NBA Rumors: The 5 Free Agents the Los Angeles Lakers Could Go After

The Los Angeles Lakers' adventure in these playoffs has come to an end in the conference semifinals. The reigning champion, Oklahoma City Thunder, has put an end to the Los Angeles team's journey, leaving the Lakers' season finished much earlier than they would have liked.

With this scenario on the table, the franchise will face a summer filled with important questions. One of the main issues will be deciding what to do with LeBron James. Additionally, the franchise will need to consider whether to offer Austin Reaves a maximum contract exceeding 240 million dollars for five seasons.

Added to this is the uncertainty surrounding the continuity of Marcus Smart and the need to find at least two, possibly three, reliable starters who can support Reaves and Luka Doncic. Grant Hughes of Bleacher Report has outlined five possible free agency targets to strengthen the Lakers' roster once the market opens on June 30.

Isaiah Hartenstein

The center and champion with Oklahoma City Thunder has been an important piece this season. The team has a 28 million dollar option to retain him next season, although some voices suggest they may forgo it to avoid second apron salary penalties.

If he becomes available, the Lakers could make a move for him. Doubts arising from Deandre Ayton's inconsistency and level of commitment have raised questions about his fit in the team. Even if Ayton activates his eight million dollar option, Hartenstein's arrival would make the German big man the centerpiece in the paint for the upcoming season.

Andrew Wiggins

The forward had another solid season with the Miami Heat and holds a 30 million dollar player option for the next season. If he chooses to exercise it, he would be out of the Lakers' reach.

Wiggins would bring winning experience and performance on both ends of the court. Additionally, with Rui Hachimura heading towards free agency, the Canadian would be a clear upgrade for the small forward position if he becomes available.

More Affordable Options

If deals for Hartenstein or Wiggins prove unviable due to economic reasons, Hughes points out three other more accessible alternatives for the Lakers:

Lu Dort

The small forward from Oklahoma City Thunder emerges as an option to strengthen the perimeter.

Robert Williams III

The center could become a more cost-effective interior alternative.

Quentin Grimes

The shooting guard is also among the potential market targets for the Los Angeles team.

A Roster in Need of Reconstruction

The contractual situation of several players requires the Lakers to act swiftly in the market. Rui Hachimura, Marcus Smart, Jaxson Hayes, and Luke Kennard are nearing the end of their contracts, and even LeBron James' continuity is not assured. With so many uncertainties, the franchise might have to fill multiple starting positions for the upcoming season.