Lakers Remain in Jonathan Kuminga Sweepstakes Despite Stalemate

The Los Angeles Lakers are still in the running to land Jonathan Kuminga, despite recently signing two forwards and having a full roster.

>The Lakers and Kuminga have been heavily linked over the past few weeks.

>Kuminga reportedly has strong interest in joining the Los Angeles Lakers, while the Lakers have long favored him, dating back to his days with the Golden State Warriors.

>Still, with the Lakers already conducting a lot of business, a deal has not been reached, as he is fighting for more money.

Feb 24, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Jonathon Kuminga (0) shown on the court against the Washington Wizards during the first half at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn ImagesThe Lakers, meanwhile, could only offer a two-year, $20 million deal, which he rejected. The team explored a sign-and-trade with the Hawks, dumping one of their veteran players, such as Dalton Knecht or Jared Vanderbilt.

>The Hawks asked for the Lakers’ first-round pick swap, their only big tradeable asset, in exchange for freeing up money for Kuminga.

>LA has not shown a willingness to pay the Hawks’ price, leaving all three parties in a standstill.

Lakers still have a chance for Kuminga?Mar 1, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Jonathan Kuminga (0) dunks against the Portland Trail Blazers in the fourth quarter at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn ImagesThe Lakers proceeded to sign Zaire Williams and Matisse Thybulle, two players who can play in positions similar to Kuminga’s, possibly signaling they were going to move on.

>However, according to ESPN reporter Anthony Slater, the Lakers are not stopping in their pursuit of the former Warriors lottery pick.

>“They’re still after at least one more. I can tell you that they keep calling Jonathan Kuminga,” Slater said on ESPN.

>“And again, obviously they have not made a lucrative enough offer for Kuminga to jump. … and maybe they get Kuminga done or maybe they don’t. I think the LeBron domino affects Kuminga in what he may or may not be able to get but again all I can tell you is Rob Pelinka keeps calling about Jonathan Kuminga.”

>The only other team connected to Kuminga at this point is the Cleveland Cavaliers, who could do a sign-and-trade to free up money as well.

>The Hawks may end up keeping Kuminga on a cheaper deal than his player option, but as time goes on, the Lakers’ chances increase, especially if LeBron James signs with the Cavs and closes that door for Kuminga.

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