Lakers Rumors (Photo : Collage/Getty)
The Los Angeles Lakers are all set to go all out this free-agency, having the cap space (around $59 million) and the market appeal to woe big time free-agents this summer. Kevin Durant, Hassan Whiteside, DeMar DeRozan are the ultimate prizes, but the Lakers are also keeping their eye on several under-the-radar talents soon to be available in the free-agency pool.
Joakim Noah (center) - The former Defensive Player of the Year, All-Star and All-NBA member is now a shell of former self. While playing behind Pau Gasol wasn't going well for him statistically, his free-agency stock took another hit after sustaining a shoulder injury in his contract year.
The Lakers have shown their intention to nab Whiteside at all cost. However, in case they missed on the coveted big man, signing Noah seems to be an ideal backup plan for two reasons: cheap contract and great locker room presence for young core.
Luol Deng (small forward) - Another former All-Star on the tail end of his career, Deng is playing his role better in his second year with the Miami Heat. Deng is averaging 12.2 points and 6.0 rebounds while still doing decent job in locking down opposing wing players. Like Noah, Deng seems to be a great fit for the Lakers young roster that direly needs a role model. At $5 million to $7 million per year range, Deng would be a nice acquisition for the Lakers.
Related Story: [Lakers Free-Agency 2016: 3 Reasons L.A will win the Hassan Whiteside sweepstakes - NBA Rumors]
Michael Beasley (small forward) - Yep, another wing player because we all know how bankrupt the position has been for the Lakers in the last 4 to 5 years. Fresh off an MVP season in the Chinese Basketball League, Beasley is putting up solid numbers with the Houston Rockets, averaging 13.8 points and 5.2 points in 21 minutes per game. Experience overseas has helped him mature as a player and person. A good pick-up at bargain price if you would ask me.
Marcelo Huertas (point guard) - the Brazilian had a rough start in his NBA career but has settled down with his role as the season progresses. Huertas is a poor man's version of Steve Nash with the way he finds open teammates. In a backcourt consists of young studs, keeping a veteran playmaker like Huertas is a must for the Lakers.
Donatas Motiejunas (center/power forward) - He's a walking red flag. However, the Detroit Pistons would have not shown interest in him in the first place if they didn't see an immense potential from the sweet-shooting Lithuanian big man. At 25-years old, Motiejunas still have time to reach his full potential. In today's game, his mobility and ability to knock down treys would be pivotal for the Lakers' rebuilding plan. And I believe he has more upside than Julius Randle when healthy.
