Los Angeles Lakers: 3 free-agent forwards who fit better than Kyle Kuzma

1. Kelly Olynyk

Kelly Olynyk is someone who the Los Angeles Lakers could conceivably sign with the mid-level exception this offseason. The MLE is projected to be worth around $10.2 million for the 2021-22 season with subsequent raises each year thereafter.

That is right around where Olynyk is valued as a free agent and he would undoubtedly be a better fit than Kyle Kuzma. He is a much different option, as he is someone who can play the five as well, which is something that Kuzma simply cannot do.

That is good for the Lakers, though. The center position is up in the air for the Lakers moving forward and having someone who can play the five while also being able to stretch the floor is ideal for the team.

Realistically, that option should be Anthony Davis, but for whatever reason AD does not want to play much five.

Olynyk balled out after being traded to Houston last season but it was also a terrible team that presented him a chance to increase his value. Teams in free agency will be looking at his overall numbers, which are still solid.

Olynyk averaged 13.5 points, 7.0 rebounds and 2.9 assists per game. His 34.2% three-point shot was not great by any means but was still more efficient than Kuzma’s career mark and under Olynyk’s career average. Olynyk is a career 36.2% shooter from three and shot 40.2% from beyond the arc the previous season.

He is a much better three-point shooter than Kuzma, is a better rebounder, can log minutes at the five and is a much better defender. He checks all of the boxes, and really, it is not close.