Lakers Reportedly Eyeing Dean Wade and Jock Landale in Free Agency
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The Los Angeles Lakers, one of the few NBA teams expected to have meaningful salary-cap room this summer, are reportedly evaluating two potential targets on the open market: forward Dean Wade and center Jock Landale, according to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype.
Dean Wade Drawing Wide Interest
League sources told HoopsHype that Wade, 29, is attracting attention from the Lakers, Cleveland Cavaliers, Philadelphia 76ers, San Antonio Spurs, Phoenix Suns, Detroit Pistons and Portland Trail Blazers. The 6-foot-9 wing appeared in 59 games for Cleveland last season, starting 38, and averaged 5.8 points, 4.2 rebounds and 1.5 assists in 22.3 minutes. He shot 43.9% from the field and 36.2% on 3.3 three-point attempts per game.
The Cavaliers hope to retain Wade but face second-apron tax constraints that could limit their spending. Los Angeles is believed to be in the market for versatile 3-and-D options on the wing, a role Wade filled in Cleveland.
Jock Landale Expected to Command Strong Offers
Scotto also reported that Landale, 30, has a market that includes the Lakers, Atlanta Hawks, Chicago Bulls, Los Angeles Clippers, Philadelphia 76ers and Cavaliers. The Australian center split last season between Memphis and Atlanta, appearing in 68 games (27 starts) and posting 10.6 points, 5.7 rebounds and 1.7 assists across 22.1 minutes per contest.
Landale is projected to receive offers above the bi-annual exception. While he has established himself as a reliable backup, he is not regarded as the vertical threat Los Angeles may prefer alongside its current roster. The Lakers are expected to bring back Jaxson Hayes as their reserve center, but Landale could become an alternative if negotiations with Hayes stall.
Cameron Johnson Also on Lakers’ Radar
In addition to Wade and Landale, the Lakers are monitoring forward Cameron Johnson. The Denver Nuggets are reportedly exploring trades involving Johnson, who is owed $23 million next season, to create room to re-sign restricted free agent Peyton Watson. Los Angeles could consider absorbing Johnson into cap space without surrendering assets.
The Lakers enter free agency seeking depth on the wing and in the frontcourt as they look to retool around their core for the upcoming season.
Source: LakersNation.com
