​The Los Angeles Lakers have emerged as one of the most active teams this offseason, especially after LeBron James informed the organization that he would be departing. Among the franchise’s significant moves was adding center Walker Kessler from the Utah Jazz. Since James’s exit, the Lakers have concentrated on building around Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. Now, reports indicate Los Angeles has shifted its focus to former NBA champion Jonathan Kuminga.
There is mutual free-agent interest between Jonathan Kuminga and the Lakers, according to Jovan Buha. Los Angeles continues to work behind the scenes to secure Kuminga’s commitment as their new wing addition, NBA writer Evan Sidery noted. The Lakers have an opportunity to pursue Kuminga after the Atlanta Hawks declined his team option, effectively making him a free agent. The Hawks opted not to exercise Kuminga’s $24.3 million option, which opens the door for him to explore other opportunities. Kuminga, who will turn 24 before next season, appeared in 16 regular-season games for Atlanta after being acquired in a February trade, averaging 12.3 points and 5.3 rebounds in 22.1 minutes. The trade occurred after a lengthy contract dispute with the Golden State Warriors over his role, a situation ESPN described as the culmination of years of discontent.
Although no agreement has been reached yet, the mutual interest appears robust. Kuminga would bring the Lakers the athleticism and versatility they have been seeking on the wing. A recent report also shed light on what Los Angeles might be prepared to offer. According to people familiar with the situation, the Lakers are looking at a two-year, $20 million deal for Kuminga, a player who could fill the role of a starting small forward with his athletic profile, per Brad Turner of the Los Angeles Times. Kuminga might push for a higher annual salary after earning $23 million last season, a potential sticking point in negotiations. Ultimately, the Lakers’ aggressiveness in pairing him with Doncic and Reaves will determine the outcome.
The Lakers have a clear need for an athletic wing following several offseason departures. Kuminga’s youth, burst, and ability to attack the basket would make him a strong fit in Los Angeles and could help fortify the Lakers’ evolving core. As talks continue, the team’s strategy will hinge on balancing Kuminga’s market value with its desire to create a dynamic, high-ceiling lineup around Doncic and Reaves. The ongoing discussions point to a potential pairing that could redefine the Lakers’ wing rotation and bolster their championship aspirations in the coming seasons. The Sporting News has highlighted the situation, and fans can view updates from preferred sources, including The Sporting News, as negotiations progress.