The Los Angeles Lakers are moving on from the LeBron James era after James notified the franchise about a month ago that he would not be returning for his ninth season with the team. This is now the Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves era in Los Angeles.
The Lakers are still searching for a starting wing who can help replace the production James provided. One player they have shown interest in is Jonathan Kuminga.
“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.
The Kuminga situation has been ongoing for about three weeks, and it remains unclear what the final outcome will be. Some believe there is no realistic path for a deal to come together.
“Returning to the Hawks doesn’t feel like an option for Kuminga. If LeBron goes to Cleveland, I have no idea what options other than the Lakers he has. If he wants to get paid a reasonable amount, he’s gotta be hoping Atlanta changes the stance they currently have on a S&T,” Lakers insider Anthony F. Irwin posted.
With the Lakers now adding Ziaire Williams and Matisse Thybulle as capable wing options, questions have started to surround their pursuit of Kuminga. It appears the two sides currently remain apart in contract negotiations.
“The Lakers could’ve signed him to a 2 year, $20M deal. He was not interested in that. I’ve heard he’s been looking for closer to $20M AAV… There’s a gap,” Lakers insider Jovan Buha said.
This situation is similar to what put Kuminga in a difficult position last season during his contract negotiations with the Golden State Warriors. The difference now is that teams are not necessarily forced to meet his asking price if he is not already on their roster.
If Kuminga continues seeking a larger contract, the Atlanta Hawks could simply sign him to a lower-value deal and keep him on their roster. Right now, Kuminga’s approach has not led to a breakthrough, and the Lakers do not appear willing to meet his current demands. It will be interesting to see whether the two sides can get back on track and find a resolution.
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