Lakers’ 5 Jonathan Kuminga Alternatives Emerge

By admin — In News — July 9, 2026

   ​Ziaire Williams is among the unrestricted free agents that could attract the Lakers if they are unable to land Jonathan Kuminga after having previously shown interest in the young wing. Getty PJ Washington remains one of the most appealing trade options for the Lakers because of his familiarity with Luka Dončić, though his long-term contract could complicate any potential pursuit. Getty The Los Angeles Lakers continue to pursue Jonathan Kuminga as the final major piece of their offseason. But if the restricted free agent ultimately chooses another destination, where would the Lakers turn next? AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisement That question has grown increasingly relevant as Kuminga weighs his options despite weeks of mutual interest with Los Angeles. While Lakers reporter Jovan Buha of Buha’s Block recently outlined several avenues president Rob Pelinka could use to acquire the 23-year-old forward, Lakers beat writer Khobi Price of the California Post examined what alternatives might exist should those efforts fall short. Price did not report that the Lakers are pivoting away from Kuminga or that they have identified a formal contingency list. Instead, he outlined several players who have either drawn prior interest from Los Angeles or fit the profile the organization has pursued throughout the offseason. The common thread is clear. The Lakers are still searching for a wing who brings size, athleticism, defensive versatility and youth to complement Luka Dončić. Brooklyn Nets forward Ziaire Williams attempts a layup against the Los Angeles Lakers. Getty Ziaire Williams stands as one of the unrestricted free agents who could pique the Lakers’ interest if they miss out on Jonathan Kuminga after previously showing interest in the young wing. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisement Among the available free agents, Price identified Ziaire Williams as perhaps the cleanest stylistic alternative. Los Angeles had previously shown interest in Williams after Brooklyn declined the 24-year-old’s $6.3 million team option, making him an unrestricted free agent. Williams delivered what was the best season of his career for the Nets, posting career highs in points (10.2), rebounds (2.4), steals (1.4) and assists (1.1) in 56 games before a left foot injury sidelined him for Brooklyn’s final five contests. He may not possess Kuminga’s explosive upside as an attacker, but Williams offers length, defensive activity and developmental potential that align with the type of player the Lakers have sought to pair with Dončić. Price also highlighted several unrestricted free agents who could help address parts of the Lakers’ needs. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisement Bruce Brown remains one of the league’s most versatile role players even after a quieter postseason. The veteran played all 82 regular-season games, averaging 7.9 points, 3.9 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 1.0 steal, while continuing to demonstrate the defensive versatility that contributed to an NBA championship and could add a much-needed dimension to Los Angeles’ depth.  

Content Source: Yahoo News

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