LeBron James won’t be around forever and Los Angeles need to start thinking about the future

The Los Angeles Lakers have remained relevant in the Western Conference thanks to a roster built for short-term success.

With LeBron James still performing at an elite level and Luka Doncic potentially leading the next era of Lakers basketball, the team finds itself balancing two timelines – competing now while laying the foundation for the future.

Luka Doncic looks in incredible shape as he makes a special visit to Real Madrid

To support Doncic beyond LeBron’s eventual retirement, L.A. may need to target a young, two-way star this offseason. One intriguing fit? Memphis Grizzlies big man Jaren Jackson Jr.

Jackson Jr. would check multiple boxes for a Lakers squad looking to evolve. At just 24 years old, the 2022 Defensive Player of the Year has emerged as a unique two-way talent. His ability to protect the rim and stretch the floor makes him one of the most versatile bigs in the league-and an ideal running mate for Doncic.

Jackson Jr. offers short-term firepower and long-term stability

Last season, Jackson Jr posted impressive offensive numbers, shooting 49 percent from the field, 38 percent from beyond the arc, and 78 percent from the free-throw line. These stats not only reflect his offensive growth but also his compatibility with a perimeter-centric offense led by a high-usage playmaker like Doncic.

In the short term, a trio of Doncic, James, and Jackson Jr. would immediately vault the Lakers into serious title contention. Jackson brings elite rim protection, versatility and spacing-traits often hard to find in one player. His presence would allow Redick to experiment with smaller, faster lineups, particularly since Jackson Jr an anchor a defense at the five or slide to the four depending on matchups.

In the long term, Jackson could be the ideal frontcourt partner for Doncic. He doesn’t need high usage to be effective, which allows Doncic to continue as the team’s offensive engine. Additionally, Jackson’s defensive prowess could help cover for Doncic’s known liabilities on that end of the floor, raising the overall ceiling of the team post-LeBron.

Acquiring a player of Jackson’s caliber wouldn’t come cheap. The Grizzlies would likely demand a significant return-and that package would almost certainly begin with guard Austin Reaves. While Reaves is a fan favorite and a solid contributor, his fit next to Doncic has been questioned. Moving him in a deal for Jackson Jr could be a forward-looking move that solves multiple issues at once.

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It’s unclear whether Memphis is open to parting with their young star, but if contract dynamics or team direction play a role, the Lakers could present a compelling offer. With Jackson still years away from his prime, L.A. has a chance to secure both a win-now piece and a long-term core player.

It may feel like a long shot, but if the Lakers are serious about sustaining success in the post-LeBron era, going after Jaren Jackson Jr. might be one of their smartest bets.