The Los Angeles Lakers may consider Joakim Noah as backup in case the team misses out on top free agents this summer.
The Lakers will have plenty of cap space to pursue the likes of Hassan Whiteside and Al Horford in free agency. But if the Lakers miss out on two of the top big men available in this year's free agency class, Joakim Noah could be an alternative, according to Bleacher Report's Josh Martin.
According to Martin, Noah, one of the undervalued big men in free agency, could still earn a multi-year contract worth $12 million upward from big market teams like the Lakers.
With Luke Walton on board to coach the Lakers next season, along with the team's projected $62.6 million salary cap space, LA should be a desirable destination for top free agents. However, there is stiff competition awaiting the Lakers in pursuing the likes of Whiteside and Horford, Noah could be an intriguing alternative.
Noah has been the emotional leader for the Chicago Bulls and was an effective all around big man during his healthy years with the team. However, the former Defensive Player of the Year has been a shell of himself in the past two years after suffering from major setbacks, most recently a shoulder injury sustained earlier this year.
Nevertheless, Noah would still be a defensive upgrade at center position for the Lakers, who only had Roy Hibbert anchoring the defense inside the paint. Noah's playmaking skills could also be effectively utilized by Walton, who is expected to bring some of the Golden State Warriors basketball brand to Tinseltown.
It is almost certain Noah will be joining another team this summer after reportedly telling teammates he is done with the Bulls following a disappointing season that saw the long-haired center lose playing time under Fred Hoiberg. But it remains to be seen whether the Lakers would truly show interest in signing Noah, especially on a lucrative deal, considering the 31-year-old's injury.
If Noah can remain healthy, he could become the versatile center Walton need and the veteran presence the Lakers must target.