It’s become clear that the Los Angeles Lakers need to make moves to upgrade their roster before the trade deadline if they want to make a legit run at competing for a championship.
The Lakers have a solid record at 23-13, but they need more 3-and-D players to be able to compete with some of the other elite teams.
According to recent reports, the Lakers will only sacrifice their future financial flexibility if they can find a true needle-mover on the market, which won’t be easy as every team is looking for 3-and-D players.
One potential name to keep an eye on leading up to the Feb. 5 trade deadline is Jonathan Kuminga as the Lakers have been interested in the Golden State Warriors wing going back to the offseason, per NBA insider Jake Fischer:
One other team to at least mention here: The Lakers.
The purple-and-gold’s known preference at this deadline is to acquire a true 3-and-D wing with size if possible to provide some point-of-attack resistance on the perimeter as well as some shooting, but it must be said the Lakers, according to sources, did call Golden State about Kuminga during the sides’ summer standoff in restricted free agency. I’m told that the Lakers have likewise continued to monitor Kuminga’s situation while casting a wide net to try to find help on a very limited wing market.
Kuminga doesn’t exactly fit the mold of a 3-and-D player the Lakers are looking for, but there’s no denying the former lottery pick has talent. He hasn’t fit well with the Warriors’ core and has clashed with Steve Kerr, but at just 23 years of age, there is belief around the league that Kuminga can develop into a quality player if put into the right situation.
In 18 games for the Warriors this season, Kuminga has averaged 11.8 points, 6.2 rebounds and 2.6 assists in 24 minutes per game while shooting 43.1% from the field and 32% from 3. Across the board those are the lowest numbers he has put up in three years, showing that he clearly needs to find a new situation to get his career back on track.
What Lakers may be interested in Jonathan Kuminga
Perhaps the most appealing part about Kuminga for the Lakers is his contract. He re-signed with the Warriors on a two-year, $48 million deal this past summer, although the second year is a team option.
That means if the Lakers trade for Kuminga, they can use the rest of this season as a trial to see how he fits with their team. If he fits well then they can pick up that option for 2026-27 and/or lock him down on a new deal. If it doesn’t work though, then they would just decline the option to ensure they have as much cap space as possible going into the offseason.
Have you subscribed to our YouTube channel? It’s the best way to watch player interviews, exclusive coverage from events, participate in live shows, and more!
