4. Los Angeles Lakers
*Deep sigh*
The Lakers are a mess and might not fully understand basic financial principles in the NBA, but they’re a threat. A real threat. There’s something to be said for the Lakers’ brand and, whether it’s fair or not, LeBron James and Anthony Davis now inhabit the roster. That’s two top-10 players.
If Butler is dead-set on L.A., but the Lakers are probably the more realistic option. If appears as though the Lakers are willing to shed all young contracts in favor of clearing space, which could then be used for Butler. If Jimmy commits, count on the Lakers doing everything to clear the space.
The same might apply to Tobias Harris, who’s bound to have multiple suitors. If the Lakers strike out on Kyrie Irving, Kemba Walker and D’Angelo Russell, it’s not impossible to envision Harris sneaking into the conversation. He’d be a pretty clean fit next to LeBron and AD.
Expect J.J. Redick to pop up on the Lakers’ radar as well. If L.A. doesn’t use its remaining cap space on a third max free agent, the next priority will be adding role players who complement the LeBron-AD duo. Redick is a master off-ball mover and one of the NBA’s best shooters. He checks that box.
The Lakers, while not an immediate threat, could feasibly target all three of the Sixers’ major free agents. Keep an eye on L.A.