LOS ANGELES — The Lakers remain engaged in efforts to land free-agent forward Jonathan Kuminga, but talks with the Hawks on a sign-and-trade have stalled, league sources told The Stein Line’s Jake Fischer.
Lakers’ Current Offer Not Moving Atlanta
According to Fischer, Atlanta has resisted a proposal built around forward Jarred Vanderbilt and a 2032 first-round pick swap, contradicting earlier reports that indicated momentum toward an agreement. Kuminga is reportedly looking for a deal richer than the two-year, $20 million structure the Lakers have explored.
One scenario being discussed would route Vanderbilt to a third team, potentially giving Los Angeles room to sweeten its offer. Any departure from Atlanta is expected to occur through a sign-and-trade requiring at least a three-year contract, though only the first season would need to be fully guaranteed, sources said.
The Cavaliers remain on the periphery because of Kuminga’s connection to head coach Kenny Atkinson. Cleveland’s level of pursuit is tied to LeBron James’ pending free-agency decision.
Hawks Showing Interest in Peyton Watson
Fischer also reported that Atlanta is among the clubs eyeing Nuggets restricted free agent Peyton Watson. Denver is believed to be seeking a return comparable to what Utah received from the Lakers in the Walker Kessler deal—two first-round picks and two pick swaps—while avoiding incoming salary.
The Clippers have likewise been linked to Watson but, like the Hawks, have balked at the Nuggets’ asking price. If Denver’s stance does not soften, Los Angeles is expected to shift focus to re-signing restricted free agent Bennedict Mathurin.
Nuggets’ Spencer Jones Drawing Interest
Restricted free agent Spencer Jones said in a social-media video this week that he is fielding offers from multiple teams and acknowledged that any visit to Denver’s practice facility “could be my last” as negotiations unfold. Darren Wolfson of SKOR North reported that the Timberwolves have checked in, though Minnesota’s salary-cap constraints appear to leave no realistic path to a deal.
Source: Hoops Wire
