Los Angeles Lakers Predicted to Swap Jarred Vanderbilt for $46M Ex-Warriors NBA Champion in Three-Team Mega Deal
The Los Angeles Lakers still have significant positional needs to address before the start of the season. Los Angeles needs a starting power forward and another reliable center option over the next couple of months. The team has been doing everything they can to land Jonathan Kuminga in a sign-and-trade. There is mutual free agent interest between Jonathan Kuminga and the Lakers, per Jovan Buha. Los Angeles continues to work behind the scenes to secure Kuminga's commitment as their new wing addition.
Even if the Lakers land Kuminga to fill the starting power forward spot, they are not completely confident in their depth at center. That is why the team continues to monitor the market for additional options. The Lakers are still monitoring the market for big men, team sources told The Athletic. They traded for Walker Kessler and signed Kevon Looney to play center, and Mamukelashvili can play the position, too.
In a proposed three-team trade by SI's Rohan Roman, the Lakers would land Kuminga while also adding a serviceable backup big man. The proposed deal would address two of the Lakers' biggest needs. Kuminga would fill the starting power forward role, while Jericho Sims would give Los Angeles another athletic and reliable option in the frontcourt. Adding both players would give the Lakers even more depth as they look to compete in the Western Conference.
Kuminga was on a $46 million contract last season. Finally landing the former Warriors champion would also bring an end to a summer-long pursuit that has lasted much longer than expected. At long last, the Kuminga saga would finally be over.
What Comes Next?
The proposed trade is still in its early stages, and it remains to be seen whether it will come to fruition. However, if the deal does go through, it would be a significant boost for the Lakers' roster. The team would gain a talented young player in Kuminga, as well as a reliable backup big man in Jericho Sims.
Why It Matters for the Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers' need for a starting power forward and a reliable center option is a pressing concern. The team has been trying to address this need through free agency and trades, but so far, they have not found a suitable solution. The proposed trade with the Hawks and the Bucks would provide the Lakers with the necessary pieces to address this need.
Recent Form
The Los Angeles Lakers have been struggling in recent games, losing their last five matches. Their recent form is a concern, and they will need to turn things around if they want to compete in the Western Conference. Last result: Los Angeles Lakers 110-115 Oklahoma City Thunder (2026-05-12).
