Harrison Barnes and Festus Ezeli (Photo : Getty Images)
There is a possibility that two of the Golden State Warriors' championship roster could be the Los Angeles Lakers' free agency targets this summer.
The Lakers are ready to hit the rebuild button after firing head coach Byron Scott following two dismal seasons that saw the team record a franchise-worst 17 wins and 65 losses.
But aside from the head coaching job, the Lakers also need to fill in their roster with top free agents available in the market, and possible candidates could include Warriors wing Harrison Barnes and center Festus Ezeli, based on Lakers Nation's list of potential targets for LA.
Both Barnes and Ezeli failed to reach contract extensions with the Warriors, which could have given the former $5.1 million, while the latter could have gotten $3 million for the next season.
Barnes has established himself as one of the league's underrated defenders due to his great size and athleticism. He has also proven this season that he could be a scorer for a team, averaging 11.7 points on 46.4 percent shooting from the field.
Meanwhile, Ezeli has the potential to become a major upgrade for the Lakers at the five spot. Playing as the Warriors' backup center, many see Ezeli as a starter on a team like the Lakers, who could use the big man's athleticism to defend the rim and control the boards. With Roy Hibbert set to explore free agency, Ezeli could fill the gaping hole at the five position, giving him a chance to be the team's starting center.
However, the only major downside to acquire Barnes and/or Ezeli is their free agent status heading into the summer. Both players will become restricted free agents, which means the Warriors will have a chance to match any other team's offer to Barnes and Ezeli.
But the odds could be against the defending champs, with the Warriors projected to only have a maximum cap-space of $10.9 million in the offseason, according to Real GM. Barnes and Ezeli may not be profiled as max contract guys, but such a measly financial capacity could spell concerns whether the Warriors could match lucrative offers from NBA rivals.
On the other hand, LA have a massive war chest heading into the market with a projected maximum cap space of $62.6 million, which could enable them six guaranteed contracts or sign nine free agents. Certainly, the Lakers have a good chance of snagging either of the two potential targets, but they could get lucky if the Warriors suddenly feel the need to tinker their roster a bit, especially if they miss out to win back-to-back NBA titles.
The Lakers are in prime position to add top-talented free agents this summer, whether they be restricted or unrestricted. The only matter of concern for the Purple and Gold is their choice of players who could suit well in their new head coach.
