The Lakers currently have 15 players on the roster and the only way they can sign a free agent is if they trade players and open a space for a roster spot. Right now, the best candidates to be traded are Gabe Vincent ($11 million), Christian Wood ($3 million), Cam Reddish ($2.4 million) and Maxwell Lewis ($1.8 million). The Lakers are still under the second apron, so they can send multiple players in trade and get one or two players that could give more quality to their roster.
With the recent re-signing of Spencer Dinwiddie by Dallas, the Lakers must act quickly to secure the best remaining free agents. They need to be strategic and proactive to bring in talent that can support LeBron and Davis, and help make a deeper playoff run. Here are the top 10 free agents who could significantly impact the Lakers’ quest for another championship this season.
1. Tyus Jones
Tyus Jones would be a valuable addition to the Lakers’ backcourt, providing reliable playmaking and leadership. Last season with the Washington Wizards, Jones averaged 12.0 points, 7.3 assists, and 2.7 rebounds per game while shooting 44.5% from the field and 36.1% from three-point range. Defensively, he averaged 1.2 steals per game.
Given the Lakers’ current cap situation, they would need to explore a sign-and-trade to acquire Jones, as they lack the cap space to sign him outright. This move could involve trading or waiving players like Christian Wood or Cam Reddish to make room for Jones’ contract, expected to be in the range of $10-12 million per year.
Jones’ ability to control the game tempo, coupled with his high basketball IQ and defensive skills, would make him an excellent fit for the Lakers, helping to alleviate the playmaking burden on LeBron James and enhancing the team’s overall depth and versatility. His presence would be crucial in the playoffs, where his decision-making and composure can make a significant impact.
2. Gordon Hayward
Imagine a seasoned veteran bringing leadership and a versatile skill set to the Los Angeles Lakers roster—Gordon Hayward could be that player. Split between the Charlotte Hornets and the Oklahoma City Thunder last season, Hayward showcased his abilities despite facing challenges. He averaged 9.8 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 3.1 assists over 51 games. His shooting efficiency remained solid, with a field goal percentage of 46.0% and a three-point shooting mark of 33.8%.
Hayward’s move to the Thunder was meant to provide a veteran presence, but limited playing time in the playoffs led to frustration. He saw only 6.6 minutes per game in seven postseason appearances, prompting his desire for a fresh start where his contributions would be more valued.
For the Lakers, acquiring Hayward would mean exploring a sign-and-trade option due to their tight cap situation. This strategy could involve moving players like Christian Wood or Cam Reddish to free up space for Hayward’s veteran minimum contract. His ability to play both forward positions and contribute as a secondary playmaker would complement LeBron James and Anthony Davis perfectly. Additionally, Hayward’s experience and basketball IQ would provide stability and leadership to the second unit.
Incorporating Hayward into the Lakers’ system would address their need for consistent perimeter shooting and veteran presence, potentially making a significant impact during the playoffs. By pursuing Hayward, the Lakers would be adding a versatile player capable of contributing in multiple facets of the game, enhancing their depth and overall team performance.
3. Danilo Gallinari
Adding Danilo Gallinari to the Los Angeles Lakers could provide the team with an experienced veteran capable of contributing off the bench. Last season, Gallinari split his time between the Washington Wizards, Detroit Pistons, and Milwaukee Bucks. Over the course of 51 games, he averaged 9.8 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game. His shooting efficiency was solid, maintaining a 46.0% field goal percentage and 33.8% from beyond the arc.
Gallinari’s journey last season was a rollercoaster. He was traded from Washington to Detroit, where he played only six games before being waived. He then signed with Milwaukee, adding depth to their roster. Despite his limited playoff minutes, Gallinari remains a reliable stretch four who can provide scoring and spacing, crucial for the Lakers’ offensive schemes.
Given the Lakers’ current cap constraints, signing Gallinari would likely involve a veteran minimum contract. This would be a low-risk, high-reward move for the Lakers, providing them with a player who has extensive NBA and international experience. His ability to play both forward positions and stretch the floor with his shooting makes him a valuable addition to the team’s rotation.
