Based on their past trade history, the Lakers could engage the Nets once more for Michael Porter Jr.
The Los Angeles Lakers could be in play for the Michael Porter Jr. sweepstakes.
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Considering their past transaction with the Brooklyn Nets, NBA insider Matt Moore argued that there is a possibility that the Lakers will pursue the star forward.
“Have heard about a lot of talks between the Lakers and Nets the past two years and they did the DFS trade already so there’s a relationship. Claxton would be a very good get, but there’s also the possibility of their going in for MPJ,” Moote wrote in his latest Hardwood Paroxysm report.
In 2024, the Lakers notably completed a deal that sent D'Angelo Russell, Maxwell Lewis, and three second-rounders to the Nets for Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton.
Porter Jr. stands as one of the most coveted names heading to the Feb. 5 trade deadline. The 27-year-old is enjoying a career season this 2025-26 for the rebuilding Brooklyn squad, averaging 25.7 points, 7.4 boards and 3.2 assists per game.
Yet amid trade speculations, there were reports that Brooklyn is hesitant to part ways with Porter Jr. and will decide their future with him after this year's NBA Draft day.
The Lakers are pretty much expected to land a deal before the trade deadline. It is widely believed that LA is particularly eyeing a defensive upgrade with a serviceable wing as its main target.
While adding Porter Jr. would boost scoring for the Lakers, the emerging star isn’t well-known for his defense. For this, the Lakers might prioritize a move to address their defensive gap rather than simply adding another scorer alongside Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves and LeBron James.
Everyone can only wait and see what will be on the table for both the Lakers and the Nets before next month's trade deadline.
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