The Los Angeles Lakers failed to advance beyond the opening round of the NBA Playoffs and now face a pivotal offseason. Many believe the franchise is still all-in on retaining LeBron James. Assuming the club brings James back, one NBA general manager believes there’s a trade to be made with the Denver Nuggets that would catapult LA to contender status.

Michael Porter Jr. is a name to keep an eye on for the Lakers this offseason, according to Sean Deveney of Heavy.com. Porter can serve as an excellent shooter, which is something Los Angeles desperately needs. Additionally, Michael Porter Jr. can play the small and power forward roles much like LeBron James.

Here’s what an anonymous Eastern Conference general manager had to say about the possible trade: ‘If they want to get better, that is who they’d go after. They need a gunner who is not afraid to shoot and they’d be much better off if he can be a 3-4 like LeBron, if he is not a size mismatch. A knockdown shooter who creates space, that’s the first step to getting them back to contender status again.”

It makes sense considering the Lakers struggled shooting the ball all season. Having a true 3-point threat would go a long way in helping LA get back on track, especially with how good this team is at attacking the rim. Michael Porter Jr. would likely find himself open often and could take the next step in his development.

But that’s assuming the Nuggets want to trade Porter to the rival Lakers. There is a chance Denver looks to move on from Porter as they would benefit from acquiring consistent depth off the bench. Christian Braun could step in as a starter and maintain the shooting that Porter would leave behind. Deveney of Heavy.com hinted at the idea of Los Angeles sending Rui Hachimura, Austin Reaves, and Jalen Hood-Schifino in exchange for Michael Porter Jr.Lakers’ future outlook after playoff eliminationGary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

The Lakers are one of those sports franchises that build the roster to contend every single season. But the front office has struggled to build around Anthony Davis and LeBron James since winning the championship in 2020. This is as pivotal offseason for the franchise as it could make or break their future altogether.

First, LA has to find a new head coach. There are rumblings that JJ Redick could be the man for the job but that’s to be determined as of this publishing. As for the roster, it’s expected that James will decline his player option and enter free agency. If that’s the case the Lakers could lose one of their superstar talents.

Los Angeles sat on their hands before the trade deadline mid-season. But the franchise must get aggressive this offseason. A trade for Michael Porter Jr. would be huge. That could entice LeBron James to return and suddenly the Lakers have a big three. Fill in the remainder of the roster with solid rotational players and you have yourself a championship-caliber roster.