Los Angeles Lakers: 5 Biggest needs for the 2018 offseason

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Los Angeles Lakers win in overtime puts Spurs in danger of missing the playoffs

LOS ANGELES, CA – APRIL 4: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope #1 of the Los Angeles Lakers handles the ball against the San Antonio Spurs on April 4, 2018 at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE via Getty Images) /

2. Shooting Guard

Josh Hart came on strong as the season progressed and he could be ready to move into the starting lineup. But, he also has excellent value as a reserve coming off the bench to play major minutes.

The #1 player the Lakers could sign to start opposite Ball in the backcourt is prospective free agent Paul George, who has a player option to return to Oklahoma City. Competition to sign him will also come from several other teams, most notably Houston and Philadelphia. Recruiting George to the Lakers will test Magic Johnson’s closing abilities as a basketball executive. If successful, PG will fit quite nicely into the Lakers lineup.

If George opts to go elsewhere, the team still has other options, including re-signing one of their own free agents, either Kentavious Caldwell-Pope or Isaiah Thomas.

KCP quietly had a very good year for the Lakers. He’s now seeking a longer contract for more money than the Lakers are probably ready to offer. However, it’s always possible that no team steps up, and he’d be willing to return on a one-year deal.

IT is coming off a down year due to injury. As a result, he also may not get a contract close to what he wants, so it’s conceivable he’d agree to stay with the Lakers next season. His defense is troublesome, and his willingness to take a supporting role is uncertain, but if his hip has sufficiently healed, his offensive skills are among the best in the league.

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