5 free agents in the playoffs the Lakers could target

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April 18, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Utah Jazz forward Gordon Hayward (20) controls the ball against the Los Angeles Clippers during the first half in game two of the first round of the 2017 NBA Playoffs at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Gordon Hayward (player option)

Hayward is another player in the playoffs having a career year. This season Hayward saw his first all-star bid averaging 22 points and 5.7 RPG. He is versatile forward but he could also work as a guard in L.A. More importantly, he is one of the best young players in the league right now and he’s in his prime. Signing Hayward may be doable if the Lakers see a real fit for him and are willing to pay the price.

Postseason or not, Hayward is likely to sign elsewhere if the Jazz don’t offer him enough. Plenty of teams with cap space should be after him, so if L.A. wants a shot at the All-Star, they have to be prepared to spend.

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