Lakers News and Rumors: A Look at Which NBA Free Agents may Be Los Angeles' Top Priority This Summer
The Los Angeles Lakers had a terrible 2013-14 season. Coaching problems, Kobe Bryant's injuries, and a lack of scoring gave this team a 27-55 record, good enough for 14th in the Western Conference. It's not very often that the Lakers aren't even the best team in Los Angeles.
Outside of free agent pickups, the Lakers still need to find a head coach. Apparently, they're not in a huge rush to sign a new coach, but they may be focused more on new players to add to their aging roster.
Latin Post takes a look at the players that the Lakers can make top priority heading into free agency this summer:
Pau Gasol
Gasol has been a great player since joining the Lakers in 2008. His post game, clutch free throw shooting, and defensive skills helped the team win two back-to-back NBA Championships. Gasol averaged 17.4 points per game last season and almost 10 rebounds in the process. If the Lakers want to keep Gasol, he's going to cost about $15 per season.
Chris Bosh
With the "Big 3" in Miami all opting out and freeing up cap space, teams can make offers and players can test the market. There's a real high possibility that both LeBron James and Dwyane Wade will both re-sign with the Heat, but Chris Bosh might seek elsewhere. Bosh still has plenty of miles left and if Gasol leaves for another team, the Lakers are going to need a big man.
Lance Stephenson
There's a good chance Stephenson will not be with the Indiana Pacers next season. Stephenson has spent his entire four-year career with the Pacers, but salary cap restrictions will most likely place him on another team. Lakers could use a player like Stephenson. He may be a streaky shooter who is sometimes inconsistent, but he is a physical defensive player who can make shots.
Vince Carter
Imagine Vince Carter and Kobe Bryant playing together? Obviously both of these players are past their prime, but they're still good enough to win games. Add a talented forward with Carter and Bryant and this team could do good things in the Western Conference. Carter can also add relief to the Lakers coming off the bench, which has been very poor in recent years.
Ray Allen
The all-time leader in three-point shots should bring in some high bids. Allen might be 38 years old, but continues to hit from the perimeter at high rates. Even when Allen isn't hitting threes, he's still drawing double teams, which spreads the floor offensively. Allen is also an underrated passer who can fill in at point guard when needed. The Lakers may want to look at Allen for some three-point help.
Others in the Mix
The Lakers may also want to look at Boris Diaw and Eric Bledsoe. Carmelo Anthony has already opted out and of course the Lakers will be interested, but it's unlikely Anthony will choose the Lakers. Anthony will most likely choose a team that is in contention, like the Chicago Bulls.
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