A key addition for the Los Angeles Lakers might be a free agent from the Raptors.
In the constrained world of NBA team building, general managers must think creatively, especially when resources are limited. For Lakers front office leader Rob Pelinka, this means identifying players who could thrive in the purple and gold more than they did in their previous teams. One such player deserving of Pelinka’s attention is Raptors swingman and pending unrestricted free agent Gary Trent Jr.
At 25, Trent is coming off a season that some view as a regression from his stellar 2021–22 and 2022–23 campaigns. After averaging 18.3 points per game two seasons ago and 17.4 in 2022–23, his scoring dipped to 13.7 points per game in the 2023–24 season. This decline has led to questions about his explosive scoring ability. However, context is crucial.
Trent’s drop in production can be attributed to a combination of injuries and significant changes within the Raptors’ roster. Despite these challenges, Trent played in 71 out of 82 games, with most of his missed games coming toward the end of a tough Raptors season. Moreover, the mid-season trades that brought in RJ Barrett, Bruce Brown, and Immanuel Quickley—players with overlapping roles—disrupted team chemistry and impacted Trent’s performance.
Despite the statistical decline, Trent had one of his most efficient scoring seasons. He shot 39.3 percent from beyond the arc, the second-best mark of his career, and had an effective field goal percentage (eFG%) of .531, his highest since 2019-20. His 13.7 points per game translate to 17.6 points per 36 minutes, only slightly below his 2022–23 average.
Trent’s career average of 38.6 percent from three-point range highlights his shooting prowess, making him an ideal addition to the Lakers, who ranked 24th in the NBA in three-point field goals made in 2023–24. Only pending free agent D’Angelo Russell made more triples per game for the Lakers than Trent. Furthermore, Trent’s 43.1 percent shooting on catch-and-shoot three-pointers underscores his value as a 3-and-D wing—a player type highly sought after in the modern NBA.
Despite reduced shot attempts due to the crowded perimeter rotation, Trent enhanced his defensive intensity, showcasing his versatility. His willingness to adapt and increase his defensive efforts makes him an excellent fit alongside Anthony Davis and LeBron James. Trent’s unselfish mentality and ability to thrive in a complementary role could significantly benefit the Lakers.
Acquiring Trent would not be straightforward due to salary cap constraints. Trent is likely to command a salary above the Lakers’ price range, making a direct signing challenging. However, a sign-and-trade could be a viable option. Given that Trent is a Klutch Sports client, there is potential for negotiation leverage. The Lakers possess assets, such as Rui Hachimura, which could be offered in a trade to entice Toronto.
Gary Trent Jr. represents a strategic and potentially transformative signing for the Los Angeles Lakers. His shooting efficiency, defensive capabilities, and adaptability make him an ideal fit for a team aiming to thrive in the post-LeBron era. As the Lakers look to strengthen their roster, Trent’s skill set and experience could be the key to unlocking a more potent and resilient lineup. Rob Pelinka and the Lakers front office should seriously consider pursuing Trent, leveraging their assets and negotiating a deal that could bring this valuable player to Los Angeles.