Los Angeles Lakers: 4 restricted free agents team could target in 2018

Jabari Parker, PF, Milwaukee Bucks

At this moment, Jabari Parker is a huge unknown. He’s coming off his second ACL tear since entering the league, leaving significant doubts about his ability to stay healthy. Despite that, the potential he possesses is hard to ignore.

The former No. 2 overall selection has flashed the elite physical skills that made him such a hot commodity on draft day. Unfortunately, his inability to stay healthy has kept him from emerging as the star he’s capable of being. Still, the Milwaukee Bucks will have a difficult time letting him walk via free agency in 2018.

The problem is that he’s seeking a max contract (via Gery Woelfel). It’s not going to be easy for the Bucks to dish out that type of dough for a player with serious knee issues. The Lakers, however, should have the cap space to meet his demands if they only land one superstar next offseason.

Would it be a risky move? Absolutely. Parker can be a dynamic talent, but multiple ACL tears is a bad sign for a player’s long-term outlook. In the end, it could come down to how he plays this season when he is finally ready. Can he show enough to convince teams he’s worth the max contract he apparently desires?

If he goes off upon his return, I believe the Lakers have to at least consider making him an offer. Parker is a rising star when his knees are intact. Adding him to a lineup that potentially includes players like James/George, Lonzo Ball and Brandon Ingram would be a wise investment.