Michael Porter Jr.’s potential move to Los Angeles presents both opportunities and risks. Porter, who struggled in the postseason due to a left shoulder sprain, had a challenging playoff performance, averaging just 7.4 points per game, with poor shooting percentages of 32.3% from the field and 25% from three-point range. This marked a sharp decline from his regular-season stats of 18.2 points, 50.4% field goal shooting, and 39.5% from beyond the arc.

Despite these struggles, Porter remains a potent offensive player, and his size and shooting abilities could mesh well with the Lakers’ star duo of LeBron James and Luka Dončić. However, the financial burden is considerable, as Porter is still owed $79 million over the next two seasons as part of the five-year, $207 million max contract he signed with Denver.

The Lakers have room to maneuver this summer, with up to $70 million in expiring contracts, a 2031 first-round pick, and multiple pick swaps available. A trade package that includes Rui Hachimura (who is owed $18.3 million next season) and other salary-matching players could make a deal possible. However, insiders suggest that the Lakers’ primary focus this offseason remains acquiring a starting center.

In potential trade scenarios, Austin Reaves could be a key piece. While he’s not considered untouchable, the Lakers are reluctant to part with him unless the return is a franchise-level center. Reaves is on a four-year, $54 million contract and is eligible for an $89.2 million extension, but he is expected to decline that offer and test free agency in 2026. If he does hit the market, Reaves could secure a deal starting at $42.5 million annually, depending on salary cap projections.