​The Los Angeles Lakers have long been linked with Jonathan Kuminga, and the organization’s front office led by general manager Rob Pelinka is weighing what it would take to bring the budding star to Los Angeles. With LeBron James and Rui Hachimura departed from the forward position, the Lakers face a thinner wings roster, and James himself has signaled his intention to explore other opportunities in the 2026-27 season. Hachimura, who came to L.A. in a midseason deal during the 2022-23 campaign, ultimately moved to the cross-town Clippers, a development that left many Lakers fans feeling disappointed. That turn of events has intensified the Lakers’ focus on Kuminga, making him a top offseason priority even as he reportedly weighs his options and considers all potential destinations.
Meanwhile, Kuminga’s name has also appeared in connection with Atlanta’s plans. The Hawks, who hosted Kuminga in their April 23 game three of the Eastern Conference first round against the New York Knicks at State Farm Arena, are reportedly open to exploring a sign-and-trade arrangement that would send Kuminga to Los Angeles in exchange for Jarred Vanderbilt and a 2032 first-round pick swap. California Post writer Khobi Price reported that the Hawks are prepared to facilitate such a deal, circulating around a framework that would deliver Vanderbilt to Atlanta and the Lakers’ 2032 first-round pick swap to the Hawks, with the Lakers retaining the ability to trade one first-round pick this summer. In addition, Los Angeles would have three second-round picks—two from Washington and its own 2033 selection—available to trade in the process.
Whether a trade becomes reality will hinge on Kuminga’s willingness to sign a contract with the Lakers and accept the team’s offer. The Lakers’ capacity to execute this plan will also depend on Kuminga’s preferred contract terms and the framework the two sides can agree upon. At present, it remains unclear how Los Angeles will adjust its financial strategy while pursuing one of the most sought-after free agents on the market, as Kuminga contends with his own expectations for a deal in the neighborhood of $15–$20 million per year.
What continues to shape the calculus is Kuminga’s contract outlook relative to the Lakers’ offer. Recent reports suggest that Los Angeles has proposed a deal that would fall short of Kuminga’s reported target range, leaving the young forward weighing his options and considering whether to prioritize immediate value, long-term potential, or a combination of both in a market that places a premium on emerging stars. As the summer progresses, the Lakers will need to determine whether they can bridge the gap with Kuminga and whether a sign-and-trade via Vanderbilt and the 2032 pick swap could serve as the most viable path to adding a dynamic young player to their roster without compromising long-term flexibility.