Los Angeles Lakers rumors: 3 free agents team is currently targeting

Dion Waiters, SG

Now let me tell you that this one comes as a huge surprise, at least in my opinion. The Lakers’ plan this offseason was to avoid overspending like they did during 2016 free agency. Signing Dion Waiters would do the exact opposite.

And yet, according to Basketball Insiders‘ Michael Scotto, the Lakers are taking a long look at Waiters.

Adding Waiters would obviously give the Lakers a significant upgrade at shooting guard. He was a revelation for the Miami Heat in 2016-17, enjoying a breakout season of sorts four years after being the No. 4 pick in the 2012 NBA Draft. His 15.8 points, 4.3 assists and 3.3 rebounds per game were massive improvements on his efforts from the previous two seasons.

Here’s my problem: Waiters is going to cost too much and won’t accept a short-term deal. He’s going to want to strike while the iron is hot. And with several potential suitors, someone is going to offer him big money for more than one year. Speculation right now would lead us to assume he’ll be looking for at least $10-$12 million annually.

I’m sure you can guess that those figures won’t work with the Lakers’ plans for next offseason.

Next: Predicting the future for Lakers' 2017 picks

Signing Waiters seems like a pipe dream. And yet, the sudden meeting makes me think the Lakers are serious about making an offer. Let’s hope they don’t make a big mistake and sign him to a contract they won’t be able to rid themselves of when it comes time to sign George and James.