Philadelphia 76ers: 5 dream targets during 2018 NBA free agency

4. Julius Randle, PF, Los Angeles Lakers (Restricted)

The 76ers are about to watch a number of big men head for the free agency. Both Ersan Ilyasova and Amir Johnson‘s contracts are set to expire, which will leave the Philadelphia frontcourt rather thin in the depth department.

As I can safely assert, that’s unacceptable considering how fragile Joel Embiid is.

The 76ers need a dominant paint presence outside of Embiid who can do work at either the 4 or 5-spot. While Dario Saric is plenty capable, I like the idea of having three big men, which gives the coaching staff different lineup options based on what they’re seeing from the opposition. Julius Randle fits the bill perfectly.

Heck, Randle could push Saric for a starting job. He may not offer as much efficiency from further out, but he’s a defensive menace, well-rounded offensive weapon and brings a ton of energy to the floor. Not that the 76ers necessarily need another spark plug, but would adding an extra one really be the worst idea?

It’s unclear what the future may hold for Randle. The Los Angeles Lakers may try to re-sign him, or they could renounce his rights in an effort to sign two max contract players. I don’t think he’s a max contract player himself, but will receive plenty of interest as a restricted free agent. If the 76ers agree, maybe they sign him to an offer sheet and hope the Lakers don’t match.