Lakers Linked with Kuminga in Summer Stalemate

The Los Angeles Lakers are caught in a summer stalemate with Jonathan Kuminga, a name perhaps the entire state of California has heard enough of. But there’s no denying that the Lakers and Kuminga would have true potential on the court if both sides come to terms on a deal. According to Lakers insider Khobi Price, the team remains in the running for the 23-year-old Atlanta Hawks free agent.

Why it Matters for Los Angeles Lakers

L.A. also appears to be the team most interested in landing Kuminga, who has attracted multiple suitors this offseason. “The Lakers are sitting there still as the hungriest suitor but also knowing at this point there is not necessarily a reason to throttle forward and blow out the rest of your assets and trying to get him every last dollar he wants,” said ESPN reporter Anthony Slater.

Projected Framework for Lakers to Secure Kuminga

Given the Lakers’ interest in Kuminga, it is reasonable to assume that they would be open to surrendering draft picks to encourage the Hawks to help them work out a deal for Kuminga. Here’s a projected framework that could help L.A. secure the 23-year-old swingman. Lakers receive: Jonathan Kuminga (via sign-and-trade; three-year, $52.6 million contract) Hawks receive: second round picks in 2031 and 2032 (via LAL) Timberwolves receive: Jarred Vanderbilt and Ron Holland Pistons receive: Donte DiVincenzo and 2029 second round pick

Another Team Firmly in Mix for Kuminga

The Wolves, for their part, are another reported suitor for Kuminga. The Cleveland Cavaliers, meanwhile, may be the Lakers’ strongest rival in the Kuminga sweepstakes. What helps the Cavs’ position in the race to Kuminga is the star forward’s connection to head coach Kenny Atkinson. “Kuminga has a relationship with Atkinson from when the coach was an assistant under Steve Kerr at Golden State,” The Athletic reported.

Kuminga Saga Continues

Kuminga, along with DeMar DeRozan, remains arguably the most intriguing name available on the open market. But it appears the Kuminga saga may continue for a while longer. Last result: Los Angeles Lakers 110-115 Oklahoma City Thunder (2026-05-12). Recent form (last 5): 0W-0D-5L (LLLLL, most recent first); lost the last 5.