The Los Angeles Lakers are still pushing hardest to land unrestricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga, according to ESPN’s Anthony Slater.
Even after spending most of their available cap space earlier in the offseason, general manager Rob Pelinka has kept open lines of communication with Kuminga’s agent, Aaron Turner, and has steadily increased the club’s proposal. Los Angeles has already added Walker Kessler, Sandro Mamukelashvili, Quentin Grimes and Collin Sexton, leaving only limited financial wiggle room.
The Lakers’ pitch reportedly centers on significant playing time next to Luka Doncic and the probability of a starting spot. Despite that opportunity, Kuminga has not yet made a decision, believing additional options could surface as free agency continues.
A sign-and-trade remains a possibility. Slater noted that the Atlanta Hawks are open to facilitating a deal that would preserve Kuminga’s Bird Rights, but the Hawks would seek extra assets in return. Los Angeles could create more flexibility by including Jarred Vanderbilt, Dalton Knecht or Jaden Hardy in a larger package, along with draft compensation.
The Cleveland Cavaliers are also monitoring the situation, in part because of Kuminga’s previous work with head coach Kenny Atkinson when both were in Golden State. However, with Cleveland exploring a potential reunion with LeBron James, the Lakers are viewed as the most active bidder for Kuminga’s services.
The Sacramento Kings have expressed interest as well, though their cap position would likewise require a sign-and-trade arrangement.
Source: Hoops Wire
