The Lakers can acquire the Nuggets’ star for $179 million by parting ways with Austin Reaves

The Los Angeles Lakers’ three-point shooting hasn’t been great to begin the 2024-25 season, but they could make a smart move to help bolster that aspect of their team.

Trade away a reliable role player and acquisition of a near-automatic perimeter shooter would instantly solve the Lakers’ long-range shooting problems.

“The Lakers have shown promise this season, but their roster still lacks an elite shooter to space the floor consistently for Anthony Davis and LeBron James,” wrote Fadeaway World’s Eddie Bitar on Saturday.

“Michael Porter Jr. would meet this need perfectly. His career 40.9% three-point shooting makes him one of the league’s best shooters, and his ability to stretch defenses would open up driving lanes for LeBron and opportunities for Davis to dominate inside.”

“Porter Jr. also adds versatility with his 6-foot-10 frame, making him a tough matchup on both ends of the floor.”

“Adding Porter Jr. would bolster the Lakers’ title hopes as his shooting complements the strengths of their star duo, and he would also be a ‘Splash Brother’ alongside Dalton Knecht.”

“Playing alongside elite playmakers in James and Davis would likely improve Porter Jr.’s efficiency and push him closer to his career shooting standards.”

“While Porter Jr.’s defensive limitations may present challenges, the Lakers’ existing defensive structure can mitigate his weaknesses, especially with Davis anchoring the paint.”

“Essentially, the Lakers will have two shooters who can hit over 38% consistently, a perfect case for their starting lineup.”

“The downside of this trade for the Lakers is losing Austin Reaves, who has proven to be a reliable role player and secondary ball handler.”

“But the upgrade in shooting and offensive firepower Porter Jr. provides outweighs the loss of Reaves, (Jarred) Vanderbilt and (Gabe) Vincent, none of whom offer the same game-changing skills. This trade could cement the Lakers as a top contender in the West.”

Bitar’s proposed trade would send Reaves, Vanderbilt, Vincent and a 2029 first-round pick to the Nuggets for Porter Jr.

Porter Jr. has been one of Denver’s most consistent outside shooting threats since making his Nuggets debut in 2019.

The Missouri product has used his impeccable off-ball instincts, impressive manipulation tactics and clean release to shoot over 39% from three-point land over five of his first six NBA seasons.

Without Porter Jr.’s significant contributions from deep, there’s a good chance the Nuggets wouldn’t be boasting a 9-6 record through the first 15 games of the 2024-25 season.

The Lakers could use a three-point shooting specialist like Porter Jr., but the franchise would likely be reluctant to pull the plug on Reaves.

The 6-foot-5 guard is a steady contributor who has earned James’ trust over time, but landing Porter Jr. would give the Lakers the boost they desperately need from beyond the arc.

If Los Angeles really wants to scare teams in the Western Conference, they will consider contacting Porter Jr.

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