The Los Angeles Lakers are still working to acquire Atlanta Hawks forward Jonathan Kuminga with the intention of installing the 23-year-old as their starting power forward for the 2026-27 season, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.
Charania reported on July 13 that the Lakers had reached an agreement with free-agent wing Ziaire Williams, adding depth on the perimeter, but that the franchise “continues to strongly pursue” Kuminga for a larger role in the frontcourt. Williams averaged 10.2 points in 22.9 minutes with the Brooklyn Nets last season.
Additional reporting from Aron Cohen of Lakers All Day Everyday indicates that Kuminga may delay his decision until LeBron James finalizes his own plans. Cohen’s source said Kuminga is more likely to head to Los Angeles if James signs with the Cleveland Cavaliers; if James chooses another destination, Cleveland could become Kuminga’s preferred landing spot.
Kuminga, the No. 7 overall pick in the 2021 draft, has been on the Lakers’ radar since his days with the Golden State Warriors, where consistent playing time proved difficult to secure. In 36 games (14 starts) split between Golden State and Atlanta last season, the 6-foot-8 forward averaged 12.2 points, 5.6 rebounds and 2.3 assists while shooting 46.3 percent from the field and 33.3 percent on 2.9 three-point attempts per game.
Los Angeles is currently out of salary-cap space and roster spots, meaning any acquisition of Kuminga would have to come through a sign-and-trade with the Hawks. Recent reports suggest Atlanta is unwilling to take back forward Jarred Vanderbilt, which would require the Lakers to explore alternative trade constructions to satisfy all parties.
Source: LakersNation.com
