The Los Angeles Lakers concluded their 2024 NBA season with a challenging playoff run, finishing with a 47-35 record in the regular season. Their postseason aspirations were quickly dashed by the Denver Nuggets, who defeated them 4-1 in the first round.
The Lakers must navigate a crucial offseason with LeBron James’ future uncertain due to his $51.4 million player option and the firing of head coach Darvin Ham. As they face limited cap space and the expiration of several contracts, the team’s focus shifts to securing cost-effective role players. This strategic approach in the free agency market is vital to rebuild and strengthen the roster for a competitive 2024-25 season, especially if they undergo major roster changes.
1. Markelle Fultz
Markelle Fultz’s 2024 season with the Orlando Magic was fraught with challenges, primarily due to injuries that limited his participation to just 43 games. When on the court, Fultz posted averages of 7.8 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game, showing flashes of the skill that once made him the first overall pick in the NBA draft. However, his shooting efficiency remained a concern, with a field goal percentage of 47.2% and struggles from beyond the arc.
The Magic’s roster is currently saturated with young, talented guards who are vying for more playing time, which could make Fultz expendable. Considering his injury history and the Magic’s direction toward youth development, Fultz might find himself looking for a new team this offseason.
For the Lakers, who are navigating a tight salary cap situation and looking for experienced players to fill roles at a bargain, Fultz presents an intriguing option. He could be signed under the Mid-Level Exception (MLE), offering a cost-effective solution for backup point guard duties behind D’Angelo Russell. His experience and ability to handle the ball could provide valuable depth to the Lakers’ bench, ensuring steady playmaking when Russell is off the floor. Additionally, a change of scenery to a franchise like the Lakers could provide Fultz with the stable environment needed to revive his career and contribute consistently in a supporting role.
2. Kelly Oubre Jr.
Kelly Oubre Jr. had a notable season with the Philadelphia 76ers, playing an essential role in their strategy, particularly during the absence of key players. He averaged 15.4 points and 5.0 rebounds, alongside contributing a career-high 1.5 assists per game over 68 games. Despite shooting a modest 44.1% from the field and 31.1% from three-point range, Oubre proved his value as a reliable scorer and versatile wing player.
As he transitions into free agency, Oubre’s performance this past season sets him up for potential interest from teams like the Lakers who are in need of proven wing depth without breaking the bank. His ability to perform on both ends of the floor, combined with his playoff experience and defensive tenacity, could make him an ideal target for the Lakers.
Oubre’s versatility would allow him to fit seamlessly into different lineups, providing scoring off the bench or stepping into a starting role if needed. His stated focus on improving his three-point shooting and defensive assignments further aligns with the Lakers’ needs for a two-way player who can stretch the floor and handle tough defensive matchups.
3. Gary Trent Jr.
Gary Trent Jr. played a crucial role for the Toronto Raptors during the 2024 season, appearing in 71 games and averaging 13.7 points per game. His sharpshooting capabilities were evident, especially from beyond the arc, where he managed to maintain a 34% success rate despite a broader shooting slump. His ability to score in crucial moments and provide consistent offense was a key component of the Raptors’ strategy, particularly in games where they needed a spark off the bench.
The Raptors, undergoing a transitional phase, might look to reshape their roster, which could leave Trent seeking a new team that offers a clear role and playoff contention possibilities. The Los Angeles Lakers could be an ideal destination for Trent. They need reliable shooting to complement their core, especially to open up the floor for players like LeBron James and Anthony Davis, assuming they remain with the team.
Trent’s defensive contributions, highlighted by averaging 1.1 steals per game, would also be valuable to a Lakers squad needing to strengthen on both ends of the court. His perimeter defense and ability to intercept passes could help bolster the Lakers’ defensive schemes, which often fluctuate in effectiveness. Furthermore, his experience and youth make him a potentially valuable investment for the Lakers as they aim to blend experience with potential, keeping an eye on both immediate impact and future development.
4. Derrick Jones Jr.
Derrick Jones Jr. has proven to be a valuable asset for the Dallas Mavericks this season, particularly known for his athletic defensive plays and ability to impact games without requiring a high volume of shots. Throughout the 2024 season, Jones averaged 8.6 points and 3.3 rebounds over 76 games, establishing himself as a key defensive player with the versatility to guard multiple positions effectively. His athleticism also makes him an elite lob threat, a factor that could significantly benefit the Los Angeles Lakers.
The Lakers, seeking to enhance their roster with effective role players who can contribute on both ends of the floor, would find Jones’ skill set particularly appealing. His ability to play above the rim and his defensive prowess would complement the Lakers’ need for dynamic defensive players who can also contribute easy baskets. Moreover, Jones’ performances in the current postseason could provide valuable intensity and depth to the Lakers’ bench.
5. Caleb Martin
Caleb Martin’s role with the Miami Heat during the 2024 season highlighted his importance as a versatile wing player, capable of impacting games significantly both off the bench and as a starter. Martin demonstrated his value, particularly in the playoffs, where he shone in games he started with 11.6 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.4 assists, suggesting his potential to perform well under increased responsibilities.
With his player option for 2024-25 valued at $6.8 million, Martin is expected to decline this in search of a higher paycheck, possibly targeting the full Mid-Level Exception, which could be around $12 million. This makes him an attractive option for the Lakers, who could utilize his defensive versatility and improved three-point shooting (nearly 36.8% from beyond the arc since joining the Heat). His ability to play and defend multiple positions aligns well with the Lakers’ need for flexible, impactful players who can contribute across various roles on the court.
