Clippers Weigh Sign-and-Trade for Free Agent Jonathan Kuminga
clippers-weigh-sign-and-trade-for-jonathan-kuminga
The Los Angeles Clippers have joined the list of clubs evaluating a sign-and-trade for unrestricted free agent forward Jonathan Kuminga, league sources told HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto.
The Lakers, Cavaliers and Bucks had previously been linked to the 24-year-old, but the Clippers’ interest is notable because they can take back Kuminga’s salary without sending out matching money. Los Angeles holds a $17 million trade exception created when John Collins was moved to Detroit earlier this month and is operating below the luxury-tax line.
Agent Aaron Turner and Kuminga are said to be reviewing each offer individually rather than targeting a universal salary figure, examining roster fit and contract structure for each suitor.
Cap Mechanics Complicate Other Bidders
Several interested teams would need to ship out contracts to satisfy salary-matching rules. In one scenario discussed, the Lakers talked with Atlanta about a package built around Jarred Vanderbilt and a 2032 first-round pick swap, but the Hawks balked at absorbing Vanderbilt’s $13.3 million due in 2027-28.
The Cavaliers continue to monitor Kuminga while awaiting LeBron James’ free-agency decision. Max Strus and Dennis Schröder are viewed as potential outgoing pieces if Cleveland has to clear room. Charlotte has surfaced as a possible landing spot for Schröder, partly because Hornets basketball chief Jeff Peterson worked with the German guard in Atlanta from 2013-18.
Clippers Waiting on Kawhi Leonard Resolution
Despite holding the trade exception, the Clippers are hesitant to act until their proposed Kawhi Leonard deal with Toronto is finalized, Scotto reported. Los Angeles is also interested in a new contract for restricted free agent guard Bennedict Mathurin, but talks remain on hold while the NBA completes its investigation into the Leonard negotiations.
If the Leonard trade proceeds and brings Brandon Ingram and Gradey Dick to L.A., the Clippers would sit at 14 standard contracts, leaving the front office to decide whether to chase both Mathurin and Kuminga or focus on one target. Multiple teams are likewise exploring sign-and-trade avenues for Mathurin.
Hawks Could Still Retain Kuminga
Re-signing in Atlanta on a short one-plus-one arrangement remains an option for Kuminga, according to league sources. The Hawks have 17 players on standard deals, but Buddy Hield is considered a trade candidate, Devin Carter’s role is uncertain after Ryan Nembhard’s arrival, and Mouhamed Gueye—on an expiring minimum pact—faces foot surgery that will sideline him for part of the season.
Scotto added that Los Angeles might have to include rookies Dalton Knecht and Jaden Hardy instead of Vanderbilt if the Lakers hope to satisfy Atlanta in a separate Kuminga framework. While the Hawks may not desire either prospect, their smaller cap hits could hold appeal for a third team.
Source: HoopsRumors
