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

Gordon Hayward, SF, Utah Jazz

Gordon Hayward tends to get overlooked by the average NBA fan, but there’s no denying he’s a superstar. Maybe it’s because he plays for the Jazz? Either way, you better believe he’ll have plenty of potential suitors if he becomes a free agent this offseason.

Hayward has a player option in 2017-18, but Utah is sure to do just about everything in its power to retain him. Even in a lineup that includes Derrick Favors and Rudy Gobert, Hayward is the clear-cut star of the show.

Letting him walk without at least getting something in return would be a critical blow for the Jazz.

Hypothetically, though, let’s say Hayward hits the open market. He wants to test the waters, and see what other teams are willing to hand him a max contract. That’s where an opportunity could arise for the Lakers to jump in and coax him into becoming the new face of the franchise.

That is, unless they’re set on signing Paul George in 2018.

This move might impact the outlook of Brandon Ingram, but I’m sure the Lakers could make it work. Getting Hayward would immediately upgrade their roster in about all aspects, especially with how versatile of an asset the 26-year-old wing is.

Getting rid of Luol Deng‘s overpriced contract would also likely be a prerequisite.