Lakers: 5 Mid-Tier 2016 NBA Free Agency Targets

Jul 24, 2014; El Segundo, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak introduces Jeremy Lin during a press conference at Toyota Sports Center. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 24, 2014; El Segundo, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak introduces Jeremy Lin during a press conference at Toyota Sports Center. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
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Jan 6, 2016; Washington, DC, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers center Timofey Mozgov (20) shoots the ball against the Washington Wizards in the first quarter at Verizon Center. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 6, 2016; Washington, DC, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers center Timofey Mozgov (20) shoots the ball against the Washington Wizards in the first quarter at Verizon Center. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

2. Timofey Mozgov

Much like that Lakers had this past season in the form of Roy Hibbert, the Cleveland Cavaliers have a center on their roster who really isn’t worth what they’re paying him at this point and will now mercifully be coming off of the books. However, the difference is that the Lakers could make an interesting move this offseason if they were to go after this player from the Cavs in the form of Timofey Mozgov.

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Mozgov is certainly a highly intriguing piece, especially considering what he’s been for Cleveland in the postseason, which is basically an expendable part. The Cavaliers have instead elected to go with their version of small-ball in their lineups and Mozgov has been the odd man out for the most part. However, that doesn’t mean he doesn’t have any value in the right situation and the Lakers moving forward could potentially provide that role.

The Lakers obviously are going to have a hole at center with the departure of Hibbert, but it goes deeper than just filling that need. Mozgov has proven he can be a consistent and efficient offensive player while also having the size and strength to hold his own on the defensive end of the floor. At the right price, Mozgov should definitely be in play for LA.

Next: No. 1 Marvin Williams

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