Lakers on a targeted path for a high-upside wing
With James gone, the team is prioritizing wing depth to complement Dončić. Reports indicate that Jonathan Kuminga, 23, is a top target for the Lakers. Kuminga was traded from the Golden State Warriors to the Atlanta Hawks earlier in the season, entering a period where he could unlock his full potential with a featured role. While his production has fluctuated as he sought his footing, Kuminga’s ceiling remains enticing to front offices around the league.
The Hawks recently declined Kuminga’s $24.3 million team option, making him an unrestricted free agent and opening the door for multiple suitors. Kuminga’s blend of defensive versatility and aggressive attacking style makes him a logical fit for a team looking to build around a prolific playmaker like Dončić. His ability to impact both ends of the floor aligns with the Lakers’ goal of constructing a competitive core for the long term.
Beyond short-term fixes
The Lakers could have pursued an established veteran to help stabilize the lineup immediately, but the front office appears focused on building a roster that fits Dončić’s style and extends beyond the current season. Kuminga fits that vision as one of the youngest core pieces potentially available, and his development could accelerate with Dončić’s playmaking creating easier scoring opportunities.
Entering his sixth NBA season, Kuminga would bring youth and upside to a roster hoping to maximize its potential with a dynamic, two-way threat alongside Dončić. If the Lakers believe they can unlock another level in his game—leveraging Dončić’s unique passing and decision-making—the move could prove more valuable than signing an aging veteran with limited long-term upside.
The latest roster activity suggests that the Lakers are not done shaping the team. Front office leadership has demonstrated a willingness to take calculated risks to pair Dončić with players who can contribute meaningfully now and in the future. The sign-and-trade for a promising young center, for example, signals a broader strategy of aligning the roster with Dončić’s strengths and long-term development plans. Kuminga remains a compelling option, though competition for his services could come from other Western Conference teams.
Outlook
Whether Los Angeles ultimately lands Kuminga remains to be seen, but the organization’s approach is clear: prioritize players who fit alongside Dončić and contribute to a versatile, playoff-caliber lineup for years to come. The coming weeks and months will reveal how aggressively the Lakers pursue this path and which other targets join the fold as they continue to refine a roster around their star playmaker.