4. Cedi Osman
A strategic addition to the Los Angeles Lakers might be a name like Cedi Osman, bringing a blend of experience and versatility to the wing position. Last season, Osman played for the San Antonio Spurs after being traded from the Cleveland Cavaliers. Over 72 games, he averaged 6.8 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game, with shooting splits of 43.2% from the field and 35.7% from three-point range.
Osman has expressed interest in staying with the Spurs, emphasizing the strong relationships he has built within the organization and his comfort with the team. However, as an unrestricted free agent, he is open to exploring new opportunities that could offer him a more substantial role and potentially a raise from his previous salary of $6.7 million.
For the Lakers, Osman would provide a reliable shooting option and a player capable of defending multiple positions on the perimeter. His three-point shooting and ability to space the floor would be valuable assets, especially given the Lakers’ need for consistent outside shooting. Additionally, his experience and basketball IQ make him a suitable fit for a team aiming to contend for a championship.
To acquire Osman, the Lakers might need to consider a sign-and-trade deal due to their limited cap space. This approach could involve moving underperforming players like Christian Wood or Cam Reddish to create the necessary financial flexibility. Signing Osman would enhance the Lakers’ depth and provide them with a versatile player capable of contributing on both ends of the court.
5. Markelle Fultz
Markelle Fultz could bring a significant boost to the Los Angeles Lakers’ backcourt with his dynamic playmaking and scoring abilities. Last season with the Orlando Magic, Fultz averaged 7.8 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game over 43 games. His season was impacted by recurring knee issues, limiting his availability and performance.
Fultz, the top pick in the 2017 NBA Draft, has had an up-and-down career due to injuries but showed promise during the 2022-23 season when he averaged 14.0 points, 5.7 assists, and 3.9 rebounds per game with career-best shooting marks of 51.4% from the field. Despite his potential, his future with the Magic is uncertain, making him an intriguing free-agent target.
The Lakers could potentially sign Fultz with their mid-level exception or even a veteran minimum deal, adding depth and versatility to their roster. Fultz’s ability to handle the ball, facilitate the offense, and penetrate defenses would complement LeBron James and Anthony Davis, providing another playmaker who can help lead the second unit and contribute significantly when healthy.
Given his age and potential, Fultz could be a high-reward acquisition for the Lakers, enhancing their backcourt depth and providing them with a talented guard capable of making a substantial impact both offensively and defensively.
6. Davis Bertans
Adding Davis Bertans to the Los Angeles Lakers could be a high-reward move, offering his renowned shooting ability and floor-spacing as a stretch four. Last season, Bertans split his time between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Charlotte Hornets. Over 28 games with the Hornets, he averaged 8.8 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 0.9 assists per game, while shooting 39.4% from the field, 37.5% from three-point range, and 88.9% from the free-throw line.
The Hornets recently waived Bertans to create cap space, making him a free agent. Known for his sharpshooting, Bertans has a career three-point shooting percentage of 39.6%, which makes him an attractive target for teams looking to bolster their perimeter offense. Despite being 31 years old, his shooting prowess ensures he remains a valuable asset.
For the Lakers, signing Bertans to a veteran minimum contract could provide significant returns. His ability to stretch the floor would complement the playmaking of LeBron James and Anthony Davis, creating more spacing for drives and post plays. Bertans’ experience and high basketball IQ would also add depth to the Lakers’ bench, providing a reliable shooting option in critical moments.
7. Talen Horton-Tucker
Talen Horton-Tucker could be a valuable addition to the Los Angeles Lakers, bringing versatility and youth to their lineup. Last season with the Utah Jazz, Horton-Tucker averaged 10.1 points, 3.5 assists, and 2.4 rebounds per game over 51 games. His performance showcased his potential as a dynamic guard capable of contributing on both ends of the floor.
