Pelinka might be open to pulling the trigger on the “right deal,” but Jerami Grant isn’t it.

You can follow Jacob on Twitter at @JacobRude.