Kuminga had been the subject of extensive speculation since late June, following the Atlanta Hawks’ decision to decline his $24.3 million team option in hopes of keeping him as a free agent. The Lakers, meanwhile, enjoyed a productive July, adding depth and youth through multiple signings and a notable sign-and-trade that brought Walker Kessler from Utah. Kuminga ultimately chose the Minnesota Timberwolves, agreeing to a two-year, $13 million contract.
How the Lakers Could Shape the Rest of the Roster Around Luka Doncic After Kuminga’s Decision
After Kuminga’s decision, the Lakers are exploring other options to complete the roster around Luka Doncic. Bleacher Report’s Andrew Peters outlined several potential paths, noting three clear targets for the team as they pivot from Kuminga.
Possible targets include:
– PJ Washington, who is under contract with Dallas through the 2029-30 season. His $19.8 million salary for the upcoming season could pose a constraint for the Lakers, but he remains a candidate in potential cap-management scenarios.
– De’Anthony Hunter (De’Andre Hunter) and Bruce Brown, two players who could bolster two-way depth. Washington and Hunter carry sizable contracts, which could complicate trades, while Brown offers versatility as a wing with shooting and defense.
Brown stands out as a particularly attractive option because, unlike Washington and Hunter, he is an unrestricted free agent. This would allow the Lakers to add him with fewer cap constraints, potentially providing solid perimeter defense and shooting off the bench behind key starter pieces. His arrival could offer immediate value without tying up long-term commitments.
There has been longstanding speculation about Brown’s fit with the Lakers, dating back to prior seasons when he was close to joining the team after a strong stint with the Denver Nuggets. While the path to a deal has faced hurdles in the past, the possibility of adding a veteran guard who can contribute on defense and offense remains appealing for a team looking to balance youth with experience.
In summary, with Kuminga moving on to another team, the Lakers are evaluating next steps to strengthen the roster around Doncic. The focus is likely to center on adding reliable wings and guards who can contribute on both ends of the floor, maintain flexibility, and complement the core pieces already in place.
If you’re following ongoing roster developments, keep an eye on cap space considerations, potential trade scenarios, and free-agent market movements as teams position themselves for the upcoming season.
