The Lakers’ frontcourt search is still very much alive, but the path forward may be shifting. Jonathan Kuminga remains the big-name target, yet if that deal falls apart, Rob Pelinka could turn his attention to another high-profile option: PJ Washington.
NBA insider Jake Weinbach said Sunday that Washington is a name to watch if the Lakers can’t land Kuminga.
"The Lakers are among the teams that could register interest in PJ Washington with the Mavericks reportedly entertaining offers," Weinbach wrote. "If the Lakers are unable to sign Jonathan Kuminga in free agency, Washington would be a logical trade target to fill the starting power forward role."
Weinbach also pointed back to an earlier post suggesting Washington could be on the move this offseason, and he added that Dallas may keep listening.
"PJ Washington’s future in Dallas remains uncertain following the Mavericks’ notable front court additions of Morez Johnson Jr., Santi Aldama, and Zaccharie Risacher," Weinbach remarked. "I would expect the Mavs to continue fielding trade calls for Washington, as well as other veterans on the roster."
For now, though, Kuminga still appears to be the priority. The forward declined his $24.3 million team option with the Atlanta Hawks, making him an unrestricted free agent, and the Lakers have been linked to him as they continue building around Luka Doncic.
That said, the latest buzz around Kuminga has not exactly been encouraging. NBARetweet, citing Dan Woike, reported that the Lakers’ pursuit has slowed.
"The Lakers interest in Jonathan Kuminga has reportedly stalled, per @DanWoikeSports," NBARetweet wrote. "'It appears that momentum has stalled with the sides far apart on terms and L.A. not overly motivated to push significant draft capital into sign-and-trade scenarios.
"'Still, he appears to be the biggest upside play left on the table, and could re-emerge as a target if his market remains tepid.'"
The Lakers have already been active this offseason, adding Walker Kessler, Sandro Mamukashvili and Collin Sexton. If Kuminga doesn’t come through, Washington is the next name that could rise quickly to the top of the list.
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