The Los Angeles Lakers have explored a potential trade for Dallas Mavericks forward PJ Washington, but Jonathan Kuminga remains the franchise’s preferred wing target as the offseason market continues to evolve.
According to Evan Sidery, the Lakers recently checked in with Dallas regarding Washington. Sidery added that after the blockbuster Luka Doncic trade between the two franchises, it remains unclear whether Mavericks ownership would approve another significant deal with Los Angeles. He also noted Washington has emerged as a contingency option if the Lakers fail to acquire Kuminga.
The Lakers’ interest in Washington is understandable given his history alongside Doncic in Dallas. The 27-year-old forward established strong chemistry with the Slovenian star after arriving from the Charlotte Hornets during the 2023-24 season, helping the Mavericks reach the NBA Finals that year.
Washington remains a productive two-way forward entering the 2026-27 season. He averaged 14.2 points, 7.0 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 1.0 steals and 1.1 blocks across 56 games in 2025-26 while shooting 45.0% from the field and 32.5% from three-point range. Over seven NBA seasons, he has averaged 13.3 points and 6.0 rebounds while shooting 44.8% overall and 35.4% from beyond the arc.
Despite that production, Washington’s contract has reportedly become a significant obstacle. According to Khobi Price of the California Post, the Lakers have cooled on the idea because of his long-term financial commitment. Washington is under contract for three more seasons as part of a four-year, $88.8 million extension, a deal that would further tighten Los Angeles’ salary structure.
The Lakers have already made several expensive moves this offseason after LeBron James’ departure. They acquired Walker Kessler from the Utah Jazz and signed him to a four-year, $130 million contract while also giving Austin Reaves a four-year, $185 million maximum extension. Los Angeles additionally added Quentin Grimes, Collin Sexton, Sandro Mamukelashvili and Kevon Looney, leaving the club hard-capped at the first apron.
That financial reality has kept Kuminga at the center of the Lakers’ plans because a sign-and-trade could offer greater flexibility. Atlanta is reportedly willing to help facilitate such a deal after declining Kuminga’s $24.3 million team option, with previous discussions involving Jarred Vanderbilt and future draft compensation heading to the Hawks.
Kuminga averaged 12.3 points, 5.3 rebounds and 2.1 assists in 16 games with Atlanta after arriving from the Golden State Warriors during the 2025-26 season. Across five NBA seasons, he owns career averages of 12.5 points and 4.2 rebounds, with his breakout campaign coming in 2023-24 when he averaged 16.1 points on 52.9% shooting.
Los Angeles finished 53-29 last season, won the Pacific Division and reached the Western Conference semifinals before being swept by the Oklahoma City Thunder. The front office has since focused on building around Doncic, who averaged 33.5 points, 8.3 assists and 7.7 rebounds during the 2025-26 campaign.
