Lakers zero in on Jonathan Kuminga as LeBron decision shapes free-agent market
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The Los Angeles Lakers have made free-agent forward Jonathan Kuminga their top target while they look to add one more wing and an additional big man, league sources told The Stein Line.
Interest in Kuminga is widespread, but teams are waiting for LeBron James to decide his own free-agency future. The Cleveland Cavaliers, coached by former Warriors assistant Kenny Atkinson, are monitoring Kuminga yet prefer to know whether they will land James before making a firm offer.
Multiple suitors
The Atlanta Hawks, who declined Kuminga’s $24.3 million team option on Monday, are expected to explore a new deal with him and are open to a sign-and-trade scenario. The Milwaukee Bucks are also weighing a run at the 23-year-old forward. Los Angeles’ pursuit of Kuminga could push incumbent forward Rui Hachimura toward another destination, according to sources.
Lakers’ search for size continues
After agreeing Friday to send Deandre Ayton to the Washington Wizards, the Lakers saw one potential replacement slip away when Andre Drummond committed to the New York Knicks later that day. Los Angeles is still considering former Pelicans center Kevon Looney and Denver Nuggets center Jonas Valančiūnas, whose $10 million contract for next season is guaranteed for only $2 million until July 8.
Knicks add Drummond, monitor Diabate
New York, which had also pursued Looney before landing Drummond, has been tracking Charlotte Hornets big man Moussa Diabate. Charlotte recently revamped its front line by trading for Naz Reid and drafting Hannes Steinbach. Diabate, 24, is entering the final season of a $2.5 million deal—a figure that would help the cap-conscious Knicks stay below the second apron.
Wizards plan twin-tower looks
Washington’s move for Ayton is not viewed as a prelude to trading Anthony Davis. Instead, sources said the club expects to expand its use of double-big lineups that rotate Ayton alongside Davis and rookie Alex Sarr.
Temple joins Mavericks bench
Dallas Mavericks president of basketball operations Masai Ujiri spoke with veteran guard Garrett Temple about a front-office position before new head coach Dusty May convinced Temple to join his coaching staff. Assistants Josh Broghamer and Phil Handy are expected to remain from Jason Kidd’s tenure.
Source: HoopsRumors
