The Lakers’ pursuit of Jonathan Kuminga has been one of the clearest signals of how this offseason has shifted in Los Angeles.
With LeBron James not returning, the team has moved its attention toward building around Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves, and finding a starting-caliber wing has become a major priority. Kuminga, the former NBA champion, has emerged as a player the Lakers have shown significant interest in.
“There is mutual free agent interest between Jonathan Kuminga and the Lakers, per Jovan Buha. Los Angeles continues to work behind the scenes to secure Kuminga’s commitment as their new wing addition,” NBA reporter Evan Sidery wrote.
Los Angeles already added another wing last week in free agent Ziaire Williams, but that move was viewed as depth more than a solution to the bigger need. Kuminga would be a different kind of addition, one who could step into a starting role. Sidery also noted that the Lakers still have their eyes on a sign-and-trade path.
“There remains strong mutual interest between the Lakers and Jonathan Kuminga as a sign-and-trade route continues to be explored. Kuminga would immediately become LA’s starting power forward alongside Walker Kessler in their newly revamped frontcourt,” Sidery posted.
Even with that interest, the latest update from Lakers insider Anthony F. Irwin points to a much tougher road ahead. The Lakers are still trying to find a way to work out a sign-and-trade with the Atlanta Hawks, but Irwin’s reporting suggests the deal may no longer have a realistic path.
“Returning to the Hawks doesn’t feel like an option for Kuminga. If LeBron goes to Cleveland, I have no idea what options other than the Lakers he has. If he wants to get paid a reasonable amount, he’s gotta be hoping Atlanta changes the stance they currently have on a S&T,” Irwin posted.
That would be a major setback for Los Angeles, which has been targeting Kuminga as a long-term piece next to Dončić and Reaves. His age, athleticism, and championship experience have made him an appealing fit for the Lakers’ young core.
The Lakers are trying to position themselves for a deep playoff run in the near future, and a player with NBA Finals experience would fit that plan. But based on the latest reporting, Los Angeles does not appear to be in a strong position to finish a sign-and-trade for Kuminga.
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