Martin’s experience in key games, especially his standout performances in the last Eastern Conference Finals, positions him as a potential high-impact player for the Lakers. His ability to toggle effectively between starting and bench roles without losing productivity could provide the Lakers with the kind of adaptable player that is valuable in the postseason. This adaptability, combined with his proven track record in high-pressure situations, makes him a prime candidate.
6. Lonnie Walker IV
Lonnie Walker IV’s season with the Brooklyn Nets was marked by fluctuating contributions, highlighted by occasional scoring bursts but often limited by a reduced role in the rotation. After an inconsistent season, Walker averaged 9.7 points per game, demonstrating his capability as a scorer despite limited minutes. His time with the Nets also saw him dealing with minor injuries and illnesses, affecting his consistency and availability.
Previously with the Lakers, Walker showed flashes of brilliance, which could make a potential return to Los Angeles intriguing. His ability to score from the perimeter and his experience in both the Lakers’ system and high-pressure playoff games could help bolster the Lakers’ bench. Walker’s familiarity with the team and the city could facilitate a smoother integration, potentially allowing him to thrive in a supportive role, especially if the Lakers are looking for depth and scoring off the bench.
During his time with the Lakers in the 2022-23 season, Lonnie Walker IV stood out, particularly in a game against the Golden State Warriors, where he scored 28 points, including six three-pointers. His overall season averages were 11.7 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game over 56 games, including significant contributions in the playoffs. These performances illustrate his potential value as a scoring threat off the bench for the Lakers, enhancing their offensive depth and flexibility.
7. Monte Morris
Monte Morris’s 2023-24 season has been a tale of adaptation. Having been traded from Detroit to Minnesota, he ended the regular season with averages of 5.0 points, 2.1 assists, and 1.7 rebounds per game. His role, primarily off the bench, has emphasized his reliability in maintaining the game’s flow and providing critical playmaking when needed. In the current playoffs, Morris has continued to exhibit these qualities, showcasing his value in managing game tempo and executing offense efficiently under pressure.
For the Lakers, Morris’s skill set could be particularly beneficial. His precision in ball handling and low turnover rate would provide a stable backup point guard presence. With the Lakers aiming to bolster their roster for a deeper playoff run, Morris’s ability to execute plays and his playoff experience could help stabilize their second unit. His calm demeanor and efficiency would complement the Lakers’ dynamic backcourt, potentially improving their overall decision-making and reducing the burden on their primary scorers during high-stakes moments.
8. Jalen Smith
Jalen Smith’s season with the Indiana Pacers showcased his potential as a capable role player in the NBA, averaging 9.9 points and 5.5 rebounds per game. His ability to contribute effectively off the bench or in a starting role, coupled with his versatility as both a power forward and center, positions him as an attractive option for teams seeking depth in their frontcourt. Smith is expected to decline his player option of $5.0 million for the 2024-25 season, aiming for a more lucrative deal, potentially the Mid-Level Exception (MLE) of $8 million with a team like the Lakers.
For the Lakers, Smith could provide much-needed rebounding and interior scoring. His 3-point shooting, while not a primary feature of his game, offers some spacing to open up the paint for the Lakers’ other big men. With the Pacers not heavily relying on him and the potential for a larger role elsewhere, Smith could see significant benefits from a system like that of the Lakers, which would utilize his strengths in rebounding and shot-blocking while also developing his perimeter shooting.
In the current NBA landscape, Smith’s ability to play multiple frontcourt positions and contribute on both ends of the floor could help the Lakers in addressing their needs for bench depth and defensive presence in the paint.
9. Cedi Osman
Cedi Osman’s role with the San Antonio Spurs this past season saw him averaging 6.8 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game. His season included contributing as a rotational player, often utilized for his floor-spacing abilities, given his proficiency from beyond the arc. Osman’s season also featured him stepping up in games where his three-point shooting and versatile defensive assignments were crucial.
For the Lakers, Osman could be a beneficial addition, especially considering their need for experienced wing players who can stretch the floor. His ability to hit perimeter shots would provide spacing for the Lakers’ primary creators, and his size and mobility allow him to guard multiple positions on the perimeter. Moreover, his European professional experience before the NBA adds a level of maturity and poise to his game, which could be valuable in high-pressure playoff contexts.
With his contract expiring, Osman could find a fit with the Lakers who might be looking to bolster their wing depth while managing cap space effectively. His all-around skills and adaptability could make him an essential part of the Lakers’ efforts to deepen their playoff runs and maintain flexibility in their rotations.
10. Robert Covington
Robert Covington, known for his defensive prowess and three-point shooting, has been a valuable asset in the NBA for several years. His statistics in the 2023-24 season, averaging 4.4 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.3 steals in 29 games split between the Clippers and 76ers after a trade involving James Harden, reflect his contributions on both ends of the court.
Given the Lakers’ need for perimeter defense and floor spacing, Covington could be an excellent addition to their roster. Defensively, Covington’s ability to guard multiple positions would bolster the Lakers’ defense, particularly against opposing wings and forwards.
Acquiring Robert Covington would address some of the Lakers’ needs, including perimeter defense and outside shooting, while also providing valuable playoff experience and defensive versatility. His skill set and experience could potentially make a significant impact on the team’s quest for another NBA championship.
