The Los Angeles Lakers remain one of three legitimate options for free agent forward Jonathan Kuminga, following the withdrawal of another team's interest.
The Lakers have been pursuing Kuminga for months, but a deal has faced obstacles primarily due to financial considerations. Kuminga reportedly sought a contract around $20 million annually, a figure the Lakers, who have made several free agency additions, have found difficult to accommodate. Initially, the idea was for Kuminga to start alongside Luka Dončić in Los Angeles, earning approximately $10 million per season.
Reports indicate that Kuminga may be open to a one-year deal at a reduced salary as part of a sign-and-trade agreement. However, sign-and-trade deals typically span three seasons.
According to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, the Cleveland Cavaliers and Minnesota Timberwolves are the other two teams considered viable landing spots for Kuminga at this stage of the offseason. The Los Angeles Clippers had also previously expressed interest.
The Lakers are actively looking to acquire a versatile wing defender, a need that has become more pronounced following the departure of Rui Hachimura in free agency. With September approaching, the team's options for bolstering the roster are becoming limited. Kuminga's continued availability on the free agent market presents general manager Rob Pelinka an opportunity to finalize a deal.
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Kuminga's potential return to the Atlanta Hawks on a minimum deal appears unlikely after the team's recent acquisitions of Aaron Wiggins and Lu Dort via trade. This development further opens the possibility for a sign-and-trade scenario involving the Lakers.
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The Lakers' offseason activities, including their free agency moves, have been somewhat overshadowed by significant organizational developments, such as LeBron James's departure and the ongoing process of Mark Walter selling the franchise after a 10-month ownership period.