The Los Angeles Lakers could take a big swing with this proposed blockbuster trade.
The Los Angeles Lakers moved to 18-7 after edging out the Phoenix Suns in a tight game.
Even though they’ve climbed up to third in the Western Conference, questions still remain about whether they have enough to make a serious run at the 2026 NBA Championship.
With that in mind, the NBA Analysis Network has put forward a trade idea that would see Jonathan Kuminga join LeBron James and Anthony Davis at Crypto.com Arena.
Los Angeles Lakers deal for Jonathan Kuminga
Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images
Even with Rui Hachimura playing a significant role this season, the Lakers haven’t offered him a new contract yet.
That makes his $18.2 million expiring deal a useful piece in any trade talks. And with Dalton Knecht struggling, he could also be moved on.
Kuminga is earning $22.5 million this year, so the numbers work out, and the deal could go through after January 15, 2026.
With things not going well between Kuminga and the Warriors, it feels like a move is just around the corner.
In this scenario, giving up extra draft picks might allow them to hold onto Austin Reaves, who’s having an outstanding season and is on track for his first NBA All-Star selection.
Golden State Warriors may finally be ready to trade Jonathan Kuminga
Steve Kerr’s recent handling of Jonathan Kuminga hasn’t gone unnoticed. The forward’s playing time has dipped, and it’s clear his role within the team has become uncertain.
The uncertainty around Kuminga’s fit has contributed to the Warriors’ uneven start, and a move to Los Angeles might be worth exploring for both sides.
There is hope that a new coaching staff could help unlock Hachimura and Knecht’s shooting potential, while also bolstering the team’s depth—a consistent issue this season.