The Cleveland Cavaliers’ pursuit of Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga appears to be reciprocated, according to the player’s agent.
“Jonathan likes the Cavs, likes (head coach) Kenny Atkinson, and (guard) Donovan Mitchell likes him,” agent Aaron Turner told Joe Vardon of The Athletic. Turner added that Kuminga spent several weeks training in Cleveland during the 2025 offseason and “likes” the city.
Vardon reported that Cleveland has maintained regular contact with both Kuminga and Turner throughout free agency. Turner, a Northeast Ohio native, noted the existing relationship between Kuminga and Atkinson, who was Steve Kerr’s lead assistant at Golden State before accepting the Cavaliers job earlier this summer.
With LeBron James opting to join the Philadelphia 76ers, the Cavaliers now have a clearer offseason roadmap. Team sources indicated the front office remains interested in multiple high-profile targets, with Kuminga on that list for several weeks.
Kuminga is seeking a salary in the $20–23 million annual range, a figure likely attainable only through a sign-and-trade that would require cooperation from the Atlanta Hawks, according to Vardon. Cleveland could offer less by using its taxpayer mid-level exception, but that option falls short of the forward’s asking price.
If a sign-and-trade scenario develops, roster adjustments would be necessary. League sources mentioned Max Strus and Dennis Schroder as possible outgoing pieces, though no decisions have been finalized. Meanwhile, the anticipated return of guard James Harden remains another factor in Cleveland’s broader offseason strategy.
Despite the obstacles, both sides appear eager to explore a deal now that the month-long wait on James’ decision has ended.
Source: Hoops Wire
