The Los Angeles Lakers still have a major roster hole to address after losing LeBron James in the 2026 offseason.
Despite signing Collin Sexton, Quentin Grimes, Sandro Mamukelashvili, and acquiring Walker Kessler, the Lakers haven’t addressed another huge weakness.
LeBron James and Rui Hachimura’s departure has left a major hole in the starting five, and the Lakers have their eye on who they need to fill that absence.
Lakers might need to empty the bank for Jonathan Kuminga
Atlanta Hawks’ restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga has been on the Lakers’ radar, but the franchise is currently cash-strapped after their spending spree to offer him a contract.
Trading Jarred Vanderbilt away might open the space required, and it seems the Hawks are willing to help LA in a sign-and-trade, swapping the two players if LA gives up their only remaining trade asset.
“A source told the Post the Hawks are willing to execute a sign-and-trade with the Lakers around the framework of Kuminga going to L.A. and the Hawks receiving Jarred Vanderbilt and the Lakers’ 2032 first-round pick swap – the lone option the Lakers have of trading a first-round pick this summer.” (h/t The Post)
Kuminga averaged 12.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 2.3 assists last season with the Warriors and Hawks.
While he can’t replace LeBron’s productivity, the 23-year-old forward still has long-term upside and would be a definite starter for the Lakers as a three or a four.
Lakers have limited options
After spending over $250 million on four players this free agency while emptying out their draft assets to acquire Kessler, the Lakers have limited avenues of roster-building.
The franchise has to hope they can acquire difference-makers at a low price to maximize roster-building around Doncic and Austin Reaves.
A three-year contract with Kuminga in a sign-and-trade gives the Lakers that opportunity, with this being a better solution than LA trading Vando away elsewhere just to dump his contract.
The forward market in free agency has become bare, with the Lakers firmly out of the race for Peyton Watson after wrapping up their offseason business.
Signing Kuminga is LA’s best chance at being a title threat next season, so if this is the only route to acquiring him, the Lakers can’t hold off for too long or someone else might sign him.
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