Lakers Urged to Reunite With $10.7M Forward Amid Giannis Antetokounmpo Rumors
As speculation swirls around the future of Giannis Antetokounmpo and whether the Los Angeles Lakers could position themselves for a blockbuster pursuit, another, more realistic roster move is gaining traction among league observers. Rather than waiting on a long-shot superstar scenario, some analysts are urging Los Angeles to reunite with a familiar and dependable contributor: forward Kyle Kuzma, who is playing on a $10.7 million salary.
While the idea of pairing Giannis with LeBron James and Anthony Davis is the kind of headline-grabbing fantasy that fuels offseason chatter, the Lakers’ front office must also weigh practical roster upgrades. In that context, a Kuzma reunion could offer immediate benefits without mortgaging the franchise’s future.
Kuzma, originally drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers in 2017, played a key role during his four seasons in purple and gold. Most notably, he contributed to the team’s championship run in the 2019–20 season, providing scoring versatility, size on the wing, and improved defensive effort alongside James and Davis. His ability to adapt from primary scoring option during rebuilding years to complementary piece on a title team demonstrated a maturity that often goes overlooked.
Since departing Los Angeles, Kuzma has expanded his game. He has become a more complete forward — improving as a rebounder, playmaker, and on-ball defender. At 6-foot-9 with the agility to guard multiple positions, he fits the modern NBA’s demand for switchable wings who can stretch the floor. For a Lakers squad that has at times struggled with depth, perimeter size, and consistent secondary scoring, Kuzma checks several boxes.
Financially, a move centered around a $10.7 million salary slot presents far fewer complications than attempting to acquire a perennial MVP candidate. Trading for Antetokounmpo would almost certainly require surrendering a massive package of draft capital and key rotation players, potentially leaving the roster top-heavy and thin. By contrast, reacquiring Kuzma could be structured around mid-tier contracts and future flexibility, allowing the Lakers to remain competitive while preserving assets.
There is also the chemistry factor. Kuzma already understands the pressure that comes with playing under the bright lights of Los Angeles. He has navigated trade rumors, intense media scrutiny, and championship expectations. That experience matters for a team built around veterans aiming to maximize what could be the final elite seasons of James’ career.
Of course, a reunion would not generate the same buzz as landing a superstar like Giannis. But championships are often won through smart depth moves as much as splashy acquisitions. The Lakers’ 2020 title run was fueled not just by star power, but by role players who embraced their assignments and thrived in defined roles.
If the Giannis rumors remain just that — rumors — the Lakers would be wise to consider attainable upgrades that improve roster balance immediately. Bringing back a proven, versatile forward in Kuzma may not dominate national headlines, but it could quietly strengthen the foundation of a team still chasing banner number 18.
In a league where patience and precision often outweigh bold gambles, a Kuzma reunion might be the pragmatic move the Lakers need.
