The Los Angeles Lakers are one of the teams to watch this summer, but not because they are pursuing a star. Instead, they are trying to build around two stars of their own, Luka Dončić and LeBron James.
Unfortunately for them, they have few trade assets and will be limited in their ability to sign free agents. That will make it harder for them to solve their biggest problem, which is their lack of a starting center. Luckily, a clear free agent target has emerged: Clint Capela. Capela isn't expected to return to the Atlanta Hawks next season and would be a terrific option.
The Lakers won't have access to the full mid-level exception (MLE) due to LeBron James being unlikely to take a pay cut. Fortunately, they will still have the taxpayer mid-level exception.
The difference between the two is massive, with the standard MLE being worth $14.1 million while the taxpayer MLE is worth $5.6 million. Luckily, Capela could be had for the taxpayer MLE. If that is indeed the case, then that could be big.
The Lakers must sign Clint Capela this summer
Getting Capela for the taxpayer MLE would be a solid signing considering his experience and talent level. They would likely still need another center or even two, but it would be a good start. Capela may not be quite the player he was with the Houston Rockets, but he is still a great rebounder, lob threat, and solid rim protector.
He would go a long way toward helping the Lakers solve their biggest problem at center, which became a problem when they traded Anthony Davis for Doncic. They could also round out the rotation by targeting other value big men, such as Bismack Biyombo, who played well for the San Antonio Spurs this season.
He likely could be had for the minimum, and despite his offensive shortcomings, he is a strong offensive rebounder, screen setter, and roll man. If the Lakers can land Capela and round out their center rotation with cheap contributors, then they could drastically improve their weakest position for the cost of the taxpayer MLE and minimum contracts.
All in all, the Lakers potentially being able to sign Capela for the taxpayer MLE would be a nice surprise. With them being limited in terms of potential trades and free agent signings, signing him to a smaller deal would be a solid move that could help them next season.