NBA Free Agency 2020: 5 offseason targets for the Los Angeles Lakers

4. Tristan Thompson

Tristan Thompson, a fellow Klutch Sports client, got used to getting PAID on the same team as LeBron James. He’d have to settle for a lot less than the $18.5 million he made last season in the final year of his contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers, but if he were willing to do so, the Lakers could use his rebounding and defense on the interior.

While no one really paid much attention to the Cavs last year, Thompson continued to be a double-double machine, averaging 12.0 points, 10.2 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game. Dwight Howard’s future in LA is uncertain, and having another big capable of playing the 5 so Anthony Davis can stay in his preferred spot at the 4 wouldn’t hurt.

Thompson would have to take a discount to the $9.3 million Mid-Level Exception, but the prospect of playing on a championship contender again after spending years in irrelevance might make it worth it. If the Lakers decide they could use some extra frontcourt help, this is one avenue they could pursue.