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

Apr 17, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) drives past Detroit Pistons center Andre Drummond (0) during the second half in game one of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at Quicken Loans Arena. The Cavs beat the Pistons 106-101. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 17, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) drives past Detroit Pistons center Andre Drummond (0) during the second half in game one of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at Quicken Loans Arena. The Cavs beat the Pistons 106-101. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
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May 8, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Hawks center Al Horford (15) reacts with guard Dennis Schroder (17) after making a three point basket against the Cleveland Cavaliers during the second half in game four of the second round of the NBA Playoffs at Philips Arena. The Cavaliers defeated the Hawks 100-99. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
May 8, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Hawks center Al Horford (15) reacts with guard Dennis Schroder (17) after making a three point basket against the Cleveland Cavaliers during the second half in game four of the second round of the NBA Playoffs at Philips Arena. The Cavaliers defeated the Hawks 100-99. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

6. Al Horford, Atlanta Hawks (Unrestricted)

One of the most interesting things about this free agent class coming into the 2016 offseason is the plethora of high quality big men that will be available for teams to try and sign. However, one of the most high impact veterans that will be on the open market this offseason that is also underrated in terms of what he can do for a team on both ends of the floor is Atlanta Hawks center Al Horford.

Despite the transition from one era to another with the Hawks in recent years, Horford has continued to remain successful as an individual and as a leader in Atlanta. On the offensive end of the floor, he’s a versatile player that can score in the pick-and-roll, with his back to the basket, and can step out into the mid-range and knock down short jumpers. Defensively, he’s a fantastic team defender capable of really anchoring a defense on the interior.

Given the Lakers need for a center this offseason, LA should definitely have Horford in mind when they go shopping on the open market. If they didn’t, at the very least, offer Horford a max contract, I would be shocked.

Next: No. 5 Whiteside

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