5 Restricted Free Agents the Lakers Should Target

2. Gordon Hayward

Apr 6, 2014; Oakland, CA, USA; Utah Jazz guard Gordon Hayward (20) dribbles against Golden State Warriors guard

(25) during the first quarter at Oracle Arena. The Warriors defeated the Jazz 130-102. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

Somewhat under the radar considering where he plays, Gordon Hayward has emerged into a great player. With a career high in points, rebounds, assists, steals, and minutes played, Hayward took a big step forward last season. His shot is still a struggle at times and there’s still some refining to be done, but Hayward is a budding star.

However, Hayward will likely command a big contract. The rumors and projections seem to peg him at nearly a max contract, which is a big ask for the Lakers. While Hayward’s max deal wouldn’t take up the space of someone like Carmelo Anthony, it’s still a lot of money to commit to a younger player who may not be able to carry a franchise like the Lakers.