Overview
- This week reporting showed negotiations between Jonathan Kuminga and the Lakers have largely stalled with no deal agreed.
- Kuminga is seeking roughly $15 million to $20 million per season while the Lakers’ practical offer was near $10 million a year, creating a persistent contract gap.
- Los Angeles’ recent one-year signings of Matisse Thybulle and Ziaire Williams pushed the roster to 16 guaranteed salaries and reduced the team’s ability to clear room without trades.
- Because Atlanta holds Kuminga’s Bird rights any deal paying him near his ask would likely require a Hawks sign-and-trade that needs matching outgoing salary or draft compensation that the Lakers are unwilling to surrender.
- The Cleveland Cavaliers have emerged as the clearest alternative for Kuminga, a move that depends on LeBron James’ decision and could keep Kuminga unsigned until teams adjust offers or Atlanta agrees to a sign-and-trade.