Overview
- Negotiations between Jonathan Kuminga and the Los Angeles Lakers have stalled this week with multiple outlets reporting the sides are far apart on salary and term.
- The Lakers reportedly offered a roughly two‑year, $20 million package while Kuminga’s camp is seeking a deal nearer to $15–20 million per year, creating a persistent contract gap.
- Because Atlanta retained Kuminga’s Bird rights after declining his option, any realistic L.A. acquisition would require a sign‑and‑trade that must match outgoing salary and produce a multi‑year contract.
- Roster moves in recent days — additions that pushed the Lakers to 16 guaranteed contracts — plus limited tradable picks make it hard for L.A. to surrender the assets or absorb the salary a sign‑and‑trade demands.
- Other suitors including Cleveland, the Clippers and the Bucks have shown interest and Cleveland could become a more aggressive option if it misses on LeBron James, keeping Kuminga’s market from softening.