Lakers reportedly favorites to land $46M former Warriors NBA champion to pair with Luka Doncic

The Los Angeles Lakers have been searching for a starting-caliber wing to replace LeBron James ever since free agency began. While they have signed Matisse Thybulle and Ziaire Williams, neither is currently viewed as the long-term answer in the starting lineup.

From the beginning of free agency, the Lakers have been heavily pursuing former Golden State Warriors NBA champion Jonathan Kuminga. However, getting both Kuminga and the Atlanta Hawks to agree on a sign-and-trade has been anything but easy.

“Whatever deal could happen will likely be a sign-and-trade. So that's where both the Lakers and Cavs would need the Hawks to work with them on a Kuminga deal. They would also have to get Kuminga on the same page with them all in a potential deal,” ESPN’s Shams Charania said.

The biggest obstacle has been Kuminga's contract demands. The former NBA champion is reportedly seeking more than $20 million annually.

“Jonathan Kuminga is demanding a salary in free agency exceeding $20 million annually, per The Athletic. Kuminga prefers a sign-and-trade from the Hawks over leaving outright, simply due to the added financial implications. The Cavaliers and Lakers are the finalists for Kuminga," NBA reporter Evan Sidery posted.

The Lakers have been trying to convince Kuminga and his camp to come down on their asking price. Even with the Cleveland Cavaliers still involved, NBA insider Brett Siegel believes Los Angeles has the edge in the month-long pursuit.

“There’s two teams [interested] right now. It’s the Cavs and the Lakers. I personally believe he will end up with the Lakers… He’s willing to hold out as long as possible… He wants somewhere in that sweet spot of $14-16 million,” Siegel said.

The Lakers believe Kuminga could thrive alongside Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. His ability to attack the rim would complement both players, who excel at creating space and generating open opportunities for their teammates.

Kuminga played on a $46 million contract with the Warriors and Hawks last season. As negotiations continue, the Lakers appear to have the most momentum in the race to land the talented young forward.

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