The Los Angeles Lakers are continuing their pursuit of unrestricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga, with the franchise emphasizing that he would have a significant role in its new-look roster built around Luka Doncic.
According to ESPN’s Anthony Slater, Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka has remained in contact with Kuminga’s agent, Aaron Turner, while multiple members of the organization — including players — have reached out directly to express their desire for the 23-year-old forward to join the team. The Lakers have also stressed that Kuminga would likely enter next season as a starter, highlighting the opportunity as a major step in his career.
Despite that pitch, Kuminga and his representation have not committed to Los Angeles. Slater reported they believe better financial opportunities could still emerge as the remainder of free agency unfolds.
The Lakers’ ability to make a competitive offer has been complicated by an aggressive offseason. Los Angeles used most of its available financial flexibility to add center Walker Kessler, forwards Sandro Mamukelashvili and Kevon Looney, along with guards Quentin Grimes and Collin Sexton. The club now has just one open roster spot, leaving limited cap room for Kuminga without additional roster moves.
According to Slater, the Lakers could pursue a sign-and-trade scenario if they choose to increase their offer. Jarred Vanderbilt, Dalton Knecht and Jaden Hardy are among the contracts that could be included in a deal, though Los Angeles would likely need to attach draft compensation, including one of its three remaining second-round picks or a 2032 first-round pick swap.
Atlanta remains another key part of the equation. The Hawks are reportedly willing to facilitate a sign-and-trade that would allow Kuminga to preserve his Bird rights and secure a larger contract, but only if they receive sufficient value in return. Slater also noted there remains a possibility Kuminga returns to Atlanta on a team-friendly contract after the Hawks declined his $24.3 million team option, although such discussions are not currently active.
The mutual interest between Kuminga and the Lakers was previously reported by Jovan Buha, with Los Angeles viewing the versatile forward as an ideal complement to its younger core. Kuminga’s athleticism and defensive versatility fit the profile of the type of wing the Lakers have prioritized following the departure of LeBron James.
Kuminga split last season between the Golden State Warriors and Atlanta after being included in the trade that sent Kristaps Porzingis to Golden State. He averaged 12.3 points, 5.3 rebounds and 2.1 assists while shooting 47.6% from the field and 34.6% from three-point range in 16 games with the Hawks.
For his five-year NBA career, Kuminga has averaged 12.5 points, 4.2 rebounds and 1.8 assists across 22.1 minutes per game. His most productive campaign came in 2023-24 with Golden State, when he posted 16.1 points, 4.8 rebounds and 2.2 assists while shooting an efficient 52.9% from the field.
