The Los Angeles Lakers have had an interesting offseason. Although it has been marked by several departures, including players like LeBron James and Rui Hachimura, it has paved the way for many new arrivals, an appropriate way to usher in a new era.
For the most part, the Lakers’ offseason retooling has been fulfilling. Having addressed several key roster issues that plagued the team last season, the Purple and Gold appear to be a more balanced unit. However, reports indicate that the team is still eyeing upgrades, with wing depth emerging as a priority.
The Lakers’ pursuit has seen them linked to players such as Peyton Watson and P.J. Washington. Still, it can be argued that after all is said and done, their consistent interest in acquiring Jonathan Kuminga may position him as their preferred target. But is there a better alternative?
There has been considerable activity in the NBA over the last two days. The most notable update, however, involves the Cleveland Cavaliers’ acquisition of Peyton Watson in a five-team trade. Watson’s arrival in Cleveland has reinvigorated the Cavaliers‘ chances, but it has also created an opportunity for the Lakers to improve.
Along with Watson, the Cavaliers also acquired Cam Whitmore from the Washington Wizards as part of the deal. Although Whitmore is positioned as a promising young forward, given Cleveland’s desperate need to clear cap space before signing James Harden, the forward was likely to be waived, making him available on the free-agent market.
In many ways, Cam Whitmore’s availability in free agency could be quite promising, especially as an alternative to Jonathan Kuminga.
Although Whitmore is slightly smaller than Kuminga (6’7″) at 6’6″, he possesses a stronger frame (230 lbs). With averages of 9.2 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 0.7 steals per game, he may not have been as productive as Kuminga last season (12.2 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 0.6 SPG).
On paper, Kuminga is a better perimeter shooter, but Whitmore is a more polished offensive threat. Additionally, since Whitmore played fewer minutes, one could argue he could be more impactful on offense if presented with the opportunity.
Since both are roughly the same age, there isn’t much to say about their upside, though Kuminga has more star power. However, because this aspect has also made conversations with the 23-year-old more challenging, the Purple and Gold may see more merit in engaging with Whitmore.
Does It Make Sense For The Lakers To Pursue Cam Whitmore?
According to the latest updates, the Lakers’ discussions with Jonathan Kuminga have been halted over contract demands. While a sign-and-trade with the Atlanta Hawks appears to be the only way forward, both teams are at an impasse, as the Hawks’ current roster and cap situation have forced both franchises to find a third team to facilitate any trade.
Acquiring Kuminga is turning out to be a tedious venture, one that may not yield much fruit. Hence, in light of the current situation, there may be merit in the Lakers shifting their attention to free agency and engaging in discussions with newly waived forward Cam Whitmore.
Still, this pursuit could also prove somewhat challenging.
Currently, the Purple and Gold have 16 guaranteed contracts on their roster, with three two-way spots filled out. This implies that the Lakers would be forced to cut at least one player before the start of the new season.
In the current circumstances, adding Cam Whitmore seems difficult enough. But the additional pressures of the first apron may raise more concerns.
Los Angeles currently has a payroll of $207.2 million, which is roughly $1.8 million below the first apron. With three years of NBA experience, Whitmore is technically eligible for a veteran minimum deal worth $2.3 million. With an excess of $500,000, the Purple and Gold could incur a tax penalty if they sign Whitmore without offloading other contracts.
Overall, signing Whitmore seems reasonable if the Lakers can clear two roster spots and some cap space. However, given these conditions, it would make sense for the Purple and Gold to continue pursuing Jonathan Kuminga.
The current indication is that any sign-and-trade involving Kuminga would involve sending Jarred Vanderbilt and draft capital, with a third team effectively absorbing Vanderbilt’s cap hit. By clearing up a roster spot and some cap space, L.A. addresses two concerns with one move.
Additionally, the Peyton Watson trade has certainly made matters more difficult for Kuminga. With reduced leverage in negotiations, the Lakers can acquire the forward on a low-cost contract. While this may not align with the forward’s wishes, the current situation does not favor him.
Realistically, Whitmore would still be a better fit in terms of the “role” the Lakers envision for their wings. However, given his reputation as a subpar defender, Los Angeles may see more value in Kuminga’s star potential and how it could uplift the roster.
