Seeking an athletic forward, the Lakers have reportedly proposed a sign-and-trade with Atlanta for Jonathan Kuminga. Although LA offers a starting position, Kuminga’s camp remains in discussions over the contract’s length and total valuation.
The Los Angeles Lakers have reportedly made a concrete offer to one of their top free agency targets this offseason.
According to NBA insider Evan Sidery, the Lakers have offered Jonathan Kuminga a contract worth around $45 million that would materialize via sign-and-trade.
LA would send Jarred Vanderbilt and draft capital to the Atlanta Hawks for Kuminga, with the forward needing to ink at least a three-year agreement to finalize the transaction.
The Lakers and Cleveland Cavaliers are the primary suitors for the athletic forward; however, his ultimate destination remains unclear.
Lakers viewed as likely Jonathan Kuminga destination
Throughout free agency, Los Angeles has been consistently linked with the former Golden State Warriors forward.
The Lakers can offer Kuminga a starting role on a roster built around Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.
Searching for versatility, the organization covets an athletic forward who can defend multiple positions, attack the rim, and contribute efficiently without dominating the ball.
However, the sides have yet to agree on salary, length, or Kuminga’s eventual role.
Previous reporting indicated that Los Angeles had discussed a short-term offer, whereas Kuminga’s camp sought a more lucrative, long-term commitment.
Jonathan Kuminga
Credit AP – Scanpix
Kuminga prepared to wait for desired contract
Kuminga’s willingness to hold out adds another element to one of the offseason’s longest-running free-agency situations.
The Atlanta Hawks declined his $24.3 million team option for the 2026-27 season, allowing him to become an unrestricted free agent.
The Lakers’ current offer of around $15 million annually represents a steep pay cut compared to the salary the option would have guaranteed.
Nevertheless, the forward may prioritize fit and playing time over immediate gains to maximize his future earning potential.
A shorter contract could allow him to return to free agency after rebuilding his value.
Jonathan Kuminga
Credit AP – Scanpix
Kuminga searching for larger role after Hawks stint
Before his February 2026 trade to Atlanta, Kuminga spent the first four and a half seasons of his career in Golden State.
The former No. 7 overall pick averaged 12.2 points, 5.6 rebounds and 2.3 assists during the 2025-26 season. Notably, he contributed to the Warriors’ 2022 NBA championship run as a rookie.
Kuminga showed flashes of brilliance during Atlanta’s first-round series against the New York Knicks, scoring 19 and 21 points in back-to-back games.
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