The Lakers continue to pursue Jonathan Kuminga, offering him a potential starting role as they seek another wing addition.
The Los Angeles Lakers reportedly remain active in the free-agent market as they look to complete another move ahead of the 2026-27 NBA season.
Jonathan Kuminga
Position SF, PF
Age 23
Height 201 cm
Weight 102 kg
Birth place Goma, Congo (Republic of the)
According to ESPN's Anthony Slater, Lakers president of basketball operations Rob Pelinka continues to contact Jonathan Kuminga's representatives despite the two sides failing to reach an agreement.
"I can tell you that they keep calling Jonathan Kuminga," Slater said on ESPN's NBA Today. "Obviously, they have not made a lucrative enough offer for Kuminga to jump. But part of their pitch has been, 'Hey, you can come start here potentially.'"
The Lakers have previously been described as Kuminga's most aggressive suitor, but their offer has not been substantial enough to convince the 23-year-old forward to commit.
Los Angeles reportedly discussed a two-year contract worth approximately $20 million.
Lakers still seeking another wing addition
Slater believes the continued pursuit shows that Los Angeles does not consider its offseason work complete.
"And that says two things to me," he explained. "Number one, it says the Lakers still don't want to be done making moves, right? And they believe they're a little weak at the wing position."
The Lakers have already added Matisse Thybulle and Ziaire Williams to strengthen their perimeter rotation, but Slater suggested that the organization still wants a more dynamic option at the position.
"I think Thybulle will help. I think Ziaire Williams will help," Slater said. "But they could use some more juice on the wing."
Kuminga would provide athleticism, size, and downhill scoring alongside Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.
The former No. 7 overall pick averaged 12.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 2.3 assists across 36 appearances for the Golden State Warriors and Atlanta Hawks last season.
The Hawks declined Kuminga's $24.3 million team option, allowing him to enter unrestricted free agency.
LeBron decision could affect Kuminga’s market
Slater added that LeBron James' unresolved free-agency decision could influence the offers available to Kuminga.
"Maybe they get Kuminga done, maybe they don't," Slater said. "I think the LeBron domino affects Kuminga and what he may or may not be able to get.
"But again, all I can tell you is Rob Pelinka keeps calling about Jonathan Kuminga."
The Cleveland Cavaliers have also been linked with Kuminga, while his representatives have continued to wait for potentially more lucrative opportunities as the remaining offseason moves unfold.
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