15 Best Mid-Level Free Agents for the Lakers this offseason.

The Los Angeles Lakers are poised for a critical offseason as they look to bolster their roster around LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

Utilizing the $5.2 million mid-level exception available to them as a luxury tax-paying team, they can target several promising mid-level free agents. Here are some of the best options:

1. De’Anthony Melton
2023-24 Stats: 11.1 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 3.0 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Profile: Versatile two-way guard known for his defensive prowess and ability to guard multiple positions. Melton would significantly enhance the Lakers’ perimeter defense and provide scoring depth.

2. Kelly Oubre Jr.
2023-24 Stats: 15.4 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 1.5 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.7 BPG
Profile: Athletic wing who brings energy, scoring off the bench, and solid defensive capabilities. Oubre could be a key piece in invigorating the Lakers’ second unit.

3. Gary Trent Jr.
2023-24 Stats: 13.7 PPG, 2.6 RPG, 1.7 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.1 BPG
Profile: Sharpshooter with a 39.3% three-point shooting rate, perfect for adding much-needed perimeter scoring and defensive skills.

4. Jonas Valanciunas
2023-24 Stats: 12.2 PPG, 8.8 RPG, 2.1 APG, 0.4 SPG, 0.8 BPG
Profile: Strong interior presence and experienced big man. His rebounding and scoring in the post could complement Anthony Davis effectively.

5. Tyus Jones
2023-24 Stats: 12.0 PPG, 2.7 RPG, 7.3 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.3 BPG
Profile: Reliable backup point guard known for his playmaking and efficiency. Jones would provide stability and leadership off the bench.

6. Lonnie Walker IV
2023-24 Stats: 9.7 PPG, 2.2 RPG, 1.3 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.3 BPG
Profile: Former Laker who has shown promise as a scorer and defender. His familiarity with the team and proven shooting could be valuable.

7. Sam Hauser
2023-24 Stats: 9.0 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 1.0 APG, 0.5 SPG, 0.3 BPG
Profile: Emerging floor-spacer who shot 42.4% from deep. Hauser could provide the Lakers with another reliable shooting option.

8. Derrick Jones Jr.
2023-24 Stats: 8.6 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 1.0 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.7 BPG
Profile: Athletic defender known for his versatility and highlight-reel plays. Jones would add energy and defensive depth.

9. Kyle Lowr
2023-24 Stats: 8.1 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 4.2 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Profile: Veteran guard with championship experience and leadership qualities. Lowry’s shooting and playmaking would be beneficial in clutch moments.

10. Isaiah Joe
2023-24 Stats: 8.2 PPG, 2.3 RPG, 1.3 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.3 BPG
Profile: Young sharpshooter with a 41.6% three-point shooting rate. Joe’s ability to spread the floor could be a key asset.

11. Andre Drummond
2023-24 Stats: 8.4 PPG, 9.0 RPG, 0.5 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.6 BPG
Profile: Elite rebounder and interior defender. Drummond’s presence would strengthen the Lakers’ frontcourt depth.

12. Royce O’Neale
2023-24 Stats: 7.7 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 2.8 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.6 BPG
Profile: 3-and-D specialist with the ability to guard multiple positions. O’Neale’s experience and shooting would enhance the Lakers’ perimeter defense.

13. Kyle Anderson
2023-24 Stats: 6.4 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 4.2 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.6 BPG
Profile: Point forward with playmaking abilities and defensive versatility. Anderson’s high basketball IQ would be a valuable addition.

14. Nicolas Batum
2023-24 Stats: 5.3 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 2.1 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.6 BPG
Profile Veteran swingman known for his defensive intelligence and three-point shooting. Batum’s leadership and versatility would be key in high-pressure situations.

15. Robert Covington
2023-24 Stats: 4.4 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 0.8 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.6 BPG
Profile: Defensive specialist and capable three-point shooter. Covington’s 3-and-D skills would provide valuable depth and perimeter defense.

Conclusion
Given their financial constraints, the Lakers must be strategic in using their mid-level exception. Each of these players offers unique strengths that could help address the team’s needs for shooting, defense, and depth. De’Anthony Melton, Kelly Oubre Jr., and Gary Trent Jr. are particularly strong candidates due to their combination of defensive skills and offensive versatility.