DONE DEAL: LAKERS MAKE BLOCKBUSTER TRADE AND SHAKE UP THE NBA MARKET TO CHANGE THE COURSE OF THE SEASON
Los Angeles, CA – December 10, 2024 — In a shocking move that has sent shockwaves through the NBA, the Los Angeles Lakers have completed a blockbuster trade that has drastically altered the landscape of the league. The Lakers, currently in the middle of a competitive Western Conference race, have acquired superstar guard Damian Lillard from the Portland Trail Blazers in exchange for multiple future draft picks, veteran players, and several other assets. This trade is expected to have an immediate impact on the Lakers’ quest for an NBA title this season.
The deal, which had been in the works for several weeks, was finalized early Monday morning, stunning fans, analysts, and even Lillard himself. The trade marks the end of a long and tumultuous period in Portland, where Lillard had been the face of the franchise for over a decade, and signals the beginning of a new era for the Lakers as they aim to bolster their championship hopes.
The Trade Details
The Lakers are sending forward Rui Hachimura, point guard D’Angelo Russell, and two unprotected future first-round picks (2026 and 2028) to the Trail Blazers in exchange for Lillard. The trade also includes a swap of second-round picks in 2025 and 2027, with the Lakers absorbing Lillard’s $60 million player option for the 2025-2026 season.
While the deal has been met with mixed reactions, the Lakers are clearly banking on Lillard’s elite scoring, playmaking, and leadership to take their roster to the next level. This trade comes at a critical juncture in the season, as the Lakers are sitting comfortably in the middle of the Western Conference standings but are looking for a spark to push them over the top.
Lillard, 34, has been one of the NBA’s most electrifying players since being drafted by the Blazers in 2012. He is a six-time All-Star, a two-time All-NBA selection, and is known for his deep shooting range, clutch performances, and ability to take over games when it matters most. His acquisition gives the Lakers another potent weapon to pair alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis, forming what could be one of the most dangerous big-three trios in the NBA.
“I’m thrilled to be joining this storied franchise and the chance to play alongside LeBron and AD,” Lillard said in his introductory press conference. “This is a winning culture, and I’m here to do whatever it takes to bring another championship to Los Angeles.”
The Lakers’ Bold Move
For the Lakers, this trade signals a major shift in philosophy. General Manager Rob Pelinka and team president Jeanie Buss had been cautious with their roster-building strategy in recent seasons, prioritizing long-term stability and flexibility. However, this trade represents a shift toward a win-now mentality, and the Lakers are clearly all-in on this season. With LeBron James approaching the twilight of his career, the Lakers have moved quickly to capitalize on their championship window.
Lillard’s arrival in Los Angeles gives the Lakers a dynamic scorer who can create his own shot, something they have lacked since trading Russell Westbrook in the offseason. While Lillard is not known for his defense, his offensive prowess should help the Lakers’ offense take the next step, and his leadership is expected to galvanize the locker room.
“We know what Dame brings to the table — the leadership, the scoring, and the ability to perform in big moments,” said LeBron James. “This is a huge addition for us, and I’m excited to have him on board.”
Impact on the Trail Blazers
For the Trail Blazers, the trade represents a new direction for the franchise, which has been in a rebuilding phase for several years. With Lillard now in Los Angeles, the Blazers are expected to focus on developing their younger talent and positioning themselves for the future.
Rui Hachimura, D’Angelo Russell, and the draft picks coming their way give Portland flexibility to build around their current core, including budding star Scoot Henderson, and pursue future success.
“We’re excited to welcome Rui, D’Angelo, and the draft capital,” said Portland General Manager Joe Cronin. “This is a crucial step in reshaping the Blazers into a team that can compete at the highest level in the years to come.”
Lakers’ Championship Hopes
The Lakers’ chances of winning an NBA championship this season have been significantly enhanced by the addition of Lillard. With LeBron James playing at an elite level despite his age, and Anthony Davis continuing to dominate defensively and offensively, the trio of James, Davis, and Lillard is already being seen as one of the most dangerous in the NBA.
While there are concerns about Lillard’s defense and how he will integrate with the Lakers’ existing roster, the sheer offensive firepower he brings to the table makes this team one of the favorites in the West. Lillard’s ability to shoot from anywhere on the floor, create for his teammates, and elevate his play in clutch moments will be invaluable as the Lakers look to secure their 18th NBA title.
The League’s Reaction
Across the league, the trade has been a hot topic of conversation. Several rival teams have expressed concern about the Lakers’ newfound power. The Golden State Warriors, Denver Nuggets, and Phoenix Suns are all expected to make moves to strengthen their rosters ahead of the playoffs, knowing that the Lakers now pose a much more serious threat.
“Damian Lillard on the Lakers changes everything,” said an anonymous NBA executive. “They’ve been good, but with Lillard, they’re terrifying.”
Conclusion
The Los Angeles Lakers’ trade for Damian Lillard is one of the most significant moves of the 2024-2025 NBA season, and it has shaken up the entire league. As the Lakers gear up for a championship run, the combination of Lillard’s shooting and the leadership of LeBron James and Anthony Davis could be the formula that propels them back to the NBA Finals. With the trade completed, the NBA world is now on notice — the Lakers are ready to take the crown.
