The Los Angeles Lakers have maintained a strong interest in Bruce Brown, a guard currently with the Toronto Raptors, following their near signing of him as a free agent during the 2023 offseason. According to NBA insider Jovan Buha, the Lakers had anticipated adding Brown to their roster before he signed a two-year, $45 million contract with the Indiana Pacers in June 2023. Brown was later traded to the Raptors as part of a significant deal involving Pascal Siakam in January 2024.
At 28 years old, Brown’s contract allows him to become a free agent at the conclusion of the 2024-25 season. With Toronto focusing on building a team around their young star, Scottie Barnes, there are indications they may be willing to part with the veteran to prevent losing him for nothing in the future.
For the Lakers, aiming to bolster their supporting cast alongside superstars LeBron James and Anthony Davis, Brown presents an attractive option. His ability to contribute significantly without dominating the ball adds considerable value, especially given his defensive skills and rebounding abilities—averaging 6.1 rebounds per 36 minutes throughout his career. He was notably effective during the Denver Nuggets’ championship playoff run in 2023, where he averaged 26.5 minutes per game.
Although Brown has yet to play this season due to knee surgery, his participation in practice indicates a possible return once he regains his conditioning.
In summary, the Lakers are keen on adding Bruce Brown to their roster, a player who could provide depth and contribute to their championship aspirations. The ongoing developments could lead to an exciting trade opportunity that benefits both the Lakers and the Raptors as they navigate their respective team-building strategies.
This potential move encapsulates the dynamic nature of NBA roster construction, where teams are constantly evaluating their options to ensure competitiveness. The prospect of Brown joining the Lakers adds a layer of intrigue that could enhance the overall excitement for fans as the season progresses.