Lakers Turn to Washington, Hunter, Brown After Kuminga Snub
After Jonathan Kuminga rejected their offer to join the Timberwolves, the Los Angeles Lakers are exploring other options. Potential targets include PJ Washington, De'Andre Hunter, and Bruce Brown, each with different salary and fit considerations. Washington offers a similar versatile forward role, while Hunter provides shooting and Brown could be a cheaper addition.
The Lakers’ pursuit of Kuminga reportedly included a starting role and a $12 million-plus annual offer, but he chose Minnesota instead. With that option gone, Los Angeles is weighing several alternatives. PJ Washington, under contract with Dallas through 2029-30, carries a $19.8 million salary, though including Jarred Vanderbilt in a deal could ease the cap strain. Washington averaged 14.2 points and 7.0 rebounds last season and previously played with Luka Dončić during the Mavericks’ 2024 Finals run.
De’Andre Hunter, a possible Kings trade piece due to luxury-tax concerns, shot over 40 percent from deep in 2024-25 but carries a $24.9 million hit and had a down year. Bruce Brown, a free agent, is the cheapest option and could provide bench defense and shooting behind Austin Reaves. Alternatively, the Lakers might hold off and reassess near the trade deadline.
This roster decision could shape the Lakers’ immediate competitiveness and financial flexibility, affecting fan expectations and the team’s ability to contend around Luka Dončić. Adding a proven wing like Washington or Hunter may boost playoff odds, while a cheaper signing like Brown could preserve cap space for midseason moves. The outcome also influences the Western Conference balance, as rivals watch how Los Angeles addresses its forward depth.