Top 25 NBA Free Agents 2016: Who Could Lakers Sign?

13. Harrison Barnes, Golden State Warriors (Restricted)

A name that has been tossed around quite a bit this offseason in regards to players that will be getting max contracts and in terms of potential options for the Lakers has been Golden State Warriors forward Harrison Barnes. That’s been the case for quite some time now, but the chatter has been ramped up a bit as of late since the recent hiring of Luke Walton to be the next head coach in Los Angeles. Now the idea of reuniting Barnes and Walton in LA has people buzzing.

Obviously Barnes hasn’t had the opportunity to shine with Golden State in the way that he would have for other teams—it’s an occupational hazard of playing alongside guys like Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green. However, he’s a highly gifted player in terms of physical tools and skill and one that seemingly has limitless potential. That much of his value is based on potential in regards to a possible max deal, though, is intriguing.

With Walton in house and with the need at small forward, you have to imagine that the Lakers will at least be somewhat involved in a pursuit of Barnes. As a restricted free agent, the Warriors can match any offer that HB40 signs, though, so that may be the most interesting part of the plot with Barnes’ free agency.

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