While the main prizes for this summer’s free agency class will be LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony, and Chris Bosh, there are still a slew of solid role players and some budding stars mixed in. While the Lakers clear plan A and B revolve around the three superstars, plan C appears to include targeting said role players.
According to Ramona Shelburne of ESPN, the Lakers have their eyes set on a handful of players assuming they miss out on the big names this summer.
"If they are unable to land Anthony or James, the Lakers are also expected to have a strong interest in Washington free-agent forward Trevor Ariza, Raptors guard Kyle Lowry, Detroit center Greg Monroe and Phoenix forward Channing Frye, according to sources."
The most notable name, at least to Lakers’ fans, is Ariza, who was a key cog in the 2009 championship squad. However, the Lakers swapped him out for the artist formerly known as Ron Artest, who himself had a huge role in the Lakers 2010 title. Nevertheless, Ariza still continues to impress at just 28-years old, and has rightfully positioned himself for a possible return to LA.
Both Lowry and Monroe signify the Lakers attention to younger players, acknowledging the need to prepare for the future. Lowry is one of the best all-around point guards in the league and Monroe has impressed in his time in Detroit and may see himself receive a max deal this summer.
Let us know below which of the four possible free agents you’d like to see in purple and gold.