The Lakers can target one of the 15 best mid-level free agents in the 2024 offseason.
The Los Angeles Lakers have a very busy summer coming up as they look to surround superstars LeBron James and Anthony Davis with the right pieces to contend. We still don’t know if James will re-sign with the Lakers since he rejected his player option, but assuming he does, the team needs to make the right moves.
The Lakers will look towards mid-level exceptions to create the best roster, as the budget is known for 2024-25. The mid-level exception for non-tax-payers is $12,951,000 while those over the luxury tax can use a $5,220,000 exception. The Lakers will maneuver accordingly, using their $5.2 million exception to acquire one of the 15 best mid-level free agents this summer.
1. De’Anthony Melton
Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
2023-24 Season Statistics: 11.1 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 3.0 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Contract Status: Free Agent
De’Anthony Melton’s versatility makes him a prime mid-level free-agent target for the Lakers. His 2023-24 season stats of 11.1 points and 1.6 steals per game underscore his value as a two-way guard. Known for his defensive prowess, Melton can guard multiple positions, providing a much-needed boost to the Lakers’ perimeter defense.
His ability to contribute offensively without dominating the ball fits well alongside stars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis, making him an ideal addition for a title-contending team looking for depth and defensive tenacity. Melton had a major impact off the bench for the 76ers in the past two seasons and can do the same behind D’Angelo Russell and Austin Reaves.
2. Kelly Oubre Jr.
Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
2023-24 Season Statistics: 15.4 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 1.5 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.7 BPG
Contract Status: Free Agent
Kelly Oubre Jr. is an intriguing option for the Lakers, bringing energy and scoring off the bench. Averaging 15.4 points and 5.0 rebounds per game in the 2023-24 season, Oubre offers a dynamic scoring punch and athleticism on the wing.
His defensive capabilities, paired with his ability to slash to the basket and hit perimeter shots, make him a versatile asset. Oubre’s penchant for high-energy plays could invigorate the Lakers’ second unit and provide a reliable scoring option when LeBron or Davis are resting. Oubre Jr. had a comeback season with the 76ers this year and could look toward a major market to test his skills.
3. Gary Trent Jr.
Credit: Michael McLoone-USA TODAY Sports
2023-24 Season Statistics: 13.7 PPG, 2.6 RPG, 1.7 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.1 BPG
Contract Status: Free Agent
Gary Trent Jr. could significantly bolster the Lakers’ shooting capabilities. With a 2023-24 stat line of 13.7 points per game and a knack for three-point shooting (39.3%), Trent adds a much-needed perimeter threat to the Lakers’ roster. The Lakers only ranked 25th in threes made so Trent Jr. could be an immediate fix for that.
His defensive skills, highlighted by 1.1 steals per game, complement his offensive game, making him a well-rounded addition. Trent’s ability to space the floor and create his own shot would relieve some offensive pressure from the Lakers’ stars and provide a consistent scoring option.
4. Jonas Valanciunas
Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
2023-24 Season Statistics: 12.2 PPG, 8.8 RPG, 2.1 APG, 0.4 SPG, 0.8 BPG
Contract Status: Free Agent
Jonas Valanciunas brings a strong interior presence, averaging 12.2 points and 8.8 rebounds per game in the 2023-24 season. His experience and rebounding prowess would be invaluable for the Lakers, providing a solid backup or even a complementary frontcourt partner to Anthony Davis.
Valanciunas’ ability to score in the post and protect the rim makes him a key asset in maintaining the Lakers’ dominance inside the paint. The center is 32 years old so he has a few more seasons as a capable interior presence, and the Lakers could use the same strategy from 2019-20 when they won the NBA title by having size on the roster.
5. Tyus Jones
Credit: Daniel Dunn-USA TODAY Sports
2023-24 Season Statistics: 12.0 PPG, 2.7 RPG, 7.3 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.3 BPG
Contract Status: Free Agent
Tyus Jones offers stability and playmaking as a reliable backup point guard. With 2023-24 averages of 12.0 points and 7.3 assists per game, Jones is an efficient floor general who minimizes turnovers and maximizes offensive flow.
