Lakers predicted to outbid Timberwolves for $46M ex-Warriors NBA champion to pair with Luka Doncic

The Los Angeles Lakers have been in full pursuit of Jonathan Kuminga since the beginning of free agency, when they were notified that LeBron James would not be returning. It has been a lengthy process that has lasted nearly two months.

Kuminga has taken his time weighing every option, but his choices are becoming increasingly limited. Los Angeles is finally in a strong position to land him.

“Jonathan Kuminga landing with the Los Angeles Lakers seems inevitable at this point. On Tuesday, it appeared Kuminga had three suitors remaining in his free-agent sweepstakes: the Minnesota Timberwolves, Cleveland Cavaliers and the Lakers,” New York Post’s Valentina Martinez wrote.

It appears the race will come down to the Lakers and Minnesota Timberwolves, with the two Western Conference teams emerging as the favorites to land the NBA champion.

“The Lakers and Timberwolves are the finalists for Jonathan Kuminga. Both teams have offered Kuminga a starting role, but Los Angeles would be acquiring him via sign-and-trade at a larger salary. Minnesota can only offer Kuminga the vet minimum, but it's a strong on-court fit," NBA reporter Evan Sidery wrote.

It is going to be an interesting race to the finish line, to say the least. Bleacher Report’s Grant Hughes believes Kuminga will ultimately sign with the Lakers over the Timberwolves.

“But after the Cavaliers' trade for Peyton Watson, reporting points to the Los Angeles Lakers and Minnesota Timberwolves as the top two favorites. While the Lakers are reportedly interested and could use a high-upside option like him on the wing, they have more to lose if things don't pan out,” Hughes wrote.

The Lakers would finally get their starting power forward of the future if they were able to reach a deal with Kuminga. The 23-year-old is viewed as a player who could take a major step in his career alongside Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.

Kuminga was on a $46 million contract last season. The former Golden State Warrior is looking to make a difference on a talented Lakers roster. However, the process of getting Kuminga to Los Angeles may still be a ways from being over.

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