Comparison Of Lakers Potential Targets: Lauri Markkanen vs. Jerami Grant vs. Cam Johnson

As the Los Angeles Lakers gear up for the 2024-25 season under new head coach JJ Redick, they remain anchored by the superstar duo of LeBron James and Anthony Davis. However, there are swirling rumors about their desire to create a Big Three because it seems the team wants to trade D’Angelo Russell and make the most out of LeBron James’ final two seasons in the league. Given the critical importance of the point guard role for the Lakers this season, here’s a comparison of three potential additions: Lauri Markkanen, Jerami Grant, and Cam Johnson.

Points Per Game (PPG)

Lauri Markkanen: 23.2 PPG (3 Points)

Jerami Grant: 21.0 PPG (2 Points)

Cam Johnson: 13.4 PPG (1 Point)

Lauri Markkanen has proven himself to be a consistent scoring threat, averaging 23.2 points per game in 2023-24. His ability to score from multiple spots on the floor, combined with his height and shooting touch, makes him a formidable offensive weapon. Markkanen’s scoring prowess would alleviate some of the offensive burden from LeBron James and Anthony Davis, providing the Lakers with another reliable scoring option. He takes first place with 3 points thanks to a strong scoring average as the primary threat for the Utah Jazz. 

Jerami Grant, in second place, contributes a solid 21.0 points per game, showcasing his ability to score efficiently both inside and outside. Grant’s versatility on offense allows him to drive to the basket, shoot from mid-range, and hit three-pointers, making him a dynamic scorer. His offensive capabilities would add another dimension to the Lakers’ attack, particularly in transition and isolation plays.

Cam Johnson, averaging 13.4 points per game, offers a more specialized scoring role. Known for his three-point shooting, Johnson provides valuable floor spacing for the Lakers. His ability to knock down shots from beyond the arc would open up driving lanes for James and Davis, making him a key contributor in a more limited, yet crucial, capacity.

Rebounds Per Game (RPG)

Lauri Markkanen: 8.2 RPG (3 Points)

Cam Johnson: 4.3 RPG (2 Points)

Jerami Grant: 3.5 RPG (1 Point)

Lauri Markkanen’s 8.2 rebounds per game highlight his effectiveness on the boards, especially given his position. His rebounding ability ensures that the Lakers can secure crucial possessions and dominate the glass, an area that complements Anthony Davis’ strengths. Markkanen’s height and timing make him a reliable presence in the paint and he wins a second category in a row.

Jerami Grant, with 3.5 rebounds per game, isn’t as dominant on the boards but contributes in other areas. While not a primary rebounder, his athleticism and positioning allow him to chip in defensively. Grant’s rebounding numbers might not stand out, but his versatility and hustle play a significant role in team dynamics and he finishes second again.

Cam Johnson averages 4.3 rebounds per game, showing his willingness to contribute on the glass despite being more perimeter-oriented. His rebounding adds value, especially on long rebounds and defensive possessions. Johnson’s ability to grab boards helps maintain the Lakers’ tempo and transition game.

Assists Per Game (APG)

Jerami Grant: 2.8 APG (3 Points)

Cam Johnson: 2.4 APG (2 Points)

Lauri Markkanen: 2.0 APG (1 Point)

Jerami Grant averages 2.8 assists per game, demonstrating his ability to create for others. His playmaking skills are particularly useful in drive-and-kick situations, where he can penetrate the defense and dish out to open shooters. Grant’s vision and passing make him a more dynamic offensive player although he won’t be required to pass as much as score and defend with the Lakers. 

Cam Johnson contributes 2.4 assists per game, indicating his capacity to make the right play. Often utilized as a spot-up shooter, Johnson’s passing ability ensures that he can keep the offense flowing. His assists, though not high in volume, are timely and contribute to the Lakers’ offensive efficiency and he finally gets a category out of third place. 

Lauri Markkanen dishes out 2.0 assists per game, reflecting his ability to facilitate when needed. While not primarily a playmaker, his passing skills add another layer to his offensive game. Luckily for him, he won’t be required to be a playmaker as a power forward. 

Steals Per Game (SPG)

Lauri Markkanen: 0.9 SPG (3 Points)

Jerami Grant: 0.8 SPG (2 Points)

Cam Johnson: 0.8 SPG (2 Points)

Lauri Markkanen averages 0.9 steals per game, showing his ability to disrupt passing lanes and create turnovers. His defensive awareness and reach make him a valuable asset on the defensive end. Markkanen’s steals often lead to fast-break opportunities, adding to the Lakers’ transition game, and he wins another category. 

