The Los Angeles Lakers have been busy this summer bringing in new talent, with their biggest move so far being the sign-and-trade that landed big man Walker Kessler. But despite other roster additions, there’s still major buzz around Jonathan Kuminga, and the mutual interest between him and the Lakers is reportedly still going strong. NBA reporter Evan Sidery confirmed that Los Angeles is working behind the scenes to lock in Kuminga as their new wing addition.
Ziaire Williams Signing Doesn’t Stop The Chase
The situation definitely looked like it might have shifted earlier this week. The Lakers agreed to a one-year, $3 million contract with free agent Ziaire Williams, as reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania. Williams, 24, played 56 games for the Brooklyn Nets last season, putting up 10.2 points and 2.4 rebounds. He’s a 6-foot-9 forward who gives coach JJ Redick some added length and versatility coming off the bench. Williams joins a frontcourt that saw LeBron James and Rui Hachimura leave in free agency, so he definitely fills a need for depth.
Kuminga Remains a Top Target
Even with the Williams addition, reports are now saying that both sides are still very much interested in making a deal happen. Sidery stated there’s “strong mutual interest between the Lakers and Jonathan Kuminga as a sign-and-trade route continues to be explored.” This isn’t just a depth play, either. Kuminga would immediately jump into the starting power forward spot right next to Walker Kessler in that revamped frontcourt. He previously played on a $46 million contract with the Golden State Warriors and Atlanta Hawks, but the Lakers aren’t looking to pay him more than $20 million annually, making a potential deal much more financially manageable for them. Building around Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, adding Kuminga remains a huge priority. If Los Angeles wants to seriously compete at a high level next season, snagging Kuminga could be one of their most important offseason moves. Get ready, LA, this one isn’t over yet.
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