Lakers Rumors: Top 3 Targets for 2015 & 2016
By Scott Asai
Feb 4, 2015; Durham, NC, USA; Duke Blue Devils center Jahlil Okafor (15) secures a rebound against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets in their game at Cameron Indoor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Dolejs-USA TODAY Sports
Do the Lakers really have to play the final 29 games in the season?
Outside of developing their younger players, Jordan Clarkson, Ryan Kelly, Tarik Black and Ed Davis, there’s nothing for fans to cheer for this season, so let’s move on.
With the Lakers current trajectory, they’re a lock for a Top 5 pick. With more similarities to a D-League Roster than an NBA one, acquiring talent should be their only mission moving forward. Let’s look ahead and rank the Top 3 targets for the Lakers in 2015 & 2016.
More from Lake Show Life
- 3 most underrated players currently on the Los Angeles Lakers roster
- 2 Lakers who would benefit the most from a Kyrie Irving trade
- Victor Oladipo’s Russell Westbrook comments are terrible sign for Lakers
- 4 Free agent fits for the Lakers while they wait on Kyrie Irving
- 3 Most likely positions the Lakers will use for the last roster spot
2015
1) Jahlil Okafor – Hands down the best player in college basketball. With a game similar to Tim Duncan, he’s the only “sure thing” in the draft. If the Lakers get the #1 pick, he could be the centerpiece for the next 10 years.
2) Marc Gasol – Pau Gasol‘s younger, yet “bigger” brother. Gasol doesn’t put up jaw dropping stats, but his presence is felt on both ends of the court. Like Pau, he’s a great teammate and has become more clutch over his career.
3) LaMarcus Aldridge – Since his left thumb injury, he’s done nothing but dominate. Aldridge has a fadeaway jumper like Dirk Nowitzki and speed like a guard. He’s a mobile power forward and perennial All-Star.
Bonus: Greg Monroe/Goran Dragic. Monroe isn’t a household name, but a solid big man who can score, pass and defend. If the Lakers strike out on Okafor and Gasol, the next best thing is Monroe. It’s better to build around a big man, but Dragic would be an attractive piece to add to the Lakers because of his ability to score and feisty attitude that would make him a fan favorite. Dragic is also open to joining the Lakers because of his current “3 point guard” situation in Phoenix.
Next: Who's Available In 2016?