The NBA decided that it wanted to be extra on a random Wednesday in September, as the Portland Trail Blazers finally traded All-Star point guard Damian Lillard. But instead of trading him to the Miami Heat like most people expected all summer, Llliard now heads to Milwaukee to team up with Giannis Antetokounmpo on the Bucks.
It was a surprising deal, given that the Bucks were never touted as a possible destination for the All-Star. In exchange for Holiday, the Trail Blazers will receive an unprotected 2029 first-round pick from the Bucks, as well as the opportunity to swap first-round picks with Milwaukee in 2028 and 2030.
They are also acquiring center Deandre Ayton and rookie Toumani Camara from the Phoenix Suns, making this a three-team transaction. According to reports, the Blazers have no plans to keep Holiday and are in talks with potential trade partners.
So could the Lakers get involved to acquire the former All-Star guard?
If the LA Lakers were interested in acquiring Holiday, they would likely have to offer their 2029 first-round pick as part of the deal. However, they would probably have to wait until December to make a trade since most of their tradeable contracts don’t become eligible until December 15th.
Players like D’Angelo Russell and Rui Hachimura could be intriguing options for the Portland Trail Blazers if they decide to hold onto Holiday until then. Russell, in particular, could provide salary cap relief for the Blazers after this season, making him an attractive acquisition.
It’s important to note that Holiday has a player option worth $37 million for the next season, which the Lakers may not be willing to take on.
Realistically, it seems unlikely that the Lakers will make a deal for Holiday and they seem content with their current roster. However, it would be wise for General Manager Rob Pelinka to at least reach out to Portland and explore potential possibilities.