His ability to run the second unit and provide leadership would be essential for the Lakers, especially when giving LeBron James rest. Jones’ high basketball IQ and defensive capabilities make him a smart addition to the roster. Even if the Lakers leverage D’Angelo Russell in a trade, Tyus Jones might welcome a mid-level exception to be the Lakers’ starting point guard.
6. Lonnie Walker IV
Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
2023-24 Season Statistics: 9.7 PPG, 2.2 RPG, 1.3 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.3 BPG
Contract Status: Free Agent
Lakers fans certainly remember how good Lonnie Walker IV was for them. The shooting guard and swingman averaged 11.7 points per game last season on 38.4% shooting from three. Walker IV even started 32 games for the Lakers throughout the season.
Looking to next season, the Lakers might want the 25-year-old back. He is an above-average defender and shot over 38% from three again this season, so on a mid-level exception, he can shore up the bench or perhaps start games as Austin Reaves becomes a full-time sixth man for a stronger impact whenever LeBron James rests.
7. Sam Hauser
Credit: Rob Ferguson-USA TODAY Sports
2023-24 Season Statistics: 9.0 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 1.0 APG, 0.5 SPG, 0.3 BPG
Contract Status: Free Agent ($2,092,344 Team Option)
Sam Hauser had a breakout season in terms of floor-spacing for the championship Celtics as he posted 9.0 points per game on 42.4% from deep. The shooter was adept at coming off screens and proved to be a useful member of the bench. Even if his playoff numbers are down, 4.4 points per game, the Lakers could use him.
The Celtics might be smart to bring Hauser back by accepting his team option but if the Lakers come knocking with a $5.2M mid-level exception, perhaps the player can negotiate goodwill with the Celtics to play in another big market and have a bigger role with better pay.
8. Derrick Jones Jr.
Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
2023-24 Season Statistics: 8.6 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 1.0 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.7 BPG
Contract Status: Free Agent
Derrick Jones Jr. brings athleticism and defensive prowess to the Lakers. Averaging 8.6 points and 3.3 rebounds per game in the 2023-24 season, Jones is known for his highlight-reel dunks and shot-blocking ability.
His versatility on defense allows him to guard both wings and forwards, providing the Lakers with a dynamic defensive option. Jones’s energy and ability to finish around the rim would add depth and excitement to the Lakers’ rotation. Jones Jr. has been an excellent performer for the Mavericks in the playoffs so far (10.1 PPG, 3.8 RPG) so the Lakers could give him a shot to play in arguably the NBA’s biggest market.
9. Kyle Lowry
Credit: Kyle Ross-USA TODAY Sports
2023-24 Season Statistics: 8.1 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 4.2 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Contract Status: Free Agent
Kyle Lowry’s veteran leadership and playmaking would be a significant asset for the Lakers. Despite a decline in scoring, averaging 8.1 points and 4.2 assists per game in the 2023-24 season, Lowry’s experience and basketball IQ are invaluable. Even at 38 years old, Lowry can always make threes (39.2%) which improves the Lakers’ floor spacing on the court which is what the team sorely needs.
His ability to control the tempo, make smart decisions, and hit timely shots would provide a steadying presence in crucial moments. Lowry’s championship pedigree and defensive toughness align perfectly with the Lakers’ championship aspirations.
10. Isaiah Joe
Credit: Scott Kinser-USA TODAY Sports
2023-24 Season Statistics: 8.2 PPG, 2.3 RPG, 1.3 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.3 BPG
Contract Status: Free Agent ($2,164,993 Team Option)
Isaiah Joe is a young sharpshooter who can spread the floor for the Lakers. With 2023-24 averages of 8.2 points and a respectable shooting percentage (41.6% 3-PT FG), Joe adds a much-needed three-point threat. The 24-year-old marksman has improved his game every season and the Lakers could steal him from the up-and-coming Oklahoma City Thunder this summer.
