Timberwolves predicted to outbid Lakers for $46M ex-Warriors NBA champion to pair with ANT

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Timberwolves predicted to outbid Lakers for $46M ex-Warriors NBA champion to pair with ANT originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The NBA offseason has been going on for nearly two months, and the excitement is still there as several free agents continue to search for their next teams. One player who was expected to find a new home early in the offseason was Jonathan Kuminga.

Kuminga has been a major target for teams in need of a starting forward. However, the former NBA champion has remained on the market, with the Lakers showing interest since June.

“There is mutual free agent interest between Jonathan Kuminga and the Lakers, per Jovan Buha. Los Angeles continues to work behind the scenes to secure Kuminga’s commitment as their new wing addition,” NBA reporter Evan Sidery wrote.

For a while, it appeared to be a battle between the Lakers and Cleveland Cavaliers for the 23-year-old high-end free agent. Over the last few weeks, however, the Minnesota Timberwolves have also emerged as a potential landing spot.

“After missing out on their pursuit of LeBron James, the Minnesota Timberwolves have also expressed interest in Kuminga with their starting power forward spot up for grabs and their $6.06 million taxpayer mid-level exception available for the taking, league sources told HoopsHype," HoopsHype's Michael Scotto wrote.

When it comes to Kuminga, his next destination could ultimately come down to the contract he receives. He has an important decision to make, and finding the right fit could be just as important as the money. Bleacher Report’s Zach Bachar believes Kuminga could ultimately choose Minnesota.

“The Minnesota Timberwolves have also been linked to the 23-year-old as they attempt to clinch a sixth consecutive playoff appearance next season. Minnesota may look to add Kuminga in order to bring more offensive firepower to its frontcourt rotation after the departures of Julius Randle and Naz Reid this summer,” Bachar wrote.

This would be a huge addition for the Timberwolves, who need a starting power forward to put alongside Anthony Edwards. Kuminga’s athleticism would fit perfectly with Edwards, and the two could form one of the most explosive young duos in the Western Conference.

Kuminga was on a $46 million contract last season. Minnesota also added LaMelo Ball in a trade over the summer, giving the team another dynamic offensive weapon. Adding Kuminga would give the Timberwolves even more firepower and could be a major win for the organization.

More NBA news:

• Lakers predicted to swap Jarred Vanderbilt for $46M ex-Warriors NBA champion in 3-team mega deal​

• Lakers warned against ill-advised Jonathan Kuminga decision after Cavaliers aggressive move​

• Cavaliers predicted to trade for ex-Warriors champion Jonathan Kuminga, ship Max Strus​

• Heat predicted to outbid Cavaliers for $305M future Hall of Famer, 17-year veteran, 6x All-Star​

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