Negotiations between the Los Angeles Lakers and Atlanta Hawks over free-agent forward Jonathan Kuminga have lost momentum, according to The Athletic’s Dan Woike. The sides reportedly remain far apart on the framework of a potential sign-and-trade, and Los Angeles is unwilling to attach sizable draft capital to any proposal.
Although talks have cooled, team sources told Woike the Lakers could re-enter the race if Kuminga’s market remains sluggish. Cleveland is also said to hold interest. Kuminga became a free agent after Atlanta declined his $24.3 million team option, and because no club has the cap room to meet his salary expectations, he must secure a sign-and-trade. The Hawks’ commitment to re-signing the 23-year-old is unclear after Sunday’s acquisition of forward Luguentz Dort in a three-team trade.
Free-agency targets
Woike confirmed a Stein Line report that Los Angeles has contacted free-agent wing Matisse Thybulle. Durability is viewed as the primary concern for the 27-year-old, who has appeared in only 45 games over the past two seasons. Still, Thybulle’s late-season health and three-and-D profile appeal to the Lakers, who are also looking to add another front-court piece, according to team sources.
Two-way contract watch
The club may move quickly to secure Arthur Kaluma on a two-way deal after his standout Summer League. The 6’7” forward averaged 18.6 points on 60.9% shooting overall and 50% from three while playing for the South Bay Lakers last year. Current two-way players Chris Mañon, AK Okereke and Peter Suder could be in jeopardy, though coaches were impressed by Okereke’s defense and perimeter touch.
Front-office vacancy
League personnel in Las Vegas have questioned when president of basketball operations Rob Pelinka will appoint a second assistant general manager. Rohan Ramadas was hired in May to lead analytics, and Pelinka has said he wants another executive to oversee player development and scouting. Interviews began during the season, yet sources tell Woike that outside observers remain puzzled by the process. Minnesota’s Steve Senior and Philadelphia’s Prosper Karangwa are believed to have declined offers to stay with their current organizations.
The Lakers have not provided a timeline for filling the position.
Source: Hoops Rumors
