Los Angeles Lakers: 5 centers to target in 2018 NBA free agency

3. Brook Lopez

Don’t rule out Brook Lopez returning to Los Angeles.

In his first season with the Lakers, Lopez averaged 13 points and four rebounds per game, while shooting 34 percent from 3-point territory.

Though his numbers aren’t flashy, the 10-year veteran provided leadership for a young Lakers squad. During a recent trip to India Lopez spoke to SLAM, hinting that staying with the team is still a possibility.

"“I think we have an opportunity to do great things. You look at what a team like the Warriors did by keeping their young core together and improving that way. There’s a lot to be said about their continuity. I think we want to have a solid foundation and build on it for a few years, continue to grow that way.”"

Both sides seem to want to stay together, but the market will dictate where Lopez will be playing next season. It’s hard to imagine the Lakers offering more than the mid-level exception, especially since they’ll want to wait and see what James and George decide.

If Lopez wants to stay in Los Angeles, he’ll have to remain patient. Doing so, however, could mean passing on a more lucrative offer elsewhere. It will be interesting to see how things plays out for No. 11.