Lakers: 5 Top Targets in 2016 Free Agency Not Named Kevin Durant
Dec 2, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls center
(13) reacts after dunking the ball during the game against the Denver Nuggets at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Caylor Arnold-USA TODAY Sports
5. Joakim Noah
Of the players on this list, current Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah is without question the riskiest option available. Given his injury history in recent seasons, including him being sidelined right now with a shoulder injury, and the fact that his performance has ultimately declined from when he was an MVP candidate, there’s no telling how the Lakers signing him would work out.
Working in an ideal scenario, Noah would be a tremendous asset in Los Angeles. Not only would he help the defensively anemic team rebuild in that regard, but would also help revolutionize the offense with how he can facilitate out of the high post. Even more importantly, he’s not a player that demands the ball a great deal in the offense, which would allow the like of D’Angelo Russell and Jordan Clarkson to continue developing more with the ball in their hands.
Again, there’s an inherent risk involved with whichever team signs Noah this summer. That being said, it could be a move that would really revolutionize the Lakers if it were to work out ideally. At the very least, he needs to be on the radar.
Next: No. 4