Lakers Target Former Rookie of the Year in Bold Move to Reinforce Backcourt Power…Read More…
Los Angeles, CA – July 8, 2025 — In what could be a game-changing move for the Los Angeles Lakers, the storied NBA franchise is reportedly setting its sights on a former NBA Rookie of the Year to solidify its backcourt and strengthen its championship aspirations. With LeBron James nearing the twilight of his legendary career and the team’s front office under pressure to maximize the remaining championship window, insiders confirm the Lakers are aggressively pursuing a seasoned guard who once took the league by storm.
According to sources close to the Lakers’ front office, the franchise has expressed strong interest in former Rookie of the Year Malcolm Brogdon, a steady and versatile combo guard known for his high basketball IQ, efficient shooting, and defensive prowess. The Lakers believe Brogdon’s veteran leadership, playoff experience, and ability to contribute on both ends of the floor could be the missing piece in a backcourt that struggled with consistency last season.
A Calculated Target
The Lakers have made it clear that their priority this offseason is to add a reliable guard who can ease the ball-handling burden on LeBron James and allow rising star Austin Reaves to thrive in a more off-ball role. Brogdon, who won Rookie of the Year honors in 2017 while playing for the Milwaukee Bucks, has long been viewed as one of the most underrated guards in the NBA.
Currently with the Portland Trail Blazers, Brogdon posted solid numbers in limited minutes last season, averaging 13.4 points, 5.1 assists, and 3.2 rebounds while shooting an efficient 44.6% from the field and 39.1% from three-point range. At 6’5″, he offers positional flexibility, allowing him to slide between both guard spots — an attractive trait for a Lakers team that values versatility.
Though injuries have limited his availability in recent years, Brogdon remains a high-impact player when healthy. League executives believe that with proper load management and a reduced role alongside James and Anthony Davis, the 31-year-old could flourish in Los Angeles.
Why Brogdon Makes Sense
For the Lakers, acquiring Brogdon would fill multiple needs. First, his shooting is elite for a guard — something the Lakers have lacked in crucial playoff moments. Second, his defensive instincts and ability to guard multiple positions would help bolster a defense that ranked just 16th in the league last season. Finally, Brogdon brings composure, leadership, and playoff experience, having helped guide the Boston Celtics to the 2023 NBA Finals and earning Sixth Man of the Year honors along the way.
“He’s a pro’s pro,” one anonymous NBA scout said. “You don’t have to worry about his locker room presence, and he brings the kind of maturity the Lakers need right now. If healthy, he could be a huge upgrade.”
Trade Scenarios in Play
While nothing has been finalized, talks between the Lakers and Trail Blazers are reportedly in the exploratory phase. The Lakers are rumored to be offering a package centered around future draft picks and potentially players like Gabe Vincent or Jalen Hood-Schifino, both of whom have had limited impact since joining the roster. Portland, currently in a rebuilding phase and focused on youth development around Scoot Henderson and Anfernee Simons, could be open to taking on salary and draft capital in exchange for Brogdon.
One league executive suggested a deal could also involve a third team to facilitate salary matching and give each franchise a desirable return. The Lakers are reportedly hesitant to part with key young assets like Max Christie unless the return significantly improves their championship odds.
LeBron’s Influence and Championship Urgency
With LeBron James having signed a likely final two-year extension this summer, the Lakers are officially in win-now mode. Every roster decision moving forward is being made with one goal in mind — bringing another banner to Crypto.com Arena before LeBron retires.
James has reportedly endorsed the idea of bringing Brogdon on board, citing the veteran guard’s high basketball IQ and unselfish play. The two have shared mutual respect throughout their careers and have connected off the court through social justice initiatives.
“Malcolm is a guy you can trust on the floor,” James once said during a 2023 post-game interview. “He’s smart, poised, and doesn’t try to do too much. Those are the guys you want in big games.”
Eye on the Bigger Picture
The Lakers’ interest in Brogdon isn’t happening in a vacuum. The team has been actively monitoring the trade market for other guards, including De’Anthony Melton and Tyus Jones, but Brogdon’s availability and skill set make him an ideal short-term investment. If the Lakers can secure him without giving up a core rotational piece, they may leap back into the top tier of Western Conference contenders.
Still, the move would come with some risk. Brogdon’s injury history cannot be ignored, and the Lakers have had their fair share of issues with players struggling to stay on the floor. However, team doctors are said to be optimistic about his medical reports and believe with a structured minutes plan, he could be effective well into the playoffs.
What’s Next?
With the NBA Summer League in full swing and the offseason trade window heating up, fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see if Lakers General Manager Rob Pelinka can pull off another impactful move. If a deal for Brogdon materializes, it could significantly reshape the Lakers’ roster and reinforce the franchise’s commitment to chasing banner No. 18.
For now, the speculation swirls — but the message from Lakers brass is clear: the time to win is now. And they believe Malcolm Brogdon could help them do just that.
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