The Los Angeles Lakers’ hopes of signing two-time NBA champion Jrue Holiday took a hit as buyout rumors from the Portland Trail Blazers were debunked. The Lakers, coming off a 110-115 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on May 12, 2026, and riding a five-game losing streak (0W-0D-5L), now face uncertainty in their quest to bolster their roster for the 2026-27 season.
What Happened with Jrue Holiday?
NBA insider Marc Stein confirmed that reports of Portland buying out Holiday’s contract were false. The 36-year-old guard, who won titles with the Milwaukee Bucks (2021) and Boston Celtics (2024), remains under contract with the Trail Blazers. Stein noted that Portland has no plans to release Holiday, who is set to earn $34.8 million this season with a $37 million player option for 2027-28.
Why It Matters for the Lakers
Holiday’s defensive prowess and veteran leadership would have been a perfect fit alongside Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. The Lakers, who lost Marcus Smart to the Houston Rockets this offseason, now lack a proven perimeter defender. Svyatoslav Rovenchuk of LakeShowLife.com praised Holiday as a "stud" who could have filled Smart’s role with more offensive polish.
What’s Next for the Lakers?
With the buyout market closed, the Lakers may explore trade options for Holiday. However, matching his $34.8 million salary cap hit would require a significant package, including Jarred Vanderbilt, Jaden Hardy, or Jake LaRavia. The team must now look elsewhere to address their defensive shortcomings before the 2026-27 season begins.
