While the Lakers have been hard at work rebuilding their roster during this summer of optionality, they are still missing a starting-level wing.
This deep into free agency, the best player available at that position is Jonathan Kuminga. While the Lakers have been linked to him all offseason, a deal has yet to be reached and the five-year wing remains on the market.
On Friday, Anthony Slater contributed to a piece on ESPN updating where things stand regarding Kuminga and the Lakers.
“The opportunity appealed to Kuminga, but the sign-and-trade contract offer (years, money, package going back to Atlanta) didn’t satisfy all sides. The Lakers remain interested in him, league sources said, but movement toward a deal has remained stalled for weeks.”
It’s been reported before that talks with LA and Kuminga have stalled. So, it’s no surprise that this stalemate continues. The Lakers, as Slater has reported, have remained interested. They have continued calling about the talented wing.
While this Kuminga free agency has been long and tiring for fans, it’s all part of the negotiations.
We’ve gotten indications on what all parties are looking for in a trade that puts Kuminga in a Lakers uniform. The Hawks reportedly want a first-round swap, Kuminga wants a deal that he’s enticed to sign, and Los Angeles’ alleged contract offer hasn’t accomplished that.
Until all parties can agree, this will continue to drag on. Ultimately though, this is Kuminga’s decision.
While a trade would give him the most money, he is an unrestricted free agent and can select his destination. The information on what is possible will likely remain the same at this point, and he has to decide what he wants to do.
The Lakers can provide Kuminga with the opportunity for a starting position on a team with title aspirations. If he plays well in a purple and gold uniform, it could do wonders for his stock around the NBA.
It’s been a long odyssey here in the Kuminga sweepstakes, but so far the Lakers have done the right thing. They’ve been patient, remained interested, but haven’t done anything desperate or foolish to acquire him.
In the best-case scenario, Kuminga is a Laker, but that’s his decision to make now. Hopefully, he comes to a conclusion soon so this can all come to an end.
You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88 or on Bluesky at @ecreates88.bsky.social.
