James Harden to opt out; Top 5 free agency destinations

5. Los Angeles Lakers

The Lakers have a pretty good thing going right now thanks to some of the pieces general manager Rob Pelinka added alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis at the trade deadline, and are the only team on this list still playing. However, the roster could look much different next season, particularly if guys like D’Angelo Russell or Dennis Schroeder walk in free agency. Maybe Los Angeles decides to run it back, but should one or both of those guys leave, there will be some additional cap space opened up that the Lakers can play with to bring in a more high-prized free agent like Harden. As good as James has looked in his age-38 season, he may not have many more chances left at another NBA title, so the Lakers should once again be in an aggressive, win-now mode this offseason. Although Harden has never played with James or Davis, his shooting and ability to facilitate the offense feel like they would fit well in L.A.