Lakers Seek Jonathan Kuminga via Hawks Sign‑and‑Trade

Kuminga Emerges as Free‑Agency Target

Despite a busy first week of free agency, Los Angeles still lacks a legitimate starting two‑way forward. Jonathan Kuminga, a 23‑year‑old wing who can guard and score, fits the profile the Lakers are scouting. The former No. 7 overall pick won a championship as a rookie with Golden State, but his development has stalled, leaving him available as an unrestricted free agent.

Kumminga’s skillset aligns with what the Lakers need on both ends of the floor. He stands 6‑ft‑7, weighs 225 lb, and boasts a near‑seven‑foot wingspan that makes him an effective perimeter defender. Offensively, he can finish strong in transition and scores at a 50.2% clip from the field, averaging 12.5 points and 4.2 rebounds per contest.

However, his three‑point shooting has been below average throughout his five‑year NBA career, and concerns linger about his focus, dedication, and overall attitude. These intangibles have kept teams cautious, even though his raw athletic ability remains notable.

Hawks Offer a Sign‑and‑Trade Solution

The Atlanta Hawks are willing to facilitate a sign‑and‑trade that could land Kuminga in Los Angeles. According to Khobi Price of the California Post, Atlanta wants the Lakers to include Jarred Vanderbilt—an offensive liability—and the franchise’s lone available 2032 first‑round pick swap. This structure would allow Kuminga to command a higher salary than the Lakers could otherwise offer.

The proposed deal would likely give Kuminga a three‑ to four‑year contract with a fully guaranteed first season. The Lakers have been linked to a two‑year, $20 million offer sheet for the player, but the Hawks’ framework could provide a longer‑term commitment without straining Los Angeles’ cap flexibility.

Other suitors, including the Cleveland Cavaliers, have expressed interest in signing Kuminga, adding competition to the free‑agency landscape. The Lakers must act quickly to secure the player before rival teams can present a more attractive package.

What the Hawks Want in Return

Atlanta’s primary demand is the 2032 first‑round pick swap, the only first‑round asset Los Angeles can part with this summer. The franchise also holds three second‑round selections—two from Washington and its own 2033 pick—should the Lakers opt for a different package.

Including Jarred Vanderbilt addresses Atlanta’s need to move a contract that is viewed as a liability across the league. Vanderbilt’s limited offensive skill set makes him a functional piece for the Hawks, while the pick swap gives them future capital to rebuild around Kuminga’s potential.

The Hawks’ willingness to execute such a trade signals confidence in Kuminga’s upside, despite his inconsistent seasons. For Los Angeles, the same trade could fill a critical roster void and bring a defensive wing who matches the team’s defensive identity.

Kuminga’s Statistical Profile

Over five seasons, Kuminga averages 12.5 points on 50.2% shooting, 4.2 rebounds, and logs 22.1 minutes per game. His efficiency at the rim, especially in transition, underscores his value as a two‑way threat. Yet his career three‑point percentage remains well below league averages, a weakness that teams must account for in any contract discussion.

At 23, Kuminga still has room to develop his mid‑range game and improve his defensive consistency. The Lakers see a projectable player who can grow into a reliable starter with proper coaching and a stable environment.

Financial considerations will be pivotal. The Lakers have floated a two‑year, $20 million contract, but the Hawks’ sign‑and‑trade could extend that to a longer term, potentially surpassing that initial offer. Kumminga’s contract demands and the salary‑cap implications will shape the final agreement.