Basketball Players who Played for Lakers and Trail Blazers
There is a good chance that if you’ve found this page then you’re playing the Immaculate Grid.
That also means that today’s grid has asked for players that have played for both the Los Angeles Lakers and Portland Trail Blazers.
And, it also means that you’re probably stuck on this particular box and you’re looking for a little help. Sound about right so far?
Well, good news, you’re in the right place.
I’ve done some research and have found players who played for both the Lakers and the Trail Blazers.
Carmelo Anthony
After a successful college career at Syracuse University, which included a national championship in 2003, Carmelo Anthony was picked third overall by the Denver Nuggets in the 2003 NBA Draft.
In Denver, Anthony became one of the league’s top scorers, leading the Nuggets to multiple playoff berths. His time in Denver culminated in a Western Conference Finals run in 2009. In 2011, he was traded to the New York Knicks, where he continued his scoring prowess and was selected to multiple All-Star games.
Over his career, Anthony has been selected to ten NBA All-Star Games and has been named to the All-NBA Team six times. Internationally, he has won three gold medals with Team USA at the Olympics (2008, 2012, 2016), becoming the team’s all-time leading scorer in the process.
Anthony Key Stats
- All-NBA (Nuggets, Knicks)
- All-Star (Nuggets, Knicks)
- 20+ Points/Game Season (Nuggets, Knicks)
Wesley Matthews
Undrafted out of Marquette University in 2009, Wesley Matthews earned a roster spot with the Utah Jazz, making an immediate impact with his play. After a successful stint in Utah, he signed with the Portland Trail Blazers where he solidified his reputation as one of the league’s best 3-and-D players.
He became a critical piece of the Blazers’ backcourt alongside Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum, particularly excelling in 3-point shooting. Matthews ruptured his Achilles tendon in 2015, a significant setback, but returned to play for the Mavericks and has since bounced around with different teams.
Despite the various team changes, his consistency as a shooter and defender has remained, offering valuable contributions in the regular season and playoffs.
Jim Jackson
Jim Jackson entered the NBA when he was selected 4th overall by the Dallas Mavericks in the 1992 NBA Draft.
In Dallas, he quickly showcased his scoring prowess, becoming one of the young pillars of the team alongside Jason Kidd and Jamal Mashburn. However, despite the promise, the trio was short-lived due to various factors, including injuries and internal dynamics.
What followed for Jackson was a journeyman’s career, as he played for 12 different NBA teams, which included stints with the 76ers, Warriors, Trail Blazers, and Rockets, among others. Despite the frequent relocations, Jackson consistently proved his worth on the court, often providing a scoring punch and veteran presence.
Jackson Key Stats
- 20+ Points/Game Season (Mavericks)
- 5+ Assists/Game Season (Nets, Warriors)
Gary Payton II
Gary Payton II, the son of Hall of Fame point guard Gary Payton, went undrafted in the 2016 NBA Draft. Despite going undrafted, he made his NBA debut with the Milwaukee Bucks during the 2016-2017 season.
Payton has played for several teams in his NBA career, including the Los Angeles Lakers, Washington Wizards, Golden State Warriors, and others. Known for his defense and athleticism, he has earned opportunities through his hustle and effort on the court.
Although he hasn’t achieved standout statistical success in the NBA, Payton has been a valuable role player. Payton’s tenacity and ability to contribute in various aspects of the game have kept him in the NBA, where he continues to be a valuable bench player and a solid defender.
