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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Apr 23, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Charlotte Hornets forward Marvin Williams (2) reacts after scoring during the second half in game three of the first round of the NBA Playoffs against the Miami Heat at Time Warner Cable Arena. Hornets win 96-80. Mandatory Credit: Sam Sharpe-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 23, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Charlotte Hornets forward Marvin Williams (2) reacts after scoring during the second half in game three of the first round of the NBA Playoffs against the Miami Heat at Time Warner Cable Arena. Hornets win 96-80. Mandatory Credit: Sam Sharpe-USA TODAY Sports

1. Marvin Williams

Like we covered when talking about Mirza Teletovic, the Lakers roster desperately needs the addition of players who can bring versatility to the roster. In regards to forwards that could bring that to the roster at this “mid-tier” level, there’s no one that’s going to be available in 2016 NBA free agency this offseason that offers more of that than Marvin Williams, a veteran who played with the Charlotte Hornets this past season.

Despite his struggles in the postseason with the Hornets, Charlotte would have never been in that position had it not been for the play of Williams at forward. His ability to use his blend of length and skill on the size but also stretch defenses and defend on the perimeter with great skill and effectiveness. He finished the 2015-16 season averaging 11.7 points, 6.4 rebounds, and one block per game in just 28.9 minutes per game while shooting 45.2 percent from the floor and 40.2 percent from long range on the season.

Next: Pre-Combine 2016 NBA Mock Draft, Version 2.0

Considering how little versatility players like Randle and Nance Jr. actually give the Lakers at this early point in their careers, adding someone like Williams who won’t break the bank but will allow the team flexibility in terms of lineups will be huge for the young guys developing and for the Lakers being in the best spot to succeed.

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