LeBron James emerges as Lakers' biggest threat in pursuit of Warriors NBA champion Jonathan Kuminga

LeBron James emerges as Lakers’ biggest threat in pursuit of Warriors NBA champion Jonathan Kuminga originally appeared on The Sporting News.
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The Los Angeles Lakers are heading into next season with two clear cornerstones in Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. The team will also feature several new additions, including Walker Kessler, Quentin Grimes, Colin Sexton, and others.

The Lakers entered the summer with a clear vision for the future, and part of that plan was reportedly influenced by Doncic. This will be the first season with Doncic fully leading the franchise after LeBron James informed the Lakers that he would not be returning.

“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.

Los Angeles has also been heavily involved in the Jonathan Kuminga sweepstakes, viewing the young wing as a potential replacement for James. However, the Lakers are not the only team interested, as the Cleveland Cavaliers have also emerged as a potential suitor.

“The Lakers aren’t really in a position where they need to move quickly anymore. At this point, the team will have to do a sign-and-trade for Kuminga or any other player they acquire, so there isn’t necessarily a rush. The Cavs have been heavily linked to Kuminga throughout free agency as well, so there is some rationale as to why he would wait,” Silver Screen and Roll’s Jacob Rude wrote.

It now appears James’ decision could have an impact on Kuminga’s future as well. If he does not sign with Cleveland, the Lakers could become a more realistic destination for the former Warriors forward.

“Following up on this, a source tells me that Kuminga is likely waiting to see what LeBron decides before making his own move. If LeBron chooses Cleveland, it becomes more likely that Kuminga signs with LA. But if LeBron goes elsewhere, Cleveland becomes the more probable landing spot for Kuminga,” Lakers All Day Everyday’s Aron Cohen posted.

It would be remarkable if James still had an influence on the Lakers’ roster decisions even after leaving the organization. Of course, it would not be intentional, but his decision could have a major impact on Kuminga’s future and where he ends up playing next season.

Even after leaving Los Angeles, James continues to have a significant impact on the franchise’s future. Kuminga would be an ideal young wing to help replace James, but the four-time champion’s next move could prevent that from happening. James’ decision will have ripple effects throughout the NBA.

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