Los Angeles Lakers: 5 free agents to sign on a veteran’s minimum deal

MIAMI, FL - MAY 29: Andre Iguodala #28 of the Miami Heat celebrates after hitting a three point shot against the Milwaukee Bucks Game Four of the Eastern Conference first-round playoff series at American Airlines Arena on May 29, 2021 in Miami, Florida. (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.(Photo by Eric Espada/Getty Images)
MIAMI, FL - MAY 29: Andre Iguodala #28 of the Miami Heat celebrates after hitting a three point shot against the Milwaukee Bucks Game Four of the Eastern Conference first-round playoff series at American Airlines Arena on May 29, 2021 in Miami, Florida. (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.(Photo by Eric Espada/Getty Images)
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(Photo by C. Morgan Engel/Getty Images) – Los Angeles Lakers
(Photo by C. Morgan Engel/Getty Images) – Los Angeles Lakers

5. Paul Millsap

The final veteran free agent that the Los Angeles Lakers could offer a minimum contract to is four-time all-star, Paul Millsap. Millsap is a bit redundant with this roster considering the position he plays and the skillset he brings to the table but there is a path for him to be a Laker.

Most notably, it makes sense to bring in Millsap if the Los Angeles Lakers do indeed trade Kyle Kuzma. A Kuzma trade seems more likely now than ever and if Kuzma is traded then the team will need some help filling in his minutes at the power forward position.

There is also the potential for Millsap to essentially replace Markieff Morris in the rotation as Millsap could even play some small five for the Lakers as well. While he is not a great three-point shooter, he can shoot the ball and could profile nicely into a small-ball five in this lineup.

Regardless, Millsap has a little bit more left in the tank than some of these other players. He still is not worth more than a minimum deal but from a pure numbers standpoint, he still contributed decently last season. Millsap averaged 9.0 points, 4.7 rebounds and 1.8 assists in 20.8 minutes per game.

Millsap is simply an average player on both ends of the floor, which is completely fine. There is nothing wrong with having a veteran who does not excel in one thing but can give serviceable minutes on either side. He won’t leave you saying wow, but he won’t leave you shaking your head.