His ability to come off screens and hit open shots would create more spacing for LeBron James and Anthony Davis to operate. Joe’s potential as a reliable bench scorer makes him a valuable mid-level target for the Lakers and he might even start games throughout the regular season as he fits alongside the stars. The key is if the Thunder do not exercise the $2.16M team option which could make the guard earn a little bit more money in a bigger market.
11. Andre Drummond
Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports
2023-24 Season Statistics: 8.4 PPG, 9.0 RPG, 0.5 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.6 BPG
Contract Status: Free Agent
Andre Drummond offers elite rebounding and interior defense, averaging 8.4 points and 9.0 rebounds per game in the 2023-24 season. His presence in the paint would provide the Lakers with a formidable defensive anchor and a relentless rebounder. Even if Drummond’s game does not translate to the modern NBA anymore, a player who can average double-digit rebounds will always be a factor.
Drummond’s ability to control the boards and protect the rim would be crucial for the Lakers, especially in matchups against dominant big men in the playoffs. The center posted 9.0 rebounds per game in 17.1 minutes per game which is an incredible return, and the Lakers can use Drummond to make them more formidable inside.
12. Royce O’Neale
Credit: Rick Scuteri-USA TODAY Sports
2023-24 Season Statistics: 7.7 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 2.8 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.6 BPG
Contract Status: Free Agent
Royce O’Neale’s defensive versatility and three-point shooting make him an ideal fit for the Lakers. Averaging 7.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game in the 2023-24 season, O’Neale is known for his ability to guard multiple positions and hit timely three-pointers.
His experience and defensive acumen would strengthen the Lakers’ perimeter defense and provide a reliable 3-and-D option. O’Neale has been on title-contending rosters such as the Utah Jazz, Brooklyn Nets, and Phoenix Suns so he could be an impact player for the Lakers who could use perimeter defense and floor spacing.
13. Kyle Anderson
Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports
2023-24 Season Statistics: 6.4 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 4.2 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.6 BPG
Contract Status: Free Agent
Kyle Anderson’s unique skill set as a point forward could be valuable for the Lakers. With 2023-24 averages of 6.4 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game, Anderson offers playmaking, size, and defensive versatility. His ability to initiate the offense and guard multiple positions would add depth and flexibility to the Lakers’ lineup.
Anderson’s high basketball IQ and unselfish play would complement the Lakers’ star-studded roster. As we have seen in the Minnesota Timberwolves’ run in the playoffs, Anderson is capable of bringing the ball up the court and making winning plays even if his numbers don’t jump out of the page.
14. Nicolas Batum
Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
2023-24 Season Statistics: 5.3 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 2.1 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.6 BPG
Contract Status: Free Agent
Nicolas Batum brings veteran experience and defensive versatility to the Lakers. Despite averaging 5.3 points and 4.1 rebounds per game in the 2023-24 season, Batum is known for his ability to do the little things that contribute to winning. His defensive intelligence, three-point shooting, and ability to play multiple positions make him a valuable addition to the Lakers’ bench.
Batum’s experience and leadership would be beneficial in high-pressure playoff situations. At 35 years old, the swingman has been through it all with multiple teams including with the French national team, so he can easily slot into the Lakers’ lineup as he has done with the Clippers in recent seasons.
15. Robert Covington
Credit: Jordan Godfree-USA TODAY Sports
2023-24 Season Statistics: 4.4 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 0.8 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.6 BPG
Contract Status: Free Agent
Robert Covington’s defensive prowess and three-point shooting make him a valuable mid-level target for the Lakers. Averaging 4.4 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.3 steals per game in the 2023-24 season, Covington is known for his ability to guard multiple positions and hit open shots.
His defensive intensity and experience as a 3-and-D player would bolster the Lakers’ defense and provide a reliable option from beyond the arc. The forward only played 29 games this season due to injury, but he shot 39.7% from deep last year and could have similar percentages playing alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis.