The Lakers already have star power, but adding Jonathan Kuminga could be the move that finally gives them the versatile frontcourt they've been searching for.
After reshaping much of their roster this offseason, the Los Angeles Lakers still appear to be searching for one more impact piece.
Reports from ESPN's Anthony Slater that the Lakers "keep calling Jonathan Kuminga" suggest the organization hasn't given up on landing the versatile forward, and it's easy to understand why.
While much of the offseason conversation has centered around Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves and newly acquired center Walker Kessler, Kuminga may be the player who would tie everything together.
His athleticism, defensive versatility and ability to score without dominating the ball make him an ideal fit alongside L.A.'s new core.
Kuminga Fits the Lakers' Biggest Need
The Lakers have addressed several needs this offseason, particularly at center with Kessler and by adding more depth throughout the roster. However, one question remains: Who starts at forward next to Doncic, Reaves and Kessler?
Kuminga checks nearly every box.
At 6-foot-7 and 225 pounds, the 23-year-old has the size to defend multiple positions while also possessing the explosiveness to attack the rim in transition or off cuts.
During the 2025-26 season between Golden State and Atlanta, Kuminga averaged 12.2 points, 5.6 rebounds and 2.3 assists in 36 games while shooting 46.3% from the field.
Those numbers don't immediately jump off the page, but context matters. Kuminga has rarely been featured as a primary option during his NBA career. Instead, he's often been asked to fit around established stars.
Jan 22, 2026; Dallas, Texas, USA; Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga (1) dunks against the Dallas Mavericks during the first half at American Airlines Center. That's exactly what the Lakers would need him to do.
Playing alongside Doncic could unlock another level of Kuminga's game. Few players create easier scoring opportunities than Doncic, whose ability to collapse defenses would allow Kuminga to thrive as a cutter and transition finisher.
Reaves would provide additional playmaking, while Kessler's rim protection would allow Kuminga to gamble more aggressively on defense.
Oct 21, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) looks to drive against Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga (1) during the second half at Crypto.com Arena. A Move Worth Continuing to Pursue
There's also reason to believe Kuminga's best basketball is still ahead of him.
Despite already owning an NBA championship and entering his sixth season, Kuminga is only 23 years old. He's shown flashes of becoming a two-way difference-maker, averaging as many as 16.1 points during the 2023-24 season with Golden State before seeing his role fluctuate over the next two years.
The Lakers don't necessarily need another player capable of averaging 25 points per game. They need someone who complements their stars while providing energy, athleticism and defensive flexibility every night.
Oct 21, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) drives past Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga (1) during the first half at Crypto.com Arena.Kuminga offers all of that.
He could defend elite wings, finish above the rim, run the floor with Doncic and give head coach JJ Redick another versatile lineup option in both small-ball and traditional lineups.
Trading for Kuminga won't be easy, especially if Atlanta continues to seek significant value in return, with reports that the Hawks aren't interested in absorbing Jarred Vanderbilt's contract.
But the Lakers' continued interest suggests they understand something that may not be obvious at first glance.
Kuminga isn't just another talented forward available on the market.
He's the type of player who could complete L.A.'s starting lineup and elevate the roster into a legitimate playoff threat.
