The Los Angeles Lakers have proposed a sign-and-trade deal to acquire forward Jonathan Kuminga from the Atlanta Hawks, offering a three-year contract worth approximately $45 million.
The proposal, dated August 1, 2026, would send forward Jarred Vanderbilt and draft capital to Atlanta.
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Kuminga became an unrestricted free agent after the Hawks declined his $24.3 million team option for the 2026-27 season.
The Lakers' offer averages about $15 million annually, a significant reduction from his previous option.
However, Los Angeles presents an opportunity for Kuminga to start alongside Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, filling a need for an athletic, multi-positional defender.
Other teams are also pursuing Kuminga. The Cleveland Cavaliers could offer a larger financial package, potentially including Max Strus in a trade.
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The Minnesota Timberwolves view Kuminga as a candidate for their vacant starting power forward spot after missing out on LeBron James.
Minnesota's flexibility is limited by its $6.06 million taxpayer mid-level exception and being just $4 million below the second luxury tax apron.
The Hawks reportedly prefer trade structures from Cleveland or Minnesota to avoid taking on Vanderbilt's contract, which runs through 2027-28.
Kuminga, the former No. 7 overall pick, averaged 12.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 2.3 assists in the 2025-26 season.
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His representatives are open to waiting for a long-term deal or accepting a shorter contract to rebuild his market value.
