Offer Already Submitted: NBA Star Nearing Los Angeles Lakers Move
Luka Doncic's team is going all-in on a top forward who has already held talks with JJ Redick and Rob Pelinka, who promised him a starting lineup spot.
The Los Angeles Lakers continue their efforts to acquire Jonathan Kuminga, with the 23-year-old forward emerging as the team's preferred candidate to strengthen the wing position ahead of the upcoming season. According to a report by NBA reporter Evan Sidery, Kuminga and Peyton Watson are the two main names remaining on the free agent market, with both still linked to the Cleveland Cavaliers.
However, reports indicate that Cleveland's focus leans more towards Watson, while the Lakers remain committed to Kuminga, aiming to make him a starter alongside Luka Doncic.
The Lakers' pursuit of Kuminga is far from new. As early as July, it was reported that the team considered offering him a two-year, $20 million contract, intending to give the 2.01-meter athletic forward a significant role and a spot in the starting lineup.
Talks with the Coach and General Manager
The interest has progressed beyond initial discussions. General Manager Rob Pelinka and coach JJ Redick held a virtual meeting with Kuminga to convince him to choose Los Angeles, emphasizing the potential impact he could have in the project being built around Doncic.
The Lakers also presented Kuminga with the opportunity to restore his status and value through a central role on the team, similar to the path Malik Monk took during his tenure in Los Angeles before signing more lucrative contracts elsewhere.
The Lakers also explored complex options to increase their offer. Previous reports suggested the team attempted a sign-and-trade deal involving Jarred Vanderbilt and a 2032 first-round pick, but Atlanta was not interested in acquiring Vanderbilt. Simultaneously, multi-team trade scenarios were examined to move Vanderbilt and clear cap space for a larger contract for Kuminga.
Economic hurdles caused negotiations to stall, but the Lakers have not given up. Throughout July, the team remained in contact with Kuminga's representatives, and as of early August, interest remained despite weeks of stagnation.
Kuminga became an unrestricted free agent after Atlanta declined their $24.3 million option for the 2026/27 season. Last season, he averaged 12.3 points and 5.3 rebounds in 22.1 minutes across 16 regular-season games after joining the Hawks in February.
