Lakers free agency rumors: Paul Millsap is a solid option

The latest Lakers free agency rumors are centered on former Hawks star Paul Millsap.

After a disappointing defeat in the playoffs, the Lakers free agency rumors have shifted to another veteran in Paul Millsap. Playing this last season with the Atlanta Hawks, they were bounced by the Washington Wizards.

According to an article on NBA.com, it appears more likely than ever that Millsap will test the market.

Per the report:

"Paul Millsap confirmed on Saturday he “probably will opt out” of his contract and become an unrestricted free agent, leaving the Atlanta Hawks to plot their future following a painful first-round exit from the playoffs.Millsap has a $21.4 million option for next season. The four-time All-Star can earn substantially more in a new long-term deal, making the opt-out decision obvious."

The hope with signing a guy like Millsap is simple — execute on offense, produce on defense. Keeping the young core energized with each other is also crucial.

Based on his time with Atlanta, it’s clear that Millsap knows his role and how to play the game well. A former second round pick by Utah, Millsap has done the best he can with his time in the association.

He averaged 18.1 points along with 7.7 rebounds for Atlanta last season.

The kind of presence the Lakers need is one that won’t disappoint. Veteran big men Loul Deng and Timofey Mozgov did nothing but disappoint in their first season with the team.

It could also be their last, depending on what decisions the organization makes moving forward.

First it was getting the right coach, then the right GM and team president. Now the only focus should be putting the right  pieces in place to compete.

Next: Lakers Should Consider J.J. Redick

Millsap not only has leadership capabilities, but valuable playoff experience. And like a guy such as J.J. Redick, can be a nice in-between before the Lakers go all in on a superstar.