The Los Angeles Lakers are focusing on building a championship-ready team around Luka Doncic as they prepare for the next era of success. With LeBron James’ role transitioning, the Lakers aim to acquire key players who can complement Doncic’s talent and help bring another title to Los Angeles.
Among the top candidates drawing attention within the organization is Jrue Holiday, whose name has surfaced frequently in trade discussions involving the Lakers. Industry insider Grant Afseth notes that Holiday is a strong potential target as the team explores ways to add veteran talent capable of supporting their new core.
Why Jrue Holiday Stands Out as a Prime Target
Jrue Holiday’s skill set offers the Lakers a rare combination of defensive excellence and championship experience. As a two-time <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/nba/”>NBA champion, Holiday has proven his ability to perform under pressure and elevate team play, particularly on defense. His presence would address a critical need for the Lakers to bolster their defensive capabilities around Doncic’s offensive prowess.
Holiday is a name to monitor, particularly as a potential target for the Los Angeles Lakers. While active conversations aren’t confirmed, his name continues to surface in NBA circles as the team evaluates options to add more talent around LeBron James and Luka Doncic. Other teams are monitoring the situation, but the Lakers are widely viewed as one of the most natural fits if Portland explores a deal.
—Grant Afseth, NBA Insider
Challenges in Securing Jrue Holiday
Although the prospect of acquiring Holiday is appealing, the Lakers face notable obstacles in making a trade happen. The team has emphasized they want to avoid long-term financial commitments that could hinder future flexibility, especially with Doncic’s development in mind. Holiday’s contract, valued at over $100 million, means the Lakers would need to navigate complex salary cap considerations to finalize a deal.
The Potential Impact of the Doncic-Holiday Partnership
Combining Luka Doncic’s offensive versatility with Jrue Holiday’s defensive strength presents a compelling vision for the Lakers’ future. Doncic himself has acknowledged Holiday as the toughest defender he has encountered, which underscores the intense competition and mutual respect between the two players. Together, they could form a dynamic duo capable of influencing the Lakers’ success on both ends of the court.
With trade deadline approaches and roster moves underway, Holiday remains a significant figure in the Lakers’ offseason planning. Adding him could signal a major step forward in their championship pursuit, reshaping the league’s competitive landscape and elevating the team’s defensive identity.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why does Jrue Holiday wear 4?
A. According to Gary Washburn of the Boston Globe, Holiday shared during a recent practice that he made his choice since he has three siblings. Before deciding, he contacted Isaiah Thomas, who also wore that number for Boston and finished fifth in MVP voting.
Q. Did Jrue Holiday have a ring?
A. In 2020, he joined the Milwaukee Bucks and helped them win the NBA championship in 2021. In 2023, he was traded first to the Portland Trail Blazers, then to the Boston Celtics. With the Celtics, he won another NBA championship in 2024. He returned to Portland during the 2025 offseason.