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

Dwyane Wade, SG, Chicago Bulls (Player Option)

Could you imagine Dwyane Wade bringing his talents to the West Coast to play for the Lakers? I could, but that doesn’t mean it would be a good move for this Los Angeles franchise currently stuck in a state of mediocrity.

There are some obvious concerns with a hypothetical deal between the Lakers and Wade. The most obvious is the dynamic scorer’s age, which currently sits a 35 years. D-Wade is no spring chicken, and is only going to continue slowing as the years go by. Chances are he’s looking to sign with a contender if he leaves Chicago, and the Lakers don’t fit the bill.

The other big issue is the money side of things. Wade is going to want big money wherever he chooses to take his talents. While I’m sure the Lakers could find the cap space if they really wanted to, is it worth it for an aging star? I would lean towards “no” being the answer to that question.

It’s fun picturing players like Wade wearing the Purple and Gold. However, if we’re being level-headed, a potential relationship between the two parties makes little sense. A Wade signing won’t be enough to fix this franchise, and it certainly isn’t going to make getting George under contract in 2018 any easier.

I’m all for adding a superstar to this Lakers roster, but signing Wade isn’t the answer.