Lakers reportedly still interested in $46M disgruntled ex-Warriors NBA champion amid roster moves

The Los Angeles Lakers have been active throughout the summer, finding different ways to bring new talent to Los Angeles. Their biggest addition so far has been the sign-and-trade deal that brought big man Walker Kessler to the franchise.

After acquiring Kessler, the Lakers continued making solid additions to their roster. For the past few weeks, there has been mutual interest between Los Angeles and 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.

However, the situation appeared to shift earlier this week when the Lakers agreed to sign free agent Ziaire Williams.

“The Los Angeles Lakers have agreed to sign Ziaire Williams to a one-year, $3 million contract, sources told ESPN's Shams Charania on Monday. Williams, 24, will join an overhauled frontcourt that lost forwards LeBron James and Rui Hachimura in free agency. The 6-foot-9 forward, who averaged 10.2 points and 2.4 rebounds in 56 games for the Brooklyn Nets last season, will give Lakers coach JJ Redick added length and versatility off the bench,” ESPN’s Ben Golliver wrote.

The addition of Williams appeared to create questions about whether the Lakers still had room for Kuminga. However, the latest reports indicate that both sides remain interested in finding a way to complete a deal.

“There remains strong mutual interest between the Lakers and Jonathan Kuminga as a sign-and-trade route continues to be explored. Kuminga would immediately become LA’s starting power forward alongside Walker Kessler in their newly revamped frontcourt,” Sidery wrote.

Adding Kuminga remains a major priority for the Lakers as they continue building around Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. While Williams appears to be a depth addition who can provide length and versatility, Kuminga would fill a much larger role as a potential starter.

Kuminga played on a $46 million contract last season with the Golden State Warriors and Atlanta Hawks. The Lakers are not expected to pay him more than $20 million annually, which would make his addition more financially manageable compared to his previous deal.

If Los Angeles wants to compete at a high level next season, landing Kuminga could be one of the most important moves of the offseason.

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