Lakers evaluate fifth starter options following failed pursuit of Jonathan Kuminga

The Los Angeles Lakers enter the 2026-27 season with an open starting position after missing out on Jonathan Kuminga, who signed with the Minnesota Timberwolves. Coaching staff must now finalize the first unit to join Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, Walker Kessler, and Quentin Grimes. Available candidates for the final spot include Sandro Mamukelashvili, Jake LaRavia, Ziaire Williams, and Matisse Thybulle. Each player offers a distinct skill set, ranging from Mamukelashvili’s offensive versatility to Thybulle’s defensive disruption. The organization has until training camp begins next month to determine the role distribution and finalize the starting lineup rotation.

• 11:07 PMYahoo Sports — Who should be Lakers’ fifth starter after failed Jonathan Kuminga pursuit?