Lakers’ Next Move Comes Into Focus After Jonathan Kuminga Setback
Sports Illustrated • • sports
Key Points:
- Jonathan Kuminga has signed with the Minnesota Timberwolves, ending the Lakers' pursuit of the 23-year-old forward and prompting them to refocus on other roster needs.
- The Lakers are expected to prioritize adding frontcourt depth behind starters Walker Kessler and Kevon Looney, as their big man rotation is thin and injury-prone.
- Sandro Mamukelashvili may start at power forward, increasing the urgency to secure another center to support Kessler and Looney for the 2026-27 season.
- Nick Richards, a potential frontcourt addition, has signed with the Miami Heat, narrowing the Lakers' free agent options.
- Kevin Love remains unsigned and could be a valuable veteran presence off the bench, alongside other available centers like Dwight Powell, Bismack Biyombo, Drew Eubanks, Xavier Tillman, and Mason Plumlee.
