Cavs, Lakers Still Most Frequently Tied to Free-Agent Forward Jonathan Kuminga
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The Cleveland Cavaliers and Los Angeles Lakers continue to surface as the primary suitors for unrestricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga, league sources told The Athletic’s Dan Woike.
Interest from Cleveland has persisted since the opening days of free agency in early July. Kuminga, 23, has previously held workouts in Cleveland, and those familiar with his thinking say he would welcome a deal with the Cavaliers. His agent, Aaron Turner, grew up in nearby Orange, Ohio, further fueling the connection.
Los Angeles’ pursuit, meanwhile, has reportedly slowed. The Lakers will have 16 guaranteed contracts once Matisse Thybulle’s expected signing becomes official, meaning a trade or waiver move is necessary before any additional additions.
Any agreement with either team would almost certainly require a sign-and-trade with the Atlanta Hawks, who acquired the 6-foot-7 forward from Golden State at February’s trade deadline. The Cavaliers are also waiting on LeBron James’ free-agency decision before finalizing further roster moves, according to the report.
Hoops Wire has been told scenarios exist in which Cleveland could add both James and Kuminga, though the mechanics of such a maneuver remain unclear.
Kuminga appeared in 36 combined games last season, averaging 12.2 points and 5.6 rebounds while shooting 46 percent from the field. Atlanta declined his player option after the season, allowing him to enter the market as an unrestricted free agent.
Source: Hoops Wire
