The Los Angeles Lakers have known since the beginning of free agency that LeBron James would not be returning. However, they have done everything possible to ensure they find someone who can help replace his production.
The Lakers have explored multiple options, but the one name they have seemingly landed on is Jonathan Kuminga. The two sides are believed to have mutual interest.
“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.
It is unlikely that Kuminga simply signs with the Lakers outright because the team still needs to move contracts to create the necessary financial flexibility. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst believes Los Angeles had an opportunity to complete a sign-and-trade for Kuminga but missed its window.
“The Lakers could have done a sign-and-trade for Kuminga two weeks ago, when the Lakers traded Deandre Ayton to the Wizards, there was a window where the Hawks could have gotten in on the trade… what they (Lakers) could have payed him, would have been less than the mid level,” Windhorst said.
With James officially signing with the Philadelphia 76ers, the Cleveland Cavaliers have emerged as a legitimate contender for Kuminga. That presents a worst-case scenario for the Lakers, especially after Kuminga reportedly issued a contract demand exceeding $20 million annually to both finalists.
“Jonathan Kuminga is demanding a salary in free agency exceeding $20 million annually, per The Athletic. Kuminga prefers a sign-and-trade from the Hawks over leaving outright, simply due to the added financial implications. The Cavaliers and Lakers are the finalists for Kuminga,” Sidery posted.
Just last summer, Kuminga was engaged in lengthy contract negotiations with the Golden State Warriors. Now, he finds himself in a similar situation with two organizations that could greatly benefit from adding his skill set.
This situation is likely to play out in one of two ways. The first is that one of the teams—more likely the Cavaliers—meets Kuminga’s contract demands. The second is that both teams continue to wait, forcing Kuminga to decide whether to return to Atlanta or accept a deal worth less than the salary he is seeking.
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