Los Angeles Lakers have put a $45 million sign‑and‑trade offer on former Warriors champion Jonathan Kuminga on the table, aiming to add his versatile wing before the offseason ends. The club entered the latest stretch after a 110‑115 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on May 12, 2026, and a recent 0W‑0D‑5L run (LLLLL).
Why are the Lakers targeting Kuminga?
The Lakers see Kuminga as a high‑upside forward who can stretch the floor with a 3PT% that hovered around 38 % last season and protect the paint with 1.2 blocks per game. Reports from NBA reporter Evan Sidery note that Los Angeles is willing to send Jarred Vanderbilt and draft capital to the Hawks to secure the deal. Adding Kuminga would give coach Darvin Ham a new weapon for pick‑and‑roll actions and perimeter defense, addressing the team’s need for a younger, athletic wing.
How does Cleveland’s pursuit affect the market?
Cleveland Cavaliers have also met with Kuminga’s camp, according to Chris Fedor, and are listed as a main finalist alongside the Lakers. The Cavs reportedly pushed for a sign‑and‑trade that could exceed $20 million annually for the player. This rivalry forces both clubs to sharpen their offers, with the Lakers’ $45 million package standing out as the most aggressive financial bid. The competition may drive Kuminga’s agent to weigh salary against role, especially as Sacramento Kings have entered the mix.
What does Sacramento’s interest mean for the deal?
The Kings, long‑time division rivals of Los Angeles, have expressed a desire to sign Kuminga but only at a minimum salary to avoid hard‑cap constraints. While the financial terms fall short of the Lakers’ proposal, the promise of a larger role could tempt Kuminga if playing time outweighs paycheck. Should Sacramento land the forward, it would create a rare scenario where two Western Conference teams battle both on the court and in the offseason market.
What’s next for the Lakers and Kuminga?
If the Lakers finalize the sign‑and‑trade, Kuminga would need to agree to a three‑year contract, per NBA rules. The deal would likely be announced before the free‑agency deadline, giving Los Angeles a chance to integrate him before training camp. Meanwhile, the Lakers must halt their five‑game skid, a stretch that has left them struggling for playoff positioning. A successful acquisition could spark a turnaround, providing the scoring punch and defensive versatility needed to reverse the recent form.
The offseason drama continues to unfold, and every new development will shape the Lakers’ path toward a deeper playoff run.
