ESPN reporter: Lakers 'keep calling' about Jonathan Kuminga

[ASFN Admin]

Although the Los Angeles Lakers' roster looks largely set, their pursuit of 6-foot-7 forward Jonathan Kuminga hasn't ended.

They have depth at the wing and forward spots after adding Ziaire Williams and Matisse Thybulle in recent days, but they lack a legitimate two-way starting forward. Kuminga could fill that void -- if he changes his ways and embraces such a well-rounded role.

ESPN reporter Anthony Slater went on "NBA Today" on Thursday and outlined where the Lakers' pursuit of Kuminga stands.

“I can tell you that they keep calling Jonathan Kuminga. And again, obviously they have not made a lucrative enough offer for Kuminga to jump. But part of their pitch has been, ‘Hey, you can come start here potentially.’

“And that says two things to me. Number one, it says the Lakers still don’t want to be done making moves, and they believe they’re a little weak on the wing position. Which, I think [Matisse] Thybulle will help. I think Ziaire Williams will help, but they could use some more juice on the wing, and maybe they get Kuminga done. Maybe they don’t. I think the LeBron domino affects Kuminga and what he may or may not be able to get. But, again, all I can tell you is Rob Pelinka keeps calling about Jonathan Kuminga”

There seems to be a standoff between the Lakers and the Atlanta Hawks, the team Kuminga last played for, as well as one between the Lakers and Kuminga's representation. It appears the Hawks don't want what Los Angeles has been offering in a potential sign-and-trade deal, and according to at least one report, Kuminga is seeking a contract that would pay him at least $25 million a year.

While he is very athletic and can be a consistent scoring threat, his 3-point shooting and defense have often been subpar, and many question his dedication, focus and coachability. The 23-year-old was the No. 7 pick in the 2021 NBA Draft and has career averages of 12.5 points and 4.2 rebounds in 22.1 minutes a game.

This article originally appeared on LeBron Wire: ESPN reporter: Lakers 'keep calling' about Jonathan Kuminga

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