The Los Angeles Lakers continue their pursuit of LaMarcus Aldridge, but in all likelihood, they’ll have to settle for options to upgrade the frontcourt. One of those options may be Kosta Koufos of the Memphis Grizzlies.
According to Alex Kennedy of Basketball Insiders, the Lakers have shown interest in Koufos:
Kosta Koufos has received interest from the Mavs, Lakers and Kings among others. The Bucks showed interest too (before landing Greg Monroe).
— Alex Kennedy (@AlexKennedyNBA) July 2, 2015
Although not a player with star power like a Aldridge or DeAndre Jordan, Koufos isn’t a terrible choice for the Lakers in free agency. Koufos has only missed four games in the last three seasons and plays well once given the minutes.
In 81 games with the Memphis Grizzlies last season, Koufos averaged 5.2 points and 5.3 rebounds per game while shooting 50.8 percent from the floor.
Ultimately, the Lakers or the Dallas Mavericks may end up landing Koufos in free agency. Unfortunately, the veteran will have to wait until Aldridge and Jordan are off the board in order to sign a deal with new team, via Kennedy:
With teams like the Mavs and Lakers showing interest, someone like Kosta Koufos must wait for big-name guys to sign before making decision.
— Alex Kennedy (@AlexKennedyNBA) July 2, 2015
Other notable free agents the Lakers may target if Aldridge and Jordan decide to sign elsewhere include Robin Lopez, Tobias Harris (restricted), Rajon Rondo and Gerald Green. Re-signing Jordan Hill, Carlos Boozer and Jeremy Lin may also be options Los Angeles explores.
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