Lakers, Timberwolves reportedly favorites to sign $46M ex-Warriors NBA champion to end free agency

Lakers, Timberwolves reportedly favorites to sign $46M ex-Warriors NBA champion to end free agency originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Los Angeles Lakers have been searching for their next starting power forward throughout the entire summer, but they have not had much luck to this point. With the offseason nearing its end, Los Angeles is still looking for the right player to fill the position.

LA is looking to prove it can remain a high-level team without LeBron James on the roster. The Lakers have been interested in NBA champion Jonathan Kuminga from the beginning of free agency.

“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.

The Lakers have pursued Kuminga for so long that the situation has become a rollercoaster as everyone waits to see where he will ultimately land. Los Angeles has even offered him a contract, making it surprising that a deal has yet to be finalized.

“The Lakers have offered Jonathan Kuminga a contract via sign-and-trade that would pay him around $45 million. Los Angeles is willing to send Jarred Vanderbilt alongside draft capital to the Hawks for Kuminga, who must sign at least a three-year deal in sign-and-trade agreements," Sidery posted.

The Minnesota Timberwolves are also in the running for the 23-year-old forward. In fact, it appears Minnesota has emerged as a serious threat to the Lakers in the race for Kuminga.

“The Lakers and Timberwolves are the finalists for Jonathan Kuminga. Both teams have offered Kuminga a starting role, but Los Angeles would be acquiring him via sign-and-trade at a larger salary. Minnesota can only offer Kuminga the vet minimum, but it’s a strong on-court fit,” Sidery wrote.

The good news for Los Angeles is that it can offer Kuminga significantly more money than Minnesota. However, having another team involved in the pursuit is always a concern, especially in an NBA free-agency market where things can change quickly.

Kuminga was on a $46 million contract last season. Whichever team he ultimately chooses, he will have the opportunity to play alongside two stars and take on a major role. This could be the opportunity Kuminga needs to develop into the player many expected him to become.

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