As the NBA calendar flips toward August, the Los Angeles Lakers find themselves in a familiar position: exploring every avenue to reinforce a roster built for contention. After already adding Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart to complement stars LeBron James and Luka Dončić, the Lakers are now monitoring the buyout market with precision—specifically two intriguing names: Nikola Vučević and Robert Williams III.
But as L.A. looks to upgrade their depth, a stalled negotiation up north in the Bay Area is slowing the entire free-agent landscape.
The Kuminga Stalemate Holding Up the Market
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According to multiple reports, the situation between the Golden State Warriors and restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga remains at a complete standstill. The 21-year-old forward, who has drawn serious interest from teams like the Sacramento Kings and Phoenix Suns, continues to hold out for a long-term deal that guarantees both playing time and financial security.
But Golden State isn’t budging. As reported by Sam Amick of The Athletic, the Kings offered Malik Monk and a lottery-protected 2030 first-round pick for Kuminga—an offer quickly declined. The Warriors are holding out for an unprotected first-rounder, despite Kuminga’s limited market across the league.
Why does this matter for the Lakers? Because as Anthony Irwin of ClutchPoints reports, veteran free agents like Al Horford and De’Anthony Melton are waiting on the Kuminga domino to fall. Their signings in Golden State hinge on how much cap space Kuminga ends up consuming—or not. Until it’s resolved, teams like the Lakers are stuck in neutral when it comes to negotiating for buyout candidates.
Vučević a Realistic Target, If the Price Is Right
One name that continues to surface around Los Angeles is Nikola Vučević. The Bulls’ big man is reportedly being monitored closely by LA, who see him as a potential midseason buyout target if trade talks continue to stall in Chicago.
Irwin recently noted, “This does leave a few interesting free agents still, not even including eventual buyout candidates like Chicago’s Nikola Vučević. As they did with Smart, the Lakers are closely monitoring that situation.”
At 34, Vučević may not be the athletic rim protector he once was, but his offensive skill set is still potent. He averaged 18.5 points and 10.1 rebounds last season, shooting over 40% from three-point range—numbers that would bring a major scoring punch to the second unit.
From a strategic perspective, L.A. would prefer to land Vučević through a buyout, rather than surrender assets in a trade. With Deandre Ayton already anchoring the frontcourt, Vučević’s ability to score and stretch the floor off the bench could be a perfect complement. The only complication is money—while a veteran minimum deal is technically possible, more financially flexible teams like the Pistons or Warriors could make stronger offers if Vučević hits the open market.
Lakers Cautious With Robert Williams III Despite Betting Favorite Status
The other name generating buzz is Robert Williams III. According to Bovada, the Lakers are the betting favorites to land the 26-year-old rim protector, ahead of the Warriors, Bucks, and Celtics. But there’s a catch.
Williams is still dealing with injury concerns, having played just 26 total games over the past two seasons. As Irwin reported, the Lakers are aware of the whispers that Williams may already be banged up—and they’re wary of what it could mean long-term.
Still, the upside is real. When healthy, Williams is one of the best defensive centers in basketball. His shot-blocking instincts, mobility, and vertical presence would immediately elevate a Lakers defense that finished just 22nd in efficiency last season.
Financially, the Lakers are well-positioned to make a move. They’ve got more than $40 million in expiring contracts—Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, and Maxi Kleber among them—and could structure a deal to acquire Williams without disrupting future plans. Second-year wing Dalton Knecht could be dangled as a sweetener, though sources suggest LA prefers to keep him unless absolutely necessary.
Waiting Game Could Shape Lakers’ Next Move
With Kuminga’s situation holding up key signings around the league, the Lakers’ front office remains patient—but alert. If Vučević reaches a buyout or Williams’ health checks out, Los Angeles will likely act quickly. Until then, they’re operating in a holding pattern like much of the league.
Rob Pelinka and company have already overhauled much of the roster. But one or two more well-timed moves could be the difference between a fringe playoff team and a true contender. For now, the Lakers are just waiting for someone—anyone—to blink.