Lakers Eye Former NBA Champion in Last-Minute Trade Push: Is This Ex-Nugget the Missing Piece?
Los Angeles, January 22, 2025 – In what could be one of the most surprising moves of the 2025 NBA season, the Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly making a last-minute push to acquire a former NBA champion in a trade that has fans and analysts buzzing. Sources close to the situation have confirmed that the Lakers are engaged in serious discussions to bring in veteran forward Jared Porter, a key piece of the 2021 Denver Nuggets championship-winning team.
Porter, who has played 12 seasons in the league, was a pivotal contributor during the Nuggets’ title run, averaging 15 points and 8 rebounds per game in the postseason. Known for his defensive versatility and leadership, Porter has spent the last few seasons with the Phoenix Suns, but his fit with the Suns has been uncertain, leading to the current trade discussions.
The Lakers, currently sitting mid-pack in the Western Conference, are looking to shore up their frontcourt depth with an eye on competing for the title. Despite the stellar play of LeBron James and Anthony Davis, the Lakers have struggled with consistency on both ends of the floor, especially when it comes to depth behind their two superstars. With a season marred by injuries and inconsistencies, the team’s front office believes Porter could be the stabilizing force they need to make a deep postseason run.
A Championship Pedigree
Porter, who won his first NBA title with the Nuggets in 2021, is celebrated for his defense, rebounding, and ability to stretch the floor with his reliable three-point shooting. His experience in clutch moments and his physicality on both ends of the floor have made him a coveted asset for teams looking to bolster their roster for a playoff push. The 6’9” forward is a versatile defender capable of guarding multiple positions, an asset the Lakers desperately need given the defensive struggles they’ve encountered this season.
According to an anonymous source, the Lakers’ front office has been particularly impressed with Porter’s ability to play in high-pressure games, citing his role in the Nuggets’ 2021 Finals run as a potential game-changer in the postseason.
“Porter’s experience in those tight playoff series can’t be overstated,” the source said. “His toughness and ability to play in big moments make him a perfect fit for what we need in Los Angeles right now.”
A Complex Trade Scenario
While the Lakers have been pursuing a trade for Porter, the deal is complicated by the fact that the Suns are reluctant to give up the forward without receiving significant value in return. Sources indicate that Los Angeles may be offering a package of young assets and draft picks, but Phoenix has been hesitant, especially considering Porter’s value as a veteran leader and key rotation player for their playoff hopes.
The Lakers, however, are reportedly growing more desperate as the trade deadline approaches, with team management eager to make a splash before the roster solidifies for the stretch run. The addition of Porter could give the Lakers the versatility and experience they need, as well as provide depth in the forward spots behind LeBron and Davis.
Is Porter the Missing Piece?
With the playoffs on the horizon, the addition of Jared Porter could be the missing piece for the Lakers. His combination of veteran savvy, defensive prowess, and ability to contribute on offense could give Los Angeles the balance it has been searching for all season. Whether or not the trade goes through remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the Lakers are going all-in for another title run, and Jared Porter may very well be the key to unlocking that success.