Overview
- Jonathan Kuminga became an unrestricted free agent when the Atlanta Hawks declined his $24.3 million team option, a move reported across outlets and dated June 29.
- The Lakers have emerged as a leading suitor and have offered a two-year, $20 million contract while pitching Kuminga a starting wing role next to Luka Dončić.
- Kuminga’s camp has been seeking a much higher annual salary near $25 million but sources say the player has shown growing openness to creative, lower-amount structures.
- Atlanta’s reported refusal to accept Jarred Vanderbilt in the Lakers’ proposed sign-and-trade package has blocked a straight deal and pushed L.A. to explore third-team solutions and salary dumps.
- If a move happens it will likely be a sign-and-trade requiring a minimum three-year contract with the first season guaranteed, and other teams including the Kings, Cavaliers, Bucks, and Bulls remain in the mix as alternatives.