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2017 NBA free agency: 3 big names Los Angeles Lakers could still sign

By Gil Alcaraz IV

PHOENIX, AZ - DECEMBER 13: Derrick Rose #25 of the New York Knicks during the first half of the NBA game against the Phoenix Suns at Talking Stick Resort Arena on December 13, 2016 in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
PHOENIX, AZ - DECEMBER 13: Derrick Rose #25 of the New York Knicks during the first half of the NBA game against the Phoenix Suns at Talking Stick Resort Arena on December 13, 2016 in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /
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Los Angeles Lakers
BOSTON, MA – NOVEMBER 2: Rajon Rondo #9 of the Chicago Bulls dribbles against the Boston Celtics at TD Garden on November 2, 2016 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /

Rajon Rondo, PG

At the start of free agency, it became clear the Lakers were looking to add a veteran point guard to add some experience to the backcourt and mentor for Lonzo Ball. They obviously whiffed on Hill, but appear to still be in the race for Rajon Rondo.

Yes, that’s where the point guard market is at right now. All of the reliable options have already been scooped up, leaving Rondo as one of the best players available. As depressing as that may sound, he wouldn’t be the worst option for the Lakers.

Although Rondo is a mercurial talent who comes with some character red flags, he’s a capable veteran presence for any backcourt. He’d provide Los Angeles with an experienced backup point guard who can support Ball as he makes this transition. Furthermore, he’d give the Lakers a decent boost in the shooting department — he shot 40.8 percent from the field in 2016-17 (37.6 percent from three).

Is he the home run the Lakers faithful would love to see? Not at all. And yet, he’s at the point in his career where a one-year deal isn’t out of the question. Considering Magic’s financial strategy, signing Rondo to a one-year contract makes plenty of sense.

As the market continues to thin, Rondo will become a hotter commodity. With the Lakers’ need at point guard and the two parties’ reported mutual interest, I wouldn’t be surprised if this one came to fruition.

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