Lakers reportedly hit roadblock with $46M ex-Warriors NBA champion despite mutual interest

The Los Angeles Lakers have been searching for a starting wing to help replace LeBron James after he informed the organization that he would not be returning. James held down the starting wing role for Los Angeles over the past eight seasons.

It appears James' time with the Lakers came to an end after the relationship between the two sides gradually faded over the years. LA was interested in adding 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.

For several weeks, Kuminga appeared to be the player the Lakers were focused on acquiring. However, the two sides have been unable to reach an agreement. On Monday morning, Los Angeles pivoted and signed Matisse Thybulle.

“Free agent forward Matisse Thybulle has agreed on a one-year, $3.3 million deal to sign with the Los Angeles Lakers, sources told ESPN. Thybulle, a two-time All-Defensive team member, spoke with JJ Redick and Luka Doncic about the Lakers' desire to sign him and his role during free agency and chose the opportunity in an effort to beef up the team's wing defense,” ESPN’s Shams Charania wrote.

The Lakers' decision to sign Thybulle appears to be a result of the team's need for perimeter defense, especially as momentum with Kuminga has slowed.

“The Athletic has reported on the Lakers’ interest in free agent Jonathan Kuminga since late June, but it appears that momentum has stalled with the sides far apart on terms and L.A. not overly motivated to push significant draft capital into sign-and-trade scenarios,” The Athletic’s Dan Woike wrote.

The Lakers may now feel like they are on the outside looking in with Kuminga after adding multiple wings this offseason. They have also checked in with the Dallas Mavericks about PJ Washington as a potential alternative at the position. Los Angeles does not appear finished making aggressive moves this summer.

Kuminga was previously on a $46 million contract with the Hawks. He also won an NBA championship during his time with Golden State, although his tenure with the franchise ended abruptly. With the addition of Thybulle, the Lakers do not appear willing to wait around indefinitely in another lengthy Kuminga negotiation.

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