Los Angeles Lakers: Predicting 3 players who won’t be around in 2018

Jordan Clarkson, PG

In my opinion, one of Jordan Clarkson or Randle is going to need to go between now and the 2018 offseason. Clarkson is taking up too much cap space for a slightly above-average backup guard, and Randle is going to cost a pretty penny to keep as a restricted free agent.

If I had to guess, I’d say the Lakers stick with Randle. He fills a larger need for now and the future, as Los Angeles boasts more guard talent overall. Between Lonzo Ball and Josh Hart, they can keep the backcourt running smoothly. Losing Randle, however, may cause some problems — especially if Nance is traded as well.

My only concern here is that other teams may not be willing to acquire Clarkson and his $12.5 million annually over the next three seasons. It’s a hefty price to pay for a backup guard, although someone desperate enough for backcourt help could view him as a starter.

So in theory, Clarkson could actually be dealt as an asset rather than a salary dump. In that situation, it helps the Lakers by opening up cap space in 2018 while also potentially bringing them significant returns. I wouldn’t necessarily hold my breath with that idea, but it’s not out of the realm of possibility.

Clarkson has been a pleasant surprise for the Lakers. The former second round pick quickly caught on as a capable playmaker, and has made his presence felt. Unfortunately, Jim Buss and Mitch Kupchak may have sealed his fate by overpaying for him during their disastrous 2016 spending spree.