Los Angeles Lakers: 3 big-name free agents team could target in 2018

Paul George, SF, Indiana Pacers

I know this one is obvious, but it’s worth mentioning nonetheless.

Right now, the Magic and the Lakers appear honed in on signing George in 2018. So much so that, the plan for the 2017 offseason is to avoid any unnecessary expenditures and try to unload some of the prohibitive contracts currently on the books.

That’s why George sits atop this list. He’s already centered in the Lakers’ crosshairs, and has made it clear there’s mutual interest in a deal. While there’s no guarantee the two parties with join forces in 2018, the odds appear heavily in favor of George wearing purple and gold two seasons from now.

Here’s the latest from USA Today’s Sam Amick, who provides some insight into George’s plans:

"“…George finds himself more focused on legacy than ever. And whether it’s realistic or not, the 27-year-old who grew up idolizing Bryant in Palmdale, Calif. clearly believes he can lift the Lakers out of the darkness. The question now, it seems, is whether the Lakers will have the necessary patience and prudence on their end to make the most of their situation.”"

There’s still a significant chance the Lakers end up making a deal for George sometime before the 2018 trade deadline. The Pacers don’t want to let him walk without getting something in return. However, as The Vertical’s Adrian Wojnarowski already pointed out, the front office is confident they can sign him in 2018 even if he is traded to a different team.

When the market opens next offseason, the Lakers will have their sights set on George. That is, unless they’ve already traded for him.