The Los Angeles Lakers and Jonathan Kuminga could be a strong match as both sides look to address important needs ahead of the new season.
Los Angeles remains in need of an athletic two-way wing who can add speed, perimeter defense and explosiveness alongside Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves and Walker Kessler.
Kuminga, meanwhile, is looking for an opportunity to rebuild his value after his time with Golden State ended and Atlanta declined his $24.3 million team option.
The Lakers previously offered Kuminga a two-year, $20 million deal, but his camp rejected it. Despite the financial gap, a sign-and-trade could still provide a path toward an agreement.
Kuminga has shown flashes of his potential throughout his career, including several impressive performances with the Warriors.
However, inconsistency and disagreements over his role contributed to his departure from Golden State before he was traded to Atlanta.
After averaging 12.3 points, 5.3 rebounds and 2.1 assists in 16 games with the Hawks, Kuminga became an unrestricted free agent.
The Lakers and Timberwolves are reportedly among his leading options.
Los Angeles could offer the 23-year-old a starting role alongside Doncic, Reaves and Kessler while giving him an opportunity to fill one of the biggest holes on the roster.
Kuminga would not be expected to become the Lakers’ primary star.
Instead, his value would come from attacking the basket, defending multiple positions and providing athleticism around the team’s established offensive players.
