The Cleveland Cavaliers are exploring multiple avenues to acquire Jonathan Kuminga, with a sign-and-trade remaining a realistic possibility.
Both Cleveland and the Los Angeles Lakers have been linked to the 23-year-old forward, although the Cavaliers are believed to possess the stronger trade package.
Potential deals could include veterans Max Strus or Dennis Schroder, while the team must also remain below the NBA’s first apron to complete any transaction.
Kuminga could also return to Atlanta on a short-term contract, while the Los Angeles Clippers and Milwaukee Bucks have emerged as additional teams to watch.
The Cavaliers are coming off their first Eastern Conference finals appearance since 2018 but have experienced significant roster turnover this offseason.
Dean Wade signed with Philadelphia, Keon Ellis joined Brooklyn, Larry Nance Jr. left for Indiana and Cleveland also missed out on signing LeBron James.
Despite those departures, the organization still believes its young core can take on a larger role.
“There isn’t much left out there,” said a league source with knowledge of the Cavaliers’ thinking. “They have to get their young guys ready to play.”
That group includes third-year wing Jaylon Tyson, second-year guard Tyrese Proctor and rookie Meleek Thomas, who impressed evaluators during NBA Summer League in Las Vegas.
Jonathan Kuminga, Cavaliers Have Mutual Interest https://t.co/pixlI8QENv
— RealGM (@RealGM) July 25, 2026
