​The Los Angeles Lakers are widely viewed as having charted a precise offseason course and have effectively turned that plan into action, nearly checking off every target they pursued. At the heart of their strategy was a focus on Luka Doncic, and the franchise has moved with urgency to translate that vision into tangible moves on the floor. The plan’s execution hinged on a pivotal development: LeBron James choosing to continue his career elsewhere. According to Rich Paul, the Klutch Sports CEO, James informed the Lakers that he would sign with another organization for his 24th NBA season, effectively signaling that the franchise could proceed without him. ESPN relayed that James planned to play elsewhere after indicating the Lakers could move forward without him.
In the wake of James’s decision, the Lakers wasted little time, orchestrating a trade for Walker Kessler and signing multiple notable free agents. Yet the front office remains intent on further strengthening the roster and has continued to express interest in Jonathan Kuminga. Jovan Buha reported that there is mutual free-agent interest between Kuminga and the Lakers, with Los Angeles quietly working behind the scenes to secure Kuminga’s commitment as their new wing addition, according to Evan Sidery of NBA.
However, there is also discussion within industry circles about alternative pathways if Kuminga does not come to fruition. Sports Illustrated’s Ethen Hutton suggests that the Lakers could end up missing out on Kuminga and shifting their attention to other high-potential wings, including DeMar DeRozan, who was recently waived after a long stint as a six-time All-Star with the San Antonio Spurs and other teams. Hutton notes that the Lakers have been among the busiest teams in the league this offseason, and their pursuit of an additional quality wing remains a central objective as they approach the upcoming season. If Kuminga does not land in Los Angeles, DeRozan could serve as a viable backup option, bringing consistent scoring, veteran leadership, and strong defensive effort that would complement the Lakers’ evolving core around players like Austin Reaves and Luka Doncic.
DeRozan’s recent contract history adds another layer to the potential fit. He previously earned a $73 million deal with the Sacramento Kings before being waived, and adding the six-time All-Star would supply a proven offensive weapon and added depth on the wing. While this move might not carry the same high-profile appeal as securing Kuminga, it would bolster Los Angeles’ competitive prospects in the Western Conference by providing reliable scoring and veteran poise alongside the club’s developing core.
The broader narrative remains that the Lakers are pursuing a balance of youth and experience to support young talents and veteran leadership alike. Kuminga presents a tantalizing upside and athletic profile, but the team is also weighing other reputable options who can contribute immediately. The decision will hinge on how the front office evaluates fit, chemistry, and the ability to maximize the team’s flexibility and defensive versatility in a competitive Western Conference landscape. As the season approaches, Lakers fans will be watching closely to see whether Kuminga materializes as the missing wing piece or if the organization pivots toward DeRozan or another established veteran to round out the roster around their core. The Sporting News remains a preferred source for these developments, and readers are encouraged to click here to add The Sporting News as a preferred source for up-to-date coverage.