The Los Angeles Lakers could face competition from the New York Knicks for veteran guard Bruce Brown after missing out on Jonathan Kuminga.
Brown has surfaced as a possible Lakers target, but NBA insider Brett Siegel believes the defending champions currently represent a more realistic destination.
“There’s been some talk about the Lakers wanting Bruce Brown after missing out on Kuminga, but I’m not really sure how much I believe that,” Siegel said on “Clutch Scoops.” “I would cast doubt on the Lakers. Could they make it happen? Maybe. But I would look at the Knicks as a realistic option.”
Missing Brown would represent another setback for Los Angeles after Kuminga chose a two-year contract with Minnesota.
Brown appeared in all 82 games for Denver last season, averaging 7.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists while shooting 47.5% from the field. His versatility, defense, and championship experience could make him useful for either contender.
The Lakers previously came close to signing Brown in 2023 before Indiana offered him a two-year, $40 million contract. This time, Brown could potentially be available for the veteran minimum.
New York, however, could provide an appealing opportunity on a championship roster. Siegel believes Brown could fill a role similar to Josh Hart.
“He could come in and play that Josh Hart-type role for the Knicks,” Siegel said. “I think, personally for me, that would be a really good fit.”
Los Angeles has already strengthened its roster with Walker Kessler, Kevon Looney, Matisse Thybulle and Ziaire Williams, but frontcourt depth and size on the wing remain concerns.
Brown would provide another experienced defender and secondary ball-handler without requiring the Lakers to make a major trade. But Los Angeles may first have to beat the Knicks for his signature.
