The Los Angeles Lakers have unexpectedly been linked to Anfernee Simons, the leading scorer for the Portland Trail Blazers. As reported by Brett Siegel of Clutchpoints, sources have suggested that the Lakers could be a potential destination for Simons should the Blazers look to trade him during the offseason. Simons is entering the final year of his four-year, $100 million contract.
Siegel wrote, “While it’s certainly a long shot, another team mentioned as a possible landing spot for Simons if the Blazers were to look to trade him is the Lakers, sources said. Take this with a grain of salt, as Los Angeles has more pressing matters to tend to on defense and in terms of frontcourt personnel. The idea of Simons playing off Doncic certainly makes sense. He is a solid three-point shooting weapon who can play on or off the ball, creating a strong scoring duo for the future with Luka. Head coach JJ Redick has also spoken very highly in the past of Simons’ potential and skill.”
In addition to the Lakers, the Orlando Magic and Miami Heat were also mentioned as possible destinations for Simons. The Lakers’ interest is surprising, considering they are already set in the backcourt with Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves, both of whom are up for an extension this offseason. Simons, a 6-foot-3 guard, is averaging 19.3 points this season, though this is his lowest scoring average in the past three years. If the rumors are true, Simons would likely serve as a backup to Reaves, making him an expensive Sixth Man. This could create challenges, as the Lakers would need to trade significant rotation players to match salaries.
Meanwhile, concerns about Austin Reaves’ development after Dončić’s arrival have proven unfounded. Reaves has continued to excel, averaging 20.7 points, 4.9 assists, and 4.7 rebounds in 19 games alongside Dončić. Lakers head coach JJ Redick has entrusted Reaves with the ball in critical moments, which has further boosted his confidence. Reaves’ performance has surpassed expectations, making him a candidate for a substantial extension this offseason.
