3 Upgrades the Lakers could acquire to replace D’Angelo Russell

Anfernee Simons, Portland Trail Blazers

While technically not a true point guard, Anfernee Simons seems to be a perfect fit for what JJ Redick is building with the Los Angeles Lakers. Redick is hoping to build a motion offense that emphasizes multiple points of entry and alleviates the playmaking burden from any one player in particular.

Simons has made significant progress as a facilitator, but the appeal here is that he's an explosive athlete with an efficient jumper and intriguing three-level scoring ability.

Simons finished the 2023-24 season with career-best averages of 22.6 points, 5.5 assists, and 3.4 three-point field goals made per game. He shot 38.5 percent from beyond the arc and 91.6 percent at the free throw line, and knocked down 42.7 percent of his catch-and-shoot threes.

If the Lakers find a way to acquire Simons, then they would be adding the perfect offensive fit to play alongside Anthony Davis and LeBron James.

The asking price could be steep here, as Simons is still just 25 years of age. Portland is rebuilding, however, and the Lakers could intrigue them with an expiring D'Angelo Russell, multiple first-round draft picks, and the addition of another quality young player to get the deal over the finish line.

With salaries of $25,892,857 for the 2024-25 season and $27,678,571 in 2025-26, Simons could provide tremendous on-court value at an affordable cost if the Lakers can get this trade done.