Julius Randle, PF, Los Angeles Lakers
Surprisingly, there aren’t a ton of top-tier power forwards set to be free agents this offseason, and while Anderson is a wonderful part of the Rockets’ starting lineup (sarcasm), they could afford to make an upgrade in the frontcourt.
One of the more intriguing names that could be available during 2018 NBA free agency is Julius Randle. The Los Angeles Lakers’ former No. 7 overall pick is enjoying a breakout year of sorts, emerging as a high-energy forward capable of making an impact on both ends of the court.
What I like about Randle is that he’d come at a discount, at least compared to the other guys on this list. While money isn’t an issue with these hypothetical targets, it doesn’t hurt for the Rockets to set their sights on a player who won’t command a max contract. That’s exactly what Randle is, although that doesn’t mean Houston wouldn’t be getting a terrific talent.
The best part is that, at 23 years of age, Randle still has plenty more room to grow. There’s more potential waiting to be tapped within the Kentucky product, especially if he can continue to evolve as a scoring threat.
Imagine what a frontcourt of Randle and Capela would look like. Two of the NBA’s most tenacious big men roaming the paint would cause headaches for any offense — even the Golden State Warriors.