5 free agents in the playoffs the Lakers could target

December 12, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Clippers forward Blake Griffin (32) controls the ball against the Portland Trail Blazers during the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
December 12, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Clippers forward Blake Griffin (32) controls the ball against the Portland Trail Blazers during the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
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Mar 11, 2017; Memphis, TN, USA; Atlanta Hawks guard Tim Hardaway Jr (10) dunks the ball in the second half against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum. Atlanta defeated Memphis 107-90. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 11, 2017; Memphis, TN, USA; Atlanta Hawks guard Tim Hardaway Jr (10) dunks the ball in the second half against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum. Atlanta defeated Memphis 107-90. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports

4. Tim Hardaway Jr. (restricted)

Hardaway is a young shooting guard in the midst of the best season in his career. He only averages 11.9 points a game, but he had some big moments late in the regular season that included an inspiring performance against the Cleveland Cavaliers where he scored 15 of his 22 points in the fourth quarter to lead the Hawks to victory.

There are many rumors that the Lakers may deal Jordan Clarkson, but whether or not that happens Hardaway can step in as a starting shooting guard for L.A. while Clarkson remains the sixth man he was for most of the 2016 season. Hardaway’s play this year will definitely earn him a bigger contract, however, much like Nenê, he’ll still come at a reasonable price for a team with cap issues like the Lakers.

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