Lakers reportedly going all-in for $46M ex-Warriors NBA champion to pair with Luka Doncic

The Los Angeles Lakers are taking their roster in a completely different direction after last season. All five starters from their playoff series against Houston are no longer on the roster.

The biggest change of all is that LeBron James will not be returning. James informed the Lakers that he plans to continue his career elsewhere.

“LeBron James will return for an unprecedented 24th season in the NBA -- but it won't be with the Los Angeles Lakers. James has informed the Lakers that the franchise can move on without him because he will play elsewhere, Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul told ESPN's Shams Charania on Tuesday,” ESPN wrote.

The Lakers have wasted little time reshaping their roster, but they are still looking to add another key piece. The front office appears to be focused on bringing in former Golden State Warriors forward 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.

Kuminga is available in free agency after the Atlanta Hawks declined his team option for the upcoming season.

“The Atlanta Hawks are declining Jonathan Kuminga's $24.3 million team option, making him a free agent. Kuminga, who will turn 24 before next season, played in 16 regular-season games for the Hawks after joining the team via trade in February, averaging 12.3 points and 5.3 rebounds in 22.1 minutes. The trade was the result of a summerlong contract feud with the Golden State Warriors that followed years of discontent over his role on the team,” ESPN wrote.

Kuminga would fit well alongside Austin Reaves and Luka Doncic. His ability to attack the basket from the wing while also providing perimeter shooting would give the Lakers another versatile offensive weapon.

Kuminga was on a $46 million contract before entering free agency and is expected to seek a respectable offer before committing to his next team. Landing Kuminga would be a significant addition for the Lakers, and all indications are that Los Angeles is serious about bringing the young forward to LA. Now, it is simply a matter of how far the organization is willing to go to make it happen.

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