Los Angeles Lakers: Top free agent targets not named LeBron James, Paul George

Jabari Parker, SF, Milwaukee Bucks

If you’re looking for a high-risk, high-reward player to give a max contract to this offseason, look no further than Jabari Parker. He’s a restricted free agent, so that may be the only way to pry him away from the Milwaukee Bucks. As we know, though, the Lakers have the cap space to get it done.

So why would they want to do that? Well, Parker is a former No. 2 overall pick who has flashed elite talent at times during his four seasons in the league. Unfortunately, two ACL tears have stunted his growth, keeping him off the court and on the injury report all too often. However, since his return a couple of months ago, Parker has been excellent for the Bucks.

Through 18 appearances, he’s managed 11.3 points, 4.1 rebounds and 1.4 assists per game while compiling a career-high 57.8 true shooting percentage. Those may not seem like overwhelmingly impressive stats, but we also have to consider he’s been on a minutes limit. His per 36 minutes numbers (19.4 points, 6.9 rebounds, 2.5 assists) are much more remarkable.

Nonetheless, the potential is still there with Parker. He’s got the talent to be a top-tier forward if he can get healthy and stay there. We’ve seen good progress this season, which could be enough to warrant a gamble.

If the Bucks aren’t interested in dishing out max money to keep Parker, the Lakers could swoop in and insert another elite young talent into their starting lineup.