Jerami Grant, with 0.8 steals per game, brings a defensive presence through his quick hands and anticipation. His ability to guard multiple positions and generate steals is crucial for the Lakers’ defensive schemes. Grant’s defensive versatility and ability to create turnovers make him an ideal fit alongside James and Davis.

Cam Johnson also averages 0.8 steals per game, reflecting his defensive effort and positioning. While not known for his defense, Johnson’s ability to stay active and engaged on the defensive end adds value. His steals can often lead to transition opportunities, and he is tied with Grant in this category for second place. 

Blocks Per Game (BPG)

Jerami Grant: 0.6 BPG (3 Points)

Lauri Markkanen: 0.5 BPG (2 Points)

Cam Johnson: 0.3 BPG (1 Point)

In first place with three points, Jerami Grant averages 0.6 blocks per game, highlighting his ability to defend the rim despite playing as a forward. His athleticism and timing make him a formidable shot-blocker. Grant’s defensive presence in the paint is a significant asset for the Lakers, particularly in help-defense situations.

In second place, Lauri Markkanen records 0.5 blocks per game, showcasing his rim-protection capabilities. His height and timing allow him to contest shots effectively, adding a defensive layer to the paint. Markkanen’s shot-blocking ability, though not elite, provides additional protection for the Lakers’ defense.

Cam Johnson, with 0.3 blocks per game, contributes less in this area but still provides value. His shot-blocking is more opportunistic, often coming from weak-side help. Johnson’s ability to contest shots, though limited, adds to his overall defensive contributions.

Field-Goal Percentage (FG%)

Lauri Markkanen: 48.0% (3 Points)

Jerami Grant: 45.1% (2 Points)

Cam Johnson: 44.6% (1 Point)

Lauri Markkanen returns to the top spot and boasts a field-goal percentage of 48.0%, reflecting his efficiency in scoring. His ability to score inside and from mid-range, along with his three-point shooting, makes him a highly efficient scorer. Markkanen’s shooting efficiency is crucial for the Lakers, providing consistent scoring.

In second place, Jerami Grant has a field-goal percentage of 45.1%, indicating his effectiveness as a scorer. His ability to finish at the rim and shoot from various spots on the floor makes him a versatile offensive player. Grant’s shooting efficiency ensures that he can be a reliable scoring option for the Lakers.

Cam Johnson, shooting 44.6% from the field, offers solid efficiency, particularly from three-point range. His ability to hit shots from beyond the arc consistently makes him a valuable floor spacer. Johnson’s shooting efficiency is vital for the Lakers’ offensive spacing and flow.

3-Point Percentage (3PT%)

Jerami Grant: 40.2% (3 Points)

Lauri Markkanen: 39.9% (2 Points)

Cam Johnson: 39.1% (1 Point)

Jerami Grant shoots an impressive 40.2% from beyond the arc, reflecting his improvement as a three-point shooter. His ability to hit shots from deep adds another dimension to his offensive game. Grant’s three-point shooting makes him a versatile scorer and a valuable addition to the Lakers and he finishes in first place taking all three points. 

With two points in the category with a shade under 40% from deep, Lauri Markkanen’s 39.9% from three-point range showcases his elite shooting ability. His ability to stretch the floor and hit shots from deep makes him a significant threat. Markkanen’s three-point shooting opens up the floor for James and Davis, although he was slightly less efficient than Grant. 

Cam Johnson’s 39.1% from three-point range underscores his role as a sharpshooter. Known for his ability to hit shots from beyond the arc, Johnson provides essential floor spacing. His three-point shooting is crucial for the Lakers, particularly in catch-and-shoot situations.

Free-Throw Percentage (FT%)

Lauri Markkanen: 89.9% (3 Points)

Jerami Grant: 81.7% (2 Points)

Cam Johnson: 78.9% (1 Point)

Back in first place, Lauri Markkanen’s free-throw percentage of 89.9% highlights his reliability at the line. His ability to convert free throws consistently is a valuable asset in close games. Markkanen’s free-throw shooting adds to his overall scoring efficiency and reliability in clutch situations.

Jerami Grant’s 81.7% from the free-throw line indicates his competence as a free-throw shooter. His ability to get to the line and convert adds to his scoring totals. Grant’s free-throw shooting is a significant aspect of his offensive game, providing consistent points.

Cam Johnson shoots 78.9% from the free-throw line, offering solid efficiency. His ability to hit free throws adds value, particularly in close games. Johnson’s free-throw shooting ensures that he can be relied upon to convert opportunities at the line.

Player Efficiency Rating (PER)

Lauri Markkanen: 21.5 (3 Points)

Jerami Grant: 15.4 (2 Points)

Cam Johnson: 14.5 (1 Point)

Lauri Markkanen’s PER of 21.5 underscores his overall impact on the game. His efficiency and productivity make him a highly valuable player. Markkanen’s PER reflects his ability to contribute across multiple facets of the game, making him a strong fit for the Lakers.

Jerami Grant has a PER of 15.4, highlighting his contributions on both ends of the floor. His efficiency and versatility make him a valuable asset. Grant’s PER reflects his ability to impact the game in various ways, particularly through his scoring and defense.

In third place, Cam Johnson’s PER of 14.5 indicates his solid contributions. While not as high as the others, his efficiency in his role is notable. Johnson’s PER reflects his ability to provide valuable scoring and spacing, fitting well with the Lakers’ needs.

Fit With LeBron James And Anthony Davis

Lauri Markkanen: A Star To Form A Big Three (3 Points)

Jerami Grant: Perfect Two-Way Swingman For James And Davis (2 Points)

Cam Johnson: 28-Year-Old Spot-Up Shooter (1 Point)

Markkanen’s scoring ability, rebounding, and overall efficiency make him an ideal candidate to form a formidable big three with LeBron and Davis. His ability to stretch the floor and contribute on both ends would complement the Lakers’ star duo perfectly, providing another reliable scorer and defender. He wins the category because the fit is exactly what is needed for the Lakers in terms of star power.

In second place, again, Grant’s versatility, defensive prowess, and scoring ability make him a perfect fit alongside James and Davis. His ability to guard multiple positions, contribute offensively, and play in various roles would enhance the Lakers’ lineup. Grant’s two-way skills would seamlessly integrate with the Lakers’ star players.

Lastly, Johnson’s elite three-point shooting and floor spacing make him a valuable addition to the Lakers. His ability to hit shots from deep and provide consistent scoring from the perimeter would benefit LeBron and Davis by opening up the floor. Johnson’s role as a spot-up shooter would add a crucial element to the Lakers’ offense.

Final Comparison

Lauri Markkanen: 26 Points (7 Categories Won)

Jerami Grant: 22 Points (3 Categories Won)

Cam Johnson: 13 Points (0 Categories Won)

Lauri Markkanen Should Be The Lakers’ Priority, Jerami Grant As The Backup

Given the analysis, Lauri Markkanen stands out as the top priority for the Lakers with seven categories won and 26 total points. His scoring prowess, rebounding, and efficiency align perfectly with the team’s needs. Markkanen’s ability to stretch the floor, combined with his size and versatility, makes him an ideal complement to LeBron James and Anthony Davis. 

His consistent performance and high Player Efficiency Rating (PER) indicate that he can seamlessly integrate into the Lakers’ system, forming a formidable big three that can compete at the highest level. Markkanen is making $18,044,544 in 2023-24 and will be a free agent in the following season, so this is a chance for the Lakers to get him for a great deal in one year. 

Jerami Grant, while not the primary target, is an excellent backup option with 22 points and three categories won (blocks, assists, and three-point percentage). His two-way abilities, versatility, and scoring make him a valuable addition to any team. Grant’s defensive capabilities and his knack for contributing offensively provide a solid fit alongside James and Davis. He offers a different set of skills compared to Markkanen but remains a highly effective player who can enhance the Lakers’ lineup through his versatility and athleticism.

Ultimately, prioritizing Lauri Markkanen gives the Lakers a dynamic, efficient, and versatile player who can elevate their game on both ends of the floor. Should they need a secondary option, Jerami Grant provides a strong, reliable alternative with his proven two-way play and ability to fit into various roles. 

In last place with 13 points and zero categories won, Cam Johnson will make $23,625,000 $21,570,652, and $23,625,000 over the next three seasons and that could be another deterrent for the Lakers to acquire him. Johnson is a capable shooter and athlete but the Lakers will need more to reach another level on both ends of the court.

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