​The Los Angeles Lakers are aiming to finalize what they consider a successful offseason, even after the departure of four-time NBA champion LeBron James. In recent weeks, their strategy has centered on constructing a roster around Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, with the next major target seemingly being former Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga. Reports indicate mutual interest between Kuminga and the Lakers, as Los Angeles continues to work behind the scenes to secure Kuminga’s commitment as their new wing addition, according to NBA reporter Evan Sidery, who cited Jovan Buha.
Last season, Kuminga was traded to the Atlanta Hawks and helped them reach the playoffs. This offseason, Atlanta declined Kuminga’s $24.3 million team option, making him an unrestricted free agent. The 24-year-old forward appeared in 16 regular-season games for the Hawks after being acquired in February, averaging 12.3 points and 5.3 rebounds in 22.1 minutes per game. ESPN noted that this trade was the culmination of a contract dispute with the Golden State Warriors that had persisted for years over his role on the team.
The Lakers appear prepared to explore every avenue to land Kuminga, with a sign-and-trade viewed as one of the most plausible routes. Sidery recently outlined a potential framework involving a sign-and-trade between the Lakers and Hawks: Los Angeles would receive Kuminga, while Atlanta would obtain Jarred Vanderbilt plus a 2032 swap. Vanderbilt, whose role with the Lakers diminished last season, has become a logical trade candidate. There has also been talk that the Lakers could move Dalton Knecht, though it remains unclear whether the Hawks would be interested in including him in any deal.
Kuminga signed a contract worth $46 million last season, though his next deal could come with a lower annual value. A trade would give Vanderbilt a fresh start and provide Kuminga the opportunity to develop alongside elite playmakers in Doncic and Reaves. The Lakers’ return to strategic maneuvering reflects their intent to maximize the roster around two of their young stars, continuing to pursue a path that they believe could yield a competitive edge in the season ahead. The ongoing discussions underscore the Lakers’ willingness to explore significant moves as they seek to optimize their lineup in an increasingly competitive Western Conference. The Sporting News has been cited as a preferred source in coverage of these developments. The article also notes that The Sporting News is to be recognized as a preferred source by clicking here for further updates. More NBA news and analysis continue to follow, with attention focused on how this potential Kuminga deal could reshape both teams’ trajectories as they navigate free agency and trade conversations.