When it comes to unrestricted free agency, the Lakers are unlikely to find better players on the market than the ones already on their roster.
With LeBron James’ contract coming to an end and Austin Reeves likely to turn down his $14.9 million option for the 2026-27 season, it seems the team’s longest-serving stars will be their main unrestricted free agents this offseason.
Additionally, they have Rui Hachimura, Luke Kennard, and Jackson Hayes among their unrestricted free agents, all likely to attract interest from other franchises.
And let’s not forget Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart, who also have options for next season.
The Lakers have made their dissatisfaction clear regarding last season’s performance, which didn’t meet their championship aspirations. To build a more competitive team around superstar guard Luka Doncic for the upcoming season, they need to make some roster improvements.
Unrestricted free agency could be a crucial avenue for these upgrades.
Top teams are often inking unrestricted free agents, hoping these moves will lead them to championships, from role players to stars like Jalen Brunson.
Aside from James and Reeves, the options for star-level acquisitions appear limited. But there are certainly impactful players available.
So, which unrestricted free agents should the Lakers consider this summer?
Robert Williams, Trail Blazers, center
2025-26 stats: 6.7 PPG, 7 RPG, 1.5 BPG, 1 APG, 17.1 MPG
One of the Lakers’ priorities should be targeting a center or several big men who complement Doncic. They need a player who’s an effective rim runner and can finish well at the basket, perhaps adding some defensive toughness.
Williams could fit this bill as a big man who might not need consistent offensive touches to still contribute with energy and defense.
However, a significant concern is his past injuries, especially knee issues. He played in 59 games last season, which is notably the most since the 2021-22 season.
But at a reasonable salary, he might be a good solution for the Lakers.
Mitchell Robinson, Knicks, center
2025-26 stats: 5.7 PPG, 8.8 RPG, 1.2 BPG, 19.6 MPG
Like Williams, Robinson also comes with durability worries. His 60 games last season were the most since 2021-22, when he made a career-high 72 appearances.
He’s a strong rebounder, a reliable shot-blocker, and remains a scoring threat near the rim. His experience is more extensive than Williams’, having averaged 24.5 minutes per game in previous seasons.
Securing Robinson might be tough since he plays a key role in the Knicks’ recent success, including their journey to the NBA Finals.
Jordan Goodwin, Suns, guard
2025-26 stats: 8.7 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 2.2 APG, 1.5 SPG, 22.5 MPG
Goodwin’s impact on the court has been noteworthy. He was crucial in the Lakers’ rotation at the end of the 2024-25 season, showing off his rebounding skills, solid defense, and improved shooting.
Still, the Lakers waived him last summer, and now he’s bound for a more lucrative deal after showcasing his growth.
Keon Ellis, Cavaliers, guard
2025-26 stats: 6.7 PPG, 1.9 RPG, 1.2 SPG, 20.5 MPG
Ellis has been a real game-changer defensively, helping teams force turnovers. Since he entered the league in 2022, he’s made a name for himself as one of the top young three-and-D guards, connecting on 40.7% of his shots.
Adding him would inject some much-needed athleticism into the Lakers’ backcourt.
Other noteworthy mentions: Ayo Dosunmu (Timberwolves), Kelly Oubre, Quentin Grimes (76ers).
