The Los Angeles Lakers are on the verge of signing Jonathan Kuminga, with the Cleveland Cavaliers out of the running after acquiring Peyton Watson. Last result: Los Angeles Lakers 110-115 Oklahoma City Thunder (2026-05-12).
What happened?
The Lakers have been in pursuit of Kuminga since the end of June, after LeBron James informed the team he wouldn’t return. The Cavaliers' acquisition of Watson has cleared the path for the Lakers to sign Kuminga.
Why it matters for Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers have always been the most logical fit for Kuminga, with a need for another starting-caliber wing. Valentina Martinez, of the California Post, noted that the Lakers have appeared to be the best fit for Kuminga all offseason.
What comes next?
NBA insider Brett Siegel reported that the Lakers have made it known to Kuminga and his representation that they value his skills and want him as a key secondary player alongside Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. The Lakers initially offered Kuminga a deal for around $10 million annually, but he held out for a larger contract. Recent form (last 5): 0W-0D-5L (LLLLL, most recent first); lost the last 5. The Lakers' determined pursuit of Kuminga over the past two months is the clearest indication of which team is most prepared to put him in position to succeed. And with the Cavaliers out of the running, it seems inevitable that Kuminga will land with the Lakers. But the Minnesota Timberwolves are still in the mix, and NBA insider Jake Fischer believes Kuminga’s suitors have shrunk to either the Lakers or Wolves. So the Lakers will need to furnish Kuminga with a larger contract to secure his signature. The Lakers have the edge over the Wolves in terms of contract offer, and Martinez noted that the Lakers have the ability to offer Kuminga a larger deal. The Lakers' interest in Kuminga stretches back to the end of June, and it appears that they are now closing in on signing him.