Horton-Tucker’s time with the Jazz saw him transition into a more prominent role, although he faced some challenges with consistency and injuries. He started the season strong but later found himself competing for minutes in a crowded backcourt. Despite these hurdles, his ability to handle the ball, create plays, and defend multiple positions makes him an attractive target for teams looking to add depth and versatility.
The Lakers are familiar with Horton-Tucker’s abilities, having drafted him in 2019 and seen his development firsthand before he was traded to the Jazz. Given their current cap situation, the Lakers could consider bringing him back on a reasonable contract, potentially using the mid-level exception or a veteran minimum deal.
Horton-Tucker’s fit with the Lakers would be seamless, providing a young, athletic option who can handle the ball, defend, and contribute as a secondary playmaker. His familiarity with the organization and its star players would also aid in his transition back to the team.
8. Lonnie Walker IV
Adding athleticism and scoring to the Los Angeles Lakers roster could be significantly enhanced with the return of Lonnie Walker IV. During the 2023-24 season with the Brooklyn Nets, Walker averaged 9.7 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game over 58 games. His shooting efficiency stood out, with a 45% field goal percentage and 37% from beyond the arc, making him a reliable option for instant offense and floor spacing.
Walker initially signed a one-year deal with the Nets after spending the previous season with the Lakers, where he had a notable impact. With the Lakers, Walker played 56 games, starting 32 of them, and averaged 11.7 points per game. His contributions were particularly significant in the playoffs, where he delivered key performances, including a standout game against the Golden State Warriors in the second round, where he scored 15 points in the fourth quarter to lead the Lakers to a crucial win.
Despite his success with the Lakers, the team’s guard-heavy roster, including players like Austin Reaves and D’Angelo Russell, limited Walker’s playing time, prompting his move to Brooklyn for more opportunities. Given the Lakers’ familiarity with Walker and his proven ability to contribute, they might consider bringing him back to add depth and scoring punch to their lineup.
9. Patty Mills
The Los Angeles Lakers could benefit greatly from the experience and shooting prowess of Patty Mills. Last season, Mills found himself in a whirlwind, traded from the Brooklyn Nets to the Houston Rockets, then to the Oklahoma City Thunder, and finally landed with the Miami Heat. Despite the tumultuous journey, Mills managed to maintain his effectiveness, averaging 2.7 points, 1.1 rebounds, and 0.7 assists per game over 19 appearances with the Heat. His shooting accuracy remained strong, with 41.1% from the field and 36.6% from beyond the arc.
Mills is well-known for his championship pedigree, having won a title with the San Antonio Spurs in 2014. His veteran presence and ability to deliver clutch performances make him a valuable asset. Although his role has diminished in recent years, his knack for hitting timely shots and his leadership qualities are undeniable.
Incorporating Mills into the Lakers’ lineup on a veteran minimum deal could provide a significant boost to their bench. His three-point shooting would help space the floor, allowing LeBron James and Anthony Davis more room to operate. Moreover, Mills’ extensive playoff experience would be invaluable during high-stakes moments, offering the Lakers a reliable option who can handle pressure.
10. Jordan Nwora
Picture a versatile forward with a knack for scoring, adding depth and flexibility to the Los Angeles Lakers’ roster—that’s Jordan Nwora. Splitting his season between the Indiana Pacers and the Toronto Raptors, Nwora averaged 7.8 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.0 assists per game over 62 appearances. His shooting efficiency, with 42.4% from the field and 34.6% from three-point range, underscores his ability to contribute offensively.
Nwora showcased his potential with standout performances, such as a game against the Atlanta Hawks where he scored 24 points, grabbed 9 rebounds, and dished out 6 assists. Despite these flashes of brilliance, his future with the Raptors is uncertain, making him an intriguing free agent.
For the Lakers, Nwora would bring a versatile scoring option off the bench. His ability to shoot from distance and rebound effectively would complement the team’s needs. Given the Lakers’ current cap constraints, signing Nwora to a reasonable contract, possibly using their mid-level exception, could be a strategic move to bolster their depth.
