3 Surprisingly available free agents who can fill final Lakers roster spot
The Los Angeles Lakers have made the surprising decision to enter August with a roster spot open. It's a potentially strategic decision, with trades and a change of contract structure for two-way players playing a factor in the delay in filling the vacancy.
As the Lakers look for ways to improve heading into the 2024-25 season, however, one can't help but look to free agency and its remaining options.
The stars may be off the market, but quality role players are still available for Los Angeles to consider. It's an intriguing reality considering the Lakers are searching for ways to bolster a rotation that lacked ideal depth a season ago.
In 2023-24, the Lakers' second unit ranked No. 19 in net rating and No. 28 in points per game—figures upon which the team must improve.
Trades and two-way contracts are the most likely path forward, especially after a strong Summer League showing from Colin Castleton. In the event that the Lakers decide to change course, however, intriguing talent will be available.
That includes the arguable best available player, whose untapped potential and 3-and-D capabilities are nothing short of enticing.
Isaac Okoro, Restricted Free Agent
It's a safe bet that Isaac Okoro and the Cleveland Cavaliers are waiting each other out in hopes of winning this battle for leverage. Okoro being a restricted free agent only strengthens that belief, as Cleveland reserves the right to match any offer he receives.
If the Lakers are interested in rounding out the perimeter with a 3-and-D wing who has untapped potential, however, then Okoro would be well worth their time.
Okoro, 23, is coming off of the best shooting season of his four-year NBA career. He averaged 9.4 points, 3.0 rebounds, 1.0 offensive board, 1.9 assists, and 0.8 steals in 27.4 minutes per game, converting a career-best 39.1 percent of his three-point field goal attempts.
Okoro has improved his three-point field goal percentage in each of his NBA seasons. He also converted a career-high 84 three-point field goal attempts during the 2023-24 campaign.
A 6'5" and 225-pound wing with a willingness to defend, Okoro looks the part of an up-and-coming 3-and-D specialist. He's improved his jump shot year over year, is physically an impressive player, and has experience in an off-ball role.
If the Lakers are looking to invest in a youth movement, then kicking the tires on a potential Okoro signing would certainly be in the spirit of that approach.