5 Dream Targets For Los Angeles Lakers In 2017 NBA Free Agency

Nerlens Noel, C, Dallas Mavericks

Despite the additions of Timofey Mozgov and Ivica Zubac, the Lakers still have a need a center. Neither seems to be the long-term answer, meaning another starting-caliber talent should be added if Los Angeles plans on regaining its contender status.

Unfortunately, the 2017 free agency class isn’t exactly loaded with star centers. In fact, the best options are Greg Monroe and Nerlens Noel. Even then, Monroe is coming off a rough patch in Milwaukee and Noel is very likely to be re-signed by the Dallas Mavericks.

Los Angeles Lakers

In this “dream” scenario, let’s say the latter makes it to the open market.

Even in that instance, I’m not sure the Lakers would want to spend major bucks to sign Noel. They’ve already got way too much invested in Mozgov–he’s still got three more years and another $48 million on his current deal.

Unless they find someone willing to take on that contract (unlikely), I don’t see the Lakers adding another high-price center to the mix.

Still, if a deal ended up working from a financial standpoint, I don’t see why the Lakers would pass on Noel. He’s a young, high-upside prospect who has flashed serious star power at times.

If he can get healthy and stay there, the Kentucky product will be one of the NBA’s best big men in the near future.