Lakers predicted to pass on Jonathan Kuminga, sign $73M ex-Spurs 6-time All-Star, 17-year veteran

Lakers predicted to pass on Jonathan Kuminga, sign $73M ex-Spurs 6-time All-Star, 17-year veteran originally appeared on The Sporting News.
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The Los Angeles Lakers have had a clear vision throughout the offseason and have managed to land nearly every target they have pursued. The organization built its offseason plan around Luka Doncic, and the franchise has wasted little time putting that vision into action.

That plan could not fully begin until one major domino fell: LeBron James deciding to continue his career elsewhere.

“LeBron James will return for an unprecedented 24th season in the NBA — but it won’t be with the Los Angeles Lakers. James has informed the Lakers that the franchise can move on without him because he will play elsewhere, Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul told ESPN’s Shams Charania on Tuesday,” ESPN wrote.

The Lakers quickly responded by trading for Walker Kessler and signing several key free agents. Even so, the front office is far from finished and has continued to express interest in 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.

Sports Illustrated’s Ethen Hutton believes the Lakers could ultimately miss out on Kuminga and instead turn their attention to recently waived DeMar DeRozan.

“The Los Angeles Lakers have had one of the busiest offseasons of any team in the NBA to this point, and are looking to continue their aggressive pursuit coming into the season. Los Angeles’ front office is looking to add another quality wing, targeting the likes of Jonathan Kuminga following the departure of LeBron James. Should the team miss out on Kuminga, who has a competitive trade market, DeRozan could serve as a quality backup option, providing consistent scoring and reliable defensive effort,” Hutton wrote.

DeRozan may not offer the same youth and athletic upside as Kuminga, but he would bring plenty of value to the Lakers. His scoring ability, experience, and veteran leadership could make him a strong fit alongside Austin Reaves and Luka Doncic as Los Angeles continues building the roster around its new core.

DeRozan was on a $73 million contract with the Sacramento Kings before being waived. Adding the six-time All-Star would give the Lakers another proven offensive weapon and provide additional depth on the wing. While it may not be as flashy as landing Kuminga, the move would strengthen Los Angeles’ chances of competing in the Western Conference.

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