Lakers consider Taylor Hendricks as Kuminga trade talks stall

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Aug 8, 2026, 10:31 AM

Last updated Aug 8, 2026

Lakers consider Taylor Hendricks as Kuminga trade talks stall
Summary

The Los Angeles Lakers are exploring options for a starting forward as free agent Jonathan Kuminga seeks a significant contract. With trade discussions on hold, reporters suggest the Lakers could pivot to younger forward Taylor Hendricks from the Memphis Grizzlies. Acquiring Hendricks, who is on a rookie-scale contract and set to become a restricted free agent in 2027, might allow the Lakers to assess his fit without a long-term commitment. The Lakers have limited trade assets after previous deals, prompting the need for more cost-effective choices. Hendricks has shown promise as a defensive prospect, increasing his production after being traded to Memphis earlier this season.

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Key Details
  • Lakers pursue starting forward amid stalled Kuminga trade talks.
  • Taylor Hendricks seen as a low-cost alternative option.
  • Hendricks is on a rookie-scale contract set to expire in 2027.
  • Negotiations with Kuminga complicated by his contract demands.
  • Memphis has multiple forwards, making Hendricks potentially expendable.
Latest Updates
  • 10:31 AMYahoo SportsLakers Urged to Pivot to $25 Million Alternative As Kuminga Saga Drags On
What they're saying
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The Lakers have been urged to consider a trade for Taylor Hendricks as a low-cost alternative amid the ongoing Jonathan Kuminga saga. The post Lakers Urged to Pivot to $25 Million Alternative As Kuminga Saga Drags On appeared first on HEAVY.

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