Apr 10, 2013; Orlando, FL, USA; Milwaukee Bucks shooting guard J.J. Redick (5) attempts a free throw during the first quarter against the Orlando Magic at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: Douglas Jones-USA TODAY Sports
Things we don’t know: If Dwight Howard will return, if Pau Gasol will be traded, if Metta World Peace will be amnestied.
Things we do know: The Lakers desperately need depth, and aren’t afraid to break out a checkbook.
With that, we want to take a glance at a few of the names hitting the market this offseason.
▷ Corey Brewer – Unrestricted free agent, Denver Nuggets
After being drafted in the top ten with two-time national championship Florida teammates Al Horford and Joakim Noah, both of whom have been all-stars, Cory Brewer has been widely considered a bust and has looked to be well on his way out of the league at times.
Fortunately he managed to salvage his career in Denver as a scorer and capable defender. His 2013 campaign was actually solid enough to elicit Sixth Man of the Year consideration in certain circles.
The negatives are certainly there, his sub-.300 percentage from beyond the arc for one, but at 27-years-old his positives clearly outweigh them and he’s got plenty of time for improvement.
2013 salary: 3,243,000
▷ Tony Allen – Unrestricted free agent, Memphis Grizzlies
Why LA would be interested in Tony Allen, who is widely accepted as the best perimeter defender in the league, doesn’t need all that much of an explanation.
The fact his game has only elevated in the postseason for the Grizz through two-rounds will only bolster the bidding war that will soon come Allen’s way.
Obviously turning out your pockets for a 31-year-old guard is always a gamble, but Allen is the kind of player that can give a defense an identity and shut down the oppositions best guard nightly.
2013 salary: 3,300,000
▷ J.J. Redick – Unrestricted free agent, Milwaukee Bucks
Yes, that guy that lit up your team in college nearly a decade ago is still in the NBA, and he’s pretty damn good.
While a midseason trade from Orlando to Milwaukee stunted what was a breakout season for the 28-year-old, he’d already shown far more versatility than most thought – that includes myself.
His 2012-13′ season was highlighted by a 17.5 points, 3.6 assists and 2.8 rebounds through 14 games in January. All while proving that he still has that golden touch, shooting .497 percent from the field and .467 from outside.
2013 salary: 6,190,000
→ This is the first of many articles we will be putting out on potential free agents for the Lakers this offseason. We want to know what YOU think, who you feel LA should pursue. Sound off in the comment section below and let us know.
Don’t forget to like the Lake Show Life’s facebook page for up-to-date Lakers news and analysis right from the comfort of your news feed.