The Los Angeles Lakers continue to be mentioned as a potential landing spot for Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga, who requested a trade Thursday.
CBS Sports' Sam Quinn listed the Lakers among a list of teams that could be landing spots for Kuminga.
"The Lakers were a surprising addition to the reported list of possible Kuminga teams, but it actually makes some sense when you think about it," Quinn said.
Kuminga signed a two-year, $46.8 million contract with Golden State in restricted free agency last offseason. He is reportedly looking for a bigger role and a long-term contract with his next team. Quinn pitched the idea of trading Rui Hachimura and Dalton Knecht to Golden State for Kuminga.
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"Hachimura's 3-point shooting makes him a bit more viable in lineups with (Draymond) Green and (Jimmy) Butler," he said. "Kuminga would give the Lakers a badly needed dose of athleticism."
Kuminga could provide some long-term upside to the Lakers. He is former top-10 pick who averaged 16.1 points and 4.8 rebounds in 2023-24. The relationship between him and Golden State has deteriorated, as he hasn't played since Dec. 18.
Quinn later said it should be viewed as a "last resort" option for both the Lakers and Warriors, but it could make sense given where both teams stand in the Western Conference.
"If there's nothing better out there, why not take a look at a talented player you might want to re-sign over the summer rather than sticking with what isn't working?"
Kuminga's situation will be worth monitoring for the Lakers, who are searching for forward depth ahead of February's trade deadline.
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