The Los Angeles Lakers are still in the running to land Jonathan Kuminga, despite recently signing two forwards and having a full roster.
The Lakers and Kuminga have been heavily linked over the past few weeks.
Kuminga reportedly has strong interest in joining the Los Angeles Lakers, while the Lakers have long favored him, dating back to his days with the Golden State Warriors.
Still, with the Lakers already conducting a lot of business, a deal has not been reached, as he is fighting for more money.
The Lakers, meanwhile, could only offer a two-year, $20 million deal, which he rejected. The team explored a sign-and-trade with the Hawks, dumping one of their veteran players, such as Dalton Knecht or Jared Vanderbilt.
The Hawks asked for the Lakers’ first-round pick swap, their only big tradeable asset, in exchange for freeing up money for Kuminga.
LA has not shown a willingness to pay the Hawks’ price, leaving all three parties in a standstill.
Lakers still have a chance for Kuminga?
The Lakers proceeded to sign Zaire Williams and Matisse Thybulle, two players who can play in positions similar to Kuminga’s, possibly signaling they were going to move on.
However, according to ESPN reporter Anthony Slater, the Lakers are not stopping in their pursuit of the former Warriors lottery pick.
“They’re still after at least one more. I can tell you that they keep calling Jonathan Kuminga,” Slater said on ESPN.
“And again, obviously they have not made a lucrative enough offer for Kuminga to jump. … and maybe they get Kuminga done or maybe they don’t. I think the LeBron domino affects Kuminga in 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 only other team connected to Kuminga at this point is the Cleveland Cavaliers, who could do a sign-and-trade to free up money as well.
The Hawks may end up keeping Kuminga on a cheaper deal than his player option, but as time goes on, the Lakers’ chances increase, especially if LeBron James signs with the Cavs and closes that door for Kuminga.
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