The Lakers are still exploring another big-man addition, while their Jonathan Kuminga pursuit has stalled due to contract demands and reluctance to sacrifice significant draft capital.
The Los Angeles Lakers may not be finished reshaping their roster, even after filling all available spots for the upcoming season.
According to Dan Woike of The Athletic, the Lakers continue to monitor the market for additional big men and could address the position through either a trade or another signing.
Los Angeles has already strengthened its center rotation by acquiring Walker Kessler and signing veteran Kevon Looney. Sandro Mamukelashvili can also provide minutes at the position when the Lakers use smaller lineups.
However, with the roster currently at full capacity, the Lakers would need to create an opening before completing another move.
Lakers remain active on center market
Kessler is expected to provide the Lakers with a starting-caliber rim protector, while Looney gives the team an experienced backup capable of rebounding, screening and defending physical matchups.
Mamukelashvili offers a different option because of his ability to space the floor and operate as a small-ball center.
Despite those additions, team sources told The Athletic that Los Angeles is still monitoring available big men in case an opportunity emerges to improve the rotation.
The Lakers could also continue searching for help elsewhere on the roster. Matisse Thybulle has been mentioned as a potential addition, although the defensive-minded wing would not directly address their need for another center.
Any further signing would require Los Angeles to trade or waive a player because all 15 standard roster spots are currently occupied.
Credit Getty Images via AFP - Scanpix
Jonathan Kuminga pursuit loses momentum
The Lakers have also continued exploring the forward market, with Jonathan Kuminga remaining the highest-upside option potentially available.
However, momentum toward a sign-and-trade has reportedly stalled, with the sides still far apart on contract terms.
Los Angeles is also not considered overly motivated to attach significant draft compensation to convince another team to facilitate the deal.
Kuminga could still re-emerge as a serious target if his market remains limited and the asking price becomes more favorable.
According to The Athletic, the Cleveland Cavaliers are the team most frequently connected to Kuminga outside of the Lakers.
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