5 big-name free agents Los Angeles Lakers must avoid in 2017

While the Los Angeles Lakers will be looking to make a splash during 2017 NBA Free Agency, they’d be wise to avoid these big names when the market opens.

It’s undoubtedly going to be an interesting offseason for the Los Angeles Lakers. With Magic Johnson and Rob Pelinka now steering this team in a new direction, it’s anyone’s guess what the future could hold for one of the NBA’s most storied franchises.

While the 2017 NBA Draft (and more specifically, the lottery) will play a huge role in this team’s progress, the bigger piece of the story could unfold during 2017 NBA Free Agency. At that point, the Lakers will be charged with finding capable contributors without overspending like they did last offseason.

Not only does Los Angeles lack the means to go on a spending spree, but they need to avoid handing out overpriced contracts that restrict their financial flexibility further down the road. Making smart investments will be of the utmost importance, especially with a couple of big names on their 2018 radar,

That’s why the Lakers need to avoid a few of the big-name free agents who could be available this offseason.

Related Story: Bargain Free Agents Lakers Should Target

So who are these big names to steer clear of? Let’s take a look at five who don’t belong with the Lakers unless they’re willing to sign cheap deals to join one of the NBA’s worst teams, which we all know isn’t going